I'm a Bob Expert—11 Techniques for Styling Your Short Hair in an Updo This Season

      It may sound strange, but I truly consider myself an expert on bobs. I spend my time exploring bob inspirations and consulting with professionals about the latest styles—yet I have never sported a bob myself. Despite the many appealing bob trends available, my hesitation to get a haircut stems from the notion that I wouldn't be able to style my hair into an updo anymore. I tend to be somewhat lazy regarding my hair routine, often relying on sleek buns and ponytails to enhance my overall appearance. Although I admire the look of a bob, the idea of losing my styling options kept me away from the salon.

      However, after browsing some of the most fashionable women's Instagram profiles, I discovered numerous elegant ways to style short hair into an updo. Given that I write weekly about bob trends, I thought it was only appropriate to compile a list of my favorite updos for bobs that I believe will be trending this season. These styles are both stylish and simple, featuring my favorites from easy daytime looks to more formal updos for special events. In fact, these chic updos might finally inspire me to visit my hairdresser.

      **Article continues below: 11 Chicest Updos for Bobs**

      1. **Low Bun**

      This is a timeless classic. You can’t go wrong with this hairstyle, as it consistently appears elegant and pairs well with a bob. Part your hair down the middle and secure it in a low bun at the nape of your neck. My tip? Use a silk scrunchie to hold your bob in place and minimize hair damage.

      **Get the Look:**

      Slip Pure Silk Skinny Scrunchies

      My go-to silk scrunchie.

      2. **Half-Up, Half-Down**

      For a more relaxed look, consider trying this half-up, half-down style. I love it because it offers the best of both worlds. There are various ways to achieve it, but my favorite method is using a small claw clip to secure my hair at the back. I typically part my hair in the center, section off the top with my fingers, and secure it. I prefer not to aim for a meticulously neat finish, enjoying a more effortless vibe.

      **Get the Look:**

      Living Proof Full Dry Volume & Texture Spray

      I like to use this texturizing spray for added movement and texture in my half-up, half-down style.

      3. **Claw Clip**

      A larger claw clip can effectively secure your bob in a chic, uncomplicated updo. This style can be created in seconds and always garners compliments.

      **Get the Look:**

      4. **French Twist**

      Though this look is slightly more complex than the previous ones, it’s ideal for dressy outfits or special occasions. You might think longer hair is necessary for this style, but a French twist works well with a bob too. Just twist the hair around your finger and move it upward before securing it with a large pin.

      **Get the Look:**

      & Other Stories Wavy Hair Pin

      I adore the design of this one.

      5. **Ponytail**

      Ponytails aren’t exclusive to long hair, as Elsa Hosk demonstrates. Slick your bob back into a shorter ponytail, allowing some strands to fall loosely around your face for an elegant finish.

      **Get the Look:**

      Color Wow Texas Hold'em Big Hold Hairspray

      Ensure your ponytail stays in place with this new hairspray from Color Wow.

      6. **Small Plait**

      Hailey Bieber's bob looks adorable styled into a small plait—perfect for summer, if you ask me.

      **Get the Look:**

      Slip Silk Minnie Scrunchies

      You'll want a variety of smaller hair ties to secure your plait.

      7. **Slicked-Back Bun**

      Another classic bob updo is a slicked-back bun. This style is fantastic for days between washes and always appears polished.

      **Get the Look:**

      Eco Style Olive Oil Styling Gel

      My favorite affordable hair gel for slicked-back looks.

      8. **French Pin**

      While this isn’t technically an updo since you can wear your hair down, it’s a chic way to keep hair out of your face. Secure loose strands with a French pin for a stylish accent.

      **Get the Look:**

      DesignB London Resin French Hair Pin in Dark Brown

      This serves as a fashionable accessory on its own.

      9. **Relaxed Bun**

      If a tight, slicked-back bun feels overly formal, consider a more relaxed style. The key is to allow some strands to fall a bit looser for that effortless look.

      **Get the Look:**

      Hair by Sam Mcknight Cool Girl Barely There Texture Mist

      A light spritz of this will give that cool-girl finish.

      10. **Face-Framing Tendrils**

      While I appreciate a classic half-up, half-down