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Summer hair trends may come and go, but one style is always in fashion: the bob haircut. This season’s take on the enduring chop? The A-list approved princess bob: a chic, sharp, and super-blunt style that hair pros suspect will be everywhere this summer.
“The princess bob is definitely a statement haircut; it’s perfect for those wanting to switch up their current style,” says Nicola Wood, leading hair specialist and founder of Hair Made Easi. “Sported by stars including Elle Fanning, Gigi Hadid, and Princess Maria-Olympia of Greece and Denmark, it’s a razor-short cut that sits above the shoulders, just below the ears. The princess bob is great for those wanting a fresh, lighter cut in time for the summer heat.”
As for why this style is trending now: “2024 is the year of the bob,” says Wood—and based on how many celebs have debuted them as of late, she’s certainly not wrong. “Previous years have been dominated by big, bouncy blowouts and lengthy styles, but this year has seen the return of the short cuts.”
Plus, ’90s-inspired hairstyles are having a moment, Wood says. “Short, glossy, blunt bobs were really popular in the ’90s, and so it’s no surprise to see this making a comeback, this time with the princess bob,” she says.
Another perk? According to Wood, the princess bob suits every face shape, depending on the length that you choose. “It’s a great look that can be adopted by most,” she says. “It’s a very mature, classy style that still offers a bit of edge.”
The haircut can work with all hair types too. “Those with thinner hair, you’ll be able to stick to one length for your bob as it will sit neatly in the perfect shape around your face; however, if your hair is thicker, you may want to add layers to remove some weight,” says Wood. “A thick-haired bob can sometimes look a bit too bulky if not cut correctly, so don’t be afraid to add layers. Invisible layers are a popular choice with this style.”
Feeling inspired? Here’s how to achieve your own take on the look.
“It’s important to remember that your hair is extremely personal to you, and everyone likes their styles slightly different,” says Wood. “So while hairdressers and stylists will have a vague idea about the princess bob, I would always recommend taking inspiration imagery and example photos of your exact desired style so that they have a better idea.”
“For example, Gigi Hadid, Elle Fanning, and Princess Maria-Olympia are three stars who have regularly rocked the look, but all are slightly different varieties, so it’s important to find an exact reference point,” Woods says. Indeed, Jurnee Smollett, America Ferreira, Demi Singleton, and Minnie Mills all have variations on it, too, but are all cut and styled a bit differently.
“It may also be useful to ask your hairdresser to style your princess bob in the way that you think will be most common for you, whether that be wavy or sleek and straight,” Wood says. “There’s nothing worse than not being able to style a new haircut that you’re unfamiliar with, so definitely take advantage of the professionals while you have them at the salon.”
When it comes to DIY-styling the princess bob, the world is your oyster. “If you prefer a more relaxed, undone look, then a side part and loose waves are the perfect low-maintenance look,” says Wood—so basically, lazy hot-girl hair. "A bouncy blow-dry bob can add volume and is perfect for a romantic, soft date-night look, while flicking the ends under creates a more preppy, slick aesthetic,” she says.
As for bob haircut maintenance? “The princess bob is known for its blunt, razor-sharp ends; therefore it’s important to go for regular trims and cuts to keep the style a statement,” says Woods “This again all depends on your own personal hair type; some people’s hair grows faster than others’.”
Finally, Wood recommends against consistently blow-drying your hair for optimal hair health—and therefore, limitless styling possibilities.
“To maintain flawless hair, use a super-absorbent microfiber hair towel to help air-dry instead of a blow-dryer,” she says, pointing to the the Hair Made Easi XL Luxury Hair Towel as a gentle and anti-frizz option for maintaining the cut’s sleekness. “If you do opt to use a hairdryer, I always recommend leaving your hair in this towel for as long as possible before to lower the heat time."
And just like that, you’ve mastered the princess bob. Now all you need is a crown.
Danielle Sinay is the associate beauty editor at Glamour. Follow her on Instagram @daniellesinay.
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