7 Stunning Mid-Length Bob Ideas For Every Hair Type
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13 hours ago
There's no such thing as an awkward 'growing out' stage with these beautiful bob ideas
Seasoned bob wearer? Then it was only a matter of time before your hair got to this stage: the weird, in-between length that isn’t quite a neat, tidy bob nor a grown-out lob. We’re, of course, talking about the mid-length bob – sometimes known as the midi bob – the cut that more and more of us seem to be wearing since growing out last year’s wave of short bobs. Not sure what to do with yours? You’ve come to the right place. We’ve asked salon experts to share their top pick of mid-length bobs for 2025 – here’s the verdict.
What Is A Mid-Length Bob?
As it’s name implies, a mid-length bob is a slightly longer take on the classic crop – falling between the chin and shoulders – but short enough to not be considered a long bob or lob. They often represent the stage where you might be starting to grow out a bob, or playing with shorter lengths. But either way, the look is having a major moment in the salon this season.
‘Mid-length bobs are popular due to their versatility, ease of maintenance and flattering nature for various face shapes,’ explains Szindy Ballai, co-founder of GLAMHAIR Studio in Battersea. ‘The style can be chic, professional or casual, making it suitable for numerous different occasions and events.’
@thehairbros The Midi Bob. #haircut #thehairbros #fy #fyp #viral ♬ Love You So – The King Khan & BBQ Show
She also pins the rise of the cut on celebrity backing. ‘Social media’s influence and celebrity endorsements have contributed to its resurgence,’ the stylist says. ‘Celebrities like Jennifer Aniston, Selena Gomez and Kate Hudson have been seen rocking mid-length bobs, often experimenting with waves and layers, making the style look fresh and modern.’
Which Face Shapes Suit A Mid-Length Bob?
Lucky for this cut, it suits multiple face shapes. ‘It’s versatile enough to flatter oval, heart, and square face shapes,’ confirms Szindy.
For more tips on finding the right bob for your face shape, see our guide here.
Which Hair Textures Suit A Mid-Length Bob?
‘The mid-length bob suits a variety of hair types, including straight, wavy and even curly hair,’ notes the stylist. ‘Those with fine hair also benefit from the volume it can create, while those with thick hair can enjoy its manageability.’
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How To Ask For A Mid-Length Bob In The Salon
‘When requesting a mid-length bob, be clear about your desired length (between chin and collarbone) and mention if you’d like layers or texture,’ recommends Szindy. ‘Bring reference photos to help communicate your vision. It’s also helpful to discuss your hair type and styling routine with your stylist.’
She also suggests, ‘preparing a few reference images, understanding your desired length, and communicating your maintenance preferences can help ensure you get the best results. It’s also good to have a conversation about how your hair behaves naturally.’
Styling Tips
And when it comes to styling, there are a few options, notes Szindy:
For Waves: Use a curling wand with a larger barrel for soft, beachy waves.
For Straight Hair: Apply a smoothing serum and blow-dry with a round brush for a sleek finish.
Use Texture Spray: To create a lived-in look, a texturising spray can add volume and dimension.
Play With Styles: Use braids, updos, or half-up styles to manage the awkward stages.
What Next?
Bobs aren’t slowing down anytime soon, that’s for sure. ‘I see the mid-length bob evolving with more personalised touches, such as colour accents or asymmetrical cuts,’ muses Szindy. ‘As trends shift toward individuality, we might see more unique textures and styles branching off from this classic cut.’
7 Mid-Length Bob Styles The C&TH Team Love
1. Textured Bob
For a soft, lived-in look with a bit of volume, opt for a light textured bob. ‘This is essentially a wavy bob with layers,’ says Szindy. ‘These layers help create movement, making it a great choice for those with fine or wavy hair.’
For more textured bob ideas, see our guide here.
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2. Straight & Sleek
If it’s timeless styling you’re after, then you’ll want to put emphasis on a straight and sleek cut. ‘This is a classic straight bob that’s clean and polished,’ notes Szindy. ‘It’s especially flattering for straight hair and those with an oval face shape.’
For an ultra shine finish, check our guide to hair glossing here.
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3. Natural Curls
A mid-length bob is also a winner for those with curly and coily hair, adds Szindy. ‘With curly hair, you can opt for a bouncy bob that embraces natural curls with volume. It’s great for adding a little flair to the cut.’
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4. Messy Shag
You can also inject some attitude into a mid-length bob with the help of a shaggy finish. ‘Think of it as a layered bob with a tousled finish,’ says Szindy. ‘It really leans into bohemian styles, with a looser, choppier texture and relaxed vibe.’
For more shaggy bob ideas, see here.
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5. Hollywood Bob
And for more formal occasions, you can take the bob back a few decades to its Hollywood roots. ‘This mid-length bob pays homage to the glitz and glamour of the era, infusing classic Hollywood charm with the modern influences of the bouncy blow-dry,’ says Andrew Heasman, International Creative Director at RUSH Hair. ‘This style is playful and glamorous, making it a distinctive choice with a wide variety of styling options. Whether you are going for sleek curls, a style loaded with volume or a more sculpted look, it can be adapted to suit almost any occasion.’
For more Hollywood bob inspiration, see here.
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6. Blunt Bob
Another classic bob style, this time focusing on the blunt, boxy shape of the original bob – but with a little more length. ‘This style focuses on precise lines, which offer definition and naturally enhance the face,’ says Andrew. ‘Traditionally, the blunt bob has sharp edges to encapsulate its shape, but it can easily be altered for a more delicate effect. Subtle changes in length, gentle layering at the ends, or a more relaxed finish around the jawline can completely transform this look without straying too far from its roots.’
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7. Soft & Feminine
And for a softer take on the above, look to feathery ends and a fluffy fringe. ‘A soft mid-length bob might see the ends of the hair be feathered instead of cut dead straight, which amplifies the hair’s texture and adds movement and definition with the cut’s shoulder-length finish,’ explains Andrew. ‘It also pairs beautifully with a face-framing fringe. When it comes to styling, texture and effortless movement are the main focal points – so I’d recommend using a medium-sized round brush and volumising mousse to heighten the appearance of the graduated layers and amp up the volume.’
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