Thinking about a bob haircut? This subtle style is predicted to be the most stylish cut for this summer.

      Year after year, one hairstyle consistently tops the charts of popular haircuts—the classic bob. Whether it's a blunt cut or a tousled waterfall bob, this style remains timeless, offering undeniable versatility. If you've been considering a shorter look but aren't enthusiastic about a one-length style and aren't quite ready to dive into a pixie, it may be time to explore the tapered bob. This cut is softer and sleeker than a traditional graduated bob but isn't as dramatically short as the trending elfin bob this summer. It strikes a balance between being fashionable for 2026 while still feeling classic. Below, we consult a hair expert to explain why the tapered bob will be a key style this summer, along with inspiration to help you prepare for your salon visit.

      What Exactly Is a Tapered Bob? With so many bob variations trending simultaneously, it’s important to know what specifically defines a tapered bob if you're considering asking your hairstylist for this cut. “It’s a bob that gradually shortens towards the nape of the neck, resulting in a tidy, form-fitting shape…with a soft, streamlined silhouette,” clarifies hairstylist Elliot Bute from Hershesons, Fitzrovia. While some may confuse it with a graduated bob, Bute emphasizes that they are not identical. “Both styles have similarities, but a graduated bob uses stacked layers to create volume at the back,” he notes.

      Who Is the Tapered Bob Best For? As someone with textured hair, I often hesitate to go short, fearing my cut may appear blocky or overly voluminous. However, Bute believes the tapered bob's beauty lies in its versatility, making it suitable for most hair types. “Fine hair can appear fuller, thick hair benefits from having some weight taken off, and natural waves bring movement to the cut,” he explains. “The secret is customizing the shape based on the individual's hair density and face shape…perhaps by incorporating subtle graduation or layering to enhance the tapered look.”

      Tapered Bob Inspiration While we anticipate the tapered bob becoming more popular in the coming months, Bute suggests looking to celebrities such as Lily Collins, Selena Gomez, and Millie Bobby Brown for current inspiration. "Each showcases a slightly different interpretation, from sleek and sharp to softer and more textured, which can serve as useful references for your salon visit," he says.

      If you're contemplating trying the tapered bob trend, consider following Lily Collins by keeping the front lengths just slightly longer than the back.

      Kelly Rowland's sleek, center-parted bob offers a high level of chic sophistication.

      Switching to a side part, as seen on Emma Willis, is an excellent way to quickly add volume to a short style.

      Maintaining shorter hair at the nape while leaving it longer in front creates a lovely shape for Ebony Obsidian's curls.

      Millie Bobby Brown's gentle, beachy waves beautifully complement her grown-out tapered bob.

      Emilia Clarke’s version of the tapered bob is classic—softly graduated and worn straight to highlight the structured cut.

      Kerry Washington's softly tapered bob, paired with a feathery fringe, presents a summery take on the style.

      How to Style a Tapered Bob According to Bute, while a tapered bob is simple to style at home, it does require regular trims (every six to eight weeks) to maintain a fresh appearance. “Depending on your hair type, a lightweight mousse or air-dry cream can be beneficial, and a quick blow-dry can help emphasize the tapered silhouette,” he notes. “And if you prefer a softer, grown-out look, you can extend the time between trims a bit.”

      **Aveda Phomollient Styling Foam**: This airy foam is particularly effective for fine hair that gets weighed down by products, adding volume and shine while enhancing texture.

      **Hershesons Almost Everything Cream**: As the name indicates, this multifunctional cream can smooth ends, hydrate lengths, add texture, slick back flyaways, and more.

      **Living Proof Full Dry Volume & Texture Spray**: For instant volume, spritz a few sprays of this root-lifting spray onto dry hair for extra height.

      **GHD Duet Blowdry Hair Dryer Brush in Sun-Kissed Peach**: This wet-to-dry brush is fantastic for styling short hair, whether you want a polished blowout or just to add some shape to second-day hair.

      **JVN Hair Air Dry Volumizing Wave Spray**: This new product adds beachy texture and effortless waves by simply misting onto damp hair and scrunching.

      Why Trust Us At Who What Wear UK, we understand that beauty is not one-size-fits-all. Our editors have thoroughly tested thousands of products over the years—encompassing skincare, makeup, hair, and nails—and collaborate closely with trusted experts, including dermatologists and makeup artists, to ensure our guides are well-researched, inclusive, and relevant to you. We focus on formulas