You see that sleek and shiny chin-length cut on a red carpet A-lister and think, ‘I love her hair!’ Or perhaps it’s the cool-girl waves of a style influencer that has you considering calling your hairdresser.
Undoubtedly, the bob is one of the most-wanted hairstyles right now, and has been for a while.
If you’ve had the same style for a number of years, a cropped chop can feel like a bold move. What should you consider if you’re wondering about cutting in a bob of your own? There seems to be a new bob trend every few months, like the old-money bob, the simple lob, the hydro bob and the butterfly cut to name a few recent examples.
We asked Nik Goutziotis, Revlon Professional stylist and director of Amos Hair, to share some insight on the five things to ask yourself before getting a bob:
1. Will a bob compliment my features and face shape?
Nik Goutziotis,: As we get older, we may notice that the shape of our faces will change slightly over time and quite often, a bob can work wonders in highlighting or complimenting your best features. When cutting a bob, it’s important first to understand the type of face shape you have, and from there, what type of bob style cut will suit most.
As a rule of thumb, I like to suggest a sleek or layered style for more oval faces, and a longer style bob for those with round or ‘moon-like’ shapes. For a softer approach to your features keep the bob length below your chin and add softness through texturising to avoid feeling too bold. Introducing fridges can highlight your natural eye colour.
I also like to propose some face-framing layers for those with heart-shaped faces, as they take attention away from the appearance of a narrow chin.
2. Do I have the right hair texture and thickness to cut a bob?
Nik Goutziotis: In my opinion, hair health is #1, and I always like to undertake a thorough diagnosis and consultation with clients because regardless of whether your hair has been damaged from heat or bleach, naturally, our hair will get finer or thinner over time.
If you have concerns about your feeling too thin, a bob can certainly increase the illusion of fuller hair. Usually, layers can remove weight from your haircut, but an experienced hairdresser should know how to control it using various techniques.
If, on the other hand, your hair is very coarse and very thick, the best thing to keep in mind is that it will potentially jump up and out in humid and hot weather.
I also believe that regardless of your hair type, everyone should be using a hair treatment such as Revlon Professional’s UniqOne Hair Treatment which is a great product to promote silkiness, prevent split ends and repair any signs of dryness or damage.
3. Will a bob suit my active lifestyle and daily routine?
Nik Goutziotis: It’s great to determine how you tie your hair up normally before you cut a bob. Your stylist can determine a suitable length and make it easy to keep on top of.
However, a few bobby pins in the right places can keep your bob in place. This also applies to those frequently on the go or travelling—think, will a bob haircut be too high maintenance for your busy work, family, or social schedule?
In general, a messy layered bob is perfect for those who seek an easy yet natural look and perhaps better suited to those who have more time to commit to detailed styling, a sleek bob might work better to keep a specific shape.
4. Will cutting a bob best reflect my style and age?
Nik Goutziotis:The beauty of the bob is that many renditions can suit all ages and the style you gravitate towards. If your style is more timeless, then a classic bob is the way to go. However, if your style is more natural and relaxed, a layered bob will work magic with your textured hair. For a grungy/alternative look, you can opt for an undercut below the occipital bone or on the sides for a peek-a-boo effect.
5. Do I have what it takes to engage in regular upkeep?
Nik Goutziotis: Despite how chic bobs can be, you don’t want to underestimate the time, energy and effort required to keep the bob looking healthy and fresh. Bobs are a high-maintenance style, and it can be very helpful to consult your hairdresser and ask questions before making the decision.
An example of this is how often you are prepared to visit the salon for a cut, as generally, shorter hair grows out quicker and more noticeable to the eye of losing its shape. However, choose what’s best for your face shape and texture before maintenance. There is no use having a style that doesn’t suit you, in which you could instead look and feel better.
You also need to ensure you are investing in the right haircare product ranges and especially as our hair changes with age, products with moisture, hydration or volume-boosting benefits are key. Therefore, you might need to adjust to look at incorporating a few more products into your haircare routine.
I always suggest volumising mousses or light styling creams for a ‘bouncy’ bob and find that applying the Revlon Professional’s RE/START Volume Body Foam before styling and the Style Masters Volume Elevator Spray after is a great duo.
For those who are after the sleeker-looking bob cut, anti-frizz serums such as the Revlon Professional RE/START Hydration Drops.
