75 Bob Haircut Ideas to Try in 2024
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Although many hair trends come and go, there’s one look that will never go out of style: a bob haircut. Short hairstyles might be intimidating, but it’s a classic for a reason. Going chin-length is immediately attention-grabbing and puts all the focus on your face; plus, it’s just way less hair to deal with.
But of course, no matter how convenient—and cute—short haircuts may be, it’s important to do your research when looking into making a major hair change. Here’s everything you need to know about the trending chop before you make your salon appointment.
What is a bob haircut?
From the undone bob to the “lob,” there are so many takes on the bob cut that it’s hard to keep up. So what exactly is a bob if there are so many lengths and styles? Generally speaking, a bob is a short hairstyle cut at the neckline, typically going along the jawline, says hairstylist Laurabeth Cabott. In more recent years, however, the bob haircut has evolved, and many stylists consider the shoulder-length lob, or a long bob, to fall within the bob category as well.
There is no one “best” length for a bob, since what looks good primarily depends on your own personal taste. “Bobs vary in length and can be longer depending on the desired look,” Cabbott says. “Deciding whether you want a more chic style or something that you’re able to play around with and style differently from day to day can help you determine what length to cut your bob.”
Which bob haircut is best for my face shape?
If you’re wondering whether a bob haircut will suit your face shape, you’re in luck: Bob haircuts are considered to be one of the most universally flattering styles. “A classic bob haircut, where the length falls between the chin and shoulders, can look great on any face shape,” says celebrity hairstylist Jennifer Korab. “A bob can be customized with different lengths and textures to suit your individual style.”
For example, if you have a round face shape, Cabbott says that having a bob can help elongate your features. If you have an oval face, however, Dan Williams, expert hairstylist and colorist, recommends a chin-length, blunt bob with waves. “You’re really going to want to accentuate the texture and pull the hair out a bit to complement someone’s elongated jaw,” he says.
For a heart-shaped face, which is defined as a broad forehead and cheekbones with a narrow jawline and chin, you might want to consider a short bob haircut that flips outward at the jaw. “What works best is a bob or lob-length cut that opens up the area around your narrow jawline,” says Michelle Cleveland, master color expert and owner of Hair Addict Salon. “Avoid short haircuts that close in the chin, such as a graduated bob.”
If you have a square or rectangle face, however, celebrity hairstylist Glenn Ellis recommends a shoulder-length French bob or a lob with blunt bangs. “People who have squarer faces tend to be recommended shorter cuts since longer ones can accentuate the length rather than complement it,” he says.
How to maintain a bob haircut
Finally, there’s bob haircut maintenance: Is there really as much upkeep as it seems? Depending on your long-term hair plans, including whether you’re planning to grow your hair out, you might not need to do any more than regular trims. But if you want to keep your hair at a consistent length, then there is definitely upkeep for your bob style.
“Having a bob requires some maintenance,” celebrity hairstylist Dimitris Giannetos reiterates. “This means getting regular haircuts and/or dusting off your ends every four to six weeks to keep the look fresh.” That doesn’t mean it’s an overall high-maintenance style, though. “Your hair is already cut into the style, so you have to do is wash, blow-dry, and style as desired,” he says.
Feeling inspired? From trendy cuts to tried-and-true classics, see 75 bob haircut ideas ahead.
