Not a French Bob, Not a '90s Blowout—14 Collarbone-Length Hairstyles That Flatter Everyone

Not a French Bob, Not a '90s Blowout—14 Collarbone-Length Hairstyles That Flatter Everyone

      Bob this, bob that… But what if I’m not ready to trim my hair to my jawline? Well, as someone who made that decision just over a year ago and enjoyed it on most days, yet sometimes regretted not being a bit more lenient with the length of my cut, I can tell you that you don’t have to go super short to look stylish. Let’s face it—growing out a bob takes ages.

      Since late 2023, the mix of various European and uniquely named bobs has undeniably made an impact. From the classic French bob to the casual boyfriend bob and the sleek Prada bob, jawline-length styles have been popular for nearly two years. But what if (gasp!) you could play with shorter hair without diving into an ultra-short style? That’s where collarbone-length hairstyles come in. Whether you label it the Los Angeles lob, the clavi-cut, or just the lob, this shoulder-length cut is a fabulous in-between option that feels effortlessly chic.

      This length suits individuals with damaged hair looking for a fresh start, as it’s a trendy way to lighten your locks without sacrificing too much length. “I like to refer to it as ‘the tease’ because it plays with length, offering the drama of long hair combined with the edge and simplicity of a shorter cut,” says celebrity stylist Davontaé Washington. “It’s a look that grabs attention effortlessly, merging the vibes of long hair with the attitude of a shorter style!”

      Below, you’ll find 14 Instagram-worthy images of fashionistas showcasing this mid-length style that we can't get enough of. So go ahead, scroll and indulge—before you know it, you’ll be booking your next salon appointment.

      **Retro Shag**

      “This length is a playground for versatility,” quips Washington. He suggests a “soft shag with curtain bangs for movement” as a fantastic way to experience the collarbone-length style with a cool, androgynous flair—take a look at Selena Gomez’s choppy cut, for instance. Her airy, long bangs add a playful touch to this shoulder-length look, and we especially adore how beachy her hair appears. Use one of our editor-recommended sea salt sprays to recreate her touchable, wavy texture.

      **Curly Clavi-Cut**

      You can also explore this flexible length with curly tresses. In fact, your curls can look adorable when cut to shoulder length, freeing up the weight of longer hair and allowing your curls to bounce back more lively. Boost your curls with your favorite curl cream and use a diffuser for optimal results (think along the lines of Simone Ashley’s lovely spirals).

      **Pin-Straight Lob**

      There’s a timeless charm to a flat-ironed, collarbone-length lob. Consider this image of Laura Harrier, which has been etched in my memory. Washington describes a “blunt lob with razor-sharp precision” as a must-try version of this style, and this Instagram post might convince you. While side parts are trending right now, this straight look with a sharp middle part pairs well with any glam or outfit combination, making it an effortless way to elevate any appearance, whether it’s a matching loungewear set or a floral catsuit. (I've gazed at this picture for way too long.)

      **Mermaid Waves**

      Mermaid waves are perpetually in style for a reason, and we can’t stop admiring how enchanting they look at this medium length. Sophie Turner’s chic lob maintains a consistent length, skipping layers for a uniform cut that appears dimensional when lightly waved or sleek when straightened. Finish this look with a hint of hair oil for a shine reminiscent of Turner’s (my personal favorite for post-styling is the Rōz Santa Lucia Styling Hair Oil).

      **Piece-y Curls**

      Just one glance at influencer Neelam Gill’s lively curls will give you hair envy, and her shoulder-length style is a great reference for your next salon visit, especially if your curls are as light and airy as hers. Dry your curls using a diffuser and lightly spritz a bit of hair spray for a fuller effect.

      **Bouncy Midi**

      Washington favors a “layered midi that adds body and bounce,” and Elsa Hosk’s lovely lob serves as a perfect example of this description. Gently resting on her shoulders, this sophisticated cut appears delightfully tousled, adding that sought-after “I woke up like this” vibe. Use a texturizing spray after rough-drying your hair for some extra volume.

      **Lightly Layered**

      Layers are one of the easiest ways to introduce subtle movement into your hair, and I adore how this style captures the air at mid-length. Request long layers at the salon, with some face-framing pieces to add a bit more flair. Use a finishing spray on your layers for the best movement and shine.

      **Natural Volume**

      Embracing your natural

Not a French Bob, Not a '90s Blowout—14 Collarbone-Length Hairstyles That Flatter Everyone Not a French Bob, Not a '90s Blowout—14 Collarbone-Length Hairstyles That Flatter Everyone Not a French Bob, Not a '90s Blowout—14 Collarbone-Length Hairstyles That Flatter Everyone Not a French Bob, Not a '90s Blowout—14 Collarbone-Length Hairstyles That Flatter Everyone Not a French Bob, Not a '90s Blowout—14 Collarbone-Length Hairstyles That Flatter Everyone Not a French Bob, Not a '90s Blowout—14 Collarbone-Length Hairstyles That Flatter Everyone Not a French Bob, Not a '90s Blowout—14 Collarbone-Length Hairstyles That Flatter Everyone Not a French Bob, Not a '90s Blowout—14 Collarbone-Length Hairstyles That Flatter Everyone Not a French Bob, Not a '90s Blowout—14 Collarbone-Length Hairstyles That Flatter Everyone Not a French Bob, Not a '90s Blowout—14 Collarbone-Length Hairstyles That Flatter Everyone Not a French Bob, Not a '90s Blowout—14 Collarbone-Length Hairstyles That Flatter Everyone Not a French Bob, Not a '90s Blowout—14 Collarbone-Length Hairstyles That Flatter Everyone Not a French Bob, Not a '90s Blowout—14 Collarbone-Length Hairstyles That Flatter Everyone Not a French Bob, Not a '90s Blowout—14 Collarbone-Length Hairstyles That Flatter Everyone Not a French Bob, Not a '90s Blowout—14 Collarbone-Length Hairstyles That Flatter Everyone Not a French Bob, Not a '90s Blowout—14 Collarbone-Length Hairstyles That Flatter Everyone Not a French Bob, Not a '90s Blowout—14 Collarbone-Length Hairstyles That Flatter Everyone Not a French Bob, Not a '90s Blowout—14 Collarbone-Length Hairstyles That Flatter Everyone Not a French Bob, Not a '90s Blowout—14 Collarbone-Length Hairstyles That Flatter Everyone Not a French Bob, Not a '90s Blowout—14 Collarbone-Length Hairstyles That Flatter Everyone Not a French Bob, Not a '90s Blowout—14 Collarbone-Length Hairstyles That Flatter Everyone Not a French Bob, Not a '90s Blowout—14 Collarbone-Length Hairstyles That Flatter Everyone

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Not a French Bob, Not a '90s Blowout—14 Collarbone-Length Hairstyles That Flatter Everyone

“A style of cut that effortlessly catches attention.”