How To Style A Long Bob So It Always Looks Phenomenal

The lob (or, long bob), is one of those rare cuts that never seems to lose relevance. As for how to style a long bob? It’s a whole other reason to love the chop, since those collarbone-length ends offer up a ton of versatility.

The clavicle skimming cut is the ideal blend of short, but not too short, giving the freedom, style and impact of a classic bob, but with a length that allows for extra styling opportunities. Speaking of those, we asked Bridget Brager (the woman behind our forever lob crush, Lucy Hale’s hair) how to style a long bob like a pro

Here’s everything you need to know about the lob and how to style it…

What is a lob?

“A lob is very simply a longer bob, around collarbone length, with a very clean shape and loads of movement,” explain top hairstylist Jack Luckhurst. “It’s the perfect middle ground between short and long,” he adds.

Why choose a lob?

A long bob offers the best of shorter and longer cuts and works as both a destination and a transition. It’s a beautiful haircut in its own right, yet it also serves as the perfect midpoint between a bob that’s beginning to grow out, and long hair that you feel ready to refresh. Plus, it gives you the freedom to pull your hair back into a ponytail or clip it up on busy days – something many shorter cuts can’t offer.

The main reason to choose a lob is for its combination of versatility, flexibility and style. “The lob is such a popular style because it’s a striking look, and yet you don’t have to commit to having short or long hair,” confirms Earl Simms, Kerluxe Celebrity Stylist. “It’s easy to manage and allows plenty of room for different looks and styles. If you are used to shorter hair, a lob haircut will be a super easy alternative, allowing you to put it up for going to the gym or whenever you don’t feel like having it down,” he adds.

At its core, the lob is a cut that feels current, unfussy and endlessly wearable. It adapts to your lifestyle, plays well with styling and delivers an effortless cool girl finish without much commitment. In other words, it is very hard to go wrong with a lob.

What to ask your stylist?

“Be specific about length (collarbone is the magic spot),” Jack advises. “Ask if you need soft layers or texture for your hair type, and if your hair’s thick, get some weight taken out so it sits well.”

What about a lob with a fringe?

“Fringes totally change the vibe. Curtain bangs are the easiest, wispy bangs add softness, and a blunt fringe is great if you want something bolder,” says Jack.

How to style a long bob

One of the reasons the lob stays so popular is that it flatters almost every texture. Worn with straight hair, it looks sleek and sculpted, especially when paired with a slight bevel at the ends. Worn with wavy hair it becomes instantly beachy, creating that relaxed softness that requires minimal styling. Worn with curly hair, curls benefit from shape and definition because the length is long enough to allow coils to spring, yet short enough to prevent the weight from dragging them down. Even braided styles look incredible in lob form, creating a structured yet playful finish.