A curly bob is a bob cut specifically for curly or wavy hair, with layers placed so the curls stack into a rounded shape instead of spreading out at the bottom. Here's what sets it apart, who it suits, what to ask your stylist for and how to style it.
Curly bob at a glance
- Length: Chin to shoulder length when dry
- Shape: Rounded, layered to the curl pattern
- Maintenance: Medium
- Trim every: 8 to 10 weeks
What makes it different
Done well, it shows off the curl pattern and gives lift at the crown. Done as a one-length cut, it turns into a triangle; the layering is what matters.
Who it suits
Wavy, curly and coily hair. Heart, oval and long faces suit chin length; round faces suit a slightly longer bob with height at the crown.
Not sure about your face shape? Find it with the free face shape detector, or read our guide to face shapes.
How to ask your stylist for a curly bob
- Find a stylist who cuts curly hair, ideally dry.
- Ask for layers to create a rounded shape and avoid a triangle.
- Allow for shrinkage: point to where you want it to sit when dry.
- Bring a photo. Stylists use these names differently, and a picture removes the guesswork.
How to style it
Apply leave-in conditioner and curl cream or gel to soaking wet hair, scrunch, and diffuse or air dry without touching. Scrunch out the cast at the end.
Variations
- Curly bob with bangs: a curly fringe.
- Curly French bob: short and round.
- Curly lob: collarbone length.
Try it before you cut
A haircut takes months to grow out. Upload a selfie to the AI hairstyle changer and see a curly bob on your own face, next to up to three other styles.
Related haircuts
FAQ
What is a curly bob?
A curly bob is a bob cut specifically for curly or wavy hair, with layers placed so the curls stack into a rounded shape instead of spreading out at the bottom.
Who suits a curly bob?
Wavy, curly and coily hair. Heart, oval and long faces suit chin length; round faces suit a slightly longer bob with height at the crown.
How often does it need a trim?
About every 8 to 10 weeks.
