If there's ever a time I even consider getting the chop, it's summer. I have very long, thick hair that requires a lot of styling, and in warmer weather, I dream of having shorter strands that don't require as much work. That being said, I'm yet to come across a bob hair trend that really speaks to me. So, to get some much-needed inspiration, I turned to not one, not two, but three top hair experts to ask them about the biggest summer bob trends of 2026. Turns out, there are some seriously chic shorter hairstyles to choose from. "The best thing about a good bob haircut is that it grows out beautifully, so it’s a brilliant low-commitment way to try a shorter hairstyle for summer," says Mark Woolley, founder of Electric London. "Whether it’s a shoulder-length lob or bixie, the bob is everywhere this summer as it is versatile and suits all hair types."

Below, I've curated the ultimate list of summery looks that will have everyone wanting to get the chop this season. Of course, I've also included the best products to help get the look, so you don't leave the salon not knowing how to style your new 'do. Keep on scrolling for everything I want you to know.

6 Bob Hairstyles for Summer 2026

1. The Curly Bob

Of course, curly hair isn't a trend, but for summer, it's all about that tousled texture. "This tousled bob embraces soft, natural waves [or curls]—think effortless-looking texture and a matte finish," says Woolley. If you're not blessed with natural waves or curls, Woolley recommends twisting small sections of hair around a small tong, then shaking out with your fingers before adding a little salt spray.

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2. The "Boyfriend" Bob

"Just like the jeans, the 'boyfriend' bob is relaxed, low maintenance and easy to wear," Woolley tells me. "It’s worn a little bit longer, which encourages natural movement and texture. Apply some mousse such as Electric London Cloudburst (£25) for hold and volume through the roots and don’t overstyle; if you think you haven’t done enough, that’s perfect!"

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3. The Soft Contour Bob

This style is definitely a favourite of mine. "The soft contour bob reflects a growing demand for personalised haircuts that are tailored to the individual rather than following one rigid shape," explains Domenico Sansone, creative director at Butchers Salon. "This style features a softly sculpted perimeter with subtle face-framing detail designed to complement the client's natural features. What sets this bob apart is its ability to create softness around the face whilst maintaining enough structure to feel sophisticated and intentional."

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4. The "Effortless" Lob

You might be able to tell by now, but this summer is all about effortless-looking hairstyles. Enter the "effortless" bob (or lob, in Elsa Hosk's case). "One of the biggest shifts we're seeing is a move towards cuts that work with the hair's natural texture, rather than against it," says Sansone. "This bob is designed to look beautiful without requiring daily heat styling, making it a particularly relevant choice for summer. The shape is created through subtle internal layering and carefully considered weight distribution, allowing the hair to fall naturally whilst maintaining structure. It's an ideal option for clients with natural waves, bends or texture who want a style that feels effortless but still polished."

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5. The Voluminous Lob

The lob is proving particularly popular this summer, and works perfectly with this voluminous hair trend. Cos Sakkas, three-times British Hairdressing Awards Hairdresser of the Year and TONI&GUY global creative director, tells me that this bouncy cut makes hair look heavy and expensive, making it a perfect choice for finer hair textures.

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6. The Sleek Bob

Last but not least, the classic sleek bob is not going anywhere during the warmer months. "A crisp, one-length bob will never go out of fashion and is one of your hairdresser’s favourite haircuts," says Sakkas. "It skims the jawline, oozes confidence and is a timeless look. It suits all face shapes and is great for thicker or straight hair. Protect hair with Label.M Fashion Edition Heat Protection Spray, then use your irons through the ends to highlight the precision and blunt outline."

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With summer finally here, I'm meticulously planning my next haircut. And as a beauty editor who studies hair trends for a living, it's easy to get swept up in TikTok hair trends. You see, I'm a low-effort hair person, and so I want a low-maintenance haircut that will see me through the season with minimal styling. Because when it's sunny out, I want to spend less time hairstyling and more time enjoying the weather whilst it lasts. And on a practical level, when it's hot, the last thing you want to do is be styling with your hair dryer for hours.

So, if you, too, are looking for some summer hair trend inspo for your next haircut, you've come to the right place. I asked Jonny Eagland, hairstylist at Nicola Clarke Salon, for all the summer haircut ideas to take to the salon.

1. Soft Layered Bob

Bob haircuts aren't going anywhere for summer 2026, and a soft, layered bob is the perfect cut if you want something low-maintenance and versatile. A soft layered bob gives softness and movement, and is short enough that you won't need to tie it up in the heat, and stunning when blow-dried," says Eagland. "In the salon, ask for a bob with soft internal layers to create shape, keeping the outline clean for the classic bob look," he says. "At home: blow-dry with a round brush for volume, or leave to air dry for an effortless finish." If you're thinking of going for a bob hairstyle, then summer is the perfect time to go for the chop.

Style at Home:

2. Modern Mullet

If you want a different short haircut, then don't overlook the mullet, which is getting a modern twist for 2026. "The mullet is back— longer at the back, shorter on the sides and front," says Eagland. "It's edgy, without being too committed to change if someone wants to try something new," he says. It's a great cut to go for if you're growing out a pixie cut, too. "In the salon, ask for a disconnected cut with length kept through the nape and a textured, cropped finish up top," says Eagland. "At home style using a light matte paste for definition, or leave it undone for a relaxed feel," he says.

Style at Home:

3. Choppy Shag

"For those who want low-effort with styling, the textured shag is the cut of the summer," says Eagland. "This cut works beautifully for everyone, especially for those growing out a pixie who are craving something longer, and messier hair is having a real moment right now," he says. "In the salon, ask for soft, shaggy layers with plenty of texture throughout. And to style at home, spritz through some salt spray on damp hair, leave to air dry and you're done."

Style at Home:

4. '90s Layers

Wanting to keep your longer lengths? '90s face-framing layers are the haircut to bookmark for your next salon visit. "90s layers offer pure nostalgia," says Eagland. Think face-framing layers and angles at the front with a blunt finish at the bottom, which creates seamless movement. It's gorgeous worn sleek or with a voluminous 90s blow-dry," he says. Eagland recommends using a large round brush to create the bounce, but you can also get the look with a hot brush if you want to dry and style at the same time.

Style at Home:

5. Shaggy Layers

If a shag haircut feels like too much, opting for shaggy layers is a way to add more movement and body to your hair. "Shaggy layers were made for summer, and this cut is perfect for those who want minimal effort and a lot of movement on medium and long hair. It's perfect for air-drying on hot days, beach trips, or holidays, too," says Eagland. "In the salon, ask for lived-in layers with a choppy, undone finish. Then at home, scrunch in a styling cream or salt spray on damp hair and let it air dry. Or enhance your air-dried hair with curling tongs for a bit more of a polished finish," he says.

Style at Home:

6. Wispy Fringe

Thinking of a fringe for summer? Eagland tells me that it's a great way to tweak your style without undergoing a drastic change. "There are two fringe options that transform your look without changing your entire haircut," he says. "A curtain fringe is perfect for summer, and you can wear your hair up, and you still have a style with the fringe down. Or, wispy fringes sit shorter at the brow for a chic edge," he says. "In the salon, ask for either a centre-parted curtain fringe, or a feathered fringe cut shorter at the centre, sitting at the brow," says Eagland. "At home, a quick blow-dry of the fringe alone and you're polished in minutes."

Style at Home:

Why Trust Us

At Who What Wear UK, we know that beauty isn’t one-size-fits-all. Our editors have tested thousands of products, including some skincare, makeup, hair and nails, over the years and work closely with trusted experts—dermatologists, make-up artists and leading industry insiders—to ensure every guide is well-researched, inclusive and relevant to you.

We focus on formulas that deliver, whether they’re affordable favourites or luxury investments. Our product selection is based on tangible results, ingredient know-how and what we’d truly recommend to a friend.

Year in, year out, there is one style that dominates the list of the most popular haircuts each year—the classic bob. Whether it’s a bluntly cut crop or a tousled waterfall bob, it’s a timeless cut for a reason, and its versatility is undeniable. However, if you’ve been flirting with the idea of going shorter but just don’t find yourself excited about a one-length cut (and you’re not quite ready to commit to a pixie), then it might be time you got acquainted with the tapered bob.

Softer and sleeker than a classic graduated bob, but not as dramatically short as this summer’s trending elfin bob, it’s the kind of haircut that looks pulled-together but is surprisingly low-maintenance. And it hits the sweet spot between being on trend for 2026 whilst still feeling timeless.

Ahead, we speak to a hair expert to break down exactly why the tapered bob is going to dominate this summer, along with all of the inspiration you’ll need to bookmark for your salon appointment.

What Is a Tapered Bob?

There seems to be countless bobs trending at any one time, so understanding exactly what defines a tapered bob is crucial if you’re thinking about asking your hairdresser for this cut. “It’s a bob that gradually gets shorter towards the nape of the neck, creating a neat, close-fitting shape…with a soft, streamlined silhouette,” explains hair stylist Elliot Bute from Hershesons, Fitzrovia. While some people use the term interchangeably with graduated bob, Bute does point out that they aren’t the same cut. “The two styles do overlap, but a graduated bob relies on stacked layers to build volume at the back,” he explains.

Who Suits a Tapered Bob?

As someone with textured hair, I’m always on the fence about going short for fear that my cut will end up looking blocky or overly volumised. However, Bute believes the beauty of the tapered bob is that it is so versatile and works on most hair types. “Fine hair can look fuller, thick hair benefits from having some weight removed, and natural waves add movement to the cut,” he says. “The key is tailoring the shape to the individual’s hair density and face shape… maybe with some subtle graduation or layering to enhance the tapered silhouette.”

Tapered Bob Inspiration

While we expect the tapered bob to really take off over the next few months, Bute advises looking to celebrities like Lily Collins, Selena Gomez and Millie Bobby Brown for inspiration right now. "Each wears a slightly different version, from sleek and sharp to softer and more textured, making them useful references for a salon consultation," he explains.

If you're thinking of dipping your toe into the tapered bob trend, then make like Lily Collins and keep the lengths at the front just slightly longer than the back.

Kelly Rowland's sleek, centre-parted bob is next-level chic.

Switching to a side-parting like Emma Willis is a great way to add volume to a short style, fast.

Keeping the hair shorter at the nape of the neck and longer at the front adds the most beautiful shape to Ebony Obsidian's curls.

Millie Bobby Brown's soft, beachy waves pair perfectly with her grown-out tapered bob.

Emilia Clarke's take on the tapered bob is classic—softly graduated and worn poker straight to show off the structured cut.

Worn with a feathery fringe, Kerry Washington's softly tapered bob is a really summery take on the style.

How to Style a Tapered Bob

According to Bute, a tapered bob is easy to style at home but does need regular trims (every six to eight weeks) to keep the cut looking fresh. “A lightweight mousse or air-dry cream will help, depending on your hair type, while a quick blow-dry can enhance the tapered silhouette,” he explains. “And if you’re happy with a softer, grown-out look, then you can stretch the time between trims a little longer.”

Why Trust Us

At Who What Wear UK, we know that beauty isn’t one-size-fits-all. Our editors have tested thousands of products over the years—spanning skincare, makeup, hair and nails—and work closely with trusted experts including dermatologists, makeup artists and leading industry insiders to ensure every guide is well-researched, inclusive and relevant to you.

We focus on formulas that deliver, whether they’re affordable favourites or luxury investments. Our product selection is based on tangible results, ingredient know-how and what we’d truly recommend to a friend.

The best thing about summer hair trends is that they aren't really all that rigid—literally and figuratively. We tend to see lots of airy, textured silhouettes on the rise, yet the trends themselves also aren't too stringent. As celebrity hairstylist Sky Kim shares, "Summer always brings hair back to freedom. It’s less structured, more expressive." As we shed our winter layers for linen sets and breezy slips, hair becomes looser, more lived-in—especially in 2026, when embracing piece-y movement is very much en vogue.

"2025 was sleek, minimal, and controlled. 2026 is expressive, textural, and a little rebellious in a wearable way," adds Kim. As such, we're seeing polished cuts and styles give way to bolder (yet still natural) iterations, all of which you can find when you scroll ahead.

Just a quick note before diving in: While I've labelled some haircuts and colours below as "out," by no means am I saying they should stay buried. Beauty trends have a funny way of cycling in and out of the spotlight, so you might very well see them again once fall rolls back around. For summer 2026, though, these are the seven swaps on the rise.

Out: Blunt Bobs | In: Lived-In Layers

If you sported a chin-skimming crop last summer, you're not alone. It was arguably the year of the bob—from voluminous "Riviera" bobs to sleek Prada" bobs to '60s-inspired "flipped" bobs—and if you, too, committed to the shorter cut, you're probably currently residing in lob territory. As you encompass the grow-out period, try leaning into soft movement and texture (such as airy layers) as opposed to blunt bobs.

Celebrity hairstylist Reece Walker agrees: "Many clients who had strong blunt bobs are now growing them out and really embracing hair that feels less structured and more lived-in," he shares. Consider it the pendulum swing from bold, sophisticated cuts to styles with more of an "undone" feel.

Out: Solid Cool Tones | In: Warmth and Dimension

"Flat, one-note hair colour is fading, especially overly cool, ashy tones that don’t reflect light," says Kim. "Instead, people are leaning into dimension and natural undertones. Think warm blondes, reds that enhance what’s already in your hair, and brunettes with subtle tonal ribbons. It’s very reflective, very alive—colour that shifts in the light rather than sitting flat." Walker echoes her declaration, adding that dimension in colour is going to be huge. "Less flat, solid colour and more depth and movement," he notes.

Dakota Johnson is the perfect example, as she recently transformed her rich brunette length to a dimensional dirty blonde at this year's Time 100 gala. It's the first time in years she switched up her go-to shade, so that's when you know the colour trend has legs. Time this as your sign to book in for some balayage.

Out: Blended Curtain Bangs | In: "Bratty" Bangs

Long curtain bangs are A+ for those who aren't necessarily ready to commit to the bang life, but in summer 2026, there's little room for middle ground. "Soft, overly blended curtain bangs are out," Kim asserts. Instead? A bold, "bratty" side bang reigns supreme. "It’s shorter, slightly choppier and more intentional. It sits higher, hits around the cheekbone or brow, and feels a little undone in a way that gives attitude rather than softness," she adds. "It’s less about perfectly feathered face framing and more about creating shape and edge."

Out: Subtle Tones | In: Expressive Colour

While haircuts are becoming increasingly more lived-in, "Colour is where it gets exciting," notes Kim. "We’re seeing a move toward dimensional, expressive colour, similar to that Alyssa Liu energy where it feels bold and wild." You don't necessarily have to commit to a halo hair colour like Liu, but for those craving more of a summer statement, consider this your sign to embrace high-contrast (dare I say ombré?) hair. "I think the drastic dual tones are coming back, like Billie Eilish’s green hair roots, dark tips, etc.," adds Kim.

