A bob haircut is a classic and versatile hairstyle that suits many face shapes and hair textures. Traditionally worn down, the bob can also be styled into various updos, making it a great option for both casual and formal occasions. Whether you’re preparing for a day at the office, a night out, or a special event, knowing how to put up a bob hairstyle can add a new dimension to your look.
In this guide, we will explore several techniques for styling a bob haircut into chic updos. These styles are easy to follow, requiring only basic tools and minimal time. With a little practice, you can master these looks and expand your hairstyling repertoire.
Understanding Your Bob: Length and Texture
Before diving into specific styles, it’s essential to understand your bob haircut’s length and texture. A bob can range from chin-length to shoulder-length, with variations like the blunt bob, layered bob, and asymmetrical bob. The length and cut of your bob will influence how easily you can create certain updos.
Chin-Length Bob
A chin-length bob is the shortest version of this hairstyle, typically ending just below the chin. It offers a sleek, sophisticated look but may require more effort to style into an updo due to the limited length. Accessories like bobby pins, hair combs, and small elastics are crucial for securing the hair.
Shoulder-Length Bob
A shoulder-length bob provides more versatility in styling. This length allows for more complex updos, such as braids, buns, and twists. If you have a shoulder-length bob, you’ll find it easier to create voluminous styles and incorporate more texture.
Texture Considerations
The texture of your hair—whether it’s straight, wavy, or curly—will also play a role in how you style your bob. Straight hair may require additional products for hold and volume, while wavy and curly hair can add natural texture to updos. Understanding your hair’s texture will help you choose the right techniques and products for each style.
Essential Tools and Products for Bob Updos
Creating updos for a bob haircut requires a few essential tools and products to achieve the desired look. Here’s a list of what you’ll need:
Tools
Bobby Pins: These are crucial for securing sections of your bob into place, especially for shorter lengths.
Hair Elastics: Small, clear elastics work best for creating ponytails and securing braids without being too visible.
Hairbrush and Comb: A fine-tooth comb is excellent for smoothing out sections, while a brush can help create volume.
Hair Clips: Use these to section off your hair while you work on different parts of your updo.
Curling Iron or Flat Iron: Depending on your desired style, these tools can help add waves, curls, or sleekness.
Products
Texturizing Spray: Adds volume and grip, making it easier to style and hold updos.
Hairspray: A strong-hold hairspray will keep your updo in place throughout the day.
Volumizing Mousse: Perfect for adding body to fine hair before styling.
Hair Serum or Oil: Use this to smooth flyaways and add shine to your finished style.
Simple Bob Updos for Everyday Wear
Now that you’re familiar with your bob’s characteristics and the tools you’ll need, let’s explore some simple updos that are perfect for everyday wear.
1. The Classic Low Bun
The low bun is an elegant and timeless updo that works beautifully with a bob. Here’s how to create it:
Prep Your Hair: Start with dry hair and apply a texturizing spray to add volume and grip.
Part Your Hair: Create a center or side part, depending on your preference.
Gather Your Hair: Collect your hair at the nape of your neck and twist it into a small bun.
Secure the Bun: Use bobby pins to secure the bun in place. Tuck in any loose ends.
Finish with Hairspray: Spritz your updo with hairspray to keep it in place.
This style is perfect for work, casual outings, or even a date night. It’s quick to achieve and works well with both straight and wavy bobs.
2. The Half-Up Top Knot
The half-up top knot is a trendy and effortless look that adds height and interest to your bob. Follow these steps:
Section Your Hair: Divide the top half of your hair, from the temples to the crown, and secure it with a clip.
Create the Knot: Twist the top section into a knot at the crown of your head.
Secure with an Elastic: Use a small hair elastic to hold the knot in place.
Add Texture: Gently tug on the knot and the hair around it to create volume and a relaxed look.
Optional Curling: If you have straight hair, consider curling the ends of the loose bottom section for added texture.
The half-up top knot is ideal for a casual day out, offering a stylish yet laid-back vibe.
3. The Twisted Crown
For a more romantic and soft updo, try the twisted crown. This style works well with bobs of all lengths and adds a bohemian touch to your look.
