Thinking of cutting a bob? Turn to these nine stars for inspiration
BAZAAR’s edit of the best celebrity bobs to show your hairdresser, from Olivia Palermo to Zendaya.
By Ella Sangster
THERE’S SOMETHING about a bob that is just so chic. Whether it’s sleek and cropped or left tousled and choppy; the short style just has a certain je ne sais quoi that elevates even the most pared-back outfits.
In 2023, the bob is trendier than ever, with stars like Zendaya and Hailey Bieber inspiring us all to book in with our hairdressers ASAP. But, despite how fabulous they look, cutting a bob is not always an easy endeavour. Especially if you’re moving from long locks to a short chop, deciding on the style — and whether you are really ready to commit — can be oddly anxiety-inducing. However, as someone who has done exactly the above, I can guarantee you it’s worth it. So before you rush off to the salon, pursue these pictures of celebrity chops for exact inspiration.
1
Scarlett Johansson
The classic lob
On the Cannes red carpet, Scarlett Johansson donned a haircut sure to convince anyone sitting on the fence, when it comes to length, to err on the side of a chop.
The actresses, who glowed in a baby-pink gown, loosely styled an effortlessly chic blunt blonde lob, which she tucked behind her ears.
1
Olivia Palermo
The spring bob
It may be cooling down here in Australia, but if you’re in search of a chop that recalls warmer days then look no further than Olivia Palermo’s fresh ‘do.
The honey-hued hairstyle is unfussy yet feminine. Falling just above her shoulders, this carefree cut looks stylish left down, but can easily be swept up into a ponytail when needed — ie. for days spent beachside during your Euro Summer.
2
Zendaya
The ingenue bob
The internet went into a frenzy when Zendaya stepped out at the 2023 NAACP Image Awards — and not just because she opted for two different, resplendent outfits.
The ceremony marked the star’s debut of her new haircut; a wavy, ingenue bob. A slightly longer cut, this style will still allow you to tie your locks back while offering the chic shortness of your dreams.
3
Lily Aldridge
The boyfriend bob
As seen on Hailey Bieber and Lily Aldridge, the ‘boyfriend bob’ is perhaps the biggest hair trend of 2023 so far. Cut below the chin and styles in loose waves, the look is the boyfriend jean of hair — simple, yet chic.
4
Gemma Chan
The high-glam option
Gemma Chan’s coiffed bob may have been short-lived, but this ’50s-style crop from the Don’t Worry Darling set is enduringly appealing.
5
Lucy Boynton
The boxy bob
Styled with extra texture for added volume, Lucy Boynton’s boxy bob is an effortless take on the style.
6
Lily Allen
The micro bob
If you’re down to make a statement, a super-short micro bob, à la Lily Allen, is a great way to commit to the short-haired bit.
7
Yara Shahidi
The curly cut
Proving in one look that both side parts and bobs are back, Yara Shahidi’s deep-set fringe-and-bob combo is a modern cut that looks fresher than ever on her stunning curly hair.
8
Taylor Swift
The blunt bob and bangs
For those with straight, thicker hair; the bangs and inward-flicked bob rocked by Taylor Swift back in 2016 is a timeless reference point for your next cut.
9
Emma Stone
The ultimate undone bob
The fringe! The length! The oh-so-subtle waves! If effortless elegance is your brief, then Emma Stone’s 2014 cut is a surefire reference.
