FASHION, RECENT
Mar 10, 2026
Everyone is Getting the Bob – Should You?
Short hairstyles are popping up everywhere we look, with the bob taking center stage as one of the most requested cuts of the year. And while this longtime classic can breathe new life—alongside volume and movement—into your hairstyle, there are a few details to consider before making a change. If you’re wondering if the bob is the ideal cut for you, keep reading.
“I love bobs because they are iconic. A bob haircut is so multifaceted that it has been a timeless style statement for decades across different cultures. It can be fashionable, stylish, or provocative all at the same time.” — KEVIN.MURPHY Design Director, Pascal van Loenhout
What Is a Bob?
Historically known for its clean, streamlined lines, the bob has evolved into a category of its own. From Italian bobs to French bobs and even bixies, today’s versions play with length, shape, and finish in ways that feel far more individualistic than ever before. And, while the classic definition sits somewhere between the earlobe and the jawline, modern bobs stretch beyond those boundaries—using texture, layering, and styling techniques to create finished styles that feel personal. Chatting with KEVIN.MURPHY Design Director Pascal van Loenhout he added “I think that after the wave of shags, mullets, and wolf cuts, it is only a natural transition that hair goes sharper and stronger. It is very refreshing for people with mid to long hair to go shorter in length and longer in layers. So, it is an organic evolution after lots of textured messy hair for a cleaner and seamless iconic bob to make a comeback on the scene in 2026.”
Is The Bob Right for You?
Because modern bobs lean into personalization, there are endless versions of the look. So having an understanding of the different lengths, shapes and finished styles that will work well for your hair type and texture, as well as lifestyle, is essential to finding your match.
For example, a softer, minimally layered bob can add volume and thickness for finer hair, while shaggier, more texturized versions can work wonders for thicker hair or those looking to enhance their natural texture without weight lines looking too heavy. The takeaway here is not to ask for a bob based on the latest trend, but instead to find a bob shape that suits you personally.
Other Ways to Make a Big Change
While taking off a few inches can be a dramatic way to refresh your look, there are other ways to achieve that same feeling of transformation without committing to a bob. If you’re looking for a reset without changing your length, these options are just as impactful.
Fringe:
Just like the bob, there are endless ways to add a fringe to your look. It doesn’t have to be the typical fringe either—you can add a simple face frame or curtain fringe for more low-maintenance options.
Layers:
Another low-maintenance option is the addition of layers to your shape. This technique gives you the ability to switch up the way your hair is styled without taking off inches, and can be great to shape how your hair sits when styled.
Colour:
Hair colour is another way to make a big statement without giving up any length. Choose from well-placed highlights, a bold gloss change or colour added purposefully to contour your cut. These small shifts can create a new refreshed feel so your style feels new again.
Bob Upkeep: What Happens After Day One
Feelings are always flying high the moment you leave the salon with a brand new cut. But, it’s after the first wash—when you’re in charge of styling it—when your style really starts to take shape. Because short haircuts place a high priority on shape, regularly scheduled appointments are really important to keeping sharp lines or a defined silhouette.
But, between these appointments, the way you care for your hair has a big role in how your bob will settle. Starting with care products to keep your ends tidy, you’ll want to focus on hydration as well as protection. Choose a quality shampoo and conditioner that works for your hair type and then always follow with heat protection before any heat styling.
HEATED.DEFENSE is an easy add-on for any hair type—with an invisible finish and a high degree of protection, it helps your bob keep its shape.
Then, work a blow-dry styler like EVER.SMOOTH into the mix to increase style memory and softness while cutting down on frizz.
To finish, decide between sprays to deliver the finish you’re after. SESSION.SPRAY locks in your style without looking lacquered. BEDROOM.HAIR can give a lived-in airy finish. DOO.OVER refreshes while adding hold. Or, FRESH.HAIR helps increase volume while extending your style, whether you’re on day one or three!
FAQ
CODE is a permanent colour using KM.LAMELLAR technology for lift, vibrance and repair. GLOSS is a demi-permanent service that enhances tone, boosts shine and strengthens hair between CODE visits.
Yes. GLOSS is ideal if you want to refresh tone, correct brass or add shine without committing to permanent colour. It delivers healthier-looking hair with up to 25% stronger results.
Book regular GLOSS services and use colour-safe KEVIN.MURPHY care at home. Gentle heat styling and trims help keep tones fresh, glossy and balanced for longer.
