6 Ways to Give Your Bob a Modern Upgrade

If we learned anything in the past few years, it’s that we can get pretty creative with our beauty routines when we have to. When it comes to hair care and hairstyling in particular, we’ve learned quite a few tricks, including how to make an old ‘do look fresh again. 

The bob is one of those classic hairstyles that gets reinvented year after year, remaining at the top of our trends lists as a result. But if you’re starting to grow weary of your bob haircut, you may be wondering how you can give it an upgrade without a dramatic chop. If that sounds like your situation then you’re in the right place. 

Keep reading as we offer six easy ways to modernize your bob haircut so you can fall in love with this tried-and-true style all over again.

How Can I Freshen My Bob Haircut?

Updating your look doesn’t have to involve dramatic changes. If you love a good bob but feel like yours is starting to look less like a nod to the ‘90s and more like you got it cut that decade, try one of these quick tricks to give it a modern upgrade.

1. Make It Asymmetrical

Last year, one of the easiest upgrades you could make to your style was to adopt a Gen Z-approved middle part. Now, it’s all about asymmetrical cuts that remind us of our favorite R&B divas from the early aughts. Freshen your bob by turning into an asymmetrical bob. 

The best part about this tweak is that there are several ways to try it, including long in the back and short in the front, or long on one side and short on the other. Either way you decide to do it, keep some hair serum, like the L’Oréal Paris EverPure Sulfate-Free Simply Clean Sheer Oil, on hand to smooth out your strands and keep hair frizz away.

2. Keep It Blunt

If you really want a style that’s on trend, ask your stylist for a blunt cut bob — even better if you pair this cut with blunt bangs. This bob style is particularly perfect for those with fine to medium hair, as it can help add the look of volume to hair that tends to fall flat. That being said, blunt bobs look best when they’re smooth, so use a smoothing system of shampoo and conditioner when you wash it. Apply a heat protectant like the L’Oréal Paris EverPure Sulfate-Free Weightless Blow Dry Primer, then blow-dry your hair with a paddle brush.

3. Add a Trendy Bang

Cutting the front of your hair into a trendy bang will easily update your bob. We get it — bangs are a commitment, so this change may take some serious consideration. But if you’ve ever dreamed of trying a cute fringe, this is a great time to take the plunge. Remember, it’s hair and it will grow back if you’re over it faster than you expected to be. Just be sure you choose your bangs wisely (based on your style of bob and length of hair) since growing out your bangs could take a while. 

If you’re on the daring side, allow us to recommend baby bangs to accompany your bob. They’re ultra-flattering for people with square face shapes and those with short foreheads, and they look good in all hair textures.

4. Slick It Back

One of the biggest gripes we hear about having a bob is its inability to be transformed to look like any other type of haircut. In other words, if you have a bob, you’re always going to look like you have a bob. Of course, if you opted for a bob chances are you don’t mind. But it’s fair if every now and then you want to really switch things up. 

A slicked-back style lets you get a totally fresh look without adding extensions, wigs, accessories or any other enhancements to your hair. All you need is some leave-in conditioner or hair cream for moisture, hair gel like the L’Oréal Paris Studio Line Mega Gel to help slick back your hair and give it that wet look, and the L’Oréal Paris Elnett Satin Extra Strong Hold, Light Hairspray Unscented for shine and all-day hold without a crunchy feel.

5. Add Some Texture

Bob haircuts look beautiful whether they’re straight, wavy or curly and if you’re lucky enough to have natural texture, play it up from time to time. After shampoo and conditioner, apply a dollop of the L’Oréal Paris Advanced Hairstyle BOOST IT Volume Inject Mousse to your hair, then blow-dry it with a diffuser to help enhance your curl’s shape. If your hair isn’t naturally curly, add the mousse, braid your hair all over and let it sit overnight. Take the braids down in the morning and tease your hair for the look of effortless tousled waves.

6. Infuse It With Edgy Color

When it comes to giving your bob or any other hairstyle a modern look, you can never go wrong with a new color. Many believe that when the year or the seasons change, a fresh hair color can be the gateway to a fresh perspective. So whether you’ve always dreamed of going blonde, being a redhead, or you just want to slightly brighten up your brunette mane, the different color can make your bob feel like a new ‘do. 

If you want a fun hair color but aren’t ready to make a permanent change, try the L’Oréal Paris Colorista Hair Makeup Temporary 1-Day Hair Color Spray. It’s an easy way to try an edgy money piece or trendy skunk stripe for just a day or two. Once you’re ready to switch things up again simply wash the color out with shampoo.

Next: The Side Bob Is One Of Hottest Hairstyles Right Now

Photo Credit: Ethan King, IG/@slickback_buttahtoast, Photo Design: Sarah Duvivier