The long bob – or “lob” – continues to be one of the most requested haircuts at salons worldwide. This versatile cut falls somewhere between a traditional bob and medium-length hair, offering the best of both worlds: easy maintenance with plenty of styling options.
Updated for 2026 with the latest lob trends and styling inspiration.
Why the Long Bob Is Still Trending
The lob has remained popular for years because it:
- Works on virtually all face shapes
- Suits all hair textures (straight, wavy, curly)
- Offers easy styling versatility
- Looks professional yet modern
- Grows out gracefully
- Keeps you cool in warm weather
Best Long Bob Styles for 2026
1. The Blunt Lob
A single-length cut with no layers. Clean, modern, and works beautifully on straight hair. The sharp edges create a sleek, polished look.
2. Textured Lob
Layers and texture throughout create movement and body. Perfect for fine hair that needs volume or thick hair that needs weight removed.
3. Wavy Lob
The ultimate “effortless” look. Whether natural or styled, soft waves add romance and dimension to the cut.
4. Asymmetrical Lob
Shorter on one side than the other for an edgy, fashion-forward look. The difference can be subtle or dramatic.
5. Lob with Curtain Bangs
The hottest combination of 2026. Face-framing bangs add softness and work beautifully with the lob length.
6. The “Italian Lob”
A fuller, more voluminous version with blunt ends and lots of body. Think European glamour.
7. Shaggy Lob
Lots of layers, choppy ends, and lived-in texture. Effortlessly cool and low maintenance.
8. Sleek Straight Lob
Flat-ironed to perfection for a polished, glossy finish. Classic and sophisticated.
Finding Your Perfect Lob
| Face Shape | Best Lob Style |
|---|---|
| Oval | Any style works! You’re lucky. |
| Round | Longer length, below chin. Side part adds length. |
| Square | Soft waves or texture to soften angles. |
| Heart | Chin-length or longer, adds width at jaw. |
| Long/Oblong | Add waves for width. Bangs can shorten face. |
How to Style Your Long Bob
For Beach Waves
- Apply sea salt spray or texturizing spray to damp hair
- Braid hair loosely while damp, let dry
- Or use a curling wand, alternating directions
- Finish by tousling with fingers
For Sleek and Straight
- Apply heat protectant to damp hair
- Blow dry with a round brush, directing hair downward
- Flat iron in small sections
- Finish with smoothing serum for shine
For Volume
- Apply volumizing mousse to roots
- Blow dry upside down
- Use velcro rollers at the crown while cooling
- Finish with texturizing spray
Maintaining Your Lob
- Trims: Every 8-12 weeks to maintain shape
- Products: Lightweight – heavy products weigh down the style
- Heat protection: Always, before any heat styling
- Deep conditioning: Weekly to keep ends healthy
Best Products for Long Bobs
- Texturizing spray: Essential for that effortless wave
- Lightweight serum: Adds shine without weight
- Dry shampoo: Refreshes between washes
- Heat protectant: Non-negotiable for styling
- Flexible hold hairspray: Movement without stiffness
Lob Color Ideas
The lob looks stunning in:
- Balayage: Hand-painted highlights for dimension
- Single process: Rich, all-over color
- Money pieces: Face-framing highlights
- Ombré: Gradual lightening toward ends
- Natural: Embrace your base color!
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the difference between a bob and a lob?
A bob typically falls above the shoulders or at chin level. A lob (long bob) falls between the chin and collarbone.
Can curly hair get a lob?
Absolutely! Just account for shrinkage – cut it longer than your goal length when wet.
Is the lob high maintenance?
No! It’s actually one of the easiest cuts to maintain. It grows out gracefully and requires less styling than very short cuts.
Final Thoughts
The long bob is a modern classic that flatters everyone. Whether you prefer it sleek, wavy, or textured, this versatile cut adapts to your personal style while remaining effortlessly chic.
Looking for more hair inspiration? Check out our guide to the Italian bob – the trending shorter cousin of the lob.