In short: A guide to bob haircuts, according to expert stylists
The chic short chop is summer’s coolest haircut
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The bob is back. While it didn’t exactly go anywhere for long, the short haircut seems to be this summer’s most popular chop – and in a very big way. Just look at Margot Robbie, Zendaya, and Lily Collins, who have been fashioning the style on red carpets, runways and our social feeds.
Whether styled to be sharp and structured or soft and undone, the bob is as timeless as it is modern and versatile. But while the bob may look simple, getting the right one is all about tailoring it to you. Hair texture, styling habits and upkeep all play a part in finding the best version for you – and we have asked a handful of experts to get the full lowdown.
Choosing the right style for you
Not all bobs are created equal. A razor-sharp jaw-length bob can feel refined and frame the face, while a softer, layered bob has a lighter, more relaxed effect. If you’re keen to try the trend but not quite ready to face a dramatic change, a longer bob – or lob – is often the easiest place to start. It still gives the impact of a fresh new cut without feeling too drastic.
Mason Josh, principal at Holland Park-based Josh Wood Atelier, says the first consideration should be whether you’re ready for the change at all. “When considering any big change to your hair, number one, I always make sure to ask my client is ‘Is this the right time to do such a big change? Is there something happening in your life? I always ask, ‘Has anyone died, have you gone through a breakup, are you in the right frame of mind for such a big appearance change?’” The bob is a transformative cut, so it’s important to be sure in your decision and do it for the right reasons.
Josh also notes that face shape shouldn’t be treated with a strict rule book: “I’m not a big believer in you have to have the right face shape, but there are things you have to consider – like if you want a face frame, or a bang or a one-length bob or a graduated bob – and going through these with your stylist will help.”
Texture is also important. “If you have naturally straight hair, you’d want a certain type of bob, whereas if you’ve got hair that is curly and jumps up naturally and appears shorter, then you’ve got to consider that and cut longer”, says Josh. Straighter hair will lend itself to sharp, sleek shapes, while wavy, curly hair will require a little more upkeep.
Why the bob works
For Philipp Haug, co-founder of Haug London Haus, the bob’s enduring appeal comes down to its ability to make a statement without feeling too extreme. “Bobs are a great option for a style change when you wear your hair longer, because cutting to above the shoulder makes quite a big impact visually without actually going short. Taking it off the shoulder gives that extra wow factor, and then there are lots of options in terms of what type of bob to go for.”
The flexibility and versatility are also what make the bob so appealing. “The bob is incredibly versatile because it can be tailored to suit all face shapes and hair types; you just have to know what length suits curly hair, for example, as it can jump up and give a wide look if you’re not careful”, says Haug.
There are endless ways to style it too. “Bobs can be one length, or you can add a fringe. For a fashionable, editorial look, wear with a centre parting and keep it quite flat and solid to the perimeter. You can also wear it in a more casual way – think boyfriend bob – which is a more relaxed cut with texture”, explains Haug. “However you wear it, the bob is an instant style change, and it’s so perfect for summer – cooler, easier to wear and quicker to style.”
Maintenance
A common misconception is that shorter hair requires less effort. The reality of a bob can sometimes mean more maintenance to keep its refined, structured shape. Josh explains: “Your routine will change – you will have to style your hair more, you will have to get more regular haircuts to maintain the bob if you consistently want a bob (maybe trim every four to eight weeks), which can cost you more money in the long run”. That being said, it can be low effort; it’s just about choosing the right style for you, and a softer, slightly longer bob will be easiest to look after.
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