Part Your Hair: Create a center part.
Start Twisting: Take a small section of hair from one side of your part, near the front, and begin twisting it backward along your hairline.
Secure with Pins: Once you’ve twisted the section to the back of your head, secure it with bobby pins. Repeat on the other side.
Connect the Twists: Join the two twists at the back of your head and secure them together with a small elastic or more bobby pins.
Tuck and Finish: Tuck any loose ends under the twists and secure with additional pins if necessary. Finish with hairspray.
The twisted crown is perfect for special occasions like weddings, parties, or date nights.
SEE ALSO: How to Cut a Straight Bob Haircut Yourself?
Advanced Bob Updos for Special Occasions
When you’re attending a formal event or looking for a more polished updo, these advanced styles will elevate your bob hairstyle.
1. The Braided Updo
A braided updo adds intricacy and elegance to a bob. It’s an excellent choice for weddings, proms, or any event where you want to make a statement.
Prep with Mousse: Apply volumizing mousse to your damp hair and blow-dry for added volume.
Create a French Braid: Starting from one side of your head, create a French braid that wraps around the back of your head. Secure the end with an elastic.
Tuck and Pin: Tuck the end of the braid under itself at the nape of your neck and secure with bobby pins.
Add Volume: Gently pull at the braid to create a fuller, more voluminous look.
Finish with Hairspray: Apply a strong-hold hairspray to keep everything in place.
This braided updo is sophisticated and works well with accessories like decorative pins or flowers.
2. The Chignon
The chignon is a classic updo that exudes sophistication and grace. It’s an excellent choice for formal events and pairs well with statement jewelry.
Smooth and Part: Start by smoothing your hair with a flat iron for a sleek base. Create a deep side part.
Gather Hair: Pull all your hair to one side of your neck, opposite your part.
Twist into a Chignon: Twist the hair into a low chignon at the side of your neck and secure it with bobby pins.
Tuck Loose Ends: Tuck any loose ends into the chignon and pin them down.
Polish with Serum: Apply a small amount of hair serum to smooth any flyaways and add shine.
The chignon is timeless and pairs well with both evening gowns and business attire.
3. The Voluminous Bun
If you’re looking to add drama to your updo, the voluminous bun is the way to go. It’s a glamorous style that works particularly well with a longer bob.
Tease the Roots: Begin by teasing the roots at the crown of your head to create volume.
Gather into a Ponytail: Pull your hair into a high ponytail at the crown of your head and secure it with an elastic.
Create the Bun: Twist the ponytail into a bun, making sure to keep it loose and voluminous.
Secure with Pins: Use bobby pins to secure the bun, allowing some strands to fall naturally for a soft, romantic look.
Finish with Hairspray: A generous spritz of hairspray will ensure your bun stays in place all day or night.
This voluminous bun is perfect for red carpet events, weddings, or any occasion where you want to stand out.
Tips for Maintaining Your Updo
Once you’ve created the perfect updo, you’ll want it to last throughout the day or night. Here are some tips for maintaining your bob updo:
Use Quality Products
Invest in high-quality hairspray, bobby pins, and elastics. These products are designed to provide strong hold without damaging your hair.
Avoid Overloading with Products
While it’s important to use styling products, avoid overloading your hair, as this can weigh it down and make your updo look flat. A little goes a long way.
Exploring More Bob Updo Styles
To further enhance your repertoire of bob updos, here are additional styles that you can incorporate into your styling routine. These styles cater to various occasions, whether you’re aiming for something playful, sophisticated, or dramatic.
Conclusion
Styling a bob into various updos offers endless possibilities, from everyday looks to elegant and sophisticated styles. By understanding your bob’s length and texture, using the right tools and products, and mastering different techniques, you can achieve a range of beautiful updos suitable for any occasion.
Whether you’re preparing for a casual day out, a formal event, or just want to try something new, these bob updo styles provide flexibility and creativity. Experiment with different looks, and enjoy the versatility and elegance that a well-styled bob can bring to your overall appearance.