Bubble Bobs: What They Are and Styling Tips

If you weren’t already aware, bob haircuts are having a moment. Countless Hollywood It girls have debuted the shorter haircut over the last few years, including but not limited to Lori Harvey, Hailey Bieber, and Megan Fox. Like any other cut, there are numerous variations, but there is one particular style that has been rising in popularity: the “bubble” bob.

The trend is equal parts fun and timeless — a perfect recipe for the “old money” aesthetic that is having a moment on TikTok right now. “These are the types of bob that have a more airy feel,” hairstylist Kee Taylor tells PS, adding that the difference is in a bubble bob’s rounded shape. “The best way to describe it would be a shorter-length style that has noticeable movement through the ends with volume that also gives it a light, almost ‘floating’ appearance.”

Bubble bobs have been spotted on everyone from Ciara to Kerry Washington, among other stars. “I noticed an uptick in this hairstyle when Zendaya wore it to the Louis Vuitton Fashion Show in March 2023,” Taylor says. Still, no matter if it’s spotted on a red carpet or during a casual street style moment, the hairstyle is perfectly suited for any occasion.

Bubble bobs are also extremely wearable and work across all hair types. “It’s a lightweight hairstyle that is full of movement and is super easy to both manage and style for the everyday person,” Taylor says.

How to Get a Bubble Bob

Though bubble bobs can work for virtually anyone, there is a technique that you should note in order to get the look. “Your hair needs to be straightened or blown out and flipped under toward the face, which helps get a rounded shape and that true bubble form,” Taylor says. “The front of the hair needs to be left a little longer and the back a bit shorter to create extra movement throughout the hair.”

As with any heat-styled look, it’s imperative to make sure you’re using heat protectant to shield your hair, but in this case, it will also give it some added softness and shine. We’ve been loving the Oribe Gold Lust Dry Heat Protection Spray ($46). For those with finer hair, she also recommends using a texture spray after heat-styling for added volume. Thicker hair types can add oil to the ends for a smooth, frizz-free look. Because you can never have too much inspiration to bring to your stylist, take a look at some of the best bubble bobs ahead.