Fact: There’s nothing like a good bob. The bob offers styling variation beyond compare, has a timeless shape, and has been worn by almost every celebrity and socialite. There are lots of iconic bob hairstyles—Victoria Beckham’s many styles and Rihanna’s Umbrella cut are just a few that come to mind. Still, none is more well-known than Hollywood icon Marilyn Monroe’s signature blonde bob. Curled and coifed to perfection, it remains a classic, so it comes as no surprise that the Monroe bob is back and buzzy. You may have noticed A-listers like Beyoncé sporting a modern version of the look or the roller-hairstyle trend that has gone viral on your FYP recently. It’s no coincidence as the Monroe bob is the hottest way to don the classic cut. Ahead, we spoke with two hairstylists to find out how to get the look.
Featured experts
- Lori Zabel is a hairstylist and Redken master stylist
- Juan Juan is a celebrity stylist and founder of the Juan Juan Salon in Beverly Hill and founder of J Beverly Hills
What is the Monroe bob?
The Moroe bob is a modern version of Marilyn Monroe’s signature haircut. Her style is considered a classic bob and is the foundation for the Monroe bob that’s currently trending. “Today’s style sits just below the jawline and has movement and volume throughout the top and upper sides of the hair,” says Zabel. She explains that the placement sets the Monroe bob apart from a regular 60s bob, which has most of its volume near the bottom of the cut. However, there are some elements from the original that remain consistent. Juan Juan, notes that the side part, tight curls and perfectly curled fringe are some of the most noteworthy as they help frame the face and shape the cut.
What to ask for at the salon
Styling is essential for the Monroe bob, but before you can do so, you have to start with the right cut. “At the salon, ask your stylists for a shoulder-length bob with long pieces cut down to your lips to ensure you can style your bob with tight curls,” says Juan Juan. Zabel adds that it’s also important to consult with your stylist about where the volume should be and to ask what tools they recommend you use at home. “This will help you get an idea of what your daily styling routine will look like and ensure that you receive the proper-shaped bob for your styling capabilities.”
How to style the Monroe bob
The Monroe bob is designed to have body, volume and lots of movement. That said, you need to have a styling routine in place with the right tools and products for the job. Incorporating mousses like Redken Stay High Mousse ($30) or volumizer sprays that can be used on damp hair is a good place to start. “These kinds of products are ideal for achieving fullness and often include heat-protecting ingredients to shield your hair from hot tools,” says Zabel. Once you’ve primed your strands, the pros recommend using a round brush while blow-drying to add volume and then following up with a curling iron or hot rollers to enhance the look. Like the actress, your bob should look flawless from every angle. To finish, Juan Juan suggests using a shine-enhancing product like J Beverly Hills Glaze Me ($25) for a polished look.