Out: Glassy Slick-Backs | In: Textured Updos

Allow me to clarify: a slick-back will never truly fall out of favour. But stylists can't ignore the onslaught of lived-in, piece-y updos that just feel unrestricted. Shares Kim, "2025 felt very controlled, sleek, polished, and almost uniform—a lot of glass hair, tight finishes, and minimal variation. 2026 is breaking that open. There’s more personality, more texture, and more confidence in letting hair feel lived-in." Again, slick-backs will never be fully "out," but they are becoming less helmet-like. "Even when the look is polished, it’s not rigid. It’s less about perfection and more about identity," Kim adds.

Out: Tucked Bobs | In: Tucked Bixies

Remember when the tucked bob (aka a bob secured behind one or both ears) became all the buzz? We're starting to see a similar style take shape this summer, but it's a tad shorter, kissing the nape of the neck instead of the tops of the shoulders. Celebs like Gracie Abrams, Carey Mulligan, and Olandria Carthen (pictured above) have all embraced the chic tucked pixie cut, choosing to tuck their pixie behind just one ear to show off their bone structure. That said, you could also clip the pieces away using a subtle bobby pin or bold hair accessory. Artist's choice!

Out: Bombshell Blowouts | In: "C" Curls

Like classic slick-backs, bouncy, bombshell blowouts will never completely go away. Feel free to enjoy your '90s style all summer long, but if you want to embrace the new It-girl blowout, try your hand at softer "C" curls. "It’s a classic French blowout but with a nice bend and 'C' shape at the ends," explains celebrity hairstylist Dimitris Giannetos, who recently created the look for Gigi Hadid. "Instead of a flat-ironed straight hair look, this is a beautiful blowout with a gorgeous bend."

According to the pro, it also looks divine paired with a feathery, mid-length cut. "This look is very modern and fresh," he adds. "The 'C' curl is going to be the new hairstyle for the summer!"

The Best Styling Products for Summer 2026 Hair Trends

Whether you're a fan of the short hair trend or not, bob hairstyles are here to stay this summer. I don't have one myself, but I can certainly appreciate this chic short haircut from afar, and as a beauty editor, I love researching the biggest bob hair trends.

This summer, we've seen a shift from blunt bobs and sleek styles to more "undone" finishes. I'm talking texture, movement and lots of choppy layers. Whilst bobs were once considered somewhat high-maintenance, this new trend highlights a more low-maintenance take on the bob, and I'm all here for it. But what do the experts think?

I reached out to Andrew Heasman, international creative director at Rush Hair, to get his take on the biggest summer bob trends of 2026. As you'll see below, Heasman is also a fan of a relaxed bob this season, and there are plenty of ways to wear it for a chic, stylish finish. Keep on scrolling to find out more, but I'm warning you, you might want to book in for a haircut after reading...

6 Biggest Summer Bob Trends of 2026

1. Butterfly Bob

First up, the butterfly bob. "One of the top bob trends for summer 2026, the butterfly bob will be everywhere," says Heasman. "This cut infuses the silhouette of the classic bob cut with the ‘undone’ essence of a butterfly cut." When it comes to styling, Heasman tells me that texture and movement are key. "I’d recommend using a medium-sized round brush and volumising mousse to heighten the appearance of the graduated layers and amp up the volume without looking overdone."

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2. Midi Bob

If you're looking for a more relaxed version of the classic bob haircut, Heasman wants you to know about the midi bob. "As the name suggests, it falls somewhere mid-length between the shoulder and collarbone," he tells me. "This cut can revitalise the hair to create healthier, fuller, thicker-looking locks, getting rid of split ends and preventing further damage."

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3. Curved Lob

Speaking of relaxed bob hairstyles, you can't go wrong with a lob, and this curved finish looks so chic. "A curved lob is a super-precise shoulder-length bob which curves inwards at the ends, mirroring the silhouette of a ‘C’," explains Heasman. "This exaggerated finish is a new approach to styling what is quite a simple cut—it’s elegant with an essence of drama." To style, Heasman advises lightly spritzing a heat protectant over the hair and using straighteners to accentuate the curve. "Lightly pull the hair towards the chin for a sculpted appearance and finish with a light-hold hairspray to ensure your style stays in place all day."

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4. Italian Bob

If you want something super sophisticated, why not try the Italian bob? "The Italian bob pays homage to the Dolce Vita lifestyle, mixing the Milanese aesthetic with your classic big, bouncy blow-dry," Heasman tells me. "It’s glamorous, playful and beaming with styling opportunities, making it one of the more versatile options for summer 2026. The voluminous finish gives the hair a full and healthy appearance, which is always a good look."

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5. Micro Mini Bob

"Fun, flirty and totally flattering—the micro mini bob has cool girl written all over it," says Heasman. "This style focuses on precise lines, which naturally enhance softer face shapes, but this style can easily be altered for a more delicate finish." Although there are lots of ways to style this cut, Heasman says it looks great when left to air-dry, which is music to my ears for the summer months. "I’d recommend using a light spritz of texture spray to boost volume and style the hair," he tells me.

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6. Soft Bob

Last but by no means least, say hello to the soft bob. "The soft bob encapsulates a feminine approach to the classic blunt bob, offering a much more effortless rendition with its summery, relaxed feel," explains Heasman. "The ends of the hair are feathered, which amplifies the hair’s texture and adds movement and definition with the cut’s shoulder-length finish. This cut pairs beautifully with a face-framing fringe to harmonise the face's features and add a sculpted essence to the look."

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The best thing about summer hair trends is that they aren't really all that rigid—literally and figuratively. We tend to see lots of airy, textured silhouettes on the rise, yet the trends themselves also aren't too stringent. As celebrity hairstylist Sky Kim shares, "Summer always brings hair back to freedom. It’s less structured, more expressive." As we shed our winter layers for linen sets and breezy slips, hair becomes looser, more lived-in—especially in 2026, when embracing piece-y movement is very much en vogue.

"Twenty twenty-five was sleek, minimal, and controlled. Twenty twenty-six is expressive, textural, and a little rebellious in a wearable way," adds Kim. As such, we're seeing polished cuts and styles give way to bolder (yet still natural) iterations, all of which you can find when you scroll ahead.

Just a quick note before diving in: While I've labeled some haircuts and colors below as "out," by no means am I saying they should stay buried. Beauty trends have a funny way of cycling in and out of the spotlight, so you might very well see them again once fall rolls back around. For summer 2026, though, these are the seven swaps on the rise.

Out: Blunt Bobs | In: Lived-In Layers

If you sported a chin-skimming crop last summer, you're not alone. It was arguably the year of the bob—from voluminous "Riviera" bobs to sleek "Prada" bobs to '60s-inspired "flipped" bobs—and if you, too, committed to the shorter cut, you're probably currently residing in lob territory. As you encompass the grow-out period, try leaning into soft movement and texture (such as airy layers) as opposed to blunt edges.

Celebrity hairstylist Reece Walker agrees: "Many clients who had strong blunt bobs are now growing them out and really embracing hair that feels less structured and more lived-in," he shares. Consider it the pendulum swing from bold, sophisticated cuts to styles with more of an "undone" feel.

Out: Solid Cool Tones | In: Warmth and Dimension

"Flat, one-note color is fading, especially overly cool, ashy tones that don’t reflect light," says Kim. "Instead, people are leaning into dimension and natural undertones. Think warm blondes, reds that enhance what’s already in your hair, and brunettes with subtle tonal ribbons. It’s very reflective, very alive—color that shifts in the light rather than sitting flat." Walker echoes her declaration, adding that dimension in color is going to be huge. "Less flat, solid color and more depth and movement," he notes.

Dakota Johnson is the perfect example, as she recently transformed her rich brunette length to a dimensional dirty blonde at this year's Time 100 gala. It's the first time in years she switched up her go-to shade, so that's when you know the color trend has legs.

Out: Blended Curtain Bangs | In: "Bitchy" Bangs

Long curtain bangs are A+ for those who aren't necessarily ready to commit to the bang life, but in summer 2026, there's little room for middle ground. "Soft, overly blended curtain bangs are out," Kim asserts. Instead? A bold, "bitchy" bang reigns supreme. "It’s shorter, slightly choppier, and more intentional. It sits higher, hits around the cheekbone or brow, and feels a little undone in a way that gives attitude rather than softness," she adds. "It’s less about perfectly feathered face framing and more about creating shape and edge."

Out: Subtle Tones | In: Expressive Color

While haircuts are becoming increasingly more lived-in, "Color is where it gets exciting," notes Kim. "We’re seeing a move toward dimensional, expressive color, similar to that Alyssa Liu energy where it feels bold and wild." You don't necessarily have to commit to a halo hair color like Liu, but for those craving more of a summer statement, consider this your sign to embrace high-contrast (dare I say ombré?) hair. "I think the drastic dual tones are coming back, like Billie Eilish’s green hair roots, dark tips, etc.," adds Kim.

Out: Glassy Slick-Backs | In: Textured Updos

Allow me to clarify: a slick-back will never truly fall out of favor. But stylists can't ignore the onslaught of lived-in, piece-y updos that just feel unrestricted. Shares Kim, "Twenty twenty-five felt very controlled, sleek, polished, and almost uniform—a lot of glass hair, tight finishes, and minimal variation. 2026 is breaking that open. There’s more personality, more texture, and more confidence in letting hair feel lived-in." Again, slick-backs will never be fully "out," but they are becoming less helmet-like. "Even when the look is polished, it’s not rigid. It’s less about perfection and more about identity," Kim adds.

Out: Tucked Bobs | In: Tucked Pixies

Remember when the tucked bob (aka a bob secured behind one or both ears) became all the buzz? We're starting to see a similar style take shape this summer, but it's a tad shorter, kissing the nape of the neck instead of the tops of the shoulders. Celebs like Gracie Abrams, Carey Mulligan, and Olandria Carthen (pictured above) have all embraced the chic short 'do, choosing to tuck their pixie behind just one ear to show off their bone structure. That said, you could also clip the pieces away using a subtle bobby pin or bold hair accessory. Artist's choice!

Out: Bombshell Blowouts | In: "C" Curls

Like classic slick-backs, bouncy, bombshell blowouts will never completely go away. Feel free to enjoy your '90s style all summer long, but if you want to embrace the new It-girl blowout, try your hand at softer "C" curls. "It’s a classic French blowout but with a nice bend and 'C' shape at the ends," explains celebrity hairstylist Dimitris Giannetos, who recently created the look for Gigi Hadid. "Instead of a flat-ironed straight hair look, this is a beautiful blowout with a gorgeous bend."

According to the pro, it also looks divine paired with a feathery, mid-length cut. "This look is very modern and fresh," he adds. "The 'C' curl is going to be the new hairstyle for the summer!"

The Best Styling Products for Summer 2026 Hair Trends

Whilst bob hairstyles continue to be one of the biggest hair trends of the season, I still haven't been tempted to get the chop. Sure, every time I see a chic blunt bob or asymmetric style, there's a part of me that thinks "I'd like to give that a go", but at the end of the day, I know it's just not me. I've had long hair for as long as I can remember, and I love styling it in loose, relaxed waves, especially during the summer months.

One hair trend I love in particular is "waterfall" waves. You know those effortlessly cascading curls that look so smooth, shiny and fluid? You best believe I'm reaching for my go-to curling wand and shine spray every day to try and recreate that look. So, when I saw a certain celeb rocking what I have coined the waterfall bob, it was the first time in a while that I thought about actually cutting my hair. The celeb in question? Carey Mulligan, of course.

Arguably one of the best celebrity bob hairstyles of all time, Carey's shorter 'do always looks chic, but these natural-looking, waterfall waves are giving her blonde bob all of the sophisticated summer vibes. This haircut is so good that I predict it will be one of the most popular bob hairstyles of the summer.

Below, I've rounded up more waterfall bob inspiration, so keep on scrolling to get the look.

Waterfall Bob Inspiration

Emma Stone is my ultimate summer muse with her glossy, waterfall bob.

Pair with a fringe for extra style points.

So effortlessly chic.

A middle parting works so well with this hairstyle.

A little bit of beachy texture goes a long way.

An ethereal look from head to toe.

The Best Products for a Waterfall Bob

I’ve switched between long and short hair more times than I can count, and I can tell you this: summer is where short hair really has its moment. It’s not just the obvious time-saving perk in the mornings, but the pure relief of not having sweaty strands clinging to your neck, whether you’re commuting in the heat or heading out for a low-key date night.

And I’m not the only one keen to embrace the chop; more people are cutting off inches to beat the heat, with short styles already taking over social media feeds and salon chairs ahead of summer hair trends really coming into their own.

“Shorter hair for summer inspiration is really hair that looks naturally beautiful rather than overly styled or controlled,” confirms celebrity hairstylist Larry King, founder of Larry King Salons.

That being said, with so many trending short hairstyles out there, what cuts can we actually expect to see in the coming months? From textured crops to sleek bobs, if you're looking for a sign to go shorter this summer, this is it. Below, King reveals the must-know short summer hair trends of 2026, plus the styling tricks and essential products that make each look feel effortlessly chic.

6 Short Hair Trends for Summer 2026

1. The Trixie

This textured pixie crop has been seen everywhere, from Zendaya and Teyana Taylor to Jessie Buckley and Emma Stone. According to King, its popularity lies in the way it hits the sweet spot between low-maintenance ease and fashion-forward feel. “It’s all about removing weight, creating airy movement and allowing the texture to develop organically,” says King.

2. Blunt Bob

"Even with stronger silhouettes like the blunt bob, the trend now is towards softness and movement rather than overly polished finishes," reveals King. "The shape still feels clean and elevated, but the internal texture stops it from looking rigid. We’re seeing people want glossy, healthy hair that still has personality and movement," he adds.

3. Asymmetric Bob

This style is perfect if you don't want to lose too much length. It's easy to wear as you don't need to do too much to it. "The movement feels natural rather than overly styled," explains King. Simply use a texture spray through the lengths to give it a little grit while still keeping it touchable and lightweight. For a sleeker look, opt for finishing serum to help boost shine.

4. French Bob

"The French bob trend this season is all about softness and natural texture. People want hair that feels chic without looking too ‘done’, and this cut works beautifully because it evolves naturally over time," reveals King. Use a curling tong to create subtle bends in the hair and follow with a texture clay to create movement and separation without stiffness.

5. The Modern Pixie

"This modern pixie works so well because it balances softness and edge in a really effortless way," says King. "People want shorter styles that still feel feminine, touchable and versatile, and this cut gives exactly that. The layering creates natural movement and separation while maintaining fullness around the face," he adds.

6. Shaggy Bob

The shaggy bob really reflects where hair trends are moving right now, towards cuts that feel naturally beautiful, slightly imperfect and full of movement. "Soft layering around the face creates an airy shape that develops beautifully over time", adds King. "Texture sprays are essential for creating grit, separation and that perfectly lived-in texture without losing softness," he says.

“The longer your hair, the higher the maintenance” is something we’ve all probably heard when considering whether or not we should opt for a bob. But I have to admit that as someone with Afro hair, I’ve always been under the impression that getting a bob would be more stress it’s worth.

The truth? Even the shortest of haircuts still requires a lot of upkeep, something that I’m sure low-maintenance girls like myself are heartbroken to hear. However, there are plenty of bob hairstyles around that are perfectly suited to naturally curly and coily hair and don’t require the hours of upkeep you might initially expect.

