What is the French Bob Haircut? All Your Questions Answered

The French bob has been around for centuries and is here to stay. In this blog Laura Elliott, expert stylist and head of education here at Neäl & Wølf, answers all of your questions about the style and provides her top tips for styling the French bob haircut at home.

What is a French bob?

A French bob is a chic, short hairstyle with a length that usually sits between the jawline and the chin. It is also referred to as the Parisian bob as the style originates from the city’s 1920s flapper era. The French bob uses layers to give hair texture and dimension, and it is often paired with blunt bangs or a textured fringe for an effortlessly elegant look.

Should a French bob have layers?

Yes! A French bob is characterised by a tousled, textured appearance that is best achieved by layers. The layers are often subtle to add depth and dimension without appearing obviously dramatic.

What’s the difference between a French bob and a regular bob?

The key difference between a French bob and a regular bob is the overall feel and appearance. A regular bob is typically much more sleek, straight and polished, with a blunt or angled cut that can reach up to the shoulders. In contrast, the French bob is shorter, with a focus on volume, waves and texture for a carefree appearance.

What face shape suits a French bob?

The versatility of French bobs means that they can be worn on people with a variety of face shapes. That said, they look best on face shapes that are diamond, oblong, or heart shaped. This is because French bobs add an element of balance, soften the face’s angles and draw attention to your favourite assets, such as your eyes. For more information on pairing your hairdo with your face shape, read our blog: What is the Best Haircut for Your Face Shape

Is a French bob good for thin hair?

Yes, a French bob can be a brilliant option for thin hair! The style’s short length makes hair look thicker and fuller, preventing locks from being weighed down. The layers in the hair also add a boost by building body and volume, giving tresses more dimension. Find out more about our solutions: Fine Hair Products

Do French bobs make you look older or younger?

French bobs can make people look younger with their playful, effortless and carefree style. The cut’s short length and textured style creates a vibrant, energetic vibe that elevates your appearance. The thin hair that can come with age looks much thicker. The style can also soften facial features and fine lines, making you feel youthful.

How to cut a French bob

Cutting a French bob means balancing precision and texture. The shape of the haircut is often created first, with the length decided, before adding dimensional layers. For the best results, stay away from the scissors and trust your stylist to create your new look! Find your local Neäl & Wølf salon today: Salon Finder

How to style a French bob

The polished look is relatively easy to maintain but requires some low maintenance styling to keep your hair looking frizz and tangle free. Read on for our specialised advice.

Use the right hair washing routine

Whilst the French bob is super sleek, it still has shape and volume. For this reason, start your hair care routine by using volumising shampoo and conditioner to create a bit of bounce to the hair. Our volumising shampoo and conditioner is an ideal solution to give your hair that added boost. These sulphate free solutions leave your hair feeling thicker and fuller after washing.  Find out more: AMPLIFY Collection

Reject the backcomb

After finishing up in the shower with a hit of cold water, take your time with your blow dry on a cooler heat. Take a round brush beneath sections of the hair to create the salon-fresh look. It might be tempting to backcomb your hair after drying, but instead use a spray during the drying process. We’d recommend spritzing our UPLIFT Volumising Hair Mist across your hair before blow drying, for lasting lift and hold.

Use a strong hairspray

Prevent your hair from falling flat throughout the day by using a highly effective hairspray. Spray our CONTROL Flexible Hold Hairspray in a sweeping motion over the hair to give a strong flexible hold that stands the test of time.

The French bob is a style that appears effortless, but can actually transform your overall appearance. Looking to explore more bob options? Read our blog: A Guide to the Layered Bob