The Pageboy Bob Is This Season’s Trendiest Throwback Style
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12 hours ago
Meet the pageboy bob, the fun and flirty cut taking over salons
Feeling nostalgic? We’ve got just the thing. The salons are experiencing a 60s revival this season, with a fresh take on the classic pageboy bob. Here’s what to expect (and what to ask your hairdresser for).
What Is A Pageboy Bob?
‘The pageboy bob is a softer, less angular take on the classic bob,’ explains Michelle Austin-Burall, Salon Manager of Brooks & Brooks. ‘It has a rounded silhouette, with a longer back that curves into the face – and it’s usually paired with a heavy fringe. This bob is also traditionally worn straight and blunt, with the ends curling inward (although it offers more styling versatility than you might expect).’
This soft take on the bob also has a lengthy history and a somewhat unexpected origin. Thought to derive from the medieval hairstyle worn by pageboys (hence the name), the cut as we know it now was made famous in the 1960s and 70s – but not by women. The first modern pageboy look came from members of The Beatles, who wore a slightly cropped renditions of the cut in the early years of their career. It wasn’t too long a wait after though that the cut went unisex; Mary Quant, Jean Muir and Diana Ross all flew the flag for the pageboy bob, and a few decades later it was Princess Diana who became famous for her fluffy take on the look.
@shimmersoul Ever known anyone with this one ? #hairstyles #nostalgic #vibe #pageboyhair #nostalgia ♬ California Dreamin’ – The Mamas & The Papas
And now, it’s experiencing (yet another) revival. ‘Unlike the classic bob, which has a sharper, squarer structure, the pageboy bob is all about softness and rounded edges,’ says Michelle. ‘It’s growing in popularity, particularly among those who prefer a softer, less square look. It’s less about power and more about femininity and romance – perfect for the girls brave enough to do away with their long hair.’
There’s also a Parisian feel to the pageboy bob (after all, the cut was a favourite amongst actresses associated with French New Wave cinema). And this give it yet another edge: a chic, modern appeal that feels both nostalgic and new.
Who Suits This Cut?
While traditionally worn with straight hair, Michelle emphasises that this is a cut with more versatility than you might think. ‘The pageboy bob is versatile, working well with a range of hair textures – from thick to fine – and especially flattering on wavy or softly curled hair. It suits all face shapes, and your hairdresser can tailor the cut to find the version that suits you best.’
How To Ask For A Pageboy Bob In The Salon
‘Simply ask for a pageboy bob,’ advises Michelle. ‘And always bring along some visuals showing the length and style you want. Think about whether you want a fringe or not, decide on your minimum desired length, and consider how you plan to style it – or if you prefer to keep it natural.’
@thealexandrayvette Anna Karina is my forever muse! Thank you @anthonypomije @cutlersalons 🤍🤍🤍#bowlcut #frenchnewwave #vivresavie #annakarina #bobhaircut #greenscreen ♬ Un homme et une femme – Francis Lai & Pierre Barouh & Nicole Croisille
How To Style A Pageboy Bob
And when it comes to styling, you can either stick with tradition (for full vintage flair) or try something new. ‘Traditionally, the pageboy bob was styled straight from the crown with the ends curled inward, but depending on your hair’s thickness, texture, and your styling routine, it can be worn in lots of different ways,’ says Michelle. ‘Remember: the modern pageboy bob is all about movement – since the structure comes from the cut itself. And chances are your current haircut already has a bit of pageboy influence. You can wear it sleek and tucked behind the ears, or soft and tousled for a more relaxed vibe.’
What Next?
As for the future, Michelle predicts more personalised renditions of the cut making it into the salon. ‘Moving forward, it’ll evolve from the traditional bowl cut into softer, bespoke variations – making it accessible for everyone to find a version that suits them perfectly.’
Hair Inspiration
Tousled Pageboy Bob
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Without Bangs
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Cropped Bob
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Ultra Gloss
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Soft Ruffle
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Curly Pageboy Bob
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