A few days ago, I sat down with professional hair stylist and brand founder, Charlotte Mensah, to get her honest thoughts on what bob haircuts are the best for Afro hair, as well as how to maintain your own bob at home. Here’s what she had to say...

What Is an Afro Bob Haircut?

Mensah says, "An Afro bob is a bob shaped specifically with textured hair in mind. It honours the density, movement and beauty of curls, coils or stretched natural hair, rather than forcing the hair into a shape designed for straighter textures. It can be sculpted soft and rounded, sharp and graphic, chin-length, shoulder-grazing or layered for lift and movement. The beauty of an Afro bob is that it celebrates shape."

Do Bobs Suit Afro Hair?

"Absolutely! Bobs can be beautiful on Afro hair. In many ways, textured hair gives a bob more character, volume and presence. The key lies in tailoring the cut to your curl pattern, density, shrinkage and how you like to wear your hair day to day. A good bob should work with your texture, not against it", says Mensah.

Tips for Getting a Bob with Afro Hair

• Book a consultation first and foremost so that you can speak to your stylist before doing anything. Understand the look you want to achieve, and talk through how your stylist will approach it. A lot can be uncovered in that conversation.
• Bring reference images to help communicate shape, fullness, length and finish, while giving your stylist something tangible to respond to. Come open-minded too, as the right bob should suit both your texture and your features.
• Wear your hair as you usually wear it so your stylist understands its natural behaviour. Talk about shrinkage, as a curly bob and a stretched bob can sit very differently. Be honest about maintenance, too. If you want ease, say so. If you enjoy styling, that opens up other possibilities.
• Face shape, neckline and the experience of the stylist all matter. A well-cut bob should frame you beautifully, and textured hair deserves someone who understands how to cut for shape.

The Best Bobs for Afro Hair

1. Blunt Bob

If you often blow-dry your hair, try opting for a one-length, also known as a blunt bob. It requires much lower upkeep than a traditional cut and less frequent trims, not to mention it looks sleek and intentional.

2. Layered Bob

If your hair has natural, different-length coils to it, embrace it in the form of a layered bob. This voluminous hairstyle will give your bob effortless structure and requires minimal styling to look chic.

3. Tapered Bob

A tapered bob is longer on top and gradually gets shorter toward the nape of the neck, creating a clean, structured finish that looks put together. It perfectly balances feeling laid-back and looking elegant, and the bob will evolve nicely without any interference needed as it grows out.

4. Fringed Bob

If you want to add some character to your hair, a fringe is the way to go. It will give a bob the appearance of looking refined and well-looked-after, but actually requires minimal care apart from the odd trim.

5. Curtain-Bang Bob

Curtain bang bobs are a universally flattering way to frame the face and give it structure, as well as improve the appearance of volume on those of us with finer hair. It’s fuss-free, easy to look after, and looks incredibly cool, might I add.

6. Pixie Cut

An ultra-short pixie cut will not only look extremely polished and put together, but it also allows for extended growing-out time, meaning you won’t find yourself in the salon for upkeep every week.

7. Braided Bob

Braids are the ultimate low-maintenance hairstyle for Afro hair throughout the warmer months, and a braided bob is a great way to try out different cuts, lengths and colours before you fully commit to one particular style.

How Do I Maintain a Bob with Afro Hair?

Mensah states that, “a bob thrives when the shape is preserved. I always say focus on moisture, shape and gentle upkeep."

She recommends the following:

1. A bob always looks its best when the hair is healthy.
2. Regular trims help maintain the line, usually every eight to twelve weeks.
3. Keep the hair hydrated, as dryness can make the shape harder to hold. Lightweight oils can help support softness and shine, while a nourishing styling pomade can be useful for defining shape and polishing the finish.
4. Protect the hair at night with silk or satin, and avoid overloading it with product so the hair keeps its movement. For silk pressed or stretched bobs, wrapping or pin-curling at night helps preserve the style beautifully.

Best Products for Afro Bobs

If there's one thing the beauty team at Who What Wear UK loves to chat about, it's bob hairstyles. Whilst this short hair trend is nothing new, it shows no signs of slowing down in 2026, and we are always chatting about the latest looks, from the blunt bob to the "elfin bob" and even the lazy bob. If you're wondering where we find all our bob inspiration, it's mainly via the celebs.

In fact, the other day on our work group chat, we got chatting about the best celebrity bobs of 2026, and we realised that so many of our favourite stars were rocking some seriously cool short-hair looks of late. We've been sending so many messages about our most-loved styles that I thought it was about time to write an article rounding up all the best celeb bob hairstyles of the year (so far, of course).

Below, you'll find some of the chicest bob hairstyles to try this season, courtesy of the biggest stars out there, from Margot Robbie to Teyana Taylor, and more. Plus, I've included all of my go-to products to help recreate these red-carpet-ready looks, so what are you waiting for? Keep on scrolling, and consider this your sign to get the chop this spring...

13 of the Best Celebrity Bobs 2026

1. Margot Robbie

The bob that has had everyone talking. Margot's loose waves and wispy fringe are quite literally a work of art.

Get the Look:

2. Zendaya

I love Zendaya's Old Hollywood take on the classic voluminous bob.

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3. Jessie Buckley

As Who What Wear UK beauty director Shannon Lawlor said on our work group chat, Jessie Buckley's sleek bob is "unparalleled levels of cool".

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4. Emma Stone

This layered bob is so good that it had me texting my hairdresser straight away.

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5. Ayo Edebiri

Yes, Ayo Edebiri really is the French-bob queen.

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6. Carey Mulligan

There's something about Carey Mulligan's blunt bob that makes it appear so effortless.

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7. Hailey Bieber

I mean, you didn't think I'd do this roundup without mentioning Hailey Bieber's iconic lob, did you?

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8. Elsa Hosk

Speaking of lobs, Elsa Hosk's curly short style is my summer inspiration.

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9. Gracie Abrams

Beauty editor Eleanor Vousden counts Gracie Abrams' elfin bob as one of her top 2026 hairstyles.

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10. Demi Moore

Possibly the coolest wet-look bob I've ever seen.

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11. Taylor Hill

Taylor Hill is proving that a fringe is all you need to take a bob haircut to the next level.

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12. Lily Collins

A masterclass in how to make the asymmetrical bob look super chic.

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13. Teyana Taylor

A flicky bob will always be in style, as proved by Teyana Taylor.

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This time of the year is my favourite time to spot hair trends. Over the past couple of months, we've had the awards season, fashion month and a flurry of premieres and red carpet moments, all of which are the perfect fodder for us beauty editors to spot the next big beauty trends. And after keeping a firm eye on the haircut trends this year, one thing is for certain. Everyone seems to be going for a short haircut right now. And I'm tipping the elfin bob to be circulating amongst salons as a major spring hair trend this year.

What Is the Elfin Bob?

I first spotted it on Gracie Abrams' BAFTA hair look. It's not quite a pixie cut, and not quite a bob haircut. The elfin bob marries the two together, featuring the impish silhouette of a pixie cut with the longer length of a cropped bob haircut that still allows you to wear it tucked behind the ears. It's easily one of the chicest short haircuts I've seen this year, with celebrities such as Zendaya and Iris Law wearing this elegant yet cool-girl cut. Tinkerbell, eat your heart out.

Ready to try the elfin bob out for yourself? Scroll ahead for all the inspo pics to take to the salon, as well as the best styling products to get the look at home. Chop chop!

Elfin Bob Haircut Ideas

We've see Zendaya wearing her elfin bob in multiple ways on The Drama press tour, including in glamorous curls and this cool-girl coded wavy crop.

Jessie Buckley shows how chic an elfin bob looks when worn in a swept-over side parting.

My jaw dropped when I first saw Emma Stone's elfin bob haircut with impish waves.

I adore this '50s-coded curled crop on Jourdan Dunn.

Iris Law has long worn her hair in an elfin style, and celebrity hairstylist Luke Hersheson recently cut it for the Fendi show. “I cut Iris' hair into a short elfin cut—even though it’s short, there are so many ways to style and wear this cut—it’s super versatile," says Hersheson. "I smothered her hair in Almost Everything Cream (£20) and drew a low, deep parting while creating a modern kiss curl on her forehead, inspired by Josephine Baker of the '20s—we made it very subtle so it’s more of a nod to the era but still felt modern and fresh," he says.

I've been mesmerised by Teyana Taylor's ethereal elfin haircuts over awards season.

Taylor Hill shows how to pair an elfin bob haircut with a wispy fringe. So chic.

How to Style It

Call me open-minded or easily influenced, but sometimes, all it takes is seeing someone with a certain haircut for me to consider getting it myself. Whether it's a stranger I pass on the street or a celeb posing on a red carpet, there have been times when I seriously considered a switch-up. So far in 2026, I've obsessed over French-girl curtain bangs and the return of 2006-era side bangs.

Most recently, though, I've been turning my focus (is it an all-out fixation?) to a short, celeb-approved cut called the bixie. Per its name, it's halfway between a traditional pixie and a standard bob. It's chic! It's versatile! And it's set to take over in 2026. Ahead, learn all about this trendy haircut. Just don't blame me if you feel inspired to book a salon appointment.

What is the bixie haircut?

According to celebrity hairstylist Jerome Lordet, owner of Jerome Lordet Salon in NYC, "the bixie is lighter and more textured than a bob but longer and softer than a pixie. It's effortless, and I love how it can be tailored to suit each person's face shape, hair type, and lifestyle."

Its versatility is what really sets the bixie apart from other short hairstyles. You can wear it slicked back for a sleek look, pumped up with lots of soft volume, curled, straightened… The list goes on. Maybe that's why it appears to transcend aesthetics and generations.

The Celeb Examples

Short hairstyles have been trending for a while now, and celebs like Gracie Abrams, Jessie Buckley, and Zendaya (gasp!) have all cosigned it for 2026. That means it's poised to dominate the trend cycle all year. Trust me—I've been a beauty editor for a decade now, and I'm an expert at trend-spotting. Since each A-lister wears their bixie slightly differently, I asked Lordet what to ask for at the salon to achieve each look.

Gracie Abrams

Abrams's bixie is soft, feathered, and romantic. If you want to achieve the exact same look, Lordet recommends asking for soft layers around the face with natural texture. "It should feel light and undone and easy to style and maintain," he says. "I always approach it with a 'wash and wear' philosophy so it looks great without much effort."

Jessie Buckley

Buckley's bixie is "textured and edgy" compared to the others. While she opted to wear it in a sleek and slicked-back style on the Oscars red carpet, Lordet says an ever-so-slightly shorter chop is the key to replicating it. "I recommend asking for choppier layers that create definition while keeping a soft, feminine feel. The cut should be slightly shorter overall to give it that bold look," he says.

Zendaya

To be honest, Zendaya's bixie is what really solidified it as a 2026 trend. When she stepped out at the Academy Awards with her The Drama costar, Robert Pattinson, to present the Oscar for best director, I think I audibly gasped. Her hair looked bouncy, volumized, and sophisticated. "Zendaya's bixie is polished and refined," Lordet says. "I'd suggest asking for longer layers with clean lines and a smooth shape but still keep movement. It is elegant, wearable, and effortlessly chic." I have to agree.

How to Style the Bixie

Since the bixie is so versatile, there's really no end-all way to style it. However, Lordet has some direction. "The key is to enhance the hair's natural movement," he says. "I recommend a lightweight texturizing cream or product to define the shape without weighing it down. Air-drying works beautifully, but a quick blow-dry is also great to bring out the style. The beauty of the bixie is that it is chic and easy to maintain."

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As the weather starts to thaw, you can catch me diving into current hair trends. Cue the line about seasonal changes and new beginnings, fresh starts, yadda yadda. It's certainly not uncommon to want to switch up your look at the onset of spring, but this year, the craving feels especially strong after such a brutally cold and snowy winter here on the East Coast. It's officially time to put that dreariness in the rearview, and what better way to do so than with an updated cut or color?

"Traditionally, spring trends lean very light and playful, but this year feels a bit more refined," shares celebrity hairstylist Dimitris Giannetos. "There’s still that sense of freshness, but it’s paired with a more elevated, timeless approach. Instead of drastic seasonal changes, people are opting for subtle updates that enhance their existing style, more of a refinement than a reset." Think dimensional colors, lived-in styles, and shorter cuts with a super seamless grow-out. Find them all ahead, along with expert-backed product recs.

Spring 2026 Hair Colors

Sunlit Copper

A warm, earthy copper is certainly on-trend, but master colorist Rachael Thomas, director of education at Madison Reed, suggests amping up the golden tones even further this spring. Enter sunlit copper, a "warm, glowing red that flatters every complexion," she says, while creating natural-looking dimension. "Sunlit copper emerges as a wearable, everyday expression of red," Thomas adds. "It feels fresh but not extreme or artificial, which is exactly what people are looking for right now."

Golden-Hour Brunette

Similarly, we have golden hour brunette, a torched take on chocolate. Thomas calls it a "classic brunette with a sophisticated modern twist," thanks to those radiant gold tones. Ranging from light caramel (like Giannetos's snap of Tate McRae here) to deep espresso, its key factor is that rich, golden warmth. "A lot of people are looking for a rich luminous brunette that isn’t matte or overly cool. Golden hour brunette delivers that elevated, sun-kissed warmth that compliments your natural base in a luxurious way," Thomas adds. It also results in a more "lived-in" look with a forgiving grow-out phase, which will ultimately require less trips to the salon. Win, win!

Butter Blonde

Call it the Love Story effect, but a rich, buttery, Carolyn Bessette–coded blonde (seen on Sarah Pidgeon here, of course) will be all over mood boards this spring. Be warned, though: There's a fine line between this golden-champagne shade and one that reads a little too platinum or brassy. To keep it squarely in the center, prepare for purple shampoos and gold-pigment glosses to become your new best friends.

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Spring 2026 Haircuts

Square Bob

This spring, the pros predict a slew of bobs (get ready to call your stylist!), but not all crops are created equal. For those craving a bolder statement, allow me to introduce you to the square bob, which is a blunt cut with even weight on either side of the ears and across the back of the neck, making it look, well, square. It's wonderfully chic, especially for those with thicker locks, just know that your ends will be on full display with this clean, geometric shape, so definitely load up on moisturizing, cuticle-sealing oils to keep them looking nice and healthy.

Softly Sculpted Bob

For those who can't give up a little layering, stylists also softly sculpted bobs to reign supreme this spring. Sculpted ends give the cut shape, yet "[it] has movement and texture so it feels modern and wearable," celebrity hairstylist Kylee Heath shares. Imagine a bixie or a French bob, both of which have softly sculpted lines. "Those are going to dominate," shares celebrity hairstylist Ursula Stephen, who coiffed Zendaya's bixie above for the Oscars.

Bixies

Speaking of bixies, they deserve their own moment! From Teyana Taylor to Jessie Buckley to Gracie Abrams to Zendaya, celebs cannot stop flaunting these bob-pixie hybrids on the red carpet, and stylists only expect them to soar throughout the warmer months. "It's a great style to have if you want to confidently grow out your pixie and not feel insecure about having that awkward grow-out stage," celebrity hairstylist Nikki Nelms previously told Who What Wear of the award-season trend. "Since it's already a cool style, the grow-out will appear to be intentional." If you've ever had the urge to go super, super short, this spring is the perfect time.

