WHAT IT IS

This new take on the classic bob can be seen on celebs pretty much everywhere—on TV, in films, on red carpets and on social media. Very short and above the jaw—or brushing against the nape of the neck—this bob can be ultra-layered, tapered, with or without bangs, curly, straight, smooth, ripple-waved…it’s up to you.

WHO IT’S FOR

“The bob is one of the most iconic cuts of all time, and it’s also one of the easiest to wear, no matter what kind of hair you’re working with,” says Aliza Esmail, owner of and director at Salon August in Toronto. “I’m thrilled to see how popular it’s gotten this season thanks to stars like Zendaya, Jenna Ortega and Hailey Bieber!”

STARS WHO ROCK IT

A blunt-cut bob on Hailey Bieber and Kourtney Kardashian; modern layers on Mindy Kaling and Kristen Wiig; a short bob with blunt bangs on Lily Allen and Emma Chamberlain; a stacked bob on Zendaya, Jenna Ortega, Kerry Washington and Lizzo.

REAL-LIFE VERSION

Now more than ever, people are opting for simplicity, ease and freedom when it comes to cut and colour. “I can’t say it enough: Working with a stylist is essential to determine the right cut for you—one that’s based on your desires, needs, worries, lifestyle and daily hair-care routine,” says Esmail. “Although bobs don’t vary greatly in length, there are a thousand and one ways to cut, wear and style them.”

THE PLAY-BY-PLAY

For an ultra-straight, glossy look: Straighten hair section by section using a paddle brush and a hair dryer, pulling hair in all directions—toward the front, back and sides—to create volume. Finish the ends with a flatiron for a hit of shine and to seal the hair cuticles.

For natural texture: Apply curl cream section by section and brush it in, evenly blending the product. Allow hair to air-dry or use a diffuser to define curls and create body.

For volume and bounce: After applying a protective serum, use a large round brush and a hair dryer to dry hair.

PRO TIP

“It’s important to choose the right shampoo and conditioner for your hair type as well as proper styling products,” says Esmail.

Read more:
The Bob Is the It-Girl Hairstyle for Spring—Here Are 15 Ways to Wear It
How to Create the Perfect Beach Waves
9 Scalp Serums for Healthy, Beautiful Hair