Throwback Layers Are Back, Thanks To The Feathered Bob
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2 months ago
This soft cut tops our summer mood board
If 2024’s short hair renaissance has taught us anything, it’s that there’s a bob for every mood and occasion. Sitting on the relaxed end of the spectrum is the feathered bob, which boasts soft layers and retro volume. Here’s how to get the look.
What Is A Feathered Bob?
‘A feathered bob is a textured short hairstyle that’s cut with many layers to create a feathered look,’ explains StĂ©phane Ferreira, Operations Manager and Senior Stylist at Live True London. ‘These days, popular bob styles tend to be either sleek and cut to one length or cut with choppy layers. A feathered bob falls under the second category, but it’s layered a lot more softly than a shag or wolf cut bob.’
‘By incorporating light, feathered layers, this style creates a soft, flattering, and voluminous finish,’ adds Billy Supple, a stylist at ADEM London . ‘The feathered look is playful and flirty, leaving a bold statement without the harshness of a traditional bob.’
@mariaagloriaaa literally the best feathered Bob I’ve ever gotten (heat it’s my first one) but I don’t care I still love it 🥰✨ #shaggybob #layeredbob #featheredhair ♬ I look like YES and ya look like NO – Eugene Anekwe III
Feathered styling has long been a popular in salons – especially for longer hair – having picked up speed first in the 1970s. But this time around, it’s getting the bob treatment. ‘We’re always seeing new or refreshed takes on the bob,’ says StĂ©phane. ‘And with many people pulling from past decades when it comes to fashion, it’s only a matter of time before hair and makeup follow.’
Billy also pins the popularity of this look on the desire for more simple, low-maintenance hairstyles. ‘As fashion and beauty trends evolve, people are gravitating towards more effortless, natural-looking hairstyles,’ he says. ‘The feathered bob, like the wolf cut, offers that “undone” yet polished look that suits busy lifestyles. It’s low-maintenance, versatile, and provides a wash-and-go appeal that many clients crave. People want their hair to enhance their routine, not complicate it.’
And it seems generation TikTok are firmly on board with the trend. A quick search will reveal over 16.5 million posts tagged under #featheredbobhaircutwithbangs, and a further 2.1 million under #featheredbob.
How Does It Differ From A Classic Bob?
‘A classic bob has a sharp, structured shape with clean lines and minimal texture,’ explains Billy. ‘In contrast, a feathered bob adds softness through layers and texture, creating a flowing, dynamic, and more relaxed feel. While a classic bob exudes professionalism and sophistication, the feathered bob leans toward a romantic, carefree, and modern aesthetic – think Sex and the City chic.’
Who Suits This Cut?
‘This look works best for straight hair, as feathered layers on curly hair can lead to frizz and make strands difficult to manage,’ StĂ©phane tells us. ‘It’s perfect for adding volume and taking weight off, making it a good option for those with fine hair looking for added oomph. It can also help disguise damaged hair and make it look healthier.’
How To Ask For A Feathered Bob In The Salon (& What To Expect)
‘When speaking with your stylist, ask for a soft, flowing bob with gentle layers to achieve that feathered, textured finish,’ recommends Billy. ‘There’s no special preparation required beforehand – just come with an open mind and be ready for a fresh change.’
‘You can also bring pictures of your desired style so that your stylist can understand what you’re after,’ adds StĂ©phane. ‘Think about what length you’d like and whether you’d like a fringe.’
@oohitskristen♬ Dreams (2004 Remaster) – Fleetwood Mac
As for the technique itself, Billy tells us it all starts with a classic bob. ‘The foundation of this look is a classic bob, but the key difference is in the layering,’ he says. ‘The stylist gradually removes weight from the hair, adding layers to create texture and movement. The result is a relaxed yet structured style, with a natural, feathery texture that feels both fresh and modern.’
Does It Need Much Maintenance?
Due to its multitude of layers, a feathered bob might need a little extra help to keep it looking fresh. ‘This hairstyle is cut with lots and lots of layers to create a very light effect,’ emphasises StĂ©phane. ‘Be sure to revisit the salon often. This cut will be noticeable once it starts to grow out.’
How To Style A Feathered Bob
And when it comes to styling, StĂ©phane suggests sticking to a voluminous, textural look. ‘I’d recommend using texturising and volumising products when styling, such as mousses and styling sprays,’ she says. ‘Make sure to keep your ends hydrated to avoid them getting frizzy and unruly, using moisturising masks regularly.’
Craving something a little more polished? Billy has just the thing. ‘If you’re after a sleeker look, stick with a leave-in conditioner and blow-dry the hair in sections to define the layers and maintain the style’s shape,’ he suggests. ‘The feathered bob is adaptable, so you can easily switch from a tousled, playful look to a more polished one depending on the occasion.’
What Next?
As for the future, Billy believes we’ll see more personalisation with this trend. ‘We’ve seen subtle changes in how the feather bob is styled over the years, and I believe we’ll continue to see variations emerge, especially as clients and stylists experiment with texture, length, and styling techniques,’ he says. ‘It may not achieve the same legendary status as the traditional bob – but it will definitely remain a go-to for those seeking a fresh, youthful twist on a classic cut.’
StĂ©phane also sees this bob cut transitioning back to its longer roots. ‘This trend could lead to longer feathery looks, such as the Farah Fawcett cut, as the adopters of the bob start growing their hair out,’ she muses.
Hair Inspiration
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Featured image: SS24 Copenhagen Fashion Week Streetstyle @ Noor-u-nisa Khan
