Create a bespoke bob

While most people at any age can carry off some variation of a bob, Trinder explains that it’s important to consider your face shape, hair texture, lifestyle and your own hair-styling ability. This is where you need to work with your stylist as they will be well equipped to fashion you a bespoke bob.

“I always recommend starting the cut longer and then adjusting as needed – that way you have room to play and if you want to add volume your stylist can then add soft layers and shape if needed,” advises celebrity hairstylist, Frederic Fekkai.

Add movement and texture

The classic Sassoon style was sharp and blunt, but updated cutting techniques will also prevent your bob from feeling fuddy-duddy, says Hersheson.

“Although to the naked eye a bob might look all one length, a youthful bob isn’t cut in a ‘perfect’ way like an old-school traditional bob,” he says. “It’s a bit more ‘hacked’ and should be cut freehand or with a razor to give the hair lots of movement and texture.”

Curly bobs

If you have curly hair, you’ve already got that bounce nailed, but you should still follow the “work backwards” rule if you’re a bob beginner. “By starting with a longer length you can see how much your curls spring up,” says Trinder. “Also, keeping the front slightly longer in an A-line shape works very well with curls and waves.”

Stylist Syd Hayes stresses how important it is to keep your curls in good condition if you’re going to go shorter than midi length. “Using hydrating products will ensure the hair sits perfectly in its natural form as well as remaining shiny and healthy-looking.”

Consider colour

Forgo block colours as they can appear harsh and, you’ve guessed it, ageing. Instead, opt for highlights or balayage that frame the face and add contrast and more of that all-important texture. And if your hair is naturally grey, it’s win-win because it will most likely be a variety of grey, silver and white tones, which will make your style automatically look softer by adding depth and dimension. “Embracing your grey with a bob feels effortlessly chic,” says Fekkai.

Air-drying is best

When it comes to your toolkit, the advice from the pros is unanimous: leaving your hair to air-dry is best for a bob. That doesn’t mean forgoing the product though, because that will be your secret weapon to getting it right. Texture creams, volumising mousses and root-boosting sprays will help give your hair…