An inverted bob is a bob that's shorter at the back and longer at the front, with stacked layers at the back that create a curved, lifted shape. Here's what sets it apart, who it suits, what to ask your stylist for and how to style it.
Inverted bob at a glance
- Length: Short at the nape, chin to collarbone at the front
- Shape: Angled, with graduated layers at the back
- Maintenance: Medium to high
- Trim every: 5 to 6 weeks
What makes it different
From the side, the line angles down toward the chin. It gives volume at the crown and length around the face.
Inverted bob vs A-line bob
Both are longer at the front. An inverted bob has stacked layers at the back; an A-line bob is one length with just the angled perimeter.
Who it suits
Round and square faces, since the longer front pieces slim the face, and fine to medium hair, which gains volume from the stacking.
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 an inverted bob
- Say how steep the angle should be from back to front.
- Say how much stacking you want at the back.
- Bring photos of the side and the back.
- Bring a photo. Stylists use these names differently, and a picture removes the guesswork.
How to style it
Blow dry the back with a round brush for lift and smooth the front pieces forward.
Variations
- A-line bob: longer at the front, but with no stacked layers at the back.
- Stacked bob: strong graduation at the nape for a rounded back.
- Graduated bob: another name for a stacked shape.
- Angled bob: a general term for any bob that's longer at the front.
Try it before you cut
A haircut takes months to grow out. Upload a selfie to the AI hairstyle changer and see an inverted bob on your own face, next to up to three other styles.
Related haircuts
FAQ
What is an inverted bob?
An inverted bob is a bob that's shorter at the back and longer at the front, with stacked layers at the back that create a curved, lifted shape.
Who suits an inverted bob?
Round and square faces, since the longer front pieces slim the face, and fine to medium hair, which gains volume from the stacking.
How often does it need a trim?
About every 5 to 6 weeks.
