Our Favourite Short Hairstyle Is Getting A Royal Makeover This Summer
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3 weeks ago
Bow down to the princess bob
There’s a new royally-approved bob on the scene. The princess bob is taking over all the red carpets this season, and now it has its sights set on the salons. Here’s what you need to know.
More Bob Hairstyle Ideas To Try Now
What Is A Princess Bob?
‘The princess bob is a variation of the classic bob haircut, featuring a middle part with a bit of volume and a sharp, but airy, weight line,’ explains Eugene Smith, a style director at John Frieda Salons. ‘The length usually hovers around the chin or slightly below, giving it a clean and versatile look. Compared to other popular bob styles, it provides a clear, clean-cut look that frames the face beautifully. This style also often has a more sleek, polished (but relaxed) appearance.’
@larrykinghaircare Blonde box bob for @Cartia Mallan made super sleek with my Larry King Haircare Flyaway Kit #fypage #hairtok #larrykinghair #larrykingsalons #hairtransformation #londonsalon ♬ Worth It. – RAYE
A more classic take on the short hairstyle, the princess bob follows the beauty sphere’s current sway towards natural, expensive-looking cuts. It’s essentially an elevation of the quiet luxury trend, but with a bit more personality; you don’t want to shout about your status, but you still want to look (and be treated) like royalty. ‘Mimicking fashion, I think the princess bob is popular because it’s a balance between elegance and casual chic,’ adds Eugene. ‘Its versatility allows it to be styled for any occasion too, from everyday wear to more formal looks.’
The cut has also been given the seal of approval by a number of celebrities – especially on the red carpet. ‘Gigi Hadid wore a Grace Kelly-inspired version at the 2024 MET Gala, while America Ferrera opted for effortless loose waves at the 2024 Oscars,’ highlights Eugene. ‘Kelly Rowland wore a sleek, classic version at the Cannes Film Festival. Their red carpet appearances highlight the versatility and style of this cut.’
Why Is It Called A Princess Bob?
While its sleek and regal appearance give the princess bob its look, the name itself comes from one of its more famous wearers – specifically, Princess Maria-Olympia of Greece and Denmark. The royal cut her famously long blonde locks earlier this year, revealing a glossy bob that instantly took the internet by storm.
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Who Suits This Cut?
Luckily, the princess bob is a style that is easily adaptable, meaning it can suit a variety of hair types and textures. ‘It’s particularly flattering for those with fine to medium hair, as it’s easier to add volume and movement,’ adds Eugene. ‘Curly and wavy hair types can also embrace this style, as the natural texture can enhance a more effortless version of the cut. This cut is particularly flattering for oval, heart, and round face shapes, as the face-framing enhance and highlight facial features beautifully.’
How To Ask For A Princess Bob In The Salon (& What To Expect)
Communication with your stylist is key when requesting this look, says Eugene. ‘When asking for a princess bob in the salon, it’s helpful to bring photos for reference to ensure your stylist understands the look you’re aiming for,’ he says. ‘Explain that you want a clean, sharp line, but not too heavy at the bottom. Discuss the desired length and how much volume you’d like. Having a few images from different angles helps your stylist see the vision more clearly.’
When you’re on the same page, your stylist will then start cutting your bob. Eugene explains how he would go about creating a princess bob: ‘I start by cutting the hair into a chin-length or slightly longer bob,’ he says. ‘I’m making the sure the line is as precise, straight, and sharp as possible. Then I may use a technique such as point cutting the ends to create a bit of movement. Once the cut is done, depending on the look, I will blow it straight to get it smooth, with a nice bend at the bottom. Or, add loose waves or curls with a curling iron or wand to create a more tousled look.’
@bethcollley in my blonde bob era💇🏼♀️ #haircut #bob #shorthair #transition ♬ samsinclairfx on instagram – samsinclairfx
How To Style A Princess Bob
When it comes to styling a princess bob at home, Eugene shares his top tips:
- Use a lightweight mousse or volumizing spray to add body.
- Blow-dry with a large round brush to create volume at the roots.
- Blow dry the hair as smooth as possible with an intentional bend on the ends.
- If you are struggling with getting your hair smooth, enlist the help of a large barrel curling iron.
- Avoid over-styling; the beauty of this cut lies in its relaxed, effortless appearance.
What Next?
‘The princess bob may keep evolving with changes in length, texture and styling,’ muses Eugene. ‘We might see more unique versions, like different angles, different partings, or pairings with bold colours and highlights. I’d say at the moment, however, as trends lean toward more natural and effortless looks, the princess bob could remain a staple that gets adapted to various personal styles.’
Hair Inspiration
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Featured image: AW24 Copenhagen Fashion Week Streetstyle (c) Noor-u-Nisa
