2025 is the year of the bob haircut: Retro, shaggy or blunt, which one suits your vibe?

The bob is a fusion of classic elegance with modern vibes

Last updated:
Lakshana N Palat, Assistant Features Editor
6 MIN READ
Zendaya, with the retro bob at the Golden Globes ceremony, 2025.
Zendaya, with the retro bob at the Golden Globes ceremony, 2025.
AFP

Short hair, don't care.

2025 is shaping up to be the year of the bob, and it’s ready to flaunt every stunning variation you can imagine. Picture that glamorous 60s bounce and flounce, brought to life by Zendaya and Selena Gomez at the Golden Globes and Grammys. Sabrina Carpenter even took it up a notch with a dreamy faux bob. And let’s not forget Billie Eilish, rocking a soft, chic cut that’s got us all talking. But hold up—there’s more. Enter the bell-bottom bob, a trend that started last year and shows no sign of backing down.

And honestly, why should it? This style is the perfect blend of low-maintenance cool and high-impact flair. A timeless look that walks the line between youthful energy and sophisticated edge. It’s a fusion of classic elegance with modern vibes—think the spirit of the 60s, the 90s, and a healthy dose of Y2K revival. No wonder everyone’s looking to celebrities for inspiration, while still adding their own twist to make it uniquely theirs.

What’s the bob cut?

As you can see, the bob is as versatile as you make it. Traditionally, a bob is a short style that falls around the neckline, typically at the jawline. But recently, many stylists have embraced the shoulder-length lob (long bob) as part of the bob family too. The best bob length truly depends on your personal style and desired look, so there's no “one-size-fits-all.” You can opt for a sleek, sharp cut or a longer, layered look, depending on what feels right for you.

Now, if you’re eyeing the big chop for the first time, it’s essential to factor in your hair type and texture—this style requires some upkeep. Dubai and Abu Dhabi-based hairstylists Carlotta Queen and Diana Constanza recommend choosing a cut that complements your natural texture to ensure your style lasts longer. A sharp, blunt bob is sleek and works wonderfully with straight hair, staying fresh between washes. On the other hand, curly or wavy hair looks great with a layered, textured bob, enhancing your natural curls for that effortlessly chic, lived-in vibe.

Will a bob cut suit your face shape?

Indeed.

And don’t worry about bob haircuts being unflattering for your face shape. You’re in luck: Bob cuts look good with all face shapes, in fact as Queen says, a stunning bob cut could just be, where the length falls between the chin and shoulders. You’re good to go. If you've got a round face, a bob is your secret weapon to add some serious length to your features. For those with an oval face, a chin-length, blunt bob with some waves is the way to go. The key? Pull out the texture a bit, and let those waves do their thing, enhancing that sharp jawline for a flawless look.

So both our experts share the different kinds of bob cuts, and how to achieve it. It’s not rocket science; just requires a little extra care.

Types of bobs to suit your style

Classic blunt bob

This one’s for the bold, confident woman who loves a sharp look. The blunt bob hits just around the chin or jawline and is all about clean, crisp lines. Think of it as the fashion-forward cousin of the bob—the one that’s always on trend, never overdone.

 How to style: Keep it sleek and shiny with a smoothing serum and a flat iron for a polished, red-carpet-ready look.

Textured bob

A little messier, a lot more fun. The textured bob offers layers and movement, often with soft waves or curls. It’s laid-back, but still has a touch of glamour, much like the looks seen at the Grammys this year.

How to style: To achieve those beachy waves, use a curling wand or sea salt spray, then run your fingers through the hair to add volume and movement.

The retro bob

This retro look isn’t complete without a little flip at the ends. Use a round brush and a blow dryer to lift the hair at the tips, creating that signature bounce. A small dab of styling cream or hairspray will keep the volume in check and the look fresh all day. If you want a more polished take, straighten your bob to perfection. A glossy bob feels bold yet refined. After straightening, apply a shine serum for that mirror-like finish. The trick here is keeping it sleek without looking flat—add some root-lifting mousse for volume at the crown, and you’ve got the perfect balance of retro and modern.

One of the best things about a retro bob is the volume. Backcomb your roots and use a good texturising spray to create that fluffy, voluminous effect. It’s all about lifting the hair at the crown and adding extra drama with the overall shape. Pair this with a cat-eye and red lips, and you’ll have all the eyes on you.

The curled bob

And if you want to go further vintage, like a deep throwback to the 1940s, soft curls can give your retro bob the perfect vintage vibe. Use a curling iron to create loose, pin-up inspired curls, and break them up with your fingers for a softer finish. Set with a light hairspray for that perfect combination of bounce and movement.

No matter how you decide to style it, the retro bob is the definition of versatility, mixing timeless elegance with a bit of edge. Now go ahead, channel your inner icon and let that bob do the talking.

Shaggy bob

The shaggy bob is the ultimate rock-n-roll rebellion for your hair. It’s messy, it’s bold, and it screams cool-girl chic without even trying. With its choppy, uneven layers, this style throws perfection out the window and embraces that effortlessly undone vibe. If you're all about that low-maintenance, high-impact look that makes you feel like you’ve just stepped out of a 90s grunge music video, the shaggy bob is your hairstyle. No frills, just pure, unapologetic edge.

How to style: Air dry your hair for that undone look or use a light mousse to add texture without weighing it down.

A-line bob

Slightly longer in the front and shorter in the back, the A-line bob is the perfect combination of flattering and fashionable. It creates a sense of movement and adds volume to the hair while being simple enough for everyday wear.

How to style: For a sleek A-line bob, blow dry with a round brush, directing the ends to curl inward for that polished, show-stopping finish.

So, ready to make the chop? Whether you’re channeling Zendaya or rocking a retro bob, it’s time to take the plunge and redefine your look for 2025.

Sign up for the Daily Briefing

Get the latest news and updates straight to your inbox

Up Next