Invisible Layers

Heath, Giannetos, and Stephen all agree: Layers are hot this spring. Specifically, "invisible layers" are one to watch. Says Giannetos, "They are incredibly subtle but make a big difference in how the hair falls and moves. [The cut] gives my clients that effortless, polished look without blunt lines or chunkiness." Consider the "cloud cut" he gave Cindy Crawford, pictured above, which appears perfectly undone with the addition of soft, airy layers.

"I think [layers] became a bit underrated with the popularity of the bob, as everyone wants those one-length, sharp, clean, slim [cuts]," Stephen adds. "But I believe those clients are craving some volume and movement—that’s where the layers come in!" It's also worth noting that invisible layers grow out seamlessly, which, according to Giannetos, speaks to a larger trend of lived-in, low-maintenance cuts this spring.

Piecey Bangs

I've said it once, and I'll say it again: Bangs of all kinds are dominating the 2026 hair space. Heath agrees. "Fringe is definitely having a moment again," she shares, noting that face-framing wisps will be extra popular this spring—largely because they blend so well into layers. "Softer, piece-y fringe will start gaining traction as people look for ways to update their look without committing to a dramatic change," Giannetos adds, recommending clip-in bangs for those who want to test the waters worry-free.

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Spring 2026 Hairstyles

Wet Looks

According to Giannetos, wet-look styles (like the bob he created for Demi Moore during Milan Fashion Week) will be all the rage this season. Although, this spring's version will look slightly more low-key than the drenched styles we've seen in the past—more of a "cream-gloss" finish versus a "serum-gloss" effect, shares hairstylist Gregory Patterson, DIY color and styling expert for Sally Beauty. Imagine your strands were shimmering with springtime dew, not completely dripping with moisture.

Tousled Parts

Are you a middle-part devotee or fancy some deep side-part glamour? According to stylists, it doesn't really matter this spring. "People are also starting to move away from their go-to part, experimenting with soft side parts or more tousled, natural placements," shares Heath. Consider this a sign to switch things up or simply let the strands fall where they may.

Fluffy Curls

Finally, "I think we’re going to trade our flat irons in for curling irons this spring," Stephen declares. "Curls and texture will be on the menu. Fluffy—no more pin straight hair." Like the majority of beauty trends this spring, we can likely thank Wuthering Heights for the uptick in playful, bouncy spirals, as the film's romantic hair trends continue to rise. Clearly, beauty lovers want to evoke frolicking through a sprawling spring meadow, their strands gently rumpled by the wind. We can just pretend that Heathcliff is patiently waiting on the other side.

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There’s no getting around the fact that, as obsessed as we all continue to be with bobs (of course, they’re still very much in the mix for the biggest hair trends of 2026 so far), the classic cut is a notoriously high-maintenance option. So if frequenting your hair salon every four to six weeks to keep your cut looking fresh doesn’t appeal, then consider this more laidback iteration might be one to have on your radar. Enter: the lazy bob.

Spotted on Hailey Bieber in recent months, this grown-out, shoulder-skimming style is the ultimate in-between option for anyone on the fence about going short or those who are growing out a shorter style. “It’s essentially a softer, more effortless evolution of the classic bob and has that relaxed, lived-in movement,” explains Syd Hayes, celebrity hair stylist and BaByliss Pro Ambassador. Even better, it looks just as good when it’s freshly cut as it does as it’s growing out.

Ahead, we share all of the lazy bob hair inspiration you need for your next cut, along with expert advice on exactly what to ask for in the salon.

Lazy Bob Hair Trend Inspiration

Hailey Bieber's effortlessly cool grown-out lob ticks all the boxes.

Elsa Hosk's grown-out bob looks amazing styled with beachy waves.

This slightly shorter cut on Laura Harrier oozes the same laidback appeal thanks to the diffused texture and choppy ends.

Aimee Song's long bob is utterly chic.

How pretty is Gugu Mbatha-Raw's soft, grown-out bob?

I love this longer length, centre-parted cut on Hailee Steinfeld.

Gigi Hadid's fun and flicked-out style is the epitome of this low-maintenance style.

What Is the Lazy Bob Haircut?

According to Hayes the key to the lazy bob haircut is a combination of the length and the finish. “It sits somewhere between the chin and shoulders and never feels too structured or overly polished,” he explains. In fact, its secret lies in the fact that this bob actually isn’t a one-length cut despite looking very much like one. “It actually has cleverly concealed layering which slims the silhouette and gives a relaxed and undone texture,” explains Tom Smith, hair stylist, trend forecaster, and founder of Aevum Salon. Despite its laidback look then, the lazy bob can actually be personalised precisely to your hair texture and thickness, unlike a more classic cut.

“It’s ideal for medium hair density that has a wave or loose curl naturally, but on thicker hair, concealed layers can provide a real opportunity to contour and shape the silhouette, whilst on fine hair, the bluntness of the ends can help add the appearance of thickness,” explains Smith.

What to Ask For

If you’re looking for inspo to take with you into the salon, then Hailey Bieber is the undeniable queen of this look at the moment, but there are specific things you can ask for to ensure you leave with the perfect lazy bob “I’d recommend asking for a soft, shoulder-skimming bob with minimal layering and natural texture,” advises Hayes. “You want the weight to sit through the ends so that the hair looks healthy and full, but with enough softness so it moves naturally and doesn’t feel too blunt or geometric.”

Even better, once it’s cut in, Hayes suggests that you won’t have to go back for a trim for between eight and 10 weeks. “One of the reasons this cut is so popular is because it’s quite low-maintenance, and as the shape is intentionally relaxed, it grows out beautifully,” he explains.

How to Style the Lazy Bob at Home

Once you’re home, the best thing about this hair trend is that it actually requires very little in the way of styling. “If it’s cut well, then it’s actually very low-maintenance day to day as the undone texture forms the structure of the cut,” explains Smith. “On wavy hair, air-dry creams are ideal to give that relaxed natural texture, and if your hair is fine and you want to add texture, then try spraying dry shampoo on the underneath layers of your hair to give it a natural boost to the lift, movement and fullness,” he explains.

The last time Sofia Richie Grainge made a dramatic hair transformation, she set the internet ablaze. Read: nearly 10 million TikTok views and 6000 comments gushing over the polished, "Princess Diana" vibe. Her "Du Cap" cut—named after her holiday at the Hotel du Cap-Eden-Roc in Antibes, France, where she got the chop—caused a frenzy of French bobs all summer ("I'd like the Sofia, please!" is the phrase I imagine stylists heard nonstop), and I can fully expect her latest transformation to influence this spring's hair trends.

Just yesterday, Grainge shared a mirror selfie on Instagram with the caption "Big plans," donning a leopard print tote, gray cardigan, black sunnies, and noticeably darker locks. She's of course alluding to welcoming her baby next week (!), but by sharing said plans, Grainge unwittingly influenced our own. I know I'm not the only one who immediately screenshotted the photo to show my colorist!

Luckily, I was able to score details on her buttery "caramelized brunette" hue straight from her stylists at Flore Los Angeles. Scroll ahead to re-create what's bound to become spring's hottest hair color.

According to Flore's lead colorist Jess Gonzalez, caramelized brunette is "perfect for the spring seasonal transition." Warm and shiny, the rich hue includes soft golden tones that effortlessly catch the light, adding a candlelit halo that's very on-trend for the season.

"It taps into the quiet luxury approach to brunette hair," Gonzalez exclusively tells Who What Wear. "As the seasons change, color trends tend to move toward tones that feel sunlit and natural. After years of ultra-ashy brunettes, many people are ready for something softer. Ashy tones can often read flat in photos as well and lack warmth. Caramelized brown offers the perfect middle ground, blending a neutral base with a golden reflection that adds softness, glow, and dimension."

That neutral, warm-toned base also tends to be easier to maintain, since hair color naturally warms up in between salon appointments. (Although, there's a difference between intentionally warm color and hair that just looks brassy—more on that later.) It's the perfect choice for Grainge, who will likely put regular hair touch-ups on the back burner for a bit after giving birth.

I suspect that's also why celebrity hairstylist Nicolas Flores, co-founder and owner of Flore, gave Grainge a low-maintenance cut with her caramelized color. “We’re growing out Sofia’s bob, so we added a soft face-framing layer to the cut, complemented by fringe curtain bangs to keep the shape effortless as it evolves," he shares. When in doubt, opt for curtain bangs during the grow-out process; the fringe beautifully frames every face shape and ages well, seamlessly blending into the rest of your strands.

Yet just like the low-maintenance color, a little at-home upkeep is necessary to keep the style looking fresh and expensive. These haircare staples below always do the trick, in my humble opinion.

Shop Caramelized Brunette Haircare Staples

As we come to the end of fashion month, I thought it was only right to cast my eyes over the Paris Fashion Week hair trends from this season. The Autumn/Winter 2026 shows have been a total feast for the eyes for hair trends, makeup trends and nail trends. However, as much as I love gawping at the runway shows and spying on the beauty trends backstage, there is nothing I love more than spotting what beauty looks the fashion week attendees are wearing themselves.

You see, I always appreciate the incredible avant-garde beauty moments you see on the runways, but they aren't always the most wearable of looks to pull off day-to-day. Which is why I like to turn to what the fashion set is wearing instead, particularly when it comes to hair trend inspo. And if, like me, you're prone to getting in a hairstyle rut, looking through the Paris hair trends is a sure-fire way to get inspired and try out a new hairstyle (or even a new haircut).

I've already scrolled my way through the London beauty looks from AW26, so it was time that I turned to the Parisian streets to find out what Paris Fashion Week hair trends everyone has been wearing.

Paris Fashion Week Hair Trends 2026

I've not been able to stop thinking about these stunning waves since I first laid my eyes upon them.

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It wouldn't be Paris Fashion Week without a flurry of chic bob hairstyles, and this one is no exception.

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I'm taking this as my sign to finally try a fringe hair trend this season.

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I spied Sarah Pidgeon with the most French-coded, undone waves at PFW this season. Take this as your sign to pull out your texturising spray.

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The side-parting and tumbling, long lengths are a match made in heaven.

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I saw hair accessories left, right and centre at PFW, and a simple hair barrette is a chic way to elevate your updo with minimal effort.

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And if you're a maximalist, then feast your eyes on this incredible hair accessory moment.

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This precision blunt bob is a lesson in chic short hair trends for the season.

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Once again, hair accessories were in abundance, and a hair scarf is an easy way to update your style (not to mention hide second-day hair).

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I always love a tucked hair moment, which is not only chic but practical for the inevitable spring showers, too.

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As this style proves, a simple plait makes a great change from your usual ponytail hairstyle.

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Extra-long braided lengths were in abundance at PFW this season as a defining protective hairstyle.

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If you're in need of some spring hair colour trend inspo, why not take this as your sign to finally try copper?

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Long, loose waves are a timeless style that I see at Paris Fashion Week time and time again.

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Also spotted on the streets of Paris? Face-framing layers and butterfly cuts, which make for a great spring haircut update.

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Naturally, we also saw lots of French twists and chic updo hairstyles on PFW's most stylish attendees.

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There's not a lot that could make me stop powering through my to-do list on a Monday afternoon, but Margot Robbie debuting a new bob haircut at the Chanel autumn/winter 2026 show in Paris this evening will just about do it. You see, I make it no secret that Margot Robbie has long been my hair inspiration (I even flew to New York last year to go Margot blonde). Over the past few months, we have been spoilt for Margot hairspiration—mainly when it came to her wuthering waves on the Wuthering Heights press tour.

And now, as what can only be seen by beauty editors like myself as some form of new-project rebirth symbolism for her, she steps out with a bob. And I'm not talking about the faux sort of short haircuts celebrities are famed for faking for red-carpet moments, whereby their stylists pin it up into a neat tuck—I'm talking a proper, fully-fledged, expertly snipped bob.

And if I'm going to be specific here (it's my nature to be when it comes to my bob journalism), Margot's new haircut is actually a lob (that's a long bob) by definition—it sits at the exact mid-point between jawline and shoulders to give it a more low-fuss, low-maintenance vibe. Pair that with a root smudge, some perfectly lived-in beach waves, a wispy fringe and a very on-trend side-sweep, and you've got the absolute blueprint for what is sure to be 2026's most sought-after hairstyle.

While this news is still very much hot-off-the-press, luckily, I know where to search for the details we really want to know. The styling was, of course, done by Margot's long-time hairstylist, Bryce Scarlett. The colour? Jacob Schwartz (who also did my Margot blonde recreation last year). And as for the moment—the cut itself—that was done by the masterful hands of Cervando Maldonado.

While I patiently await confirmation of the exact products used to create Margot's look, you can shop the products I know would do an almost identical job below.

You certainly don't need me to tell you that a bob hairstyle is one of the biggest hair trends this spring. The short haircut has been trending for quite some time now, but that's not to say that we haven't seen different iterations emerge over the past few months. From the bevelled bob to the gloss bob, there are lots of short hairstyles to try, but I think I just found spring's most popular style. Say hello to the golden bob.

I first spotted this look on Jessie Buckley ahead of the Golden Globes, and I immediately knew that it would dominate this season. As a beauty editor, I've become a pro at spotting hair trends before they go mainstream, and I know that this beautifully warm, sunshine-infused hue will be most requested in salons.

As you can see, this golden hue pairs beautifully with a bob hairstyle. In fact, I'd go so far as to say that the short haircut really emphasises the golden blonde tones in the hair, and it seems I'm not alone. One quick search on Instagram and I've suddenly come across so many golden bob hairstyles that I'm practically bursting at the seams with inspiration this spring. Keep on scrolling for my favourite looks.

Golden Bob Inspiration

This wavy, beachy bob complements Elsa Hosk's golden blonde hair colour perfectly.

A ultra-sleek, ultra-cool take on the trend from Ciara.

I had to include an extra close-up of Jessie Buckley's golden blonde bob.

I even spotted Florence Pugh going for a golden blonde hue in the hairdressers.

There's no denying how chic this look is.

This colour looks stunning on curly hair types.

I love how Saoirse Ronan emphasises the golden blonde tones with a high-shine finish to the hair.

The Best Products for a Golden Bob

Allow me to start by saying that you should always feel free to choose the haircut that makes you feel your best—personal preference always trumps styling "rules" or popular trends. That said, if you do find yourself in a bit of a slump, a few factors can help nudge you toward your best crop. First up: the level of maintenance. Not jazzed about heading to the salon every four to six weeks for a trim? You probably shouldn't commit to bangs or a bob, as both require pretty regular upkeep. Hair type also plays a significant role. For instance, those with curls might not want to opt for blunt, razor-sharp cuts, as these can appear a bit boxy; rather, stylists recommend layered chops that lean into your natural strand pattern.

Finally, it's important to consider your face shape, as strands can have a huge impact in facial balancing. Oval face shapes tend to have balanced forehead-to-jaw ratios already ("Nothing overly angular or dominant," celebrity hairstylist Nick Stenson notes, which means they can pull off most hairstyles with ease), but a few haircutting tweaks can accentuate the features even further. Below, discover eight looks that suit oval-shaped faces best, complete with celebrity references and expert styling tips.

