While short, chin-hugging cuts have dominated the spring and summer months, the coming season will see a light longer and infinitely more versatile style called the “collarbone bob”…
It’s safe to say that 2024 was the year of the bob hairstyle, with new variations – equipped with buzz-worthy names like “flare bob” – popping up almost weekly. Now fall will follow suit, with the only difference being the length of the cut itself. Instead of dramatic, ultra-short bobs, we’re seeing a rise in shoulder-length hairstyles – a fresh solution for those with damaged hair or a stylish way to grow out said short bob.
The aptly named collarbone bob is chic, versatile and perfect for all hair types and face shapes. Of course, we asked a professional hairdresser how you can achieve and style the look yourself.
What is a collarbone bob?
As the name suggests, this trend is basically a longer, shoulder-length bob (or lob) that grazes your collarbone, and according to Edward James, celebrity hairstylist and co-founder of The Hair Consult, demand for this style has increased. “Many clients are growing their bob to a length that grazes the collarbone,” says James, adding that they want more styling options with this cut, which he also calls the “Italian longer bob” (the Italian bob was a popular choice last year).
“This style looks great with added texture and waves or worn sleek and straight. It creates a fresh, modern look while maintaining the lightness of a bob.”
(Image credit: Getty Images/Michael TRAN / AFP)
You can see this increasingly popular look on and off the red carpet: Jennifer Aniston, Viola Davis and Léa Seydoux all wear this cut.
Which face shapes suit this shoulder-length bob?
The question of which face shapes suit the collarbone bob best is quickly answered with “all”. However, James has a few recommendations on how you can adjust the length to flatter your face shape:
- Square face shapes: For a square face shape, says James, “a layered bob with softer edges can help soften the jawline. Layers that start just below the jawline can elongate the face and soften the angles around the jawline.”
- Oval face shapes: “This cut is perfect for oval faces as most bob styles are flattering,” explains James, adding, “A blunt bob at the collarbone accentuates the natural symmetry of an oval face. Layers can add width to the face, which is especially flattering for opening up and highlighting the cheekbone area.”
- Round face shapes: “A longer bob that reaches the collarbone with additional layers can help make the face appear longer. Avoid too much volume on the sides so the face doesn’t appear wider.”
- Heart-shaped faces: “A bob that adds volume to the lower third of the face, such as a collarbone bob with layers, balances out a wider forehead and narrower chin.”
- Diamond-shaped face shapes: “A layered bob with structure and volume at chin level can soften prominent cheekbones and add width to the jawline.” Feathery layers are always a good option to add light structure and volume.
If you’re not sure about your face shape, James has a little trick for you: “Stand in front of a mirror and trace the outline of your face with lipstick. This will give you a good idea of your face shape. Alternatively, you can take a selfie, print it out and trace the outline of the face to determine your face shape.”
How to achieve a collarbone bob with curly hair
If you have curly hair and are considering a collarbone bob, “it’s important to consider shrinkage as the curls pop up,” explains James: “Typically, you’ll want to cut the hair about a third or twice the length, depending on how tight the curls are. Your hairdresser should always custom fit the haircut when the hair is dry and in its natural curl shape to make sure the length is just right.”
How long does it take for a bob to grow out into this hairstyle?
If you’re currently sporting a short French bob or similar hairstyle that will graze your chin but you’re keen to start growing it out, James says it typically takes five to seven months for short hair to reach that collarbone length, “depending on your natural hair growth rate” – and recommends regular mini-trimming to speed up the process and “encourage healthier growth.”
As for short bob styles that can easily be transformed into this collarbone cut—for those looking for a low-maintenance and lasting style—James says, “Box bobs and bobs with longer layers can be beautifully transformed into a collarbone bob.” Heavily layered short bobs, on the other hand, may take longer to grow out and “require more frequent trimming to maintain a consistent look as they grow.”
How to style a collarbone bob?
ghd Chronos hair straightener
RRP: 289 €
Considered one of ghd’s best straighteners, this tool is recommended by James for styling a sleek collarbone bob, but at an optimal 185°C, it’s also ideal for creating waves, curls and flicks.
Oribe Straight Away Smoothing Blowout Cream
RRP: 48 €
For a smooth finish, Oribe’s Blowout Cream contains heat-activated protein to smooth frizzy hair and strengthen your hair – preventing split ends – and offers heat protection up to 450 °C.
Color Wow Pop & Lock high gloss finish
RRP: 21,50 €
For a reflective, radiant shine, James recommends Color Wow’s Pop & Lock Serum, which adds shine and nourishes your hair.
Now let’s get to the fun part: styling. The beauty of this shoulder length bob haircut is its versatility. It can easily be customized to suit your styling preferences, some of which James has listed below:
- For a smooth, straight look: James recommends using tools like “the GHD Chronos Ceramic Straightening Irons (for the bigger budget), which offer longer-lasting straightening and shine, or the Remington Shine Therapy Flat Iron (for the smaller budget), which uses argon technology to straighten hair and has multiple heat settings to straighten your hair and add shine and hold.”
- For a super smooth finish: “Use Oribe Straight Away Smoothing Blowout Cream to achieve a smooth, frizz-free result.”
- How to create gentle waves: James recommends using your best flat iron to “add waves and then enhance the natural waves with a serum to define the waves and create separation.”
- For a wet-look finish: For a collarbone length hydro bob, James recommends Color Wow Pop & Lock High Gloss Finish as it creates a glossy, high-shine effect.
5 Celebrity Collarbone Bob Looks to Inspire
And if you’re still thinking about this cut, here are five celebrity-approved ways to style it…
1. Jennifer Aniston’s tousled collarbone bob
(Image credit: Getty Images/Lionel Hahn)
Jennifer Aniston’s tousled bob is the perfect example of how effortless and easy this length is to style. Her hair reaches her collarbone, so it’s still short, but it frames her face and gives an interesting look around her neck thanks to the textured waves.
2. Zoe Saldana’s half-up, half-down collarbone bob
(Image credit: Getty Images/JB Lacroix/FilmMagic)
Zoe Saldana’s look proves that you can still achieve the stylish patchwork that was so popular this year with a shoulder-length cut. We also love how she styled it half up and half down for a casual chic look.
3. Viola Davis’ wavy collarbone bob
(Image credit: Getty Images/Taylor Hill/WireImage)
For a more glamorous look, take inspiration from Viola Davis’ wavy bob. It’s sleek and reaches just below her collarbone, allowing her to wear this trendy “lob” for longer.
4. The longer collarbone bob by Léa Seydoux
(Image credit: Getty Images/Marc Piasecki)
If you’re generally hesitant to grow out your bob because the medium length is impractical, Léa Seydoux will likely allay your fears as her hair looks so chic and effortless at this length.
5. Helen Mirren’s asymmetrical collarbone bob
(Image credit: Getty Images/Michael Buckner/Variety)
For a modern take on this look, follow Helen Mirren’s lead with this asymmetrical style where only the front of her hair touches her collarbone.
