Beyoncé has officially declared the Old Hollywood bob as the biggest haircut trend for fall 2024. She showcased this style at the Glamour Women of the Year Awards, where she attended to support her mother, Tina Knowles. Beyoncé was visibly emotional during her mother’s acceptance speech, but her stunning bob haircut was hard to ignore. Her flawless makeup remained intact, even through her tears.
Beyoncé isn’t the only celebrity embracing this trend. Recently, Sabrina Carpenter sported a Marilyn Monroe-inspired bob, while Kendall Jenner transitioned her “old money” blonde hair into a lob. Sydney Sweeney also wore the bob style for her Glamour cover shoot. Clearly, the Old Hollywood bob is not just a passing fad; it’s here to stay.
Celebrity hairstylist Helen Reavey explains that there is a growing desire for vintage-inspired haircuts. “People crave timeless elegance and glamour,” she says. “With fast-changing trends, many are drawn to iconic styles that evoke nostalgia and sophistication. This haircut is versatile and polished yet still makes a statement.”
The resurgence of the Old Hollywood bob is not the only history-inspired trend of the year. Earlier this year, Glamour noted a revival of big hair, drawing inspiration from icons like Brigitte Bardot and Diana Ross. Beyoncé has been a trendsetter in this arena, but now the focus is on shoulder-length cuts for the colder months.
Reavey notes that many are looking for versatile styles that can adapt to various occasions. “Longer bobs and mid-length cuts offer more styling options,” she says. “They are fresh yet long enough to be styled in curls or waves. As we move into fall, people want the flexibility to pull their hair back or layer it under scarves and coats.”
The mid-length lob is suitable for all face shapes and hair types. Celebrity stylist Gregory Patterson adds, “What makes this haircut so appealing is its ease for nearly every hair type, texture, and face shape.”
This hairstyle is chic and has evolved to reflect luxury. “It says ‘Material Girl’ or, in a vintage sense, ‘Diamonds are a Girl’s Best Friend,’” says Amy Abramite, creative director at Maxine Salon in Chicago. Carpenter’s bob, for example, was inspired by both Marilyn Monroe and Madonna.
Abramite describes the look as “velvety and ultrafeminine,” capturing high-end luxury. “It looks glossy, feels silky, and conveys a sense of expense, just like the woman wearing it,” she says.
Nostalgic fashion and beauty trends are ever-present, according to celebrity hairstylist Clariss Rubenstein. She notes that Old Hollywood-inspired beauty consistently appears on the red carpet, with some stars incorporating it into their everyday looks. “This cut isn’t just vintage; it’s more of a mid-length style that works for many hair types,” Patterson adds.
Variations of the bob and lob have always been popular. “This cut periodically has a big moment, adapting different elements like bangs or layers,” Patterson explains. “A lob is a great option for those with long hair seeking a new look without going for a full chop.”
For those feeling inspired, Abramite suggests asking for a long bob with or without bangs and long layers for volume and movement. She emphasizes that while the haircut shape is crucial, heat styling brings out the vintage glamour.
Lobs can be customized to suit various face shapes. Reavey notes, “A longer bob with a slight wave or side part can soften angular features, while a sleek, straight lob elongates rounder face shapes.”
In terms of hair types, Reavey says these cuts work best with fine to medium thickness. “For thick or curly hair, layers or thinning techniques can help achieve the look without adding bulk,” she advises.
Styling is key to achieving this look. To enhance curls and keep hair healthy, Patterson recommends using heat protectants and hydration products. “Fall is the perfect time to focus on self-care and hydration masks,” he says. For moisture retention, he suggests trying bondbar Bonding Hydration Mask and ion Humidity Defying Serum for heat protection.
Once hair is prepared, Abramite suggests going old-school for styling. “You can create this look with a blow dryer and round brush, hot rollers, or a curling iron,” she says. Patterson recommends the Ion Luxe Cordless Curling Wand for long-lasting waves.
To achieve soft, structured waves, Reavey advises using a large-barrel curling iron or hot rollers. “Brush through the curls gently with a boar-bristle brush for a smooth finish. A lightweight curl spray can enhance the waves without weighing down the hair,” she adds. Finish with a flexible hairspray for a touchable hold.
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