The Bell-Bottom Bob: A Soft Take on a Classic Style

Like a magpie drawn to flourishes, I’ve always favored flares over more conventional styles. Even as a pre-teen, rejecting denim ‘sausages’ for my NEXT flares, it was an early indication of my tactile preferences – a quirk that’s finally gaining mainstream acceptance.

What is the Bell-Bottom Bob?

Unlike the straight blunt bob, the bell-bottom bob features sleek roots that gently flare out at the ends, creating a fuller, bouncier appearance, particularly beneficial for fine or lackluster hair. Hairstylist Chlöe Swift explains, "The outward movement gives the style more body, while the shorter length keeps it feeling fresh and modern."

Who is it Best Suited For?

The bell-bottom bob works particularly well on straight to wavy hair and can be adapted for finer hair by creating the illusion of fullness at the ends. It’s exceptionally flattering for oval, heart, and longer face shapes, softening stronger features with its outward movement around the jawline. Curtain bangs are a favorite, blending seamlessly into the flicked-out shape, or a soft, wispy Bardot style fringe can add a French-inspired touch.

How to Style the Bell-Bottom Bob

Maintaining this style requires medium maintenance – trims every 8-10 weeks are recommended to preserve the flicky shape. Blow-drying smooth and using a round brush to flick the ends up and out is a simple technique. Alternatively, a hot brush can be used. Minimal products are key; Chlöe recommends a leave-in heat protectant spray like Living Proof’s Smooth Styling Spray and a light hairspray to tame flyaways.

Chlöe describes it as a "brilliant summer haircut" due to its ability to keep hair off the neck while remaining long enough for styling options.