In this article full of hair inspiration, I’m diving into the world of curly bobs, lob hairstyles, and mid-length wavy wonders. So, whether you're dreaming of a sassy shoulder-length bob or considering a daring French bob – I've got it all! Get ready to explore 20 gorgeous mid-length hairstyles that'll make you want to book a salon appointment ASAP. Plus, I’ll share my favorite styling products that’ll take your mid-length hair to the next level.
Index
7 Gorgeous Bobs
Bobs are classic, stylish, and always on trend. A bob is a timeless, sophisticated choice that has stood the test of time, but I'll also show fresh variations of the classic cut. I've rounded up seven different bob styles, from effortlessly chic short French bobs to edgy, blunt-cut bobs, that are sure to catch your eye and inspire your next salon appointment.
1. Layered Bob with Curtain Bangs
Our first contender in the bob lineup is a true showstopper, seamlessly blending layers with the charm of curtain bangs. The curtain bangs add a face-framing elegance that complements the overall layered structure of this shoulder-length bob for a lush, voluminous feel.
2. Classic, Blunt-Cut, Jaw-Length Bob
In the world of mid-length hairstyles, the classic blunt-cut bob stands as an enduring icon of timeless elegance. What makes this jaw-length bob a classic is its commitment to simplicity and precision. The blunt cut creates a clean and sleek silhouette, emphasizing the jawline and framing the face with precision. Get ready to embrace a look that never goes out of style yet always feels refreshingly modern!
3. Short French Bob
The trending French bob is a daring choice that embraces the beauty of extra-short lengths, cut just below the earlobes. It is an ideal choice for those ready to make a statement with their hairstyle. What sets this short bob apart are the slightly tousled bangs, elevating the entire look with a touch of Parisian chic. Perfect for those with slightly wavy hair, the French bob embraces an effortlessly chic and slightly undone look that makes a bold impact.
4. Edgy, Pin-Straight Bob
Step into the realm of contemporary cool with this bob that channels a modern aesthetic. The defining characteristic of this straight bob haircut is its razor-sharp precision. Ideal for those with naturally straight hair, this blunt-cut bob capitalizes on the inherent sleekness of straight locks for a striking look. Keep in mind that maintaining this sharp and short bob requires some dedication in the form of frequent trims and befriending your straightening iron (together with a heat protectant!).
5. Shaggy Short Bob
Embrace the carefree spirit with this short bob. The layers and curtain bangs lend a carefree vibe, allowing the hair to move with natural ease. Perfect for those blessed with wavy hair, the shaggy bob accentuates your natural texture, allowing the waves to dance freely and contribute to the overall relaxed aesthetic. But with the help of hair wax or clay, this style can be easily achieved by those with straight locks too.
6. Round Shoulder-Length Bob
This round bob radiates glamour with a soft and gentle touch. Its gentle layering contributes to the softness of the overall look. The length gracefully skims the shoulders, adding a touch of elegance that suits any occasion. To style it to perfection, curve your ends inward to frame the face with a subtle and flattering embrace.
7. Glamorous, Side-Swept Bob
This side-swept bob takes elegance to new heights with its voluminous waves. The dynamic silhouette accentuates the bob's inherent elegance. Perfect for those special occasions when you want to make a lasting impression, this mid-length hairstyle transforms your locks into a work of art.
5 Long Bobs or Lob Hairstyles
Next, we shift our focus to long bobs, also known as "lobs.” With a length that gracefully skims the shoulders or falls just above the collarbone, the lob haircut strikes the perfect balance, providing ample room for styling while maintaining an elegant, polished appearance.
1. Classic Lob Hairstyle
This iconic hairstyle encapsulates a straight cut that exudes sophistication while leaving room for styling possibilities. Its versatility allows it to seamlessly transition from casual to formal settings. What makes this classic lob hairstyle even more appealing is its suitability for a wide range of hair types and thicknesses.
2. Bouncy, 90's Long Bob
This long bob channels the spirit of the iconic 90s with a contemporary flair. Characterized by its bouncy layers and curtain bangs, this long bob creates an effortlessly chic look. The beautifully styled layers take center stage in this retro-inspired bob, framing the face with a touch of softness.
3. Shaggy Lob Haircut
Revitalize your mid-length hair with this shaggy lob, a haircut that fearlessly blends elements of mullets and shags, giving your long bob an edgier look. This haircut introduces heavily frayed front sections, embracing a deliberately tousled look. Despite its rebellious undertones, this mid-length haircut maintains a sense of modern class.
4. Butterfly Lob
This shorter take on the popular long butterfly haircut introduces feathery layers that elevate volume, creating a dynamic and trendy look. Its feathery layers add movement, texture, and a touch of airiness to a classic shoulder-length bob. While the butterfly lob hairstyle requires a bit more styling effort, the end result is well worth it.
5. Lob for Fine Hair with Wispy Bangs
For those with finer or thinner hair, this long bob is a sleek and straight style that gracefully complements the unique characteristics of lighter strands. What sets this lob haircut apart is the inclusion of wispy bangs, adding a delightful twist to the classic straight look without removing a large bulk of hair from the lengths.
