Neither a French Bob nor a '90s Blowout—14 Collarbone-Length Haircuts That Suit Everyone

Neither a French Bob nor a '90s Blowout—14 Collarbone-Length Haircuts That Suit Everyone

      Bob this, bob that… But what if I'm not interested in trimming my hair to jaw length? Take it from someone who made that decision just over a year ago and enjoyed it on most days, yet sometimes wished she had opted for a less drastic cut—you certainly don’t have to go super short to achieve a chic look. Let’s face it, bobs take a long time to grow back. Since late 2023, the mix of European-inspired and oddly named bobs has dominated. From the neat French bob to the wild boyfriend bob and the sharply defined Prada bob, styles that graze the jawline have been trending for nearly two years. But what if (gasp!) you could play with shorter hair without committing to an ultra-short style? Enter collarbone-length hairstyles. The Los Angeles lob, the clavi-cut, the almost lob—regardless of the name, this shoulder-length style serves as a stylish compromise that exudes effortless chicness. This cut is perfect for those with damaged hair seeking a fresh start, as well as a fashionable way to lighten your hair without sacrificing much length. “I like to refer to it as ‘the tease’ because it teases with the length, offering the drama of long hair while maintaining the ease of a shorter cut,” says celebrity hairstylist Davontaé Washington. “This style turns heads without overdoing it, blending long hair vibes with short hair attitude!”

      Below, discover 14 Instagram-worthy images of fashion icons flaunting this mid-length cut that we can't stop admiring. Keep scrolling—you'll likely find yourself booking your next appointment in no time.

      **Retro Shag**

      "This length is a playground for versatility," Washington remarks. He suggests a “soft shag with curtain bangs for movement” as a fun way to experiment with the collarbone-length cut while incorporating an edgy, cool element—just look at Selena Gomez's choppy shear. Her wispy, long bangs add a playful detail to this shoulder-grazing style, and we especially adore how beachy her hair appears. Use one of our editor-recommended sea salt sprays to achieve her touchable, wavy texture.

      **Curly Clavi-Cut**

      Those with curly hair can certainly enjoy this versatile length. Your curls can look especially charming at shoulder length, lifting the heaviness associated with longer hair and allowing your curls to bounce back more freely. Use your favorite curl cream and dry your hair with a diffuser for the best results (think dreamy spirals like Simone Ashley’s).

      **Pin-Straight Lob**

      A flat-ironed, collarbone-length lob has a timeless quality. Take this image of Laura Harrier, which has permanently made an impression on me. Washington describes a "blunt lob with razor-sharp precision" as a style that must be tried, and this Instagram post may persuade me. Although side parts are currently trending, this straight look with a sharp middle part can complement nearly any glam or outfit, making it an easy way to elevate any appearance—from matching loungewear to a floral catsuit. (I've been fixating on this image for far too long.)

      **Mermaid Waves**

      Mermaid waves are classic for a reason, and we love how ethereal they appear at this medium length. Sophie Turner’s elegant lob generally features a uniform shear, avoiding layers, which looks dimensional when slightly waved or sleek when straightened. Finish this look with a touch of hair oil for that Turner-level shine (my personal favorite for post-heat styling is the Rōz Santa Lucia Styling Hair Oil).

      **Piece-y Curls**

      Just one glance at influencer Neelam Gill’s bouncy curls will leave you envious of her hair, but her shoulder-length cut is an excellent reference for your next appointment, especially if your curls are light and airy like hers. Diffuse your curls and lightly mist with some hair spray for enhanced body.

      **Bouncy Midi**

      Washington appreciates a “layered midi that adds body and bounce,” and Elsa Hosk’s gorgeous lob perfectly exemplifies this. Gently grazing her shoulders, this sophisticated style gives off a deliciously undone vibe, contributing to that coveted “I just woke up like this” look. To achieve a bit more volume, use texturizing spray after drying your hair roughly.

      **Lightly Layered**

      One of the simplest ways to add subtle movement to your hair is through layers, and I’m loving how this style dances in the air at mid-length. Ask your stylist for long layers with a few face-framing pieces to give your style an extra kick. Use a finishing spray on your layers for optimal movement and shine.

      **Natural Volume**

      There’s nothing more beautiful than embracing your natural texture, and this voluminous Afro looks stunning at shoulder length. Layer your sections so that they are longer at the nape of your neck and shorter towards the top of your head for extra dimension. Lightly pick out your curls for extra volume, or

Neither a French Bob nor a '90s Blowout—14 Collarbone-Length Haircuts That Suit Everyone Neither a French Bob nor a '90s Blowout—14 Collarbone-Length Haircuts That Suit Everyone Neither a French Bob nor a '90s Blowout—14 Collarbone-Length Haircuts That Suit Everyone Neither a French Bob nor a '90s Blowout—14 Collarbone-Length Haircuts That Suit Everyone Neither a French Bob nor a '90s Blowout—14 Collarbone-Length Haircuts That Suit Everyone Neither a French Bob nor a '90s Blowout—14 Collarbone-Length Haircuts That Suit Everyone Neither a French Bob nor a '90s Blowout—14 Collarbone-Length Haircuts That Suit Everyone Neither a French Bob nor a '90s Blowout—14 Collarbone-Length Haircuts That Suit Everyone Neither a French Bob nor a '90s Blowout—14 Collarbone-Length Haircuts That Suit Everyone Neither a French Bob nor a '90s Blowout—14 Collarbone-Length Haircuts That Suit Everyone Neither a French Bob nor a '90s Blowout—14 Collarbone-Length Haircuts That Suit Everyone Neither a French Bob nor a '90s Blowout—14 Collarbone-Length Haircuts That Suit Everyone Neither a French Bob nor a '90s Blowout—14 Collarbone-Length Haircuts That Suit Everyone Neither a French Bob nor a '90s Blowout—14 Collarbone-Length Haircuts That Suit Everyone Neither a French Bob nor a '90s Blowout—14 Collarbone-Length Haircuts That Suit Everyone Neither a French Bob nor a '90s Blowout—14 Collarbone-Length Haircuts That Suit Everyone Neither a French Bob nor a '90s Blowout—14 Collarbone-Length Haircuts That Suit Everyone Neither a French Bob nor a '90s Blowout—14 Collarbone-Length Haircuts That Suit Everyone Neither a French Bob nor a '90s Blowout—14 Collarbone-Length Haircuts That Suit Everyone Neither a French Bob nor a '90s Blowout—14 Collarbone-Length Haircuts That Suit Everyone Neither a French Bob nor a '90s Blowout—14 Collarbone-Length Haircuts That Suit Everyone Neither a French Bob nor a '90s Blowout—14 Collarbone-Length Haircuts That Suit Everyone

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Neither a French Bob nor a '90s Blowout—14 Collarbone-Length Haircuts That Suit Everyone

“A style that captures attention effortlessly.”