A sneak peek at next year’s bobs.
Hate it or love it, but the bob refuses to step aside. The secret of its staying power? It tirelessly reinvents itself, attuned to the shifts in beauty, fashion, and culture. We asked experts and studied red-carpet looks to understand where the bob is heading in 2026. Read on to see what we uncovered, and the insider rules for a truly great bob.
Stylists agree that next year’s bob requests are expressive and closely tailored to facial structure and hair behavior.
Gwenda Harmon, resident hair stylist and beauty expert at PowerYourCurls.com, describes a classic bob as “a timeless and versatile length that falls between the chin and shoulder.” It’s like a basic white shirt that can be paired with just about anything. Try it if you love a clean shape without obvious layering.
@jarahshair
Done right at the jawline, this cut brings the face right into focus. It is a great option for defined jawlines and cheekbones, and goes well with glasses and statement earrings.
@hirohair
The uneven hemline is what gives this bob its character. It is a fabulous haircut if you like visual interest but still want something that can be easily worn to work or school.
@jmorahair
This version relies on internal layering for natural lift and movement. A textured bob is perfect for fine to medium hair that tends to get flat, and for those who prefer air-drying their hair rather than using heat tools.
@hair.by.lirian
Well above the chin, it’s a high-fashion haircut. Lauren Byrne, co-owner of Hair Street, says, “I expect to see my clients bring in photos of Lily Collins’ micro bob because the length is perfect for drawing more attention to your jawline and cheekbones.” Best for confident clients who don’t mind frequent trims.
@_hairbysophieb
This style, with its curvy, rounded, and luxurious shape, keeps fullness controlled. A baroque bob is a wise choice for medium to thick hair that can hold bend without collapsing.
@marshel.studio
Even mid-award season, patterns are already clear.
Rhea Seehorn, Hannah Einbinder, and Kaley Smalley Romo all had their bobs flipping out at the Critics Choice Awards. The look works on most bob lengths as long as the flip hits a flattering point.
@hannaheinbinder
Selena Gomez, Ryan Destiny, and Maura Higgins sculpted their looks at the Golden Globes with plush curves. The style looks very elegant on the red carpet, but with a simple blowout, it can be quite wearable in everyday life.
@selenagomez
Jean Smart and Sophia Lillis wore softly waved, side-parted long bobs, while Rose Byrne tucked her ends inward to create a classic swoop with side bangs. Longer bobs are the most adaptable option if you enjoy ponytails or updos.
@sophialillis
Harmon mentions that the three main reasons why the bobs have such a strong influence on customers are adaptability across face shapes and textures, manageable upkeep, and their ever-evolving nature.
Byrne receives similar feedback, saying that customers are looking for a hairstyle that settles naturally without daily styling.
If you’re deciding between lengths, our guide breaking down the difference between a bob and a lob can help you choose the best fit.
Byrne points out how crucial underneath thinning is and explains that it “keeps the cut from turning into a triangle shape or flipping out at the ends as it grows toward your shoulders.”
Harmon emphasizes three pillars: precision cutting, lightweight styling products, and regular trims every six to eight weeks to maintain the shape.
For a wider view of what’s coming next, get our full story on 2026 hair trends. Want to see how a bob would look on you first? Try our bob hair filter before booking the cut.