4 Trendy Mid-Length Hairstyles
In this section, we explore the versatile landscape of mid-length hairstyles that gracefully extend just beyond the shoulders, from layered looks that add movement to straight styles that exude polished sophistication.
1. Blunt-Cut Mid-Length Hairstyle
This style is a simple yet remarkably elegant choice that relies on a straight, blunt cut that brings a polished and chic aesthetic. This style serves as a versatile canvas for various styling options, whether you choose to embrace the sleekness of the blunt cut or introduce soft, cascading waves.
2. Mid-Length Haircut with Layers and Face-Framing
This mid-length masterpiece is a celebration of layers and face-framing elements that stand the test of time. At the heart of this captivating haircut are the layers, skillfully incorporated to add dimension, movement, and a sense of effortless charm. Suitable for most hair types, this mid-length haircut with layers adapts effortlessly to your natural texture, whether sleek and straight or adorned with curls.
3. Mid-Length Haircut for Wavy Hair
This mid-length style, extending gracefully beyond the shoulders, is a nod to the effortless charm of waves, featuring heavier layering that contributes to a rounder and fuller shape to bring out the full potential of your natural texture. It allows your waves to cascade with ease, creating a dynamic and voluminous appearance.
4. Layered Mid-Length Haircut
This haircut embraces a wealth of layers to infuse movement, texture, and a touch of carefree elegance. This intentional layering is particularly beneficial for those with thicker or slightly wavy hair, as it enhances the natural flow and movement of the locks. Whether you prefer to accentuate the layers with curls or opt for a messier, tousled aesthetic, this haircut provides the perfect base for your styling adventures.
4 Curly Bobs and Mid-Length Hairstyles
Welcome to the whimsical world of curls, where the beauty of natural texture takes center stage. These curly bobs and mid-length hairstyles are a celebration of the diverse expressions of curly hair.
1. Long Curly Bob
This enchanting shoulder-length bob is a testament to the effortlessness of curls, featuring layers and face-framing curly bangs that add a touch of cuteness. The layers enhance the natural bounce and movement of the curls, creating a dynamic and rounded appearance.
2. Short Curly Bob
Enter the realm of playful elegance with this curly bob that is a delightful variation of its longer counterpart. Thanks to even shorter layers, it has a rounder shape, creating a style that radiates cuteness and casual charm. This style, which embraces the inherent bounce of textured hair, caters to all curl types, from looser waves to tighter coils.
3. Alternative Coily Bob
If you're seeking a fresh take on coily hair, try this unique hairstyle that challenges the typical rounded shape associated with coily hair. This coily bob, with its straighter silhouette, offers a fresh and alternative approach to showcasing the beauty of coils. The side part combined with the bangs serves as a bold styling choice, adding a touch of asymmetry that elevates the overall aesthetic.
4. Braided Bob for Coils
Braids have long been celebrated as a popular and practical way to style coils. What makes the braided bob particularly appealing is its low-maintenance nature. Braids can be kept up for 6-8 weeks, making this style a practical and enduring choice for those who appreciate the convenience of a long-lasting look. Whether you opt for small and intricate braids or larger, statement-making ones, this braided bob allows you to express your individual style while embracing the natural texture of your coils.
8 Styling Must-Haves for Mid-Length Hair
Whether you opt for a blunt-cut bob, a layered mid-length masterpiece, or embrace your curls, this section is your go-to styling guide for elevating your mid-length tresses to new heights. The right products can enhance the beauty and longevity of your chosen haircut, ensuring that your mid-length tresses look their best every day. Here are some essential styling products and how to use them effectively:
- Heat Protectant: Since styling tools are often used for mid-length and bob hairstyles, a heat protectant spray is essential to prevent heat damage.
- Dry Shampoo: Dry shampoo is handy for refreshing mid-length hair, absorbing excess oil, and allowing you to skip a wash day. My favorite is the non-aerosol Refresh Powder™ Dry Shampoo, made with 99% natural ingredients.
- Hair Oil: A few drops of natural hair oil help control frizz and add shine to the ends of mid-length and bob hairstyles.
- Defining Cream or Gel: Depending on the desired style, a curl cream or gel can provide hold and definition for curly bobs and other mid-length curly styles. Read more about the best products for curly hair here.
- Wide-Tooth Comb or Detangling Brush: To prevent breakage and minimize damage, use a wide-tooth comb or a detangling brush to gently comb through mid-length hair, especially when wet.
- Volumizing Products: For those with fine or thin hair, volumizing products such as texture powders or root-lifting sprays can add plenty of body and fullness.
- Flexible Hold Hairspray: Choose a flexible-hold hairspray without aerosols to set your style without making the hair stiff or crunchy.
- Clay Wax: If you prefer a tousled, effortless aesthetic, matte hair clay is a must-have in your styling arsenal.
Remember, the key to successful styling is using products that complement your hair type and desired look. Feel free to mix and match these products based on your styling needs and preferences.
Whether you've found inspiration in the classic lines of a bob, the cascading layers of a lob hairstyle, or the playful charm of curls, mid-length haircuts are an enduring choice for those seeking a balance between sophistication and ease of styling. Let your chosen style be an expression of your unique personality and style sensibilities.
