The Midi Bob Is the Sleek, High-Shine Haircut That Flatters 50-Plus Hair

2 min read

Finding a hairstyle more sought-after than a well-cut midi bob (a long bob that brushes the shoulders or collarbones but delivers a blunt, full effect) is no small feat. Favored by celebrities such as Pamela Anderson, Halle Berry, Hailey Bieber, Kaia Gerber, and Julianne Moore, this shoulder-grazing style has become something of a signature among A-listers in recent years. Coincidentally, it is also one of the most flattering cuts for anyone over 50.

Most recently, Claudia Winkleman has brought the midi bob back into the spotlight, as her bold signature hairstyle continues to make headlines as the Celebrity Traitors hits screens.

As the name suggests, the lob offers a middle ground between long hair and a bob. It falls anywhere between the chin and the collarbone and is often seen as a transitional style for those looking to go shorter gradually.

“Hitting just at the collarbone, the lob offers the best of both worlds: the ease of a bob with the styling flexibility of longer hair,” says Elliot Bute, hairstylist at Hershesons Fitzrovia. “It’s incredibly versatile, particularly for anyone who wants the ease of a shorter haircut but still wants to be able to tie their hair back.”

He adds that the cut works across most face shapes because you can adjust where the length sits and where you introduce layers or movement. Take Julianne Moore, for example. Her blunt cut creates glossy fullness in her natural hair, while fellow actor Winona Ryder has adopted the style in a more undone, choppy way.

Remember, depending on your lob style, your styling routine will look different, as Tim Scott-Wright, owner of Tim Scott-Wright at The Hair Surgery, explains here.

“The lob is a strong, on-trend look that is great with a wave,” he says. “It’s kind of an in-between look and is best worn wavy with texture. It’s a way of modernizing lacklustre long hair without losing all your length. Cate Blanchett and Reese Witherspoon have both recently sported this look.”

Consider investing in a texture spray or air-dry cream if your hair has natural shape and movement, or use a curling tong or straightener to create soft, natural bevels.