The 8 Best Haircuts for Oval Face Shapes

Long Layers

"For longer lengths, I usually recommend adding layers instead of keeping everything one length. A heavy, one length cut can sometimes drag the face down visually," shares professional hairstylist Carla Zuniga, senior stylist at Benjamin Salon. "Layers that start around the cheekbone and move downward help open the face up and highlight your features." Stenson agrees, adding that soft, face-framing layers can enhance movement while maintaining the natural balance of an oval face shape. "It’s a very versatile length that works well whether someone prefers sleek styling or soft waves," he shares.

When styling, Zuniga recommends directing the hair away from the face (like you might a set of curtain bangs), so those layers can better highlight your bone structure. "[It] keeps everything feeling lifted and fresh," she adds.

Textured Pixie

On the short-hair side of the spectrum, both Zuniga and Stenson are quick to call out textured crops. "They highlight the cheekbones and create natural symmetry without overwhelming the face," Stenson says, citing Rihanna as the perfect muse. "She often experiments with everything from pixies to long waves, and her balanced proportions carry each look beautifully. Her styles work well because oval faces naturally support both strong structure and soft movement."

You could tweak your pixie with some side-swept pieces or even commit to a grown-out version—just make sure you avoid too much height on top. "You don’t want to accidentally elongate the face," Stenson warns.

Curtain Bangs

Thinking of getting bangs this year? Great news: "Oval faces are the most bang-friendly face shapes," Stenson declares, adding that fringe is a great choice for those who want a change without losing length. The type you choose will ultimately depend on your hair texture and commitment level, but when it comes to oval-shaped faces, "curtain bangs are one of my favorites because they frame the face and add softness," Stenson shares. That quintessential "triangle" part is super flattering for oval faces, as it highlights their natural symmetry.

Blunt Bangs

"Even blunt bangs can look amazing thanks to that natural symmetry," Stenson adds. Oval face shapes are slightly longer than they are wide, so a straight-across style (think Dakota Johnson's, my number one bang inspo) can balance the features by shortening the forehead a tad. "The only thing to watch is weight," Zuniga caveats. "If the bangs are too heavy or dense, they can visually shorten the face. Adding softness and texture keeps everything balanced."

French Bob

According to Zuniga, bobs of all kinds—including French bobs, chin-skimming blunt bobs, and softly layered bobs—are great options for oval-shaped faces, as they effortlessly frame the cheekbones and jawline. The former deserves a bit more attention, however, as it typically includes a set of wispy fringe (which, as discussed, is practically made for oval faces).

Modern Mullet

"Mid-length cuts are just as versatile," Zuniga adds. "Shags (with or without fringe or curtain bangs), lobs with or without bangs, and even a modern mullet can all work really well." What's a modern mullet, you ask? It's still "business in the front, party in the back," but with a slightly smoother finish, like you see on Greta Lee above. “The modern mullet remains relevant but has softened to increase its commercial appeal, moving from niche trend to broader adoption,” editorial hairstylist Matthew Curtis says of the 2026 hair trend.

Center Parts

According to Stenson, a center part looks right at home on an oval-shaped face. See, the name of the game is emphasizing symmetry, and a simple center part will always create a nice balance. We especially love it paired with the micro goddess braids on Zoë Kravitz here, her style loose and flowing down her back.

Face-Framing Waves

Soft waves also highlight the natural balance of oval-shaped features, says Stenson, especially if you add a few extra bends to the face-framing pieces. "Adding a bit of width through texture at the sides can be especially flattering if the face runs slightly longer," he adds.

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As a beauty editor, it's my job to scan the red carpets for the emerging beauty trends from the awards season red carpets. From hair trends to makeup trends and nail trends to comeback beauty trends, I'm keeping a firm eye on them all. So after scrolling through the best BAFTA 2026 beauty moments, my thumbs immediately paused over Gracie Abrams and her chic new bixie haircut. And trust me, I'm certain this short haircut is about to dominate as a major spring hair trend.

Gracie Abrams Bixie Haircut BAFTAs 2026

So, what exactly is a bixie haircut? Not quite a bob haircut, and not quite a pixie cut, the bixie combines the best parts of both, resulting in a cropped bob-length cut that sits close to the head as a pixie cut would. As Gracie proves, this short hairstyle feels both timeless and elegant whilst feeling modern and cool in equal parts.

For the BAFTAs 2026, Gracie wore her bixie in a chic side parting, showcasing the slightly longer lengths and the front, graduating into a shorter length towards the back of the head.

Bob hair trends have been dominating for a while now, but now Gracie is leaning towards the shorter bixie cut, I'm confidently betting that we'll see more and more of the cropped hairstyle as we head into spring. If you're tempted to go for the chop yourself, scroll ahead for the best hairstyling products to style a bixie.

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With a new season on the horizon, now is a great time to consider a new look. And what better way to get some inspo than taking a look at the upcoming spring hair trends for 2026? I don't know about you, but I'm so ready to bid farewell to winter and look forward to new hair trends as we welcome the longer and warmer days ahead. So, in the spirit of spring's new beginnings, I've been inspired to try something new with my hair this season, and I'm considering a new hair colour and haircut to refresh my look.

Having spoken to some of London's top hairstylists and hair colourists, there is a definite shift in spring's hair trends this year. There are fresh haircut silhouettes and nostalgic Y2K hair colours returning once again. Much like the shift we're seeing in fashion, hair trends are shaking off their stuffy "quiet luxury" aesthetics and instead returning to more joyful shapes and colours again. If you've been craving a transformation, now is the time to head to the salon.

If you're in need of some inspo to take to the salon, then scroll on for the spring hair trends London's top hair experts predict will be big news this season.

1. Baby Bangs

If you've been considering a fringe, take this as your sign. Fringes are a timeless haircut addition, but for spring, we can expect to see baby bangs come to the fore. "Shorter, soft fringes will be a major trend for spring, like a face-framing baby bangs where the fringe sits just above the eyebrows but increases in length towards the outside, creating something super soft—think '90s Pamela Anderson as the inspiration and Alix Earle more recently," says Caspar Finch, stylist at Hershesons Fitzrovia. "The shape is usually achieved with either a razor or scissors depending on the chosen inspiration," he says.

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2. Soft Bixie

The bixie cut, a hybrid between a pixie cut and bob haircut, is becoming far softer for spring. "The ‘bixie’ is a combination of a soft pixie cut and a short-textured bob, combining two shapes to create the bixie. For spring, this will still be a major trend," says Finch. "Look to Gracie Abrams for inspiration at the Chanel Couture show. The focus will be on softer, textured, lived-in finishes for the season ahead, enhanced by a styling cream such as the Hershesons Almost Everything Cream (£20)," he says.

"Make sure to show references to your stylist and ask them to create the shape around your features and facial proportions to best enhance your face shape and hair texture," adds Finch.

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3. The Shag

The shag has been quietly making a comeback in recent months, and Izzy Warren, stylist at Hershesons Fitzrovia, tips it to be a defining haircut trend for spring 2026, and it's particularly great for those with curly hair textures.

"Less is definitely more at the moment, so if you’ve got a natural curl or wave, then it’s time to embrace your texture with the curly shag this season," she says. "It’s effortless yet sexy, especially when you have a few pieces of the bangs covering the eyes a little, with curls or waves falling around the face. Miley Cyrus has been seen wearing a longer version of this cut recently. For a more classic shag haircut, look to Suki Waterhouse or Pamela Anderson for inspiration," says Warren.

"Ask your stylist for added layers to make the curls and waves come to life more. A texture mist like the Hershesons Air Dry Spray (£22) will also really bring this cut to life by enhancing your hair’s natural texture as it dries, as well as a Hershesons Sock Diffuser (£30)," she says.

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4. Hair Accessories

From The Row's SS26 show hair with its artfully placed French combs to the awards season red carpet beauty moments, it's impossible to ignore the rise in hair accessories right now. "For Spring/Summer 26, I’m predicting we’ll be seeing hair jewels; think metal hair pins and hair bands with metal embellishment," says Warren. "It instantly elevates a simple look like a ponytail or bun, or a cool, undone French twist enhanced with a metal hairpin. It feels a little vintage but super feminine, like Zoë Kravitz at the Golden Globes," she adds.

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5. Chunky Bobs

We can't talk about spring hair trends for 2026 without talking about bob hair trends. And after a season of sleeker bobs, we can expect voluminous bobs to return with a bang for spring. "For Spring/Summer 2026, the bob will be looking a lot more full and choppy, holding a lot more weight overall for a chunkier, modern look," says Silver Mestre, stylist at Hershesons Fitzrovia. "What’s great about this look is that it can be worn in lots of different ways. It looks great blown out for a classic, polished look, or looks super cool and effortless when air-dried to enhance the hair’s natural texture," he says.

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6. '00s Dirty Blonde

As for hair colour trends for spring, we can expect to see more "dirty blonde" hues being requested in salons, giving a nod to the Y2K hair colours we saw on the likes of Kate Moss and Sienna Miller in the early 2000s, says Nicole Kahlani, concept colourist at Hershesons Fitzrovia. It's one of the beauty trends making a comeback this year.

"I developed a technique called 3D scalp bleach, so that my clients, even those with dark brown hair, can achieve that super cool early-2000s Kate Moss or Sienna Miller 'dirty blonde', which will be highly requested for spring," she says.

"To achieve this, I utilise the traditional scalp bleach, then incorporate my 3D toning technique. I start by lightening the hair, then add a dark blonde root to add depth, and incorporate the balayage lowlighting technique, creating a seamless blend of the colours and beautiful dimension," she says. "This approach not only makes scalp bleach look incredibly natural but also yields a gorgeous blonde, even on darker bases."

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7. Powdered Blonde

On the opposite end of the spectrum, we can also expect to see pearly, powdery blondes for spring 2026. "Powdered blonde is a colour influenced by 18th-century hair, as seen on Margot Robbie in Wuthering Heights," says Kahlani. "The look is chalky and dense, with less dimension. Blondes appear more one-toned, with a matte finish rather than a hyper-shiny look. Think dense golds with an ashy, antique effect," she says. "These are more natural blonde tones, reflecting a time when hair couldn't be coloured artificially. Even today, with colour melting, a seamless blend, the key is a global, natural-looking matte finish."

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As a beauty editor, I've honed my nose for hair trends, and I'm especially poised when it comes to spotting emerging bob trends. It's no secret that bobs have had a major resurgence in recent years, and just when I thought we'd long passed peak bob, another short-hair trend has been quietly brewing amongst the celebrity set. In fact, I've seen it on the likes of Hailey, Selena and Gigi in the past few weeks, and I'm betting it's about to be everywhere as we head into spring. Enter: the gloss bob.

What Is the Gloss Bob?

The gloss bob features an ultra-glossy, lacquered finish that is enhanced by the structural architecture of a bob haircut. More often than not, I'm seeing it in sleek and straight styles (I see you, bevelled bob), but I'm also seeing it in wet-look form on the red carpets, too. Of course, a shiny straight bob isn't exactly new, but after years of undone bobs, softly-tonged bobs and bouncy bob hairstyles, the emphasis on shine and gloss marks a shift into our craving for laser-cut finishes and glazed finishes that feel fresh again. And I'm not mad about it.

If you're ready to put down your hot brush and pick up your hair straighteners again, scroll on for the glossiest of the gloss bobs I've spotted, plus the products to achieve that coveted mirror shine at home.

Gloss Bob Ideas

I love how Selena Gomez has tucked her glossy bob behind her ears here, creating a striking silhouette and showcasing her glossy lengths.

If you want to take the gloss bob to the next level, why not try a wet-look bob? My jaw dropped when I spotted Gigi Hadid with her glazed lengths.

I love how polished and shiny Hailey Bieber's lob hairstyle is here. Just look at that shine.

Teyana Taylor's bob remains in my mind as one of my favourite Grammys beauty moments, which is swept back into a lacquered wet-look bob.

Gracie Abram's deep espresso hair colour enhances the glossiness of her bob haircut.

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Chopped off your hair in hopes of looking like Hailey Bieber or Leslie Bibb, who famously coined the term "c*nty little bob" in reference to her signature The White Lotus hair? Perfect. Now, let's talk a complete style makeover—because a sophisticated cut deserves a chic wardrobe. Just like your new bob, your looks should be effortlessly polished yet deliver a big impact—never competing with your blunt cut, but complementing it. It girls from all over get it, reaching for sleek silhouettes like lady jackets, glove flats, and pleated trousers. But don't think these ensembles are boring. Key details like leopard-print belts and shearling-lined bags crank up the drama, proving you're a fashion person through and through.

But let's not get carried away. One of the best things about short hair is its unfussy nature. The same should be of your wardrobe, offering low-maintenance pieces that read, "I just threw this on." Ahead, discover seven easy outfit ideas to wear if you have a bob. They're simple to copy but guaranteed to turn heads.

Collared Jacket + Pleated Trousers + Flats

One of the perks of short hair is showing off dramatic necklines, like a standing collar. The polished jacket pairs effortlessly with pleated trousers, while almond-toe flats soften the look.

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Leopard-Print Jacket + Tights + Knee-High Boots

Just because it's winter doesn't mean you have to hide your trendiest pieces. Pair a head-turning leopard-print lady jacket with formfitting hot pants for a contrast that's impossible to ignore. For extra warmth, slip on chocolate brown stockings and finish with sultry knee-high boots.

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Backless Dress + Stockings + Kitten Heels

You can never go wrong with a little black dress, as it'll instantly make you feel polished the moment you slip it on. A backless design adds further sophistication, while sheer black stockings and kitten heels make it date-night ready.

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Long Coat + Oversize Bag + Flats

Don't overthink it. A tailored coat and pair of square-toe flats elevate your overall aesthetic. Add an oversize bag, and you're ready for the day.

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Polo Shirt + Jeans + Bold Accessories

Long gone are the days when polo shirts were just for school uniforms. The preppy top looks effortlessly cool when layered over a simple tank, while baggy jeans and clogs offer a laid-back feel. Bold accessories turn up the antics, with an animal-print belt and oversize suede bag stealing the spotlight.

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Leather Top + Trousers + Peep-Toe Pumps

Luxe leather and refined trousers? Say less. Pointed peep-toe pumps add further drama, while sleek cat-eye sunnies and a micro clutch prove every detail is intentional.

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Leather Shirt Jacket + Over-the-Knee Boots

A monochrome look is never a bad idea, as it can be easily re-created. Reach for over-the-knee boots and a leather shirt jacket for a masterclass in edgy, head-turning style.

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Allow me to preface this article by saying that I'm in desperate need of a haircut, and it's not just because I'm currently dealing with stringy, limp ends. I'm champing at the bit for a change. I've had the same long layers pretty much my whole life—aside from a stint of wispy bangs—and 2026 is officially the year I'm switching up my go-to 'do. Good thing I have an abundance of expert-backed hair trends to choose from! The entire list of cuts, colors, and styles is worth a scroll, but one dramatic chop (well, dramatic to me) refuses to leave my brain: the low bob.

