The bob is a classic haircut that has stood the test of time and works on fine, straight, or curly hair. That’s why it’s so popular, but those with thick hair might think their hair is too dense for a shorter style. But the bob is actually celebrated for creating the illusion of fullness, so you’re already ahead of the game.
The secret is how it’s cut; a well-cut bob won’t look too bulky. In fact, many of the trending styles, the mushroom bob, French girl bob, and bubble bob, are perfect for thick hair types. The bubble bob is characterized by soft layers and a rounded graduated shape, making it suitable for most face shapes, especially those with narrow jaws, heart shapes, and oval features. But if you have thick hair, opting for a layered bob can take some weight off your hair. For example, a cropped shaggy style can look fresh, and a longer bob with lots of layers can add movement and dimension. With so many options to choose from, it’s overwhelming!
Good news, you’re in luck. This list will help you find the best bob hairstyles for thick hair. Let’s get started and find the perfect bob for your gorgeous, thick hair!
Bob Haircuts for Thick Hair
Bob haircuts are great for thick hair. They help balance volume and texture, create movement, and enhance hair’s natural beauty. Let’s explore how a bob can turn thick hair into a stylish and manageable look.
Balancing Volume and Texture
Thick hair can feel overwhelming, but a well-cut bob can work wonders in balancing that volume. The key is in the cut. Stylists use techniques like layering, texturizing, and thinning to remove excess weight and distribute volume evenly. This way, your hair looks polished without feeling bulky. Imagine a bob that sits perfectly, each strand falling into place, looking harmonious and sleek.
Creating Movement and Flow
One of the challenges with thick hair is achieving that movement and flow. A bob haircut can solve this by introducing subtle layers or angled cuts. These add a dynamic to your hair, making it look lively and full of energy. Whether you go for a tousled bob for a carefree vibe or a more structured cut, the movement will make your hair look vibrant and less heavy.
Enhancing Natural Texture
Bob haircuts are also great for showing off your hair’s natural texture. If you have waves or curls, a layered bob will enhance these features and give your hair a more defined look. If you have straight, thick hair, a blunt bob will add a sleek and sophisticated touch. The beauty of a bob is in its versatility – whether you want to go tousled and wavy or smooth and straight, there’s a bob style that will highlight your hair’s best bits.
Long Layers
Long layers can be good on a bob, especially if you already have thick hair. Layers are often used to add volume to a style, but in this case, they serve a different purpose. Instead of choppy pieces that can look bulky, long layers add texture and definition to your look. Choppy layers can add volume, create an undone look, and provide movement, so they’re a great option for those who want a low-maintenance yet stylish look.
Long Layers Benefits
Texture: Long layers break up the thickness of thick hair and add movement and flow. This texture makes your bob look more dynamic, less heavy, and easier to style.
Framing the Face: The layers draw the eye to the ends of your hair and create a beautifully framed shape that flatters your features. This is great for round or square face shapes, as the layers can soften the overall look and add sophistication.
Styling Options: Long layers give you styling options. You can wear your bob sleek and straight for a formal look or add waves for a more relaxed beachy vibe. The layers allow for various styling techniques, so you can change your look according to the occasion.
Easier to Maintain: Thick hair can be hard to manage sometimes, but long layers can make it easier. The layers can reduce bulk so your hair feels lighter and more manageable. This is especially helpful when you want to wear your hair off your neck during hot weather.
Showing Off Natural Texture: If you have natural waves or curls, long layers can show off your hair’s natural texture. The layers can define curls and waves and give your bob a more lived-in, undone look.
Long Layered Bob Styling Tips
Use the Right Products: To keep the texture and movement of your long layers, use lightweight products. A texturizing spray or mousse can add volume without weighing your hair down.
Regular Trims: Regular trims are a must to keep your long layers looking fresh and prevent split ends. Aim for a trim every 6-8 weeks to maintain the shape and health of your bob.
Try Heat Tools: Long layers can be styled in many ways with heat tools. Try using a curling wand for soft waves or a flat iron for a sleek finish. Just remember to use a heat protectant for your hair.
Accessories: Long-layered bobs can be accessorized beautifully. Try adding headbands, clips, or scarves to your look and add a personal touch.
