Research into global hair trends continues to confirm what stylists have long known - the bob remains one of the most sought-after and versatile cuts. Analysis by Ripe Hair & Beauty, which reviewed millions of online searches and social engagement data, found that interest in bob hairstyles consistently ranks among the top haircut categories year after year. The findings highlight the style’s enduring appeal and its ability to adapt to changing trends, from sleek, structured shapes to relaxed, natural textures.
Akin Konizi, four times British Hairdresser of the Year and International Creative Director of HOB Academy, says: "It may be more than 100 years old, but the bob is THE look, with a whole host of celebrities from Hailey Bieber to Jennifer Lopez stepping out at fashion shows and awards with the coveted cut. But do you know your inverted bob from your pageboy?"
Bubble Bob
The Bubble Bob sits between the chin and shoulders and is characterised by a rounder shape that curves underneath at the ends. The bouncy, more voluminous take on the bob has already been seen on celebrities such as Zendaya and Kristen Bell and is one the most requested styles at salons nationwide, with interest surging by a huge 1,300% in just 12 months last year.
Micro Bob
Also seeing a huge boost in popularity is the micro bob, which is (as the name suggests) an ultra-short version of the classic cut. It can be styled various ways and sits just at the cheekbone – making it both extremely wearable and suitable for a wide range of hair types.
Box Bob
The box bob is a modern take on the timeless style, characterised by its short, sharp cut and super blunt ends – giving it a square box-like shape that’s anything but square. It’s been a recent staple for Hailey Bieber and its popularity shows no sign of slowing down in 2025.
90s Bob
The 90s are a forever-cited reference in fashion and beauty trends – and this nostalgic cut is a love-letter to the era. It’s a swishy, full style that takes inspiration from the ultimate 90s supermodels, requiring both subtle layers and a big blow-dry to achieve its voluminous glory. The cut has been worn by multiple celebrities this year including Kourtney Kardashian and Aubrey Plaza, and with interest growing by 116%, we may be set to see it more widely too.
Italian Bob
The Italian bob is chin-skimming in length and is slightly less defined at the end than other cuts, making it lighter and much easier to wear as a result. Simona Tabasco is the celebrity poster girl for the Italian bob, with a voluminous, face framing style that is oh-so-chic.
Speaking of bobs, take a look at the Preppy Bob...
Old School Bobs
There are many different types of bob haircuts, and the great thing is there is a style to suit all face shapes and hair textures. "From the graduated bob to one length or inverted bobs, the change of angle is what makes it different," explains Akin. "As a hairdresser, the bob is the most important and valuable haircut that you can do, because it will always ensure you are developing your technique for the perfect haircut. Creating the perfect bob is the holy grail for most hairdressers!”
Akin’s top tip: All bob lines should start at the centre back and end at the front. One continuous flowing line, with no joins, and typically the last hair at the front of the line should be the longest – that’s the sexy bit!
Akin Konizi looks at the four key bob shapes everyone should know
1 Classic bob
This style is one length all around the head, and is typically chin length. There are no layers, so it can be blunt cut or point cut if you want it to be softer.
2 Square bob
A square shape with a square, strong fringe, it was popular in the 80s and is making a comeback. It is typically jaw length.
3 Inverted bob
This type of bob is shorter at the back and longer through the front. It features a tapered back with lots of layers for a curved finish.
4 Graduated bob
Graduated bobs are one of the more common types of bobs. Stacked layers through the back give the style a curved finish, getting longer towards the front.
