I Don’t Have Time for a High-Maintenance Bob—I'm Getting One of These Relaxed Styles

Is anyone else avoiding getting a bob hairstyle because it seems really high maintenance? Two of my friends recently got blunt-bob haircuts, and although they look amazing, both of them said that straightening and styling their hair every day is becoming a bit of a pain. As someone who prioritises sleep and likes to be able to jump out of bed and get ready in ten minutes or less, I just know that this haircut wouldn't work for me. I'm a low-maintenance girl through and through, and I need my beauty routine to fit in with my busy lifestyle.

So, when I saw more and more people on my Instagram feeds opting for a relaxed bob hairstyle, it's safe to say that I was immediately intrigued. These more laidback iterations of the popular haircut are right up my street, and although they require less effort, they still look super chic. Interested? I thought so. Keep on scrolling for everything you need to know.

Elsa Hosk with a relaxed bob

(Image credit: @hoskelsa)

What Is the Relaxed Bob?

So, what is the relaxed bob? The great thing about this hairstyle is that it doesn't follow a strict set of rules, so you can tailor it to suit your individual style. Instead of more rigid bob hairstyles such as the blunt bob or hydro bob, this look is all about embracing your softer side and letting your natural texture come through.

"It’s super versatile and so popular for a few reasons in my opinion," says Adam Reed, L’Oréal Professionnel UK editorial ambassador. "It's fun and dynamic whilst being easy to style every day. You can even add more volume for more of an Italian bob feel, it’s great for those looking for a standout hairstyle without the upkeep."

How to Style the Relaxed Bob:

In terms of styling, Reed recommends using a good prep product like the L’Oréal Professionnel Tecni.Art Pli, which will ensure that your hair holds the desired shape. He also recommends a texture product for shorter looks such as the L’Oréal Professionnel Tecni.Art Super Dust. Simply scrunch into the roots or through the hair for a "natural, lived-in feel."

Finally, Reed says to always finish with a lightweight but strong hold hairspray like the L’Oréal Professionnel Infinium Hair Spray.

Relaxed Bob Hair Trend Inspiration:

1. Soft Texture

Hailey Bieber with a relaxed bob

(Image credit: @haileybieber)

This look really is about embracing that 'I just woke up like this' kind of vibe.

2. Loose Waves

Rochelle Humes with a relaxed bob

(Image credit: @rochellehumes)

Rochelle's soft waves give her blunter bob a much more relaxed feel.

3. Natural Curls

a woman posing with a relaxed, curly bob

(Image credit: @emmanuellek_)

Got naturally curly hair? Add in some of your favourite curl cream and let your texture shine through.

4. Relaxed "Lob"

Olivia Jade with a relaxed bob

(Image credit: @oliviajade)

This hairstyle is perfect for when your bob starts growing out slightly, so don't worry about having to visit the hairdresser every few weeks.

5. Voluminous Layers

a woman taking a selfie with a curly, relaxed bob

(Image credit: @anaasmood)

The more volume, the better.

6. Beachy Waves

Laura Harrier with a relaxed bob

(Image credit: @lauraharrier)

So effortlessly cool.

7. Wispy Textures

a woman with a relaxed bob and a wispy fringe

(Image credit: @juliesfi)

A wispy fringe definitely elevates this relaxed hairstyle.

8. Voluminous Roots

a woman taking a selfie with a wavy bob

(Image credit: @emmahoareau)

I can't get enough of these voluminous roots and loose waves.

9. Feathered Ends

a woman in blue jeans and a black coat with a relaxed bob hairstyle

(Image credit: @sylviemus_)

Told you this hairstyle was chic.

10. '90s Waves

a woman taking a selfie with a wavy bob and fringe

(Image credit: @chloehelenmiles)

Ok fine, I'll cut my hair and get a '90s fringe.

11. Subtle Movement

Taylor Hill with a relaxed bob hairstyle

(Image credit: @anthonyholguin)

This style really does work with all bob lengths.

12. Curled Ends

Alexa Chung with a relaxed bob hairstyle

(Image credit: @alexachung)

Even Alexa Chung is a fan of this look.

Products You Need For A Relaxed Bob:

Junior Beauty Editor

Grace Lindsay is the junior beauty editor at Who What Wear UK. At the age of 18 she decided to train as a makeup artist before going on to study english and media at Goldsmiths University. It was during that time that she explored her love for journalism by interning at a small beauty start-up based in Shoreditch. Since then, she has worked at a number of publications including Marie Claire and Hello!, where her love for all things beauty continued to grow. 

As Who What Wear UK's junior beauty editor, she covers everything from the latest hair trends to the stand-out makeup products of the season.