“For a sleek bob like this, hair that is straight with medium thickness and density works best,” says Ryan Forsythe, Artistic Education Director at Trevor Sorbie. “Hair with a lot of volume, curl or texture can spring up and become high maintenance; in this case, a smoothing treatment may help relax the texture and make the style more manageable.”

The key to this style is committing to that shorter length – no backing out! “Very short bobs are super flattering for opening up the neck,” says Chad, “but if they’re even a fraction too long they don’t have the same effect. They’re great for contouring the jaw and highlighting cheekbones.”

The mid-part bob

Edward Berthelot/Getty Images

Chic and polished but with an edge of attitude, the one-length, mid-part bob is the ultimate all-rounder. “This is one of the most timeless, low-maintenance bobs we’re seeing at the moment,” says Larry. “It works because it’s incredibly balanced. There’s no fighting with layers or over-styling — it’s clean, modern and chic. If it’s cut properly, it almost styles itself. It suits most face shapes because the centre part elongates the face and keeps everything symmetrical. The key is tailoring the length — that’s what makes it flattering rather than flat.”

Look to the likes of Jules Hough, Danielle Galligan and Jenny Slate for further examples, though it is worth noting that not all hair types will fall in a perfect centre parting. “Mid-partings are very striking but can sometimes look severe, which may not suit everyone,” adds Ryan. “Natural growth patterns also need to be considered, as some hair simply won’t sit perfectly central.”

The bendy bob

Victor Boyko/Getty Images

Our Patron Saint of Bobs, Leslie Bibb, is partial to this style for red carpet events – adding just a hint of a wave to her naturally-straight hair.

“This is the bob that feels relaxed, but still polished,” says Larry. “It works best on fine to medium hair, especially if you want to create the illusion of fullness. It’s not overly structured — it’s effortless, modern and very wearable.”

Ryan adds: “This style can be achieved easily using straightening irons. Create flat S-bends through the hair, or form soft waves by curving the irons over and under as you work down each section. It works on many hair types, although wavy, curly, or textured hair will need to be smoothed beforehand. Very thick hair may also need some bulk removal to help the shape sit flatter and more relaxed.”

The retro bob

Gareth Cattermole/Getty Images

Vintage-style curls are having a moment, with Raye leading the charge with her pin-up style bob.

“To achieve this look, you need a solid, weighty bob with clean lines, often paired with a strong parting,” says Larry. “Styling is everything here — think blow-drying with intention, setting and shine.”

Speaking of styling, it might be time to brush off your heated rollers for this one. After removing them, “don’t be afraid to brush, brush and brush to create the perfect vintage waves,” says Chad.

The snipped-in bob

Theo Wargo/Getty Images

Could this be 2026’s next big haircut? We think so. This airy, grown-out pixie look has already been championed by the likes of Emma Stone and Jessie Buckley – maximising on clipped-in, tufty texture and soft layers.