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One of the most simple, yet equally nerve-wracking experiences someone can subject themselves to is a haircut; especially when they want to find the best bob haircut for their head shape. Because while a dramatic big chop may be tame for some, cutting even one or two inches of dead ends could be terrifying to the other. Of course, making the appointment is easy enough, but how about finding someone you can actually trust with your tresses at a price that won’t require you emptying your savings account? Talk about anxiety.
And what about the process of after-care? Beyond extending those salon-fresh aura days or even weeks after the deed is done, there’s also putting together a regimen that’ll not only mesh with your texture and keep it healthy but motivate you to constantly freshen-up your new look, too. Seriously, it can be enough to send anyone running in the opposite direction if they haven’t already taken the plunge. Plus, if you thought the process got any easier with a look as classic as the bob, think again.
From the moment pros dubbed a long version of it the “lob,” we knew it was just the beginning of an entirely new set of styles we would need to get familiar with. Beyond the length, which is typically ear- or shoulder-long, there’s also the addition of layers and color. More often than not, the number one question anyone asks before taking on this style is, “which version goes best with my head shape?”
After all, what looks good on someone with a square jawline may not be the most flattering for someone with a more oval-shaped one. And because we would never want to steer you in the wrong direction, we’ve got a quick-and-easy primer from Michael Duenas, Garnier Consulting Celebrity Hairstylist. Ahead, he breaks down a foolproof guide for knowing which kind of bob haircut you should be aiming toward.
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For Heart-Shaped Head
If your chin is more pointed with a wider-cheek and more prominent forehead, Duenas says, a chin-length bob is fantastic (a la Ciara), especially if it is one length.
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“This will give your jawline definition and your cheekbones will pop,” he says.
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Plus, texture and layers add even more definition.
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For Square-Shaped Head
When your jawline is more defined, go past it. Ideally, a longer lob is your best bet, similar to the style Allison Williams wears above.
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“Keep your ends textured, and soft,” says Duenas.
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He also adds, “blunt lines will accentuate the squareness of your jaw.”
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For Oval-Shaped Head
Though this is probably the most versatile shape, allowing for various lengths and styles, Duenas’ favorite look on this head shape is a lob, cut into a modern shag.
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Similar to square-shaped heads, don’t be afraid to play with texture. Alexa Chung sure isn’t.
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Bangs are also a quick and easy way to beautifully frame the face.
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For Round-Shaped Head
A lob (aka longer bob) also suits this head shape, though Duenas recommends adding in layers too.
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“You want to collapse the weight in the hair, to keep the volume low on the sides,” he says. Think of Kirsten Dunst’s softly tapered style.
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Plus, “this will help slim your cheeks and bring down the roundness in your face.”
This article was originally published on November 23, 2018. It was updated on November 30, 2019.