6 *totally* chic ways to style your bob

We get it. Your way of coping with any minor inconvenience in your life is by chopping your hair. And like every time, you’re now left with a hair length that refuses to cooperate with any of your styling attempts. And even if you got your short bob willingly (like this writer), but have run out of ways to style it that don’t involve a visit to the salon or multiple-step hair tutorials, then look to this list for help—there are plenty of stars who’ve sported short hair who you can look at for inspiration. 

Lili Reinhart

When it comes to short bobs, you can mostly go two ways—organised mess or slick chic. Reinhart’s wavy updo tows the line between both—with the beachy locks framing her face and adding a fun vibe, but at the same time looking elegant enough that you could sport it at a formal event. The best? It can be easily achieved—all you need is a hair curling iron and a few minutes. Use a setting hairspray to make sure the waves stay in place. 

Kim Kardashian

The Kardashian family members are known for being style icons, and the same can be said about their hairstyles too. Take Kim Kardashian’s bob for instance—it screams glam. She styled her platinum blonde tresses with a middle parting and blunt cut that has been trending for quite some time. It’s easy to cop this look—a straightening iron will do the trick, and if you really want to lean into the vibe, colour your hair a fun shade—think mint green, ash grey, or an electric blue. 

Zendaya

 

In December, Zendaya caused a frenzy on Instagram when she debuted what is her shortest haircut yet—a caramel brown bob that barely grazes her shoulders. What is unique about her hairdo is how she styled it with side parting—her hair falls gently on one side and is all about volume. Bookmark this one for the next time you’re looking for ways to style your bob but don’t want to go the traditional route. 

Florence Pugh

 

If you recently got a pixie cut and now are in that awkward phase where it’s neither short nor long, and you have no idea how to style it, then Florence Pugh’s hairdo will serve as the perfect inspiration. It’s sleek. It’s suave. And it’s totally cool (especially if you pair it with a nose ring, a la Pugh). Similar to Zendaya’s hair style, Pugh has a lock of hair that is swept to the side, but is gelled for a more old-Hollywood look. 

Selena Gomez

Fun, flirty and French: that’s how one would describe Selena Gomez’ bob that she debuted on Instagram last year. If you have layers, or are looking to add more volume to your short hair, then this is the ideal candidate. And if you are willing to be daring, take it one notch higher like Gomez and get bangs—just make sure they are not cut at a blunt angle but instead softly frame your face for that romantic look. 

Millie Bobby Brown

 

Another option if you have bangs; take a leaf out of Brown’s book and use a chic hairband to add a bit of dimension to your bob. Go the embellished route, like she has with her blue band with pearls and crystals, or choose something in a bright colour, eccentric print, or shimmery texture. Don’t forget to keep the rest of your hair minimal in this case—neaten it out with a straightening iron or blow dryer and you’re good to go.