Samantha Holender
I get it: the idea of chopping off almost all of your hair can be terrifying. But rest assured, bob haircuts are a super chic, low-maintenance, and universally flattering no matter your face shape. “The bob is absolutely one of my favorite haircuts. It’s a timeless and classic look that can be incredibly versatile. Whether you want something elegant or edgy, the bob can be crafted to suit your style,” says TEMUR, premier hairdresser and owner of TEMUR in New York City.
The best thing about the bob? There continue to be so many interpretations, ensuring a style for every hair texture and preference. “The cowgirl bob is a tousled, chin-length cut with shaggy layers and curtain bangs. The classic bob is chin-length and sleek, while the blunt bob is sharp and edgy with zero layers," says celebrity hairstylist and colorist Dimitris Giannetos. There are also asymmetrical bobs for added drama, with one side longer than the other and the layered bob to create texture and movement. The French bob is cropped short with soft bangs—effortless and très chic. There’s also the lob (long Bob) for those who want the look but with extra length. "Regardless of the type of bob you get, this cut evolves with your personality,” adds Giannetos.
Whether you're looking to cut just a few inches or are contemplating a full-on hair reboot with a big chop, “going shorter can be a great way to re-set your hair health. Don’t be intimidated—it will eventually grow out!” says Anabel Santos senior stylist at Sally Hershberger NoMad.
To help you on your bob journey, I've rounded up the best interpretations of the classic bob in various lengths, colors, and textures (from fine hair to curly) to inspire you. From Kim Kardashian and Gabrielle Union to Kerry Washington, get ready to screenshot your favorite styles before heading to the salon.
Demi Lovato
Lovato's wavy bob can be achieved using a curling iron to create texture. After the curls are created, brush through them for a wavier feel.
Jenna Dewan
Yes, I-just-left-the-beach waves on bobs work well together. All you need is a good sea salt spray, like Ouai's Wave Spray ($26), to give this style longevity. Take Dewan's effortlessly tousled texture as an example.
Tessa Thompson
Thompson's wet texture has a glossy shine that's practically blinding. The S-wave swoop in the front gives this style a timeless, Old Hollywood vibe.
Michelle Williams
Williams is perpetually platinum but plays with length—pixie, lob, or bob. Here, sea salt texture helps keep her fine hair from falling too flat.
Rachel McAdams
McAdams uses texturizing spray and a little bit of heat to achieve the subtle flick in her hair.
Margot Robbie
Robbie's punkish slicked-back bob is a take on the "wet hair" look we can fully get on-board with. For days when you just can't deal with shorter layers in your face, straighten the sides and slick the top back.
Lily Collins
The Italian bob is undoubtedly the cut of the season. "It’s that perfect balance between polished and undone, making it ideal for spring’s fresh, playful energy vibe. This cut channels the timeless elegance of Italian icons like Sophia Loren and Monica Bellucci," says global hair artist Ricky Mota.
Sabrina Carpenter
Known for her signature blonde curls and fringe, Carpenter's recent award show made us gasp as she debuted the faux bob. Truly for the person who cannot commit to the chop but wants the illusion of the bob, keep your layered, shorter pieces in the front and pin the rest back.
Khloe Kardashian
Kardashian's bob is all about fullness, soft waves, and that effortless texture. "Request a longer, blunt bob with minimal layering. Apply Matrix Setter Mousse to damp hair for volume, then blow-dry with a round brush. Use a 1.25-inch curling iron for loose waves, focusing on face-framing sections. Finish with Matrix Vavoom Extra Full Dry Spray for touchable volume," says hair colorist George Papanikolas.
Zendaya
Zendaya's teased curl lob not only looks incredible on her but is fairly easy to achieve at home. Blow dry the hair using a round brush to enhance volume. "Once you are done with the blow dryer, you are going to want to tease the hair using a teasing comb. Lift small sections at the crown, gently tease the roots and smooth the top layer over it," says celebrity hairstylist and brand founder Andrew Fitzsimons.
Hailey Bieber
Bieber's bob is as effortlessly cool as she is. Adam Livermore, a global artist for Oribe, calls Bieber's bob a "true bob cut", which is when "the hair is all one length and everything reaches the line at the bottom." Style your true bob with loose, beachy waves for a sleek yet sophisticated cool look.
