The bob has transcended trend status at this point. It’s a look that seems to be a mainstay for the time being. Micro-trends have branched off the bob like the Italian variation and the lob. Now, a new bob is front and center—the micro bob. Gigi Hadid, Lily Collins and Penelope Cruz are some of the stars that have inspired the style to take off. We love a fresh chop for fall, and the micro bob is the perfect, chic style to try right now.
Featured experts
- Erickson Arrunategui is a celebrity hairstylist
- David Bullen is a professional hairstylist
- Marc Mena is a celebrity hairstylist and Great Lengths certified stylist
- Rogério Cavalcante is a professional hairstylist and the owner of The Second Floor Salon
What is a micro bob?
A micro bob is, as it sounds, a short bob. Celebrity hairstylist Erickson Arrunategui says it tends to hit above the chin around the jawbone. “It can range from cheek-grazing French bobs to super short, layered looks. Think Cate Blanchett with perfect lip-length waves or Victoria Beckham circa 2007,” says professional hairstylist David Bullen.
“Super short bobs, also known as micro bobs, represent a postmodern throwback to the stylistic genius and vision of legendary hair artist Vidal Sassoon, who made this signature look enormously popular in the 1960s,” says celebrity and certified Great Lengths hairstylist Mark Mena. “The micro bob has been experiencing a renaissance of sorts trending since early 2024, and I predict it is only going to grow in popularity and visibility through the end of 2024.”
Why are micro bobs trending?
“I think everyone is finally ready to cut their hair and make a statement. The micro bob is perfect for just that,” says Arrunategui. Bullen attributes the trend, in part, to the continued resurgence of Y2K looks. Plus, “People love low-maintenance, air-dry looks these days, and a super short haircut can really make your life easy. The micro bob can be styled messy and casual or sleek and chic.” While it’s easy to style, Rogério Cavalcante, professional hairstylist and owner of the Second Floor Salon, notes that the style will likely require frequent trips to the salon for trims.
What should you ask for at the salon?
Cavalcante recommends asking for a jawline bob. “You can ask for variations like layers, blunt or slightly longer in the front, with or without bangs. Bring a picture to show the exact style you like,” he notes. “It’s important to work with your stylist to find a length and shape that works with your texture,” says Arrunategui.
“It’s very important that your hairstylist sees and synthesizes the look you’re going for to ensure you’re both on the same page—this is a creative collaboration, after all,” says Mena. “Your hairstylist can then make any necessary modifications to the cut that may be required to personalize the style for your unique face shape.”
What face shapes work best with a micro bob?
“This haircut can work on any face shape, but it’s all in the details,” says Bullen. “A good hairstylist can customize the shape to frame your features. Fringe, face-framing or lack thereof will make all the difference.”
The micro bob’s versatility allows it to work with all face shapes with various adjustments, says Mena. “If your face is on the rounder side, your stylist should aim for a more square-shaped micro bob. If your face is on the more narrow side, request a rounder micro bob. It’s all about balancing shapes and framing your face accordingly.”
In Arrunategui’s opinion, heart-shaped faces look especially flattering with a micro bob. “Theoretically, this cut will work best for people with more minor features because it looks more harmonious, but it will have the contrast to provide that fashion information in longer faces,” says Cavalcante. “For example, Hailey Bieber does not have a small face with small features, but the short bob gives her an imponent power and adds boldness.”
Micro Bob Looks to Try
