The bob is one haircut that is often recommended, whether you desire something more youthful looking or a cut with chicness to spare. The length of the chin-length bob, combined with styling elements like blunt ends and face-framing or shorter layers creates endless customization possibilities. If your hair is thin or fine, there’s a bob haircut that can bulk it up. If your hair is thick but shapeless, there are ways to build shape into a bob and create angles that frame your face and facial features.
Some would call it a “perfect” haircut. But mistakes can be made, even when the haircut itself is all kinds of good.
According to Pro Hairstylist Justin Hickox, there are five bob types that don’t look very flattering on many, regardless of age, but especially if you’re over 40 and looking for a lift.
Avoid these five bobs and consider these styles instead.
The Microbob
The microbob was a big trend a few seasons ago and some may continue to rock it because it is a really sophisticated ‘do if it works for you. Unfortunately, this uber short bob, sometimes called a French bob, doesn’t leave a ton of options for layering around your face and creating softness and it can look harsh.
A better option: Chin-length bob
You might be amazed to see what a difference a little more length makes. By growing out your bob to your chin you’re framing your jaw and helping to create more balance on your facial features.
One-Length Bob
The one-length bob is sleekness personified. But if your hair tends to sit flat on your crown and there is thinness, this cut can accentuate it.
A better option: long layers
Keep the blunt ends, which can make your hair look denser at the bottom, but add a few long layers throughout the create movement and volume.
Longer in the Back Than in the Front
A bob the is cut longer in the back and shorter in the front can take on a bowl-like shape that isn’t the most flattering. Unless you are going for a semi-mullet look, this cut can appear dated and won’t take on that classic bob shape.
A better option: an A-line bob
Bring the back of your bob up a bit and leave your front layers just slightly longer for a chic A-line cut.
Too Long in the Front
If you make the angle of your bob too long in the front, the angle becomes very apparent, very suddenly, and looks out of place with the rest of your haircut.
A better option: Soft, subtle angling
Avoid dramatic drop-offs when it comes to angling the front layers of your hair. Instead, opt for a softer shift from the back of your hair to front angles so that it looks effortless and balanced.
Too Tight and High in the Nape
When your bob is tight and high in the nape of your head it can look like two separate haircuts. This cut appears disjointed, with a much longer front than back that can be unflattering on many women.
A better option: Longer at the Nape
Keep your length longer at the back so that your front and back layers are more harmonious.
