Fitness
This Is The Hottest Hairstyle Of Summer 2026
The classic look that is having a moment.
AARP (Frazer Harrison/Getty Images, Jordan Strauss/Invision/AP, Jeff Kravitz/FilmMagic/Getty Images)
Are you one of the many women who dream of the kind of long, thick, luscious locks that can only be bought? Well, such luscious locks can, in fact, be bought, often for a hefty price. In addition to money, hair extensions require a whole lot of maintenance, which means time and patience, too. But guess what, girlfriends? If you want hair that is stylish and trendy without the price tag and upkeep of extensions, then you have reason to celebrate, because the good old classic bob is trending again. Yup, bobs are having a moment, and there are so many options to choose from! The modern bob comes in all styles, from Italian to French and everything in between. So before you make your next hair appointment, let's break down the most popular styles so that you can walk into the salon knowing exactly which bob is best for you.
The Lob (Long Bob)
If you are bob-curious but a little nervous, this is your go-to style. Think of it as testing the waters — a low-commitment way to ease into shorter hair without the big chop. Crystal Frehner, co-founder of Hottie Hair in Las Vegas, Nevada, says the lob allows "you to keep enough length to still tuck it behind your ears or pull it into a little stub of a ponytail on a busy day." It is especially flattering for "people with a longer or rounder face shape since the extra length keeps things soft and balanced." Selena Gomez, Emma Roberts, and Cate Blanchett have all pulled this style off in a knock-your-socks-off kind of way — and women like Hailey Bieber and Kendall Jenner have recently joined the lob club, too.
Styling tip: "The extra length allows for ponytails, waves, and various styling options. Maintenance is relatively easy, with trims every eight to 12 weeks depending on the desired shape." — Alfredo Lewis, Founder & CEO of QOAT
The Blunt Bob
This is the quintessential bob — the one that pops into your head the moment you hear the word. It is a straight-across, blunt cut that Frehner says usually sits "right around the chin or jaw, with little to no layering." Originally made famous by the rebellious flappers of the Roaring 20s, the classic bob was a whole movement, not just a hairstyle. Sleek, polished, and sophisticated, it also does something really nice for finer hair — "it makes fine or thin hair read a lot thicker because all the weight sits at the bottom." Dua Lipa and Chrissy Teigen are both fans, and honestly, they both rock this bob. If you do choose this timeless cut, just know it will require "a few minutes of styling [each day] to keep that sharp, finished line."
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Styling tip: “This cut requires regular shaping appointments every 6-8 weeks to maintain its strong outline. Heat styling is often used to emphasize its sleek finish.” — Alfredo Lewis
The French Bob
A more modern take: "shorter, often chin-length or a touch above, and almost always paired with a soft fringe." If it’s a trend you are after, this "effortless Parisian cut" is sure to make you feel très belle. "It's chic but a bit undone, so it doesn't ask you to be perfect." Alexa Chung has practically made it her signature style, and Zoë Kravitz strayed from her signature locks and recently wowed us with a stunning French bob. Best for people “who love a bang, have a little natural wave, or want something that feels editorial without a ton of daily fuss.”
Styling tip: “Because it sits shorter around the face, regular trims every 4-6 weeks are recommended to maintain the shape. Styling is generally simple, often requiring only minimal blow-drying or a little enhancement of the hair's natural texture.” — Alfredo Lewis
The California Bob
California isn't just for long, beachy, blonde waves. As it turns out, the Golden State knows enough about bobs to have its very own. Frehner describes it as "slightly longer, soft face-framing, undone texture, [with] that sun-kissed laid-back feeling." She adds that it is great for anyone seeking a low-maintenance bob, as "it's very forgiving day to day." Jennifer Aniston and Sofia Richie Grainge both have that effortless California-girl vibe, so it’s no surprise this style has suited them well. Great for those with "natural waves, low-maintenance lifestyles, and anyone who wants the bob-look without committing to styling it smooth every morning."
Styling tip: “The beauty of the California Bob is that it doesn't require perfect styling. Air-drying, soft bends, and texture sprays help enhance its casual feel. Most clients can maintain the shape with trims every eight to 10 weeks.” -— Alfredo Lewis
The Italian Bob
This new-to-us bob is actually inspired by the glitz and glamour of the 1960s and has recently been spotted on stars like Hailey Bieber and Zendaya. "It is having a real moment right now. It's short, rounded, and bouncy with a lot of body, and it's gorgeous on hair that can hold some volume." This bob is a bit longer than the French, sitting at the jawline or neck. It’s a good choice for those with oval, heart-shaped, or longer faces.
Styling tip: “The goal is healthy-looking fullness and movement. A round brush blowout or soft bend styling works beautifully. Maintenance is moderate, with trims every six to eight weeks." — Alfredo Lewis
Still not sure which bob is right for you? No worries, girlfriends. Frehner has some tips for you. Talk to your stylist. Show him/her some inspo photos, but also talk about your day-to-day life — discuss your morning routine, your dream hair, and your realistic maintenance abilities. Another great idea is to “let your texture lead. A French or California bob will work with you, [if you have natural, wavy hair and don’t want to fight it.].” Trust your stylist, talk openly, and dare to be brave, girlfriends. Because, as Frehner reminds us, "It grows … and a bob grows out beautifully.”
Happy chopping!
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