With a growing list of celebrities dropping chic new looks every day, and waves of bob trends vying for the title of “ultimate fall hairstyle,” this situation is very real. Kendall Jenner has been arousing my temptations lately. She ditched her Los Angeles cool black hair for a sweet honey blonde shade and a long bob haircut (aka lob) that brushed her shoulders.
Kendall Jenner’s Instagram
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And Jenner isn’t the only one sparking this lob renaissance. Big stars like Camila Cabello, Victoria Beckham and Saoirse Ronan are just a few of the influential names who have recently embraced the timeless appeal of this stylish mid-length cut.
Ahead, check out ELLE’s guide to achieving the style and our favorite long bob muses to inspire your next haircut.
What is Rob?
A slightly longer version of the classic French bob, the lob haircut is perfect for those who want to go short but not too short. “[The lob]gives the wearer time to understand the emotions associated with short styles,” says Neil Rodger, style director at STIL. “Not all of us are as brave as those fearless people who storm out of the salon with amazing short bob, crop, or pixie hair. With a lob, you can try it before you jump or dip your toes in. “You can,” Roger added.
“This incision is typically located between the length of the neck and the top of the shoulder blades. This length creates separation in the body, increases longevity, and ultimately improves the wearer’s comfort and appearance. It takes longer,” Roger explains.
“After all, the most important thing in a lob is the length. This is the most important feature of this cut, and getting it wrong can ruin the shape in a variety of ways. If it’s too long, it will look like a bob and you’ll end up with a bland midi length.My belief is that no matter what shape you take, you need to go all out to achieve maximum results. is.”
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Which face shape suits a long bob?
In terms of suitability, long bob haircuts are more flexible than classic bob. In fact, “it works for everyone, for all faces and body types,” Roger says. “It’s the perfect hairstyle for those who aren’t quite ready to take the plunge into the world of short hair, as it preserves length around the neck and shoulders and hides vulnerable areas.
“Another amazing thing about this style is that by creating vertical lines, it can elongate your eyes, elongate your neck, face, and overall appearance, creating the illusion that your entire body looks longer. That’s it.”
On the other hand, hair type is a little more important. Two-time British Hairdresser of the Year Cos Suckas says long bob is best suited for people with medium density hair, but the cut can be tailored to fine or thick hair types. It is said that it can be adjusted. For example, “If your hair is thin, we recommend cutting it above the shoulders for added strength and thickness.” Also, if your hair is thick, add some softness with fringe or curtain bangs, and remove some of the weight of
Long bob inspiration to take a screenshot before your next appointment
Kendall Jenner’s stunning lob
“[Kendall Jenner’s new lob]is very mature and attractive,” Roger added. “The toppled blowout and beautiful soft golden blonde hue gave her a vibe of old-school Hollywood glamour.”
Camila Cabello’s wet look lob
Camila Cabello’s hydro lob comes courtesy of celebrity hairstylist Chris Appleton, and uses layers and textured styling to embrace a more grungy aesthetic.
Hailey Bieber’s laissez-faire lob
When it comes to Hailey Bieber’s iconic lob, her rich, shiny chocolate hue is all the styling you need. Notice that her length falls just below her shoulders to compliment the density of her fine hair.
Gracie Abrams’ textured lob
Singer-songwriter Gracie Abrams has been walking the line between bob and lob for a while, and that’s the beauty of a long bob. “If you’re in the middle stages of growing your hair out, that’s great,” adds Succus.
Jenna Ortega’s lob with bangs
We’re obsessed with Jenna Ortega’s popped lob. The bell-shaped form creates a beautiful look on your neck and shoulders, and the chic curtain bangs give a soft impression, creating an atmosphere that is easy to wear.
Sidney Sweeney’s mid-’90s lob
As Roger says, “Sidney Sweeney has the coolest lob right now: a combination of simple, tousled length and lively, cool blonde.” Need I say more?
Victoria Beckham’s lob and balayage
Delicate freehand balayage and loose waves instantly elevated Victoria Beckham’s lob, adding depth and texture to the flat cut.
Alexa Chung’s lob with waves
Model and style icon Alexa Chung is as cool as can be. Her hair just past her shoulders and vibrant waves create a gently curly effect that’s both cool girl and rock ‘n’ roll.
Olivia Palermo’s side parted lob
Side parts are definitely making a comeback. Pair it with Olivia Palermo’s chic shoulder-grazing lob.
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Chloe Woodland is Group Beauty Assistant for ELLE UK, Harper’s Bazaar UK, Red and Prima, working across both print and digital features. She has been working in the industry for two years and started her career writing for trade publications Hairdressers Journal and Professional Beauty. When she’s not unraveling the science behind growing hair, compiling the best makeup products of all time, or researching the hottest skincare ingredients, she’s probably watching Modern Family by the thousands. You’ll find yourself rewatching episodes or trying to tame two working cockers (who have never worked a day in their lives).