The bob hairstyle is trending like never before, with variations ranging from the effortlessly cool Italian bob to the sleek, nape-grazing cut. But with summer upon us, managing your bob in the heat can be a challenge. Whether your hair is curly, kinky, wavy, or straight, knowing how to style it during the warmer months is key. To help you navigate this, we consulted nine top hairdressers to share their favorite summer styling tips for bob haircuts. Here’s how to keep your bob looking fabulous all summer long.
1. The Textured Bob
According to Sam McKnight MBE, the secret to a perfect summer bob is all about texture. “Adding texture is the best way to style a bob in the summer,” McKnight advises. For those with straight hair, he suggests creating waves using heated tools or opting for heatless styling methods. Curly-haired individuals can enhance their natural curls with products like Hair By Sam McKnight Sundaze Sea Spray (£26), which not only adds a soft, sea-kissed texture but also protects against UVA/UVB damage. This style is ideal for those seeking a carefree, beachy vibe.
2. The Hydro Bob
For a sleek, polished look that keeps you cool, hairstylist Tom Smith recommends the “hydro bob.” This style involves applying a treatment mask or flexible gel to damp or dry hair, followed by creating a sharp parting with a wide-tooth comb. “Tuck the hair behind your ears and let the product dry naturally,” Smith explains. The result is a fashionable yet practical hairstyle that maintains its sleekness throughout the day, even in the summer heat.
3. The Beachy Bob
If you’re a fan of Daisy Edgar-Jones’s iconic bangs and jawline-grazing cut, hairstylist Syd Hayes suggests embracing a beachy bob. “This style gives you enough length to achieve that undone beach wave look,” says Hayes. The new BaByliss Air Wand (£120) is his go-to tool for adding root lift and volume, whether you prefer straight or wavy locks. This laid-back style is perfect for those who want to capture the essence of summer with minimal effort.
4. The Tousled Bob
When the temperature rises, keeping your bob light and airy is essential. Sam Burnett, a hairstylist at Hare & Bone, suggests going for a tousled, undone look. “Dry in Davines Invisible Serum (£21.75) with your fingers for an effortless and cool style,” Burnett advises. The key to this look is in the serum, which adds just the right amount of shine and hold without weighing down your hair.
5. The Slicked-Back Bob
For those with a shorter bob, a slicked-back style can offer a chic, minimalist look. “Smooth a generous amount of gel through your hair and comb it back,” says Errol Douglas MBE. He recommends locking in the style with Living Proof Full Dry Volume & Texture Spray (£31) to ensure it stays in place. This sleek, sophisticated style is perfect for evenings out or long summer days when you need your hair to stay put.
6. The Flicked Bob
Celebrity hairdresser Louis Byrne loves the flicked bob for its 90s-inspired edge. “It works well on both side and center parts and pairs beautifully with an ear tuck blow dry,” Byrne shares. To perfect this look, he suggests using L’Oreal Professional Metal Detox Hair Oil (£30) before applying heat to create the ideal flicked shape. This style adds a bold, retro flair to your summer bob.
7. The Wavy Bob
If waves are your go-to, Edward James, co-founder of The Hair Consult, recommends focusing on enhancing your hair’s natural texture. “Use a curl-enhancing product that combats frizz, like Aveda Be Curly Curl Enhancer (£28),” James advises. For finer hair, he suggests Color Wow Dream Coat for Curly Hair (£27). To achieve the look, twist sections of hair away from your face and let it air dry or use a diffuser for gentle drying. The result is a soft, wavy bob that withstands the summer humidity.
8. The Boho Bob
For a boho-inspired style, celebrity hairstylist Jack Luckhurst recommends prepping your hair with Glaze Mirror Glaze Super Sleek Shine Spray (£17.99) before braiding. “Run straighteners over the braids, let them cool, and then release for a relaxed, boho look,” Luckhurst says. This style is perfect for those looking to channel a carefree, festival-ready vibe with their bob.
9. The Sleek Bob
A sleek, polished bob is ideal for keeping your hair out of your face in the summer heat. Andreas Wild, a stylist at Larry King Notting Hill, suggests using Larry King Social Life Cream (£12) or My Nanna’s Mousse (£22) on freshly washed hair. “Create a deep side parting and use hair grips to keep it in place,” Wild recommends. This look offers a refined, controlled style that’s perfect for those who prefer a more sophisticated appearance.
10. The Half-Up, Half-Down Bob
Lastly, for a playful twist on the bob, Andreas Wild also suggests a half-up, half-down style. “It’s a very cute option, and you can always add a little top knot if your hair is short,” he adds. This versatile style is perfect for those who want to mix things up while keeping cool in the summer heat.
Conclusion:
From textured waves to sleek, polished looks, these expert-approved styles offer plenty of inspiration for keeping your bob fresh and stylish throughout the summer months. No matter your hair type or preferred aesthetic, there’s a summer bob style here that’s perfect for you.