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Short Cut: Why We Can’t Get Enough of Bobs and Bangs

We can’t seem to escape the trends of bobs and bangs, and when they look this good, we don’t want to. Read the experts' take here.

illustration of woman with bangs and short hair
Illustration by Samantha Hahn
This article first appeared in the Winter 2025 issue of NewBeauty. Click here to subscribe

We can’t seem to escape the trends of bobs and bangs, and when they look this good, we don’t want to.

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The Power of a Bob

There’s something empowering about the big chop, and that’s nothing new. “Bobs have been a recurring trend since the 1890s. They went against the gender roles of the time, and I believe this continues to tell a story about how we feel when we cut our hair into a bob,” says celebrity hairstylist Adir Abergel. “We feel empowered and strong no matter what hair texture or color we have.”

Celebrity hairstylist Travis Ogletree says the bob is a perfect style for a client who wants to make a statement. “Sometimes, longer hair can become a little bit of a security blanket. With a bob, there’s a sense of confidence and sophistication,” he explains. The effortlessly chic cut has classic appeal while still feeling fresh and polished, especially when customized to a person’s face shape and hair texture. “The bob can also elongate the silhouette, bringing balance to those who are looking for a more harmonized appearance,” adds Ogletree. The best bit? “There is a bob for everyone,” adds celebrity hairstylist Johnny Lavoy.

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Bangs Are Back

Bangs seem to fade in and out of trend, except for those ultra-chic women who keep them perennially. However, they are very much “in” right now. Celebrity hairstylist Erickson Arrunategui credits their popularity to their ability to update a haircut that’s feeling otherwise blah without sacrificing length. “Bangs add another cool element to the style and cut of hair,” says celebrity hairstylist Kim Kimble.

“Bangs used to carry the reputation of a ‘crisis cut’ and were often considered a spontaneous decision one might regret. Now, they’re being embraced as a versatile styling choice with real staying power,” says Ogletree. “Bangs now have a broader appeal. They add a youthful, modern touch, and we’re seeing so many variations. Taylor Swift, Sabrina Carpenter, Billie Eilish and Daisy Edgar-Jones. Sandra Oh with her retro 1970s curly bangs, and Penelope Cruz’s full, bottleneck style bangs.”

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Ogletree explains that bangs “should create balance, either softening or enhancing specific facial features.” Your stylist can assess what would work best for your face shape and hair texture. “It’s also worth considering the styling commitment, especially for shorter bangs,” adds Ogletree. “They require more daily upkeep, so it’s essential to choose a style that realistically fits your lifestyle.”

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