The feathered bob haircut is making a significant comeback this fall, according to trends from Google and fashion site Who What Wear. This style, known for its layered, bouncy, and voluminous look, was first popular in the ’70s and ’80s and saw a revival in the early 2000s.
Recently, this retro feathered bob has been sported by celebrities like Sydney Sweeney, Selena Gomez, Michelle Williams, and Alfre Woodard. The haircut is defined by its multiple layers, which add shape and volume, culminating in a wispy finish that creates its distinctive feathered appearance.
Although traditionally associated with medium to long hair, the feathered bob also works well with short hair, according to hairstylists. We reached out to professional and celebrity stylists to get their insights on this stylish haircut for fall 2024. They shared tips on adding extra volume and making it especially flattering for women over 40.
Ghanima Abdullah, a hair expert and cosmetologist at The Right Hairstyles, and Lauren Udoh, hair stylist and creative director at WigReports, offered their expertise. Udoh describes the feathered bob as a “sleek and stylish choice for many occasions.” She notes that this versatile cut “looks great on almost any face shape and hair type” when paired with the right layering and parting. “The length can be adjusted to complement your features and create an attractive silhouette,” Udoh explains.
Udoh highlights that the feathered bob “provides volume at the crown,” which is beneficial for women over 40 who often struggle with thinning or flat hair. She points out that “textured layers frame the face nicely and it remains easy to manage,” adding “so much volume.” The enduring appeal of this classic cut is clear, Udoh says, given its trendy and flattering nature.
Abdullah suggests enhancing the feathered bob’s bounce and face-framing quality with curtain bangs or a deep side part. “A deep side part can push more hair to one side, creating additional volume on top and helping to conceal any thinning,” she explains.
Curtain bangs, according to Abdullah, are a “type of fringe that creates a soft, natural wave at the top of the head.” They are used to frame the face and give it a youthful appearance. Abdullah adds that “curtain bangs are easy to achieve and look great on most hair types.”
When visiting a salon, Udoh advises being specific about your desired style. She recommends asking for a “medium bob that maintains length in both the front and back, with light layers throughout.”
To keep the style looking fresh, Udoh suggests getting regular trims every 6-8 weeks. After your cut, styling products like mousse and texturizing spray can help enhance texture and add body if desired.