The Bob: A Cut That Never Goes Out of Style

The Bob is a truly versatile style that works with woman of all ages.  It is a classic look that can be styled in many ways. The Bob has a long history as depicted with the hairstyles of Joan of Arc and Cleopatra and Egyptology, but it did not gain notoriety until the 1920’s when it became synonymous the Flapper look. 

To wear your hair short was a major statement, one of independence, defiance and act of rebellion against female expectations.

Beautiful Classic Bob by Riccardo Maggiore

It was a major boost to the hair industry as Hollywood Starlets starting cutting their long locks. The style evolved as it entered the mainstream.

Because hairdressers in the beauty salons often refused to comply with the controversial request of chopping hair off at the ears.  Women found barber shop owners slightly more amenable to the idea, and so typically went there for the bob. The New York Times reported in 1924 that thousands of women of all ages were invading traditional men’s barber shops and demanding the new cuts!

The look took a dip in popularity in the 1930’s, but the haircut was once again revived by Vidal Sassoon and it took the 1960’s mod scene by storm with clean tight lines and surprising geometric shapes.

The bob, quite possibly the best known short haircut, has a rich history and has seen many transformations.  The hair style, classic and smooth, edgy, LOB, or shaggy, is forever ingrained in our culture.