The Bell-Bottom Bob Is Our Next Salon Obsession
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1 month ago
Fresh flicks for fall
Just when we thought it was over, the bob craze continues. The next cut on our radar is the bell-bottom bob, which salon professionals predict will be the next nostalgia-driven winner.
What Is A Bell-Bottom Bob?
‘A bell-bottom bob is a blunt bob with flicked-up ends,’ explains Anna Wiig, hairstylist, colourist and founder of wiig. Anna tells us that, like jeans, the cut creates the shapes of a bell – hence the name. ‘This is a bob with minimal layers, which help create its signature flip. It can also be styled with or without a fringe and bangs.’
@daleherne_hair Fresh flicked bob ❤️ made in @officialhershesons 💙 #hairstyle #flickedbob #oldmoney #hershesons #london #londontiktok #hairtransformation #hairtok #londonhairstylist #londonhairdresser ♬ redrum – 21 Savage
How Does It Differ From Other Bob Styles?
With so many bobs on the trend circuit right now, it can be difficult to find one that really stands out from the crowd. But Anna tells us that it’s the bell-bottom bob that gives it an edge. ‘Having fine layers at the bottom gives the bell bottom its distinctive kick out at the ends,’ she say. ‘Bobs are really having their moment right now, but this one is a more fun and playful version. We see it having a big run in the salon.’
There’s also nostalgic appeal for this trend, thanks to the flicks. This is a silhouette that takes us back to the 90s and 00s – and has us reaching for butterfly clips, hair grips and ribbons.
Who Suits This Cut?
While anyone can try out a bob, this style might sit better on certain hair types and face shapes. ‘You do need to have fairly thick hair to pull this off, as fine hair will sit too flat,’ warns Anna. ‘Most face shapes will work, but I would maybe avoid this style if you have a square face or a heavy jawline, as this will only accentuate it.’
How To Ask For A Bell-Bottom Bob In The Salon
In the salon, you’ll want to ask for a bob that flicks out at the ends into a bell shape. You can also bring reference images to your appointment, so that your stylist has a better idea of what you’re after.
But be warned, this cut might involve more cutting than you might expect. ‘Be prepared for the length to go, as this style definitely needs to be above the shoulders,’ says Anna. ‘And if you have a longer bob, be prepared for this to feel a lot shorter.’
@t3micro We’re flipping for this flick-up hairstyle. See how Nyla achieves this modern take on a retro look using the #T3SmoothID flat iron. #HairTok #HowTo #BobTutorial #HairTutorial ♬ The Kings Affirmation Austin Millz Remix – Austin Millz
How To Style A Bell-Bottom Bob
A sleek style suits this cut best, Anna tells us – and thankfully, it’s pretty easy to achieve at home. ‘Apply a mousse from the roots to midway on damp hair,’ she advises. ‘Then blow dry with a medium-sized round brush to create some volume.’
As for the signature flicks: ‘When smoothing the ends, use the brush to flip the bottom of the hair up and away. This creates the bottom flick. You could also use a straightener, although this tends to be a bit more flat. Depending on how well your hair can be manipulated, try cupping the ends of the hair in your hand so they flip out and get a bit of soft heat from the hair dryer to heat it up. Let it cool down while still in your hand and this will create a set, which should hold. You can also add a touch of hair spray to hold in place too.’
What Next?
For the most part, Anna sees this classic style remaining the way it is. (As they say: if it ain’t broken.) ‘There might be small tweaks, like a soft fringe or layers around the face,’ she says. ‘But for the most part, it will remain a timeless look.’
Hair Inspiration
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Featured image: AW24 Copenhagen Fashion Week Streetstyle (c) Noor-u-Nisa
