34 layered bob hairstyles that give unreal oomf

We know the bob is a classic. This timeless shape will never grow old. But… if you want to remix the cut a little, the layered bob can blend in some extra drama and personality.

Chances are, you'll have seen a lot more interpretations of the layered bob lately. Layers are a standout trend all on their own, infiltrating pretty much all of the top trending hairstyles right now (the curve cut, the butterfly cut, shaggy ‘70s flicks and ’90s blowdries), so it makes sense that they've graduated to a shorter length and combined with the most popular cut of all: the bob.

What is a layered bob?

Like its name suggests, a ‘layered bob’ is simply a bob with layers. Classic bobs are traditionally cut straight and one-length around the base (aside from some super subtle graduation in length around the nape or face), so this style switches things up.

The baseline should hold down the classic bob structure, with a sprinkle of shorter sections in the top layers to add movement. It can loosen up blunt edges with a feathered finish of some soft pieces that provide volume. It should give a style that feels more rounded in comparison to the striking squared-off sliced bob and paper-cut bobs. The key is to be tactical with the layers so as not to shatter the base shape and move it into mullet or shag territory.

Why get a layered bob?

The layered bob can add extra movement, dimension and texture, alongside providing some face-framing action. It's the ideal cut if you have longer hair and are looking to brave a shorter style. Likewise, it works well if you're trying to grow out an already layered crop, like a pixie.

"The bob is a perennial classic working at every stage of life, but what I love about the layered bob is that you can simply adjust the length to flatter your face shape and add a little texture around the base to keep it fresh," says Mark Leeson, Revlon Professional Global Artistic Ambassador.

“It's perfect if you want a change that can take hair back to optimum health,” says Mark – after lots of styling or colouring, for example. "The layered bob is a great option for this – it's fresh, textured and has an easy-going appeal that’s really attractive."

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How to get the layered bob?

Layers are an art; you have to get the balance right, and this will depend on your hair type and texture, so work with your stylist to determine the right amount and length for you. "Ask your hairdresser to add subtle choppy layers in line with your jaw – this is especially good for anyone with thinning hair," explains Mark. "I love to place subtle colour around the hairline to highlight features and enhance the movement of the cut; it really adds to the texture of your hair."

Meanwhile, pro hairstylist, Hollie Rose Clarke, recommends the layered bob as a way of removing weight from thick hair, too. Zendaya is the reigning queen of the layered bob, combining the perfect mix of Old Hollywood Glamour and '90s supermodel chic," she says. But ultimately, “a layered bob can be tailored to suit any thickness or texture,” Hollie says.

How to maintain the layered bob?

When it comes to maintaining the look, the good news is that the layered bob is pretty low maintenance. Mark recommends booking in for regular trims every 8-12 weeks (depending on how quickly your hair grows) and using professional haircare that respects your scalp, particularly if you're adding colour to your layered bob to frame your face and highlight your features.

How to style the layered bob?

We've seen the chop styled two main ways: shaggier, mussier and more relaxed, or bouncy and voluminous with ‘90s blowout vibes. For a more textured look, define your curls and waves with a curl cream, or (if you’re not a wavy or curly girl) encourage them by braiding your hair and leaving it to air-dry. For a more polished finish, tong your waves in alternating directions. For a bouncy finish, simply add a little root lift, blow-dry with a round bristle brush and tong the ends for extra movement.

Here's 34 of our favourite ways to wear the layered bob…

The lightly layered bob

The '90s layered bob

The soft layered bob

The curly layered bob

The faux side-fringe layered bob

The voluminous layered bob

The subtly-layered bob

The two-tone copper layered bob

The layered bowl bob

The mussy fringe layered bob

The side-parted layered bob

The face-framing layered bob

The jellyfish layered bob

The crimped layered bob

The layered bob and blunt micro-fringe

The jaw-length layered bob

The airy layered bob

The curled layered bob

The long layered bob

The rounded layered bob

The curved layered bob

The layered French bob

The air-dried layered bob

The balayaged layered bob

The ‘mane’ layered bob

The shaggy layered bob

The flicked layered bob

The wavy layered bob

The mussy layered bob

The laidback layered bob

The side-parted curly layered bob

The ear-tuck layered bob

The beach wave layered bob

The graduated layered bob