"The low bob is really taking over," celebrity hairstylist Chris McMillan—whose longtime clients include Jennifer Aniston, Sarah Jessica Parker, and Leslie Bibb—tells me about the mounting trend. Below, discover all the details you need to get the look.

What is the low bob?

Essentially, the low bob is an iteration of the lob, one that's grown out just a bit longer. "I've been lobbing off a lot of hair lately, but the bobs are getting a little bit longer and sitting lower," McMillan shares. "This isn't a sharp, rigid cut. It's soft, wearable, and meant to move." Ideally, the ends of the bob brush the collarbones, just like Hailey Bieber's fresh cut courtesy of celebrity stylist Justine Marjan. Bieber has been responsible for a slew of bob trends since she debuted a blunt crop in 2023, so we can only expect her grown-out version to inspire a flood of 2026 styling appointments. I may or may not be booking my own haircut as we speak…

For those who want to get in on the low-bob action (ahem, me), Marjan recommends asking for a "collarbone-grazing blunt cut with slight [face] framing and point cut around the front." As for styling? While shorter crops are often higher-maintenance, McMillan swears this version "looks good without trying too hard." Just make sure to keep your ends nourished and bouncy (the ends are what immediately draws the eye), and you'll be all set.

"Healthy hair is the trend, and the low bob shows that off better than anything," McMillan adds. "It feels modern, effortless, and works in real life, not just in photos." Of course, you'll want to bring plenty of reference images to your stylist, so feel free to screenshot the inspo photos below, then stock up on celeb- and editor-approved products to help your low bob look its best.

More Low-Bob Inspiration

We must begin with Aniston, no? The softly layered crop she debuted at the 2024 Golden Globes is the perfect low-bob inspo.

Elsa Hosk is always on my hair mood board.

Curly low bobs always have gorgeous bounce.

This sleek, blunt version looks so chic.

Okay, now I also want to commit to curtain bangs!

A curved fringe frames the face so beautifully.

Diana Silvers knows her way around a cool-girl cut.

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Perhaps it's a reflection of the worldly unrest in 2025 or the burgeoning takeover of AI, but one thing is certain: Intentionally imperfect glamour is everything in 2026. At least, it is according to Pinterest Predicts's 2026 trend report, which declared that glitchy glam is one of the top beauty predictions for this year by a long shot. The brand cites an increase as high as 270% in searches for avant-garde makeup, mismatched nails, and asymmetrical lobs as the driving force behind this trend. Users are no longer interested in being pared-back clean girls and have a sense of creative direction when it comes to aesthetics.

Though there is a large sector of the industry that claims that editorial beauty never went away, there was a palpable shift toward minimalism during the past few post–COVID-19 pandemic years—from milk nails to countless bob trends and glass skin recipes. Now, the modern Gen Z and millennial tastemaker is setting their sights on bold beauty: a manicure with different colors on each hand (maybe even each finger), messy-chic eyeliner, and two-toned lip combos that prioritize contrast over blend. There are so many ways to interpret this trend, but we've noticed the following ideas in practice, courtesy of cool people in the wild. As the trend report states, "so long, symmetry."

Mismatched Nails

The search term "nails with different colors on each hand" saw a 125% increase on Pinterest in 2025, further dividing the minimalist and maximalist nail trends that soared on both sides of the style spectrum this past year. We beauty editors saw just as much action in the "sheer, barely there polish" realm as we did in the "loud, bold, heavily designed manicure" space (as seen in this mixed-polka-dot set by celebrity manicurist Queenie Nguyen), but the data shows that the latter will be more pronounced this year.

Dua Lipa's manicurist Michelle Humphrey was one of the first to pinpoint this trend way back in October 2025 thanks to model Iris Law's multicolored manicure. "It's just a bit off," she previously told Who What Wear. "Very cool, in my opinion." If you want to take this trend up a notch, try going for a different design on each nail, like this cyberpunk set from manicurist Oksana Zavora.

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Halo Hair

Hair color trends come and go, but we have yet to see one as bold as the halo dye jobs on stars like singer Rosalía and Olympic figure skater Alysa Liu. While promoting her latest album, Lux, the Spanish singer has been diving into divine themes in her personal style—most noticeably with a blonde ring of hair bleached tactfully around the crown of her head to mimic a real-life halo. The style was originally designed by the late celebrity hairstylist Jesus Guerrero and is now in the care of Evanie Frausto, according to an article in Vogue.

Liu's style, created by St. Louis colorist Kelsey Miller, is an even bolder version of Rosalía's delicate crown with high-contrast dyed halos down the length of her hair to form a striped pattern. The Olympian's roots are dark (likely to hide growth during the extensive Winter Games) before fading into thick bleached-blonde halos—most noticeably around the bangs and eyes before repeating down the length of her long hair. While we don't recommend trying to get this look at home, we do have a few product recommendations for bleached-hair maintenance.

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Editorial Eyes

Pinterest's trend report shows a 100% increase in searches for "eccentric makeup" and a 115% spike in "weird makeup looks" in 2025, though we have a better word for this style of makeup: editorial. While re-creating this captivating cosmic eye look by maximalist makeup artist Lynda Florae at home may sound ambitious, these are exactly the kinds of looks that beauty savants have been referencing for inspiration in the last 12 months. Finally, this painterly style of makeup is entering the mainstream, starting with Swedish pop singer Zara Larsson's headline-making Midnight Sun Tour glam.

Created in collaboration with celebrity makeup artist Sophia Sinot, Larsson's rhinestone-studded, vibrant stage glam is undeniably editorial, and starry seas and interplanetary scenes serve as inspiration for several of her looks, according to a post on the MUA's Instagram. You might not have the time to go full editorial glam every day, but it's chic to take elements from these eye looks and incorporate them into your regular routine, like a sweep of chromatic eye shadow over the lids or a touch of colorful liner against bare lashes. See our recommendations below.

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Asymmetrical Lob

When we think of asymmetrical haircuts, our minds immediately go to pop singer Ava Max's significantly unbalanced blonde tresses, where one side is often sheared as short as her shoulder and the other worn to her waist. While this is one of the more extreme length differences we've seen in an asymmetrical cut, that's not to say it's impossible to pull off. Max's look is entirely convincing us to grab scissors, but we'll restrain ourselves until we get to the salon.

If you want a more easily wearable version of the singer's cool-girl cut, try an asymmetrical lob, which shot up in Pinterest searches by 85% this year. Selena Gomez recently debuted a chic iteration of this style at a Rare Beauty launch event with the ends subtly tilting on a diagonal slant from one side to the other.

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As a beauty editor who studies hair trends for a living, it's only natural that I'm always on the lookout for the next big haircut trend or hair colour trend. And while we might only be halfway through January, there is one bob hair trend that is quickly emerging amongst celebrities such as Hailey Bieber, Lily Colins and Sofia Richie Grainge. And that's the bevelled bob.

What Is the Bevelled Bob?

Inspired by the sloping curves you find in fine jewellery, the bevelled bob has soft, flicked ends that create a rounded, face-framing effect. Think of it as the cousin of the flicked bob, but this time, the ends of the bob are gently curving inwards. Much like Hailey Bieber's recent lob haircut.

It's a hair trend that celebrity hairstylist Larry King has spotted. "We’ve been living in the world of the Italian and French bobs—playful, flicky, full of movement," he says. "But I think the direction is changing. Bobs are going cleaner and more tucked-in. Less of that kicked-out texture, more of a smooth bevel under the jaw. It’s polished without feeling overdone," he says.

It also speaks to a wider theme at play with haircut trends right now. “I don’t think 2026 will belong to one specific cut—it’s more of a shift in attitude," says King. "Hair is moving toward a sleeker, more refined finish. For longer lengths, especially, we’re stepping away from those big, bouncy blowouts that have had their moment. Instead, I’m seeing this rise of super-straight, ultra-glossy, almost liquid-looking hair," he says. "It feels expensive, intentional, and incredibly modern—that’s the energy of 2026."

If you're thinking of going for the bevelled bob yourself in 2026, scroll on for all the inspo to take to the salon.

Bevelled Bob Inspo

Phoebe Dynevor's side-parted bob looks so chic with the bevelled ends.

I'm in awe of Lily Colins' liquid-like bob, which has a subtle around the chin and jaw.

For a softer take, Kendall Jenner's lob has a more piecey texture while framing her face.

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There’s no doubt about it—getting a new haircut is a huge deal. Whether you’ve decided to switch up your ‘do because there’s a shiny new hair trend you’re itching to try or you just experienced a canon life event (post-breakup bangs are a real thing), debuting a fresh chop feels like stepping into a different skin. But if you feel the call of a new year’s shear and don’t yet know exactly which cut you want, all you need to do is look towards the stars. (No, not space… the red carpet, of course!)

It girls everywhere—from Zoë Kravitz to Hailee Steinfeld and Daisy Edgar-Jones—are setting the standards for the coolest cuts of 2026, with a few noteworthy themes trending across the board: cool people are prioritizing short, versatile chops that are easy to style every day. “Twenty-twenty-six is less about extreme trends and more about wearability,” New York–based celebrity hairstylist Danielle Priano tells Who What Wear. “The cuts are cleaner, more sculpted, and designed to grow out well. Instead of heavy layering or messy texture, it’s all about shape, movement, and enhancing natural features,” she explains.

Below are the eight celebrity haircuts that are inspiring us to book salon appointments in 2026.

Top 2026 Haircuts

The Bixie

Show me your biggest source of celebrity hairspo, and we’ll raise you Kravitz at any era. The Caught Stealing star broke the internet when she debuted a bixie at the 2025 Academy Museum Gala in L.A., complete with a smattering of wispy, wavy bangs and baby curls at the nape of her neck. Bixie cuts, or crossovers between pixies and bobs, are a hybrid between the short, androgynous style we’ve seen on the likes of Teyana Taylor and the bobs we associate with Gigi Hadid, Kelly Rowland, and so many more. If you want to go short but aren’t yet ready to commit to a mullet or pixie, this in-betweener is the best (and most modern) way to go in 2026.

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Rounded Lob

Bobs comes with many shapes, sizes, and names (the king of these catchy monikers, Dimitris Giannetos, previously told WWW that he needs “to write a book with all [his] names”), but the one we can confirm will stick with us into the new year is the rounded lob. Popularized by stars like Steinfeld and Selena Gomez, to name a few, editorial hairstylist Matthew Curtis is calling this bouncy, long bob trend now.

“Twenty-twenty-six haircuts are about repeatability and retention,” says Curtis. “Rounded lobs continue to perform strongly because they offer versatility across age groups and styling preferences,” he adds. The stylist explains that the style’s utilization of internal layering preserves “longevity between appointments,” allowing you to go longer without touchups.

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Modern Mullet

Yet another short style making waves this year is what stylists call the “modern mullet”—aka a smoother, more polished take on the androgynous ’80s style. “The modern mullet remains relevant but has softened to increase its commercial appeal, moving from niche trend to broader adoption,” says Curtis. Case in point? Taylor Hill’s short, cool-girl style. The model wears her wavy strands in soft, smooth curls across her forehead and at the nape of her neck, with the style shorn in closer at the ears to form the mullet silhouette.

Celebrity hairstylist Lacy Redway expects aged-up versions of the hair trends that dominated 2025 to trickle into the new year. “I think we will continue to see them expressed in shorter lengths and in new, interesting textures, bringing them into a modern space and allowing for more self-expression,” she explains. “We aren't afraid of products and are willing to let them assist us in achieving our desired looks.” Hence, the recommendations below.

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Sculpted Bob

We understand bob fatigue, as Prada bobs, French bobs, and crinkle-cut bobs can all start to blend when you look at them for too long. But Redway confirms that “bobs are not going anywhere” in 2026, especially when it concerns the sculpted kind. “They can stand the test of time because they are chic and classic,” she explains.

Take, for instance, Tyla’s sharply flipped bob, which upends in a sharp flick at the jawline and is accentuated by peekaboo micro braids. Her perfectly coiffed style is one worth banking for the dressier events in your calendar this year.

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Curtain Bangs

This may not come as a surprise, but curtain bangs are here to stay in 2026. Though iterations of these ‘60s-inspired bangs have been trending for decades, we see a more substantial bang fused with traditional curtain layers this year, à la Edgar-Jones’s swooping style.

Curtis attests that as long as we’re seeing this style on celebrities, clients will be asking for it in salons—and for good reason. “Curtain bangs continue to drive bookings, but are now designed to integrate seamlessly into the haircut, improving grow-out and reducing maintenance friction for clients,” the hairstylist explains. This blended cut makes for easy styling and is a great gateway style before trying other trendy bangs.

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Fringy Pixie

If you’ve ever thought about going short—and we mean pixie short—the style set agrees that 2026 is the year to go for it. Priano predicts that soft pixies with longer fringe, much like Delilah Belle Hamlin’s piecey cut (which is rumored to be inspired by her mother, Lisa Rinna’s, signature style), will take center stage this year.

Though this cut is still undeniably short, you’re encouraged to play with length around the perimeter of the face for the “feminine, versatile” look that Priano loves. Plus, she points out that this extra fringe makes it easier to style in your day-to-day.

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Refined Bob

As Redway stated earlier, bobs are going nowhere this year—they’re just leveling up. Priano has her eye on the “refined bob” right now, which she describes as “sleek, slightly longer, and customized to the jaw and neckline.” Inspired by the elegant Italian bob, this style offers the timeless elegance of that chin-grazing chop without the total short-hair commitment—like Rose Byrne’s recent shoulder-skimming style, fashioned by celebrity hairstylist Jenny Cho.

Priano’s advice? “Let the haircut do the work,” she muses. “Add volume at the root, keep movement soft through the ends, and avoid over-styling.” This bob should look a bit effortless, so don’t try to over-flip the ends in if they don’t want to move that way. But to maintain this style’s “wow” factor, the stylist recommends booking regular trims to “help maintain shape and keep the cut looking intentional.”

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Sophisticated Shag

“In 2026, haircuts feel more intentional and grown-up,” Priano states before shilohing the modern shag as a top haircut to try this year. The elevated, 2026 way to wear this trend, according to the stylist, includes “softer layers and flattering face framing [pieces]—still cool, but more polished.” Singer and model Suki Waterhouse may be the unofficial spokesperson for the sophisticated shag, and we’re already sending this Instagram selfie to our hairstylists before our next visits.

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There are a number of celebrity hairstyles saved to my phone that are taking up more storage space than I care to admit. From Hailey Bieber’s cool, relaxed lob to Olandria Carthen’s rich-looking blonde, I get so much of my inspiration from the It girls who pepper my feed—and the algorithm just served me a perfectly curated Instagram dump of Maude Apatow’s crinkle-cut chop that is sure to earn its rank among the top bob trends of 2026.

The Euphoria actress stepped onto the scene at this weekend’s W Magazine Best Performances Party donning a softly waved bob fashioned by L.A.-based celebrity hairstylist Cherilyn Farris. Clipped right at the jaw and swooping slightly inward toward her face, Apatow’s style is a master class in the relaxed, easy elegance that we’re seeing trend in the new year.