Blunt Long Bob
The blunt long bob or lob is a sleek and easy hairstyle for thick hair. The blunt ends create a clean look that pairs well with the shoulder-grazing length and gives it a modern look. Another great option is the pixie bob, a short hairstyle for thick hair. Styles like shaggy layers, spiky crowns, and chunky layers help manage volume while adding dimension and texture.
Blunt Long Bob Benefits
Low Maintenance: One of the best things about the blunt long bob is that it’s easy to style. This cut doesn’t need much styling at all, perfect for busy bees. A quick blow dry, and you’re good to go.
Flattering Length: The shoulder-grazing length of the lob is great for thick hair. It allows movement without overwhelming your features and creates a balanced silhouette that flatters your natural beauty.
Multiple Looks: While the blunt long bob looks great straight, it’s also versatile. You can add soft waves for a more relaxed look or keep it sleek and straight for a formal look. Perfect for everyday wear and formal events.
Timeless: The blunt long bob is a classic cut that never goes out of style. It’s timeless, so you can wear it for years without worrying that it will go out of fashion.
Blunt Long Bob Styling Tips
Smooth Strands: To avoid a heavy look, keep your strands smooth and sleek. Use a styling cream while blow-drying your hair to keep the cuticles flat. This will give you a polished finish that enhances the blunt cut.
Frizz Control: Light hair oil can be your best friend when it comes to frizz. Apply a small amount to the ends of your hair to add shine and moisture without weighing it down. This will keep your hair healthy and your bobs fresh.
Trim: Trims are needed to keep your blunt long bob sharp. Get a trim every 6-8 weeks to maintain the blunt edges and prevent split ends.
Try Parting: Changing your part can make a big difference. Try the middle part for a sleek, modern look or the side part for a more relaxed look. This is an easy way to update your style without any major changes.
Accessorize: To add to your long bob, try adding hair accessories like headbands or clips. This will add personality to your appearance.
Asymmetrical Bob
The asymmetrical bob is great for thick hair. Compared to other bob hairstyles, it looks long and luxurious. The short bob, a trendy and easy-to-manage hairstyle, is also versatile for all hair types and can flatter all face shapes and lifestyles. This is the crème de la crème for many reasons, so it’s a favorite for most.
Asymmetrical Bob Benefits
Length Retention: One of the best things about the asymmetrical bob is you can still have a lot of length while having the benefits of a bob. The longer side can frame your face beautifully and add to your look.
Angular Shape: The angular shape of the asymmetrical bob is great at hiding bulk. This is good for thick hair as it creates a flattering shape that doesn’t overwhelm your features. The asymmetry distracts from the thickness and gives you a sleek and sophisticated look.
Soft, Flattering Ends: To get this look, you need soft ends that can be curled under lightly rather than with a sharp edge. This way, your style will look lean and polished without looking too heavy. Soft ends add movement and dimension to the bob.
Asymmetrical Bob Styling Tips
Use the Right Products: To get soft ends, use a lightweight styling cream or mousse. These will add texture and hold without weighing your hair down, giving you a more natural finish.
Curling Technique: When curling the ends, use a medium-sized curling iron or flat iron to get soft waves. Curl the ends under lightly to add sophistication and keep the look soft and cute.
Regular Maintenance: Trims are needed to keep your asymmetrical bob fresh. Get a trim every 6-8 weeks to maintain the shape, prevent split ends, and keep the angles sharp and flattering.
Try Color: Add highlights or balayage to your asymmetrical bob. This will add dimension to the cut, draw attention to the angles, and make your style more noticeable.
Shaggy Bob
You think a short style is only for fine hair, but the shaggy bob proves that this look is for everyone and can be very flattering for thick hair. Through different layering, parting, and texturizing methods, a thick bob can enhance the appearance and manageability of thick hair. By having a shaggy cut that’s thin on the sides, you can totally change your look into something new and modern.
Shaggy Bob Benefits
Textured Layers: The shaggy bob has piecey layers that add visual interest and movement to your style. These layers break up the thickness of thick hair and enhance its natural texture.
