If you’re looking around and noticing everyone around you has a bob, you’re not alone. Learning how to style a bob haircut is important if you’re going for the big chop. As seen from Sofia Richie Grainge’s effortless French bob and Leslie Bibb’s sharp “c-nty little bob” to Lily Collins’s super-sleek Italian bob, nailing that effortless look is essential. But first you’ll want to find the right bob haircut for you.
“I’m a big fan of the classic French bob. It’s timeless and effortlessly chic, and works on a wide range of face shapes,” says Jerome Lordet, owner of Jerome Lordet Salon. “For clients who want more movement, a layered or textured bob is a great choice; it offers dimension and versatility, especially for those with naturally wavy or curly hair.”
When you get a fresh new bob, there’s nothing but excitement (and maybe some adrenaline when you realize how short your strands are now). But after your first hair wash, you may be left wondering what to do with your hair. As with with any haircut, your hair might initially lie differently, look flat, or lack the same volume it used to. But don’t be discouraged: All you need are some styling products and insider tips from the experts, and you’ll be good to go. If you aren’t a fan of using hot tools, you can even air-dry your bob while keeping it looking cool and modern.
Ahead, we share all the tips and tricks from pro hairstylists so you can learn how to style a bob haircut to get that chic, modern look with minimal effort. From styling techniques to products to invest in, read on for everything you need to know to make your bob look its best.
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Why are bobs so popular right now?
Bobs have really taken over the past couple of years. What makes them so fun right now? “Bobs have always existed, but you can put a twist to it now,” says Jessica Gillin, head stylist at Jenna Perry Hair in New York City. “They’ve always been iconic—timeless but never boring.”
With countless celebs leaning into the bob lately, it’s easy to get influenced. And let’s be honest—the idea of having short hair that stays out of your face and requires little maintenance is enticing. Plus, bobs are versatile and easy to wear. “Bobs are having a major moment because they strike the perfect balance between low-maintenance and high-impact,” says Lordet. “They exude confidence and sophistication while remaining easy to style. There’s also a renewed appreciation for sharp silhouettes and bold personal style, and a bob delivers both.”
How do you style a bob on straight hair?
For straight hair, both stylists like a slick, smooth look. “Use a flatiron for that ultrasleek look, but add a slight bend at the ends to keep it from feeling too stiff,” says Lordet. Deciding whether you want to go with a middle or side part? Depending on which one you choose, the vibes will be totally different. As for Gillin, “I love a clean center part with soft movement, tucked behind the ears,” she says. “Effortless but intentional.” Don’t forget to apply heat protectant before using any hot tools!
GHD Chronos Styler 1-Inch Flatiron
Amazon
Sephora
Briogeo Farewell Frizz Blow Dry Perfection & Heat Protectant Cream
Amazon
Sephora
How do you style a bob on curly hair?
When it comes to curly hair, consider a baby bob, a heat-friendly cut for your curls and coils. Both stylists say to define curls using a curl cream and a diffuser. Make sure to enhance the natural shape of your bob while doing this, says Gillin. After diffusing, “break them up gently with your fingers for volume,” says Lordet.
- Courtesy of brand
- Original photo from Alexandra Provo testing Ouidad 3-in-1 Universal Diffuser
- Original photo from Alexandra Provo testing Ouidad 3-in-1 Universal Diffuser
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Ouidad 3-in-1 Universal Diffuser
Amazon
Ouidad
- Courtesy of brand
- Original photo from Glamour reviewer Kristine Straker testing Kérastase Curl Manifesto Crème de Jour Fondamentale Hair Cream
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Kérastase Curl Manifesto Crème de Jour Fondamentale Hair Cream
Amazon
How do you style a bob on wavy hair?
If you want to enhance or maintain your wavy hair, it can either be air-dried or styled with a curling iron. “Embrace your natural texture or use a 1-inch curling wand to create loose, lived-in waves,” says Lordet. “Finish with a texturizing spray to add movement and body.”
Skipping the hot tools? Air-dry your bob and apply some mousse throughout your strands, then “bend through the midlengths,” says Gillin.
Remington Pro 1″ Curling Wand
Amazon
Oribe Dry Texturizing Spray
Nordstrom
Amazon
How can you modernize and freshen up your bob haircut?
Once you’ve gotten the big chop, you’ll want to maintain it. As easy as it is to take care of a bob, you’ll want to trim it every six to eight weeks to keep the length and shape. In the meantime, to make your bob look more modern, you can “change the part, go slightly shorter, or add invisible layers for airiness,” says Gillin.
To modernize a bob, Lordet also recommends playing with texture or asymmetry. Beyond Gillin’s tips, he also suggests adding bangs. “Even switching up your styling from sleek and polished to soft and undone can instantly give your bob a fresh edge,” Lordet says.
Catharine Malzahn is the contributing associate beauty editor at Glamour.
The post How to Style a Bob Haircut for a Totally Effortless Look appeared first on Glamour.