“[Twenty twenty-six] is taking the bob we all know and love and ramping it up,” celebrity hairstylist Dimitris Giannetos previously told Who What Wear. This isn’t to say that these styles are going to become more complex or hard to manage—quite the opposite, actually, and Apatow’s chop is a perfect example. “[They] are going to feel customized, expressive, and reflective of how you style your hair day to day,” he added.

These dreamy snaps prove that this versatile style can be easily dressed up with a floor-length Chloé dress (her subtle waves mimic the gown’s tiered ruffles perfectly) or worn casually with a good pair of jeans for an easy, everyday look. It’s marked by mild movement at the ends, creating that “crinkled” effect, and mostly straight tresses throughout—marking what just might be a new signature style for the star ahead of what is sure to be a busy press run for the third season of HBO’s Euphoria.

While Apatow’s is the latest to catch my eye, there are so many more wavy, lived-in bobs cluttering my hairspo board. From Ayo Edebiri’s recent side-parted shear at the 2026 Golden Globes to Gracie Abrams’s signature effortlessly tousled chop, we’re being fed bob inspiration left and right.

Edebiri's hair is yet another romantic, retro style I've seen command the red carpet this award season. Parted to the side and swirled into voluminous curls at the ends, this style is a more done-up version of Apatow's waves.

Abrams's look is a slightly longer version of Apatow's jaw-skimming style, showing that touchable, textured bobs look great at every length.

Though I don’t have an exact play-by-play of the process behind Apatow’s freshly clipped bob, I am a beauty editor who used to style a (now-grown-out) bob and have experimented with more hair products than I can count. Below is a laundry list of products you'll need to style the crinkle cut at home (and maintain it after your now-booked hair appointment).

Shop the Best Products for a Crinkle-Cut Bob

New year, new 'do—it's a thing! I know I'm not the only one itching to make a 2026 hair transformation, and right now is the perfect time to commit to an updated color or cut. For those craving some sort of change but not totally sure which route to take in the mane department, lean in: I consulted top stylists and colorists from across the globe—Chris McMillan in L.A., Marc Mena and Rita Hazan in NYC, Brian O'Connor in Nashville, and David Mallett in Paris—for ultimate hair trend inspiration. The year may have barely begun, but these pros have already seen some patterns start to (literally) take shape.

Overall, 2026 is not the year to be wishy-washy. You're either all in on choppy, piece-y layers or a softly blended perimeter; a glossy, midnight-black hue or a brilliant, shimmering blonde; a big, sexy blowout or lived-in texture. The spectrum is extreme, but, of course, there's plenty of room to play, so scroll through the 13 trends below and commit to whichever speaks most to your personal style. Dare to dive in?

Top 2026 Hair Colors

Hot Chocolate Brunette

A warm, dimensional brunette is one of winter's richest-looking hair colors, and according to Hazan, the hue is showing no signs of slowing down for 2026. "It allows color to evolve without being one exact shade," she notes. "Jessica Simpson is a perfect example. I made her [a] 'hot chocolate' brunette, deepening her blonde and adding in darker shades." The color should read warm without leaning too red or brassy, Hazan explains further on Instagram, which you can achieve by asking your colorist for toffee-hued highlights that provide tons of dimension and movement.

Butter-Gold Blonde

According to Mallett, butter-gold blonde is also on the up and up. "We're going to see a lot of that," he confirms. This creamy and warm buttery hue sits between toasted sand and dark honey on the blonde spectrum. Justine Skye's vibrant color is the perfect reference photo, as her strands look practically candlelit.

Midnight

If you can't stop thinking about Odessa A'zion's raven curls, well, same. Dreamy spirals aside, her rich onyx hue is inspiring brunettes everywhere to hold the highlights and lean into a midnight tone.

Another celeb on board? Gigi Hadid, who recently swapped her honey-blonde tresses for a matte black mini bob. “This matte black color is the newest era of true black—rich and inky, without any red undertones,” says celebrity hairstylist and colorist Dimitris Giannetos in an editor-exclusive release. “We’ve moved past the traditional blue-black hue to something more elevated and fashion-forward." I expect a swarm of salon appointments to immediately follow suit.

Brilliant Blonde

At the same time, Hazan expects blondes to become even creamier and more vibrant. "Brunettes are having their moment, but a high-maintenance blonde will be coveted in 2026," she declares. Think less balayage and more root-to-tip perfection. "Color will be rich, brilliant, and reflective to signal healthy hair," she adds. Yes, this may ultimately mean more trips to the salon for touch-ups, but you can also rely on plenty of at-home treatments to preserve the shine. The overarching goal is to wind up with a champagne shade that practically shimmers in the light.

Moody Scarlet

"Cowboy copper" may have reigned the past couple of years, but in 2026, it's all about those rich red-brown tones. "Deep, moody reds are going to be everywhere," celebrity hairstylist Naeemah Lafond previously told WWW about this winter's hair trends. Take Millie Bobbie Brown's scarlet lengths, for example, which feature gorgeous brown and purple undertones that scream "vampy-cool." Ask your stylist for a dark-brown base with burgundy undertones, or for just a touch of cherry cola. Feel free to weave in a violet-red gloss at your next color appointment.

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Top 2026 Haircuts

Low Bob

Bob mania isn't over by any means, but McMillan (who famously gave Jennifer Aniston her "Rachel" haircut) says people are opting for longer, grown-out versions over micro crops. "The low bob is really taking over," he shares. "I’ve been lobbing off a lot of hair lately, but the bobs are getting a little bit longer and sitting lower." Case in point? Hailey Bieber's recent chop, pictured above, features a collarbone length and blended layers. "This isn’t a sharp, rigid cut. It’s soft, wearable, and meant to move," McMillan adds. It's also the perfect cut to show off healthy ends, he notes, calling it a great choice for "hair that looks good without trying too hard." Sign me up.

Mena cosigns the low bob frenzy. "[A] grown-out bob is on the horizon; buckle up!" he tells me. "It’s relaxed yet polished, with that French ease and Milan-girl confidence." (To elevate it even further, he recommends adding Great Lengths hair extensions for extra finesse, density, and fluidity without changing the actual shape.)

Piece-y Punk

According to O'Connor, 2026 cuts are beautifully rough around the edges—think choppy layers, wispy bangs, and hardcore texture. "Punky piece-y is in for 2026. Doesn't matter if it's on medium-length hair or a pixie," she shares. "We'll see a lot of that texture and dimension in cuts this year." I also like to think of it as "concert hair," a tousled, punk-rock edge that oozes downtown cool.

Side Bangs

Remember that whole millennial versus Gen Z side-bangs debate? Yeah, consider that officially over and done with. "I know they’ve gotten hate in the past, but I think they’re back and in style for 2026," O'Connor says of the side-bang revival. Ariana Grande has been a champion of the side-swept style as of late, as is Zoë Kravitz, who donned a wavy side-fringe at the Caught Stealing premiere and Saint Laurent S/S 26 show in Paris.

Soft, Subtle Layers

While a punk, intentionally choppy style is definitely up-and-coming, all the stylists I spoke to also called out layered, lived-in haircuts with intentional shapes that embrace your natural grow-out phase. To achieve this, McMillan recommends opting for "internal texture," where a stylist removes weight from the inside of your mane, ensuring the perimeter stays soft. "The hair moves better, styles faster, and looks more natural," he says. "You get that lived-in, tousled feel without it looking messy or dated. It’s the kind of cut that works whether you blow it out or let it air-dry."

Mallett similarly predicts a massive return to haircuts with soft perimeters, noting that they have a "slipped-in look" that never appears overdone. "Hair should feel effortless, not over-styled, and look even better as it grows out," adds Mena, and subtle layering will ensure you don't wind up with any uneven shapes later on.

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Top 2026 Hairstyles

Liquid Shine

Okay, when is shiny hair not on-trend? Well, according to Hazan, "Reflective, super-shiny, glass hair will be status quo in the salon chair or at-home." Especially as darker, richer hair colors stay en vogue, a glossy, liquid-like shine becomes even more top of mind to ensure the hue always looks expensive. After all, as McMillan quips, "Healthy hair is the real luxury, so shine is everything."

Lived-In Texture

O'Connor has three words when it comes to styling predictions for 2026: "Texture, texture, texture." Whether it's piece-y, waved, or leaning into your natural bounce, he expects tons of movement this year over perfectly sleek 'dos. "Undone and lived-in is a personal favorite [style] of mine and, I'm happy to report, very in," he adds.

Mallett seconds the notion, posing it as a revolution against overly polished, "Instagram" blowouts. "It's more hippie-ish, it's more street, and it's more cool," he explains.

Big '80s Blowouts

That said, McMillan is quick to declare that "Big, expensive-looking hair is definitely back." Think fluffy, va-va-voom volume over casually polished beach waves, relying on roller sets, velcro rollers, and hot rollers. Bonus points if you opt for an '80s swoopy side part á la Olivia Dean and Bella Hadid. "We’re seeing real blowouts again," McMillan adds, so grab a round brush and texturizing spray and embrace your bouncy, gravity-defying roots.

Romantic Updos

Calling it now: Romantic updos will be all the rage in 2026. Think sweeping twists with wispy, face-framing tendrils and intricately braided buns, as the one Chase Infiniti wore during the One Battle After Another press tour—a breathtaking style that's forever cemented into my brain. To enhance the romance even further, feel free to add some hair jewelry into the mix, like Zoë Kravitz at the 2026 Golden Globes. "Finding simple ways to dress up everyday hairstyles is in, whether it’s dressing up braids or a pony," O'Connor mentions, suggesting ribbons, bows, and crystal-adorned clips.

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New year, new hair. If you ask anyone, the bob has been the haircut on everyone’s lips (err, heads?) in the past few years, from Hailey Bieber’s short, flipped crop to Halle Berry’s relaxed Riviera bob. While we don’t expect this short-sheared style to depart the fashion set in 2026 (if ever), we do sense a shift in the bob atmosphere this year—and according to celebrity hairstylist Dimitris Giannetos, five standouts are making a case for total trend domination.

“2026 is taking the bob we all know and love and ramping it up,” Giannetos tells Who What Wear. “As more people make the chop, there’s truly a bob for every face shape, hair texture, and maintenance style.” Long gone are the days when you’d plop into your hairstylist’s chair and ask for “a bob”—the modern beauty lover has references from Elsa Hosk’s serrated bob to Zoë Kravitz’s tuft bob, demanding specificity due to a deeper understanding of personal style. “The bobs of 2026 are going to feel customized, expressive, and reflective of how you style your hair day to day,” he concludes.

There are several catchy bob names that will influence the cuts of 2026, but allow us to be the first to put you on. Ahead, see five styles worth getting before everyone else does this year.

The 5 Top Bob Trends of 2026

Flip-Flop Bob

“I predict the most popular bob in 2026 will be the flip-flop bob,” says Giannetos. This style, which the artist coined after creating this swooping, vintage-inspired ’do on Gigi Hadid, is marked by straight locks with softly flipped ends that curl toward the sky. (Not to be confused with the 2025 bubble bob, with ends curling toward the neck.)

“It’s short without feeling limiting, offering enough length for versatile styling,” the celebrity hairstylist adds. “It’s a great introduction to shorter hair for anyone not quite ready to part with their hot tools.” While Hadid’s version is a more glamorous take on this style, we’re loving Lori Harvey’s relaxed iteration for everyday wear.

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Valentine Bob

You heard it here first: Classic, romantic glam is wholly in this year. Between Pinterest predicting the darkly elegant “opera aesthetic” as a main theme of 2026 and the Critics' Choice Awards playing host to a bevy of romantic red carpet hairstyles, Giannetos’ “Valentine bob” on Gigi Hadid is one we’ll often be referencing this year.

The hairstylist calls this look “one of [his] favorites” from 2025, and expects a whole lot more vintage glamour in 2026. But where most bob trends differ in terms of cut, this ‘do has everything to do with styling. “The set, glamour curls add romance and drama to a look—perfect for a date night or a special event,” Giannetos explains. “This bob is effortlessly feminine with just the right touch of old-Hollywood glam.”

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Undone Shag Bob

If bobs have ever felt a bit too conventional for you, Giannetos urges you to try the undone, bob version of a shag cut. Think of it as a cross between Delilah Belle’s cool, androgynous pixie and Bieber’s relaxed bob—case in point, Jenna Ortega’s devastatingly chic shaggy bob in one of winter’s trendiest hair colors.

“For a look as playful as it is chic, the undone shag bob is the bob for you,” says Giannetos. “The thoughtfully messy and perfectly tousled look brings edge and personality into the hair, leaving just a bit of length at the top for styling.” Spruce with a bit of texturizing spray, and you’re good to go.

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Blunt Bob

“Classic for a reason, the blunt bob is going to continue its reign as a go-to hairstyle in 2026,” states Giannetos. Chic minimalists and fashion people alike agree that clean lines are one of the easiest ways to elevate your look, and the same goes for hair when it comes to this cut. “This pin-straight cut is blunt, smooth, and high fashion—perfect for someone wanting a chic chop,” he adds. Take Kelly Rowland’s sharp, jaw-grazing style, which we instantly saved to our hairspo albums.

Shiny tresses are what really make this shear shine, so be sure to add a hair mask to your weekly routine and muss a drop of hair oil onto your ends before walking out the door. Whether you wear this cut wavy, curly, or pin straight, it’s a sure confidence-booster and compliment-earner.

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Prada Bob

We first spotted the sharp-edged, flapper-esque Prada bob on actress Joey King in the summer of 2024 (cut by none other than Giannetos himself), and the purveyor is expecting a triumphant return in 2026. “Preppy, sleek, and straight, the Prada bob brings an added level of class to any look,” he muses. “On the shorter end, this sharp cut draws focus to the face, instantly elevating features you want to accentuate.” If you want to replicate King’s look down to the products, Giannetos recommends using the L’Oréal Paris Elvive Glycolic Gloss High Shine Leave-In Serum for that “signature silky finish.”

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Styling Tips and Tricks

Maintenance

“When it comes to short hair, heat protection and hydration are everything,” says Giannetos. “Healthy, glossy hair will keep your style looking just as it did when you left the salon. Consistently incorporating hair masks and serums into your beauty routine, paired with heat protection, is the key to maintaining a polished bob between salon visits.”

WWW Award-Winning Hair Mask

WWW Award-Winning Hair Serum

Styling

There are a few staples Giannetos keeps on hand when it comes to shaping the trendy bobs of 2026. “For styling, I rely on L’Oréal Elnett Hairspray for hold, the Bio Iconic 10X Styling Iron to smooth and perfect the hair, and the L’Oréal Paris Elvive Glycolic Gloss High Shine Leave-In Serum to give the bob a silky finish.”

Yes, you heard it right. The bob is here to stay in 2026. Easily one of the biggest hair trends of the past few years, short hair is still reigning supreme this January. However, things are definitely shifting. The start of 2025 saw the rise of sleek, polished, anything-but-effortless bob hairstyles that could sometimes take hours to style. Not only that, but it was all about micro-bob styles, which meant having to visit the hairdresser every few weeks for a trim. Don't get me wrong, I love the way these short hair trends look, but I personally don't want to be devoting that much time to my hair this season.

