If there’s one hairstyle that proves the impact of a fresh makeover, celebrity endorsement, and impressive PR, it’s the bob. What was once a daring and universally feared hairstyle has become the most in-demand cut of the year. Everyone from Hailey Bieber to Zendaya is experimenting with it, and an endless list of bob trends are taking over (see: the hydro bob, the countless baroque variations, and the blunt bob 2.0 for proof).
The next trend, according to hair trend expert Tom Smith, is the bell-bottom bob. “This new cut has minimal layers, is folded outwards at the ends and can be styled with or without bangs and fringe,” he says. “It is either cut with perfect precision or has a more unfinished structure and is narrow towards the parting before becoming more voluminous at the ends,” he adds.
Aside from the aesthetic itself, the real difference from the flood of bob trends currently infiltrating your Instagram feed is the inspiration. The silhouette, says Smith, is inspired by the flared cut of bell bottoms; the equally nostalgic Seventies favorite that’s also been making a bit of a comeback recently.
Hailey Bieber, Daisy Ridley and Anok Yai are some of the famous faces spotted with the latest flared bob, adding a more dramatic look to the traditional blunt or classic bob.
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And the even better news is that it’s pretty versatile when it comes to styling too. Case in point: if you’ve taken the plunge and gone for a micro bob, you can simply sweep the ends outwards using your tongs or a wide brush tool (the new Babyliss Air Wand has the perfect attachment for this) to achieve the ‘bell-bottoms’ look.
Likewise, you can style it with both a side and middle part. “If you want to flaunt a more symmetrical face, opt for a middle part and a perfect, sharp sweep at the ends. On the other hand, if you prefer a softer look, try a side part with less precise sweeps and try tucking one side behind your ear,” advises Smith.
There are also plenty of tips and tricks for styling without heat. “Gently pre-dry the roots of your hair in a downward motion, then use a small round brush with styling mousse or heat protection spray to comb the ends outward,” reveals Smith.
“If your hair falls out easily, try wrapping the ends in a small Velcro roller while it cools to help lock the curls in place. Finish styling with a strong hold hairspray,” he explains. “And for a softer, more wearable look, shake out hair after styling and apply texturizing spray for a more unfinished finish.”
Whether you opt for a messier flared style or perfectly placed curls, use heat styling tools or high-impact sprays, you’ll see this trendy hairstyle – in all its many variations – everywhere this summer.
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