Bobs Aren't Disappearing, But Hairstylists Forecast That These New Variations Will Prevail in 2026

      New year, new hair. If you inquire with anyone, the bob has been the haircut everyone’s been discussing (or rather wearing) over the past few years, from Hailey Bieber’s short, flipped crop to Halle Berry’s laid-back Riviera bob. While we don't foresee this short style leaving the fashion scene in 2026 (if ever), we do perceive a change in the bob landscape this year—and according to celebrity hairstylist Dimitris Giannetos, five noteworthy styles are stepping up to claim trend supremacy. “2026 is taking the bob we all adore and elevating it,” Giannetos shares with Who What Wear. “As more individuals opt for the chop, there’s truly a bob that suits every face shape, hair texture, and maintenance preference.” The times of simply sitting in your hairstylist’s chair and asking for “a bob” are behind us—the modern beauty enthusiast now has inspirations ranging from Elsa Hosk’s serrated bob to Zoë Kravitz’s tuft bob, requiring more specific requests rooted in a deeper understanding of personal style. “The bobs of 2026 will feel tailored, expressive, and a reflection of your daily styling choices,” he concludes.

      There are several catchy bob styles slated to influence 2026 cuts, but let us be the first to introduce you to them. Below, discover five styles that are worth securing before they become mainstream this year.

      The 5 Top Bob Trends of 2026

      Flip-Flop Bob

      “I predict that the flip-flop bob will be the most sought-after bob in 2026,” says Giannetos. This style, which he named after creating a swooping, vintage-inspired look on Gigi Hadid, features straight hair with softly flipped ends that turn upwards. (This style should not be confused with the 2025 bubble bob, where the ends curl towards the neck.) “It’s short without feeling restrictive, providing enough length for versatile styling,” the celebrity hairstylist adds. “It’s an excellent introduction to shorter hair for those hesitant to give up their styling tools.” While Hadid’s rendition is more glamorous, we’re also enamored with Lori Harvey’s laid-back version for daily wear.

      Valentine Bob

      You heard it here first: Classic, romantic glamour is fully in this year. With Pinterest predicting the darkly elegant “opera aesthetic” as a major theme for 2026, and the Critics' Choice Awards showcasing numerous romantic red carpet hairstyles, Giannetos’ “Valentine bob” on Gigi Hadid is one we’ll reference frequently this year. The hairstylist describes this look as “one of [his] favorites” from 2025 and anticipates even more vintage glamour for 2026. However, unlike most bob trends that vary in cut, this style focuses on styling. “The set, glamorous curls add romance and drama to a look—ideal for date nights or special occasions,” Giannetos clarifies. “This bob exudes effortless femininity with a touch of old Hollywood elegance.”

      Undone Shag Bob

      If traditional bobs have felt too conventional for you, Giannetos encourages you to try the undone, shag-inspired bob. Imagine it as a blend of Delilah Belle’s cool, androgynous pixie and Bieber’s relaxed bob—exemplified by Jenna Ortega’s chic shaggy bob in one of winter’s trendiest colors. “For a style that’s playful yet chic, the undone shag bob is the ideal choice,” says Giannetos. “The intentionally messy and perfectly tousled appearance adds edge and personality to the hair while leaving a bit of length at the top for styling.” Enhance it with a bit of texturizing spray, and you’re all set.

      Blunt Bob

      “Classic for a reason, the blunt bob will continue to reign as a top hairstyle in 2026,” asserts Giannetos. Chic minimalists and fashion enthusiasts agree that clean lines are one of the simplest ways to elevate an appearance, and this cut follows suit. “This pin-straight cut is blunt, sleek, and high fashion—perfect for anyone looking for a stylish chop,” he notes. Take Kelly Rowland’s sharp, jaw-length style, which we have all saved in our hair inspiration albums. Shiny locks truly highlight this cut, so be sure to incorporate a hair mask into your weekly regime and apply a bit of hair oil to your ends before heading out. Whether styled wavy, curly, or straight, this cut will surely boost your confidence and garner compliments.

      Prada Bob

      We first noticed the sharp-edged, flapper-like Prada bob on actress Joey King in the summer of 2024 (professionally styled by Giannetos), and he expects it to make a strong comeback in 2026. “Preppy, sleek, and straight, the Prada bob adds a touch of elegance to any look,”