Of all the haircuts, the bob is the one we never get tired of seeing. No matter how many ways you remix it, it oozes sophistication, elegance, confidence and style. There are lots of bobs pinned to our mood boards, but the blunt bob feels particularly perfect for the cold months ahead. For starters, the sharp shape offers an incredibly assertive vibe that’s on par with dropping temperatures. But it’s also a timeless classic that feels artsy when paired with cool elements like micro bangs. “Blunt bobs instantly add elegance to any look, more than longer hairstyles, and their short length keeps the hair looking healthy and fresh,” says hairstylist and salon owner Rogerio Cavalcante. Still, pulling the trigger on the look can be daunting. Ahead, we chatted with two experts for the rundown on the blunt bob trend and what to know before making the big chop.
Featured experts
- Rogerio Cavalcante is a hairstylist and the owner of The Second Floor Salon
- Lacy Redway is a celebrity hairstylist and braider
What elements define the blunt bob?
According to the experts, two principal characteristics make this style of bob unique. The first is the style in which the hair is cut. “A blunt bob usually has sharp lines at the bottom of your hair and a heavy weight line,” says celebrity hairstylist and braider Lacy Redway. Cavalcante explains that blunt bobs depend on straight features to create a clean look. The ends should be sharply cut to give the hair a heavy base, but that doesn’t mean the style has to be bulky. “You can add subtle layers throughout your bob to introduce movement while maintaining the overall sleekness,” he says. The other key component of a blunt bob is the length. Cavalcante notes that this type of bob is always cut above the shoulder and below the ears.
What to consider before getting a blunt bob
Since this bob features thick, blunt ends, your natural hair texture will play a big role in how your cut will appear. “Hair density is key for this look, and it may be challenging to achieve the full effect if your hair is naturally fine or thin,” says Cavalcante. However, those with thicker hair or natural curls may have the opposite issue, finding that the cut adds bulk and unwanted weight to their hair. Texture aside, Redway notes that you should consider how you like to wear your hair and daily activities. “If you work out or work in an environment where you constantly need hair out of your face, consider the length you will end up at and the maintenance it takes to keep your hair looking good,” she says.
Who do blunt bobs work for?
The beauty of a bob is that it’s an extremely adaptable haircut. “Bobs work well with many face shapes because there are so many variations,” notes Redway. That ethos also extends to a blunt-cut style. Even with its bold shape, the pros agree that blunt bobs can work for anyone who has the confidence to pull them off. “Generally, oval face shapes work well with blunt bobs, but those rules aren’t set in stone,” she says. This cut is about putting your personality front and center and beating to your own drum, so the trick is to just go with it.
How to style a blunt bob
Like any bob, this version is low-maintenance and requires minimal daily styling. “The simplicity of the style allows you to embrace a range of effortless looks, such as tousled, sleek or voluminous,” says Cavalcante. If opting for a straight style, he recommends using a flat iron to create a smooth look. Loose waves are also easy to achieve with a curling wand, or you can use a simple sea salt spray to add texture. Just remember to prioritize the health of your hair.
When using hot tools, be sure to incorporate a heat protectant. Redway notes that hydration is essential for any hair type, and using a hydrating hair mask, like Dove’s Bond Strength 10-in-1 Serum Mask ($10), can help keep split ends sealed, as blunt bobs have very sharp ends. In that vein, Cavalcante says planning for regular trims every eight to 12 weeks will help maintain the shape of your bob and keep your hair looking healthy and polished.
