The bell-bottom bob is the trending summer hairstyle you’ll be seeing everywhere. Drawing inspiration from the ’70s, this haircut features edges that flip out for a playful, vintage look. Stylists share insights on how to wear, maintain, and customize this style to best suit your features.
What is the Bell-Bottom Bob?
According to hairstylists, the bell-bottom bob is a blunt-cut bob with a distinctive flipped-out bottom. “A bell-bottom bob is a short haircut, typically mid-neck length, that is cut blunt and styled with the tips curled out,” explains Rogerio Cavalcante, an expert stylist and owner of The Second Floor Salon. This retro style has gained viral popularity, with Alfredo Lewis, hairstylist and brand ambassador for Tangle Teezer, noting its unique volume and ’70s vibe. “The bell-bottom bob is all about that ‘70s vibe. Unlike your usual straight or blunt bob, this one flares out at the bottom, kinda like bell-bottom jeans but for your hair,” says Lewis.
While any hair type and face shape can wear this look, certain features may complement it more harmoniously. “This haircut looks more harmonious on people with small faces and delicate features, like Reese Witherspoon,” Cavalcante notes. “The short length complements smaller faces, and the curled-out style pairs well with delicate features, such as a heart-shaped face with a thin chin and a smooth jawline.”
Is the Bell-Bottom Bob High-Maintenance?
Bobs, in general, can be high-maintenance if you want to keep the length and blunt edge sharp. However, the bell-bottom bob’s styling allows for slightly longer intervals between cuts. Discuss with your stylist the best length for your features and lifestyle. “For those with stronger features, this style would be more flattering if it were a little longer, around shoulder length. But it also looks good on anyone who identifies with the style and feels good wearing it. Confidence is key,” says Cavalcante.
To achieve the classic flip daily, expect some heat styling, especially if your hair is curly. “This style can work for anyone willing to put in the effort,” Cavalcante advises. “It is easier for those with naturally straight hair, but straightening would be necessary to achieve this style for curly or textured hair.”
Styling the Bell-Bottom Bob at Home
To style the bell-bottom bob at home, start by blow-drying your hair straight if it’s not already. Then, use a round brush, flat iron, or curling iron to flip the ends outwards. Here’s how to do it:
Heat Styling
Use a round brush and a hairdryer to blow out the hair straight. Apply a heat-protecting spray with conditioning and smoothing benefits, like HASK Argan Oil 5-in-1 Leave-In Spray.
Use the round brush to curl the ends outwards.
If you’re having trouble getting the flip shape, use a flat iron or curling iron to flip out the ends. “Careful not to leave marks, though,” says Cavalcante.
Finish with a bit of hairspray to keep the flare in place. “And voila, you’re all set!” adds Lewis.
Lewis notes that this style works best on straight or slightly wavy hair since it’s easier to achieve the flared ends. For very curly hair, use a detangler to smooth it out, making styling easier.
Air Drying
“If your hair is naturally straight or has a slight wave, you can air dry it,” says Lewis. Use a brush designed for air drying, like the Ultimate Styler, to keep it smooth while drying. However, to nail that flared-out look, you might need to spend some time with a blow dryer or curling iron. “It’s a bit more work, but so worth it!” says Lewis.
The bell-bottom bob is not just a haircut; it’s a statement that combines retro flair with modern style. Whether you opt for heat styling or air drying, this look is versatile and can be adapted to fit any face shape or hair type, making it the must-try hairstyle for the rest of the summer.