The ELLE Guide To Perfecting A Chin-Length Bob Haircut
If the French girl bob brings with it a chic, understated attitude and plenty of texture, the chin-length bob haircut is the perfect bob for those who identify with sleek, clean lines. It's much shorter than the Birkin cut, and has a polished, grown-up vibe that's still more wearable (and easier to maintain) than a severe micro bob.
What is a chin-length bob?
The clue is in the name, but a chin-length doesn't always have to end strictly around your chin. 'It’s more about where it balances with the client’s neck and jawline,' says Reece Wentworth, stylist at Blue Tit salon. 'I aim to enhance (a client's) strongest features and let the haircut bring those out.'
Fellow Blue Tit stylist Millie Jocic agrees, adding: 'This is something I’d always ask my client to confirm, if they consider it to be at the jawline or down to the point of the chin or a little below,' she says. According to her, hairstyles can be subjective, and non-hairdressers (aka you and I) often define hairstyles differently, so a reputable hairdresser should always check in before they do the chop.
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Who will a chin-length bob suit?
If you currently have longer lengths, a chin-length bob is a dramatic transformation, notes Monica Liz, stylist at The Loch salon. 'It's a big change but it doesn't require a style overhaul like a wolf cut might.' Given the endless variations of a bob haircut, Liz recommends thinking about what your personal style is and tailoring your chin-length bob to it. The versatility of this look means that your hairdresser can create an elegant, high precision chin-length bob or a softer, grungier style.
How do you maintain a chin-length bob?
Like most short hair 'dos, it does take extra time to maintain the cut. 'I always suggest clients rebook their next appointment right after the cut to maintain that fresh look,' says Wentworth. 'The timeline varies, but generally, every eight to ten weeks is a good window to keep the shape sharp and on point.'
For your first appointment, tell your salon that you're booking in for a 'restyle' rather than just a 'trim', offers Liz. This informs your hairstylist that you're in for a big change so they can allocate extra time.
How do you find the right chin-length bob for you?
Pictures can be a useful reference, but excellent hairdressers will spend extra time going through your lifestyle, fashion choices and preferences. How often can you afford a trim? What does your closet look like? What facial features do you want to highlight?
'Together, we create something that not only suits them but also gives them that extra boost of confidence. The right bob can truly frame and complement any face shape, whether it’s rounded, angular, or long,' says Wentworth.
Adds Liz: 'There are a hundred ways to cut a bob - soft edges, blunt lines, fringe or no fringe. Look for a cutting specialist and follow their advice on what will suit your features, style and hair texture.' Always be honest about your styling habits so your hairstylist can create a cut that works best.
How to style a chin-length bob
A chin-length bob is a statement in itself thanks to its strong structure. For special occasions Wentworth suggests using a wet-look product to keep things looking sleek.
On curly hair types, Jocic is a fan of using 'either a sea salt spray or a lightweight curl cream with serum and either diffuse or allow it to air dry for a natural, flowy feel which looks relaxed.' Those with straight hair textures can leave it as is with a small amount of leave-in conditioner to keep the strands looking glossy and sleek. If you prefer some movement, use a straightener to add some bends into the lengths.
The coolest chin-length bobs to try now
Chin-Length Bob With Waves
Saoirse Ronan's side-parted bob is equal parts relaxed and elegant, thanks to its fresh colour tones and minimal styling.
Chin-Length Bob With Textured Waves
Gigi Hadid's tousled, beachy bob hairstyle is the perfect embodiment of model-off-duty vibes.
Chin-Length Curly Bob
Voluminous curls and middle-part creates brings glamour to Ayo Edebiri's bob.
The Glossy Chin-Length Bob
Brunettes do have more fun when it comes to achieving shiny hair. Let your colour do the talking ala Maude Apatow, and finish your style with plenty of shine spray or a hydrating serum.
Chin-Length Bob With Straight Hair
America Fererra's sleek, side-parted bob means business. One to try for those with straight strands.
Chin-Length Bob With Flipped Ends
Do like this street style star and style your chin-length bob with flicked out ends. It's a gentle nod to the past that looks ultra-cool when worn with modern silhouettes.
The Clean-Cut Chin-Length Bob
Ready to commit? Go for a clean chop that puts your face up front and centre. It's chic, elevated, and fearless.
Chin-Length Bob With Accessories
Unleash your creativity by experimenting with a statement hair colour for your bob, or reach for a hair accessory such as this black headband. Feeling extra fancy? Do both!
Chin-Length Bob With Fringe
Gentle layers and face-framing pieces bring softness to this curly bob.
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