What You Need To Know Before You Get A Bob
Photography: @RONYNIKA
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What You Need To Know Before You Get A Bob

Bobs have a tendency of making a comeback and they’re big news again in 2022 – from the 70s shag to sleek and straight, as well as what’s been dubbed ‘the boyfriend bob’, there are plenty of variations making the rounds. We asked leading hair stylists Larry King and George Northwood for their advice if you’re considering a chop.
By Rebecca Hull /
Photography: @RONYNIKA

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Get Acquainted With The ‘Boyfriend Bob’

“There are lots of bob trends in 2022, but none have been more popular than the ‘boyfriend bob’. With a slightly more androgynous feel to it, it’s rounded off slightly at the front with shorter pieces through the front – think 90s vibes. It isn’t suitable for everyone, but those with strong cheekbones really suit it. If you have a rounder face shape, there are other styles that will work better.” Larry King, session stylist & founder of Larry King Hair

“The ‘boyfriend bob’ is super cool – it’s a real fashion statement. Ask your stylist for a super short cut, right to the jawline. You want it just long enough so you can still tuck it behind your ears and ask for it to be kept mainly one length. The bluntness of the cut can be quite severe on some, so make sure you have pronounced facial features to make it work. The good news is once you’ve got this cut, it’s very easy to maintain. You can leave it to air dry to create some natural texture within your hair. If the hair feels too straight or sleek, just mist in some texturizing spray, as this will boost body throughout.” George Northwood, A-list hairdresser 

It’s ROUNDED OFF slightly at the front with SHORTER PIECES through the front – THINK 90'S VIBES.

Ask For Layers & Texture 

“A bob is a great way to bring hair back to life, show off its natural movement and make sure strands look healthy and happy again. It also adds a strong shape for anyone in search of a new look. These days, the best bob is less blunt and more layered, so when you get it cut, ensure you ask for a relaxed, effortless feel. Right now, the coolest hair isn’t freshly blow-dried or overly done.” – Larry 

Take Inspiration From The Catwalk 

“As seen at the Stella McCartney and Dior AW22 shows, the 70s shag bob is going nowhere this year. There are so many variations of this style, which means everyone can pull it off. You can either go for something quite shaggy, or you could go with something more wearable. Ask for lots of choppy layers to add volume and texture. You could also get some shorter sections cut in around your face to add definition.  Another bob trend is what I call the ‘straight sleek.’ This was seen at Chanel and Dior AW22. It would suit someone who is full of confidence, as there’s no hiding behind it. It’s also quite high maintenance – you’ll need to expose your hair to a lot of heat, unless you’re blessed with naturally straight strands, so it’s worth taking this into account. To enhance shine, I recommend Redken’s Shine Flash 02 to smooth hair texture and enhance glossiness.” – George 

Always Speak To A Stylist First 

“There are so many variations of the bob to try – all of which are suitable for most, depending on the length. It’s why it’s so important to have an extensive consultation with your stylist first to discuss the best bob lengths and shapes for your individual style. To make sure a bob looks cool, you need to ask for some weight to be removed to allow the hair to move freely – it should never look overly structured. Use dry shampoo and texture sprays to create that unfinished effect.” – Larry King

Do Your Research First

“People often think there’s a one-size-fits-all approach with bobs, but this is wrong. The key is to do your research first and think about how you like to wear your hair, then work backwards. You want a style that complements your personality and overall look. For instance, if you like wearing your hair up, it’s likely you’ll want a style that’s slightly longer, instead of something too short or high. There are so many different bob styles that can be adapted, so make sure you go to your appointment armed with knowledge and be clear about what you’re after.” – George 

People often think there’s a ONE-SIZE-FITS-ALL approach with bobs, but this is wrong. The key is to DO YOUR RESEARCH first and think about HOW YOU LIKE TO WEAR your hair, then work backwards.

Finally, Get To Grips With Styling Your Bob

“A flat iron or tong is useful if you’re styling a bob. You can use it to create some subtle loose waves, which will give more movement to your bob so it never looks too flat. Make sure you use a good holding spray too – this will add further movement and texture, while setting everything in place. Dry shampoo and volume-boosting sprays come with all the lifting benefits but without that dreaded crispy feel.” – George 

Follow @LarryKingHair & @GeorgeNorthwood for more hair styling tips & advice.

Book appointments via LarryKing.co.uk & GeorgeNorthwood.com 

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