Deciding on a short haircut isn’t a simple decision if you have waist-length strands. But for those with hair at or above the shoulders, a bob is the obvious choice. The iconic cut has seen many iterations over the years and has evolved more times than the French manicure. It tops the list of seasonal trends and remains a chic haircut choice. Polished, refined and sleek may not be your cup of tea in terms of hairstyle. If that’s the case, the shaggy bob—a cooler, more laid-back version of the classic—is the perfect cut for you. Unlike sharper styles, it embraces natural and thicker textures for an effortless look. Ahead, we chatted with two hairstylists to learn everything to know about the trend.
Featured experts
- Philip Wolff is a hairstylist and the US creative director of DesignMe
- Rogerio Cavalcante is a hairstylist and owner of The Second Floor Salon
What is the shaggy bob?
Shag haircuts are inherently cool, and this version of the bob delivers a similar energy. The shaggy bob, sometimes shortened to shob “is all about effortless cool—think texture, volume and a carefree vibe,” says hairstylist Philip Wolff. As a hybrid haircut, it borrows elements from both sides to form its unique look. “The cut offers the structure of a bob with the messy lived-in layers of the shag and typically features lots of texture and choppy ends,” says Wolff.
Most shaggy cuts have a similar appearance, but the shaggy bob has a distinct swingy shape that sets it apart. Hairstylist Rogerio Cavalcante notes that this is often due to subtle, uneven layers that help remove bulk and create structure. Having a fringe is another key element to shags, but Wolff says that’s not always the case with a shaggy bob. “Bangs are optional, however, if added, they are usually cut into a soft, wispy fringe that blends seamlessly into the rest of the cut.”
Who does the shaggy bob work for?
Given the weight of the cut, the experts agree that thicker textures work best. “Shaggy bobs are ideal for medium to thick hair that can hold layers and volume,” mentions Wolff. In that vein, it’s a perfect cut for natural curls and those with wavy hair. Cavalcante puts it simply, saying that thicker hair makes it easier to create the short, uneven layers that give the haircut its signature shape and movement.
However, if you have fine hair, you can still rock a shaggy bob. “The key is to use a volumizing product such as PUFF.ME Volumizing Powder ($27) that will help thicken the hair,” says Wolff. Texture aside, the pro says that the shaggy bob fits any face shape and only needs a few small adjustments to look its best. “Round faces require a cut with volume on top and more tapered ends, while square and heart-shaped faces work well with softer layers and a side-swept fringe.”
How to style a shaggy bob
For the ultimate carefree look, you’ll probably need to incorporate a handful of products and tools into your routine. The idea is to create texture. So, if you have straight or fine hair, a curling wand with interchangeable-sized rods can help create soft waves. But curls are just the beginning. Cavalcante suggests adding pomade to help loosen the curls and give your hair a playful tousled effect. “You want to apply the product upwards, then gently smash the hair with your hands to enhance the relaxed, textured look,” he says.
Naturally wavy textures require a little less effort to nail the lived-in look. “Air-drying often delivers perfect soft waves and just needs some light styling cream to define and set them,” says Wolff. This also holds true for bangs. “Your fringe should be light and airy,” he says. If you’re new to styling bangs, he suggests opting for the classic round brush and blow-dry method to create the wispy look.