Versatile Styling: This style is versatile and can be worn in many ways. Whether you like a messy, undone look or a more polished finish, the shaggy bob can do it. You can switch between styles by using different products or tools.
Trendy: The shaggy bob is like the wolf and cub cuts, which are so in right now. This modern take on the classic bob keeps you looking fresh and on-trend if you want to be.
Face-Framing Bangs: If you’re still unsure about this style, try adding baby curtain bangs. These soft, face-framing bangs are the stars of the shaggy bob on Instagram. They add softness, can enhance your features, and make the overall look more flattering.
Shaggy Bob Styling Tips
Use Texturizing Products: To get that undone look, use texturizing sprays or sea salt sprays. These will enhance the piecey layers and give your shaggy bob a lived-in feel.
Blow-Dry with a Round Brush: For a more polished look, blow-dry your shaggy bob with a round brush. This will create volume at the roots and keep the ends curled under for a chic finish.
Curly Bob
The curly bob is perfect for those with big, bouncy curls, as this cut will show off your natural volume and texture. If you’ve been thinking of transforming your coils into a bob, this style will enhance your curls and give you a chic and manageable look. The wavy bob is a versatile and stylish haircut that shows off gentle waves and movement. Its appeal lies in different variations, such as choppy layers and texturizing methods, to emphasize the romantic and full look that can be achieved with this cut.
Curly Bob Benefits
Natural Volume: Curly hair has volume, and the bob cut will enhance that. The shorter length will allow your curls to bounce and move freely, creating a lively style.
Face-Framing Shape: A good curly bob will frame your face and highlight your features. The shape of the bob can be customized to your face shape, ensuring a flattering look.
Low Maintenance: Curly bobs can be low maintenance compared to longer styles. With the right products and care, you can wear your natural curls without spending hours styling.
Versatile Styling: While the curly bob looks great and natural, it’s also versatile. You can add products to enhance your curls for a more defined look or go for a more relaxed undone look for a casual style.
Finding the Right Salon
If you’re considering getting a curly bob, it’s important to find a salon that specializes in curly cuts. Here are some tips to find the right stylist:
Research Curly Hair Specialists: Look for salons or stylists that cut curly hair. Curly hair is different from straight hair so finding someone who’s experienced is key.
Consultation: Book a consultation before your appointment. Discuss your desired length and shape and any concerns you may have. A good stylist will take the time to understand your hair texture and face shape to create a customized look.
Bring Inspiration: Bring photos of curly bobs you love to your appointment. This will help your stylist understand your vision and make sure you’re on the same page.
Ask About Techniques: Ask your stylist about the cutting techniques they use for curly hair. Dry cutting or the DevaCut method will create a shape that works with your natural curl pattern.
Blunt Bangs
Blunt bangs are a great option that goes well with the bob, especially for those with thicker hair textures and wavy hair. Certain bob styles, such as layered bobs and messy cuts, will enhance the natural texture and fullness of wavy hair and make it look effortless. The bob can work with all types of bangs, but blunt bangs are super flattering as they will embrace the natural weight of thicker hair rather than hide it.
Blunt Bangs Benefits
More Volume: Blunt bangs create more volume and lift your style. The weight of the bangs works with the fullness of the bob and creates a balanced look.
Edgy Look: A heavy fringe that hits just below the eyebrows adds an edgy element to your look. This bold style will turn a classic bob into a modern statement, perfect for those who want to express themselves.
Blunt Bangs Styling
Trims: Regular trims are a must to keep your blunt bangs sharp and shaped. Go for a trim every 4-6 weeks to keep them looking fresh and prevent split ends.
Use the Right Products: To keep your bangs sleek, use a lightweight styling cream or smoothing serum. These will help with frizz and add shine without weighing your hair down.
Blow-Dry with a Round Brush: For a finish, blow-dry your bangs with a round brush. This will create volume at the roots and make your bangs flat and smooth.
Try Parting: While blunt bangs are worn straight across, you can try parting them. A slight side part will soften the look and add some versatility to your style.
Accessorize: Add hair accessories like headbands or clips to your blunt bangs. These will enhance your overall look and add some personality to your style.
