Ready to refresh your look for summer? The long bob (or “lob”) reigns supreme as the most versatile haircut of the year—flattering all face shapes, hair types, and personal styles. Unlike longer locks, the lob offers effortless manageability while maintaining styling versatility: think beachy waves, sleek straight strands, messy updos, or polished braids. Whether you crave platinum blonde drama or a low-maintenance brunette balayage, we’ve curated 21 stunning lob variations to inspire your next salon visit. From celebrity-approved textures to face-framing highlights, discover your perfect match below!
1. Platinum Blonde Bob with Dark Roots
Edgy yet sophisticated, this platinum lob with shadow roots is a masterclass in low-maintenance high style. The stark contrast between icy ends and natural roots adds dimension while extending time between touch-ups. Ideal for oval or heart-shaped faces, the chin-grazing length accentuates the jawline. Pro tip: Use purple shampoo weekly to neutralize brassiness and a heat protectant for glass-like straightening.
2. Medium Bob with Platinum Silver Highlights
This shoulder-skimming lob blends cool-toned platinum highlights with deeper roots for a multidimensional effect. The silver hues brighten complexions (especially fair to medium skin tones), while the angled cut adds subtle volume. Style with a texturizing spray for lived-in waves or a smoothing serum for polished meetings.
3. Angled Long Bob with Layers
Face-framing layers transform this angled lob into a volume powerhouse. The shorter back and longer front create a slimming silhouette for round faces, while the feathered ends add movement. Celebrity stylist tip: Blow-dry with a round brush flipped outward at the ends for extra bounce.
4. Brunette Lob + Face-Framing Balayage
Balayage isn’t just for blondes! This brunette lob uses caramel highlights strategically placed around the face to illuminate features. The hand-painted technique ensures seamless grow-out—perfect for busy women. Pair with loose curls for a sun-kissed effect.
5. Messy Textured Blonde Lob
Embrace the “I woke up like this” trend with this undone blonde lob. The secret? Work a pea-sized amount of matte pomade through dry hair, then twist random sections with a 1-inch iron for imperfect waves. Bonus: This style looks better as the day goes on!
6. Straight Angled Lob
Sharp lines meet timeless elegance in this geometric lob. The dramatic angle elongates the neck, while the blunt ends project confidence. Best for straight, fine hair—flat iron with a keratin spray for mirror-like shine. A power look for corporate settings.
7. Lob for Thick Hair + Honey Blonde Balayage
Thick hair thrives with this layered lob. Internal thinning removes bulk, while honey blonde balayage adds lightness. Style with a diffuser to enhance natural texture or sleek it back for a minimalist vibe. The perfect balance of structure and softness.
8. Brunette Straight Lob
Proof that simplicity shines: This glossy brunette lob works for every occasion. The one-length cut maintains density (great for thin hair), while a center part modernizes the look. For extra polish, apply a shine serum to mid-lengths and ends.
9. Blonde Ombre Lob
Ombre isn’t going anywhere! This lived-in blonde gradient transitions seamlessly from dark roots to bright ends. The secret? Ask your stylist for “baby lights” at the crown for natural brightness. Beach waves enhance the sun-kissed effect.
10. Choppy Layered Lob + Caramel Balayage
Three trends in one: choppy layers, balayage, and lob perfection. The uneven ends create edge, while caramel highlights add warmth to medium skin tones. Run a texturizing spray through dry hair for rocker-approved grit.