Luckily, it seems that this year is about embracing more laid-back looks. I recently caught up with Izzy Warren, stylist at one of my all-time favourite salons, Hershesons Fitzrovia, and asked her all about the biggest bob hair trends of 2026. Warren told me that the following six styles are set to be everywhere, and I was delighted to see some super-cool, wearable looks.

Intrigued? I thought so. Below, I've included details on each bob hair trend, along with my favourite products to help get the look. If you've been thinking about getting the chop or want to switch up your short hairstyle for the new year, then keep on scrolling.

6 of the Biggest Bob Hair Trends of 2026

1. The Beach Bob

If the cold weather is getting you down, the beachy bob hair trend is sure to lift your spirits. According to Warren, this relaxed short hairstyle is set to dominate in 2026. "[The beachy bob] is a low-maintenance bob that is kicked out on the end," she says. "It's perfect for lazy days by the beach."

Of course, you don't actually have to be by the beach to pull off this look. All you need is a good texturising spray to add a tousled finish and create movement in the ends of your hair.

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2. The Shaggy Lob

As you can tell, relaxed, slightly longer bob hairstyles are really in this year. Next up, the shaggy lob. "[Think] shoulder grazing length with curtain bangs, and movement through the ends rather than a blunt outline," says Warren. "[This trend] is more lived-in and aligns perfectly with that fresh 2026 feel."

As you can see, this style looks stunning with a range of hair types, and if you don't want to go too short, it's the perfect in-between finish.

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3. Tuft Bob

A bob hair trend that I predict will be everywhere in 2026 is the tuft bob. I've been spotting this style all over social media, and the celebs are loving it too (Jessie Buckley's tuft bob is a personal favourite of mine).

I always describe it as a mix between a blunt bob, a pixie and a mullet bob, with a short, choppy finish and small tufts of hair flicked outwards. In my opinion, it looks effortlessly chic.

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4. Slicked-Back Bob

How cool is the slicked-back bob? "[This is] quite a strong look and shows off more of the outline," says Warren. She tells me that it's very versatile when it comes to styling, as you can lean into a wet-look effect, or add more movement and height for a slightly more laid-back feel. It's certainly a little shorter than a lob hairstyle, but I'm personally loving the sleek finish.

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5. The Hollywood Bob

Probably the most polished bob hair trend of them all, the Hollywood bob is a classic. "This is a timeless red-carpet look, usually styled in a side part," Warren tells me. "It screams 'old money' with a slight vintage feel."

This bob will definitely take a bit more styling time, but a powerful hot brush and some rollers should do the trick. Don't forget to finish things off with a little shine spray for a glossy effect.

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6. Curly Bob

Those with natural waves and curls, rejoice, as 2026 will see a big focus on curly bob hairstyles. Of course, those of you with naturally straight hair might have to rely on your trusty curling wand for this one, but there's no denying how good the finished result will look. "Light, rounded and full of movement, [the curly bob] has structure but is softened with the texture of [the] curls," says Warren.

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Few haircuts are as chic, or as unforgiving, as a bob. On the days I don’t use this product, mine has a habit of falling a little too straight, a little too flat, and far more “unstyled” than I’d like. I love the clean lines of a bob, but I don’t love a high-maintenance styling routine, nor do I have the time (or patience) for endless blow-drying, tonging and fixing. What I want and need is texture that looks intentional without looking worked on.

That’s where Oribe's Dry Texturising Spray comes in. I’ve relied on it for years, through multiple haircuts and lengths, because it does exactly what a low-maintenance girl like myself needs: it adds movement, grip, and softness in seconds, without weighing hair down or locking it into place. It’s the kind of product that makes hair look better rather than styled, giving just enough lift at the roots and separation through the ends to stop hair from sitting flat against the head. Lightweight, invisible, and beautifully scented, it’s become the one step I won’t skip, especially when time is tight.

For anyone who wants their hair to look effortless rather than overly sleek, this is the shortcut that makes all the difference. And if, like me, you have a bob, your styling routine is about to get a whole lot better (and shorter).

My Oribe Dry Texturizing Spray Review:

How It Works:

The spray works by combining oil-absorbing powders with flexible polymers that add grip and separation to the hair. Instead of coating strands with a stiff shell (as traditional hairsprays do), it creates light friction between hairs, which enhances volume, movement, and longevity without locking everything in place. The absorbent elements help soak up excess oil at the roots, making it particularly effective for reviving styles on day two or three, while the polymers give hair just enough hold to maintain shape.

Crucially, the formula is finely milled and (thanks to the packaging) evenly dispersed, which prevents the chalky buildup often associated with dry shampoos or heavy texturisers. This balance allows hair to stay touchable, brushable, and natural-looking, and is ultimately what makes the spray so versatile across hair lengths, densities, and styles.

How to Use It:

I like to give the bottle a good shake, then spray onto dry hair, focusing on the roots and mid-lengths. For volume, I lift sections of hair and spray underneath, allowing the product to settle before gently tousling. To revive a style, I mist lightly at the roots and scrunch or reshape with my fingers. On freshly styled hair, I hold it at a distance and use it as a finishing step to add texture and extend longevity without stiffness.

Less is more—start with a small amount and build gradually. Because the formula is lightweight, you can layer without fear of crunch or heaviness, but if you hold the bottle too close you may overdo it.

My Final Verdict:

Few hair products earn cult status across decades, hairstyles and trends, but this is one of those few. No matter my haircut or styling routine, Oribe Dry Texturising Spray has always earned its place on my shelf, and with my current chin-length bob, it gives that perfectly undone, editorial texture—soft movement with subtle lift that makes the cut feel intentional rather than flat. When I had long hair, it added body and shape without weighing lengths down or leaving residue at the roots.

What truly sets it apart to other sprays I've tried is how invisible it feels in the hair. There’s no stiffness, no stickiness, and none of that powdery buildup that can dull shine or make hair feel dirty. Instead, hair feels fuller and fresher. It’s also incredibly forgiving—easy to rework, easy to brush out, and impossible to overdo, as long as it's applied carefully.

I love that it can replace multiple products: it refreshes like a dry shampoo, holds like a soft hairspray, and texturises like a styling spray, all without committing to any one extreme. Yes, it’s expensive, but in my experience, it delivers consistent results that cheaper alternatives rarely match. This is one of those products I always come back to, and one I recommend without hesitation.

Shop the Oribe Dry Texturizing Spray:

How I Tested the Oribe Dry Texturizing Spray:

I’ve used Oribe Dry Texturising Spray over several years on both long hair and a blunt bob, using it for everyday styling, special occasions, and second- or third-day refreshes. I've applied it on freshly blow-dried hair, air-dried hair, and heat-styled waves, so I know exactly how it delivers when it comes to texture, hold, and longevity.

Why Trust Us:

At Who What Wear UK, we know that beauty isn’t one-size-fits-all. Our editors have tested thousands of products, including skincare, makeup, hair and nails, over the years and work closely with trusted experts—dermatologists, make-up artists and leading industry insiders—to ensure every guide is well-researched, inclusive and relevant to you.

We focus on formulas that deliver, whether they’re affordable favourites or luxury investments. Our product selection is based on tangible results, ingredient know-how and what we’d truly recommend to a friend.

If there's anyone with the power to shape the upcoming hair trends, it's Hailey Bieber. Her bob haircut practically broke the internet a couple of years ago, and while she's been wearing her hair in a longer haircut recently, she's switched it up again with one of the biggest haircut trends for 2026.

This week, Hailey Bieber debuted her lob haircut, and you can bet we're 100% taking it to the salon for our next haircut appointment.

Cut by celebrity hairstylist Justine Marjan, the flicked-in lob gracefully skims the shoulders and is the perfect length if you want to flirt with a bob haircut, but don't want to go too short. Thankfully for us, Marjan shared exactly what to ask your stylist in the salon.

"If you want to ask your stylist for this cut: collarbone grazing blunt cut with slight fa[c]e framing, and point cut around the front," she shared on her Instagram post.

This collarbone-length bob haircut is not only a low-maintenance short haircut, but it is also easy to grow out without the awkwardness of growing out a shorter bob haircut, like the French bob. Instead, this mid-length haircut effortlessly grows out into a long hairstyle, making it ideal for those of us who are tempted by a bob haircut, but don't want to go too short. Plus, the subtle layers add movement to the ends, and can be easily styled with flicked ends using a hair straightener or a hot brush for a blowout look.

Ready to try Hailey Bieber's lob haircut for yourself? Here are the best styling products to get the look at home.

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Has anyone else noticed a big shift in bob hair trends this year? Gone are the days of the sleek, blunt bob haircut. Instead, we're favouring "undone", tousled styles with choppy layers and lots of movement. I've written a lot about the tuft bob and the serrated bob as of late, but today, I'm here to talk to you about the disconnected bob. This trend has been dominating my social feeds, and after chatting with an expert about how to make the trend work for individual hair types, I'd be lying if I said I wasn't tempted to give it a go.

What Is the Disconnected Bob?

So, what is this trending style? "The disconnected bob is basically a bob with a little attitude," explains Neale Rodger, style director at Stil Salon. "Instead of everything sitting in one neat line, you get subtle shifts in length that break up the shape and give it a more modern, slightly rebellious feel. It still looks clean, but there is a bit of built-in movement that makes it feel cooler and less classic."

Can the Disconnected Bob Work for All Hair Types?

I love the idea of this bob hairstyle, but as someone with very thick, naturally wavy hair, I was curious to know whether it would work for me. However, according to Rodger, it can work on all different hair types. "On fine hair, it adds dimension and gives the illusion of more body. On thicker hair, it stops the cut from feeling bulky because those length changes help to remove weight. Curly and wavy textures look amazing with this cut because the shape encourages the curls to fall in a really natural, effortless way."

Sounds good, right? Keep on scrolling for some of the coolest disconnected bob haircuts around.

Disconnected Bob Inspiration

Rochelle Humes has broken up the ends of her blunt bob with this disconnected style.

Such a great example of how this haircut can add body to fine hair types.

I love the dimension in this slicked-back 'do.

Elsa Hosk shows just how much attitude a disconnected bob can bring.

A micro disconnected bob looks effortlessly cool.

A choppy fringe makes all the difference.

The Best Products for a Disconnected Bob

After being the proud owner of a bob haircut for nigh on a year, I have an announcement to make: I’ve decided it’s time to grow it out. Why? I’m easily influenced, and when I noticed a wave of celebrities like Elsa Hosk and Gigi Hadid—celebrities who had previously been leading the bob crusade—ditching their short cuts in favour of longer length styles, I knew it was only a matter of time before I deigned to join them, too.

The trouble is, anyone who's ever had short hair and gone through the process of growing out said style will know that it isn’t always smooth sailing. There’s that awkward in-between stage when you’re not quite sure how to style it, that period where it hits your shoulders and decides to rebound in every possible direction. Not to mention the struggle to decide just which haircut you’re going to opt for next. I've recently been through it, and trust me, I feel your pain.

While I’m unable to offer advice on the latter (although Who What Wear's 2026 hair trend guide is pending, which I’m sure will be filled with ample inspiration), when it comes to how to style your hair through the tricky grown-out bob stage, I’m here to help. Or should I say, I’ve called in an expert in the form of Emma May Fordham, Hair Stylist and Founder of SoBob hair salon.

Here’s her expert advice on how to style a grown-out bob, followed by plenty of grown-out bob inspiration from the celebrities and influencers who caused me to say goodbye to my own short cut (at least for the foreseeable)...

How to Style a Grown-Out Bob

From personal experience, I've learnt that the best way to embrace a grown-out bob is not to try to create an entirely new style. Instead, work with your hair's natural texture and adapt your cut to suit your new slightly longer lengths.

"When transitioning from a bob, it’s important to evolve the haircut to match each individual's length," explained Fordham. "There are hundreds of variables you can change within a haircut that can breathe new life into a growing-out bob to make it appear intentional. The smallest change in shape or tweak means you might just enjoy every stage of the grow-out process."

If you're wondering where to start, however, here are a few of Fordham's favourite ways to style a grown-out bob, which I've put to the test myself...

How to Style a Grown-Out Bob

1. The Flick

As I mentioned earlier, one of the most difficult things about growing out your bob is when it hits that awkward, not-quite shoulder-length stage and flicks out in all directions. This style embraces that moment, turning a subtle outward bend into a swooping, defined flick.

2. The Claw Clip Up-do

“As your hair grows out, take advantage of it being at optimum claw clip ratio length,” says Fordham, “Your hair will twist up at the back and cascade down the clip perfectly for that not too short, not too long pony. If you have bangs, leave these to naturally fall out around the face, and you’ve nailed that perfect profile, only possible with the perfect in-between length.”

3. The Faux Wet

“For a night out, I love a wet look, textured look on between-length hair, says Fordham. “It’s also the perfect day-two styling trick to extend hair wash day when your December social calendar is demanding.”

Grown-Out Bob Inspiration

1. Shoulder Sweeping

There was once a time when Elsa’s blonde bob could be found on every short hair inspo board; however, now the model is the grown-out bob poster girl with a blunt shoulder-length cut.

2. Get Wavy

Selin opted for a wavy look to transition her hair from bob length to longer.

3. Bend Inwards

When your bob hits that awkward length, turn the ends inwards to avoid an unwanted flick.

4. Flicked Ends

Or embrace the flick fully for a statement look like Sasha.

5. Chic Yet Simple

Sylvie shows that a grown-out bob can still look incredibly chic.

6. Up and Effortless

A claw clip up-do is great for disguising bob-length hair between cuts.

7. Va Va Volume

Grown-out bobs can often fall flat, so build volume with a side parting, like Lucy.

8. Effortless Lengths

Gigi’s currently sporting slightly longer locks.

9. Soft Slick

Saiorse’s hair looks great at all lengths, but I particularly love this wet-look shoulder-grazing style.

I don't want to toot my own horn, but I've written about (and predicted) some pretty big hair trends over the years. From the serrated bob to the molten brunette hair colour trend and even the comeback of '90s face-framing layers, I'd say I'm pretty good at staying on top of the next big thing, which is why I'm telling everyone to keep the "tuft bob" top of mind this season. My beauty editor senses are tingling, and something's telling me that this short haircut is about to be everywhere.

What Is the Tuft Bob?

So, what is the tuft bob, I hear you ask? I like to think of it as a hybrid between a blunt bob and a mullet bob. It has a short, choppy feel, but is characterised by a small "tuft" of hair at the back. The ends of the bob are flicked outwards to emphasise this, creating a chic, almost preppy appearance that feels bang on trend for this time of year.

I've spotted this trend on many stylish celebrities lately, including Zoë Kravitz and Emma Stone, and there's no denying how good it looks. Below, I've rounded up some of my favourite tuft bob hair looks, so whether you're considering getting the chop or already have a bob and want to switch it up this December, keep on scrolling and get inspired.

Tuft Bob Hair Inspiration

I first spotted the tuft bob on Jessie Buckley, and it's safe to say that it was love at first sight.

The tuft bob and a fringe? These hair trends look incredible with one another.

Emma Stone's sleek tuft bob is a thing of beauty.

This hairstyle works so well with winter coats and stylish accessories.

Zoë Kravitz gives her tuft bob a relaxed feel with some choppy layers.

So chic!

The Best Products for a Tuft Bob