Chin Length Bob
Ah, the chin-length bob—a classic, elegant, and simple hairstyle that textured hair loves. This cut uses thickness and slightly blunt ends to create a full and lush look that shows off the natural volume of your hair.
Chin Length Bob Benefits
Timeless Elegance: The chin-length bob is a style that never goes out of fashion. Its clean lines and sophisticated shape will suit any occasion, from everyday to formal.
Fullness and Body: This cut is perfect for those with thick hair, as the blunt ends enhance the fullness of the style. It looks chic, polished, and confident.
Styling
Texture: To enhance your natural texture, use a texturizing spray or mousse. These will add volume and definition to your chin-length bob and make it look effortless.
Waves: For a more dynamic look, use a curling wand to create soft waves. This will add movement and depth to your chin-length bob and make it look lively and fun.
Maintenance: Regular trims are essential to keeping your chin-length bob sharp. Go for a trim every 6-8 weeks to maintain the shape and prevent split ends.
Mushroom Bob
The mushroom bob is a stylish and modern haircut that is similar to the lob but shorter, typically just below the chin. This cut has long sides and curved ends and is great for framing the face.
Mushroom Bob Benefits
Face Framing Shape: The mushroom bob is designed to work with your face. The rounded shape and longer sides will frame your face and draw attention to your eyes and cheekbones.
Fullness and Volume: This cut works best with full hair as the extra thickness creates the rounded shape of the style. Your hair’s fullness adds depth and personality to the cut and looks great.
Versatile Styling: The mushroom bob looks great straight but can be styled for different looks. You can wear it sleek and smooth for a polished look or add soft curls for a more textured look.
Mushroom Bob Styling Tips
Use a Round Brush: To get the full mushroom bob effect, blow-dry your hair with a round brush. This will add volume to the roots and enhance the rounded shape.
Curl the Ends Under: After blow drying, use a flat iron to curl the ends under lightly. This will add a polished finish and keep the mushroom bob’s rounded shape.
Use Styling Products: Use a lightweight mousse or volumizing spray to add extra body and hold to your hair. These will add fullness to your mushroom bob and keep it fresh all day.
French Bob
The French bob is probably the most versatile style on this list. It works with fine or thick hair. This chic, Parisian-inspired style is sophisticated and can be styled in many ways.
French Bob Benefits
Versatility: It can be worn curly or straight to change your look. It’s suitable for any occasion, from everyday to formal.
Thick Hair: If you have thick hair, go for a cut with fewer layers. A French bob with some volume will look balanced, and the blunt ends will add weight to the style.
Complementing Bangs: With a complementing fringe, the French bob is the perfect balance of drama and romance. The fringe will frame your face and soften your features.
French Bob Styling Tips
Blunt Ends: For a more defined look, go for blunt ends. This will give your French bob a polished finish and keep the weighty look that suits thick hair.
Soft Waves: For a more relaxed look, add soft waves to your French bob. Use a curling wand to create loose curls, and then tousle them for an effortlessly chic look.
Stacked Bob
The stacked bob was a big beauty trend in the early 2000s, thanks to style icons like Victoria Beckham. This cut has a tapered neck and precision-cut layers, giving it a modern, high-end finish.
Stacked Bob Benefits
High Fashion: The stacked bob is high fashion, so it’s perfect for those who want to make a statement. The structured shape and clean lines will elevate any outfit.
Volume and Texture: The stacked bob’s layered design adds volume and texture to your hair. The stacked layers at the back add fullness, which is great for fine or limp hair.
Tapered Neckline: The tapered neckline adds a cool detail to the style and enhances the overall shape. This is not only stylish but will also lengthen the neck and create a beautiful profile.
Stacked Bob Styling Tips
Regular Maintenance: The stacked bob requires a bit more maintenance than other bobs to keep its shape and precision. Regular trims every 4-6 weeks are needed to maintain the tapered look and prevent split ends.
Use the Right Tools: To achieve the sleek finish of a stacked bob, smooth out your hair with a flat iron. This will give your hair a polished look that will show off the cut.
Add Volume Products: Use volume products like mousse or root lifting spray to add volume to your stacked bob.