Flattering and Low-Maintenance, the Midi Bob With Bangs Is the Simple Way to Update Your Hairstyle

Short haircuts such as a pixie crop or a jaw-skimming bob never fail to make an impact, creating a beauty mood that feels instantly fresh while bringing out the very best of your natural hair texture.

But if you’re not ready to take the plunge or fancy a more gradual change, take a leaf out of Taylor Swift’s book with a “midi” bob and a fringe to add structure and interest. Swift spent a majority of the last few years with long hair, so getting incremental trims is not only a great way to remove any dry or split ends, but it also helps ease you into a shorter haircut.

“The midi bob sits in that sweet spot between a classic bob and longer hair. It usually falls somewhere between the jawline and collarbone, which gives it a softer, more lived-in feel than a sharper, shorter cut,” says Luke Hersheson, hairstylist and CEO of Hershesons. “What I like about it is that it doesn’t feel too ‘done’ or too precious. Adding a fringe instantly brings another dimension to the shape. It frames the face, breaks up the length, and gives the cut more personality. It’s often that little detail that takes a simple bob and makes it feel individual.”

Hairstylist and founder of Arkive Headcare, Adam Reed, agrees, adding: “It’s the balance between something beautifully classic and something that feels incredibly modern. The bob is one of those haircuts that continually reinvents itself, and I think the midi length is particularly appealing because it doesn’t feel too restrictive.”

The best news about a midi bob with fringe is also the versatility. You can still have it up or down, and it can be easily tailored to every hair type and curl pattern. “The fringe can be adapted too,” adds Hersheson. “Whether that’s a curtain fringe, a softer bottleneck shape, or something fuller, it’s really about finding the version that works with your natural texture rather than fighting against it.”

What you should know before getting a midi bob with bangs

As with all haircuts, the main consideration should be to understand how your hair naturally behaves. “A fringe sits front and center, so things like cowlicks, growth patterns, and texture matter,” says Hersheson.

He adds: “You also need to think about the relationship between the fringe and the rest of the cut. A bob can sometimes feel quite graphic, so I often prefer a fringe that has a bit of softness and movement through it. It keeps the overall look modern and wearable.”

If you’re new to fringes, try a longer curtain fringe or a soft side-swept style as they are more versatile, shares Reed. Fringes do require some maintenance and regular trimming, so tell your hairdresser to tailor it to your lifestyle. “My biggest piece of advice is to bring references, but allow your hairdresser to interpret them for your hair rather than trying to recreate somebody else’s fringe exactly,” Reed tells ELLE.

How to style a midi bob with fringe

There is no one-size-fits-all when it comes to hair, but Hersheson shares his main tips to ensure a polished yet relaxed finish, no matter your hair type.

Curly hair: Don’t try to force curls into a bob shape they don’t want to be. Work with the natural movement and focus on creating a strong silhouette. The Almost Everything Cream and a bit of diffused drying will usually give you a much better result than over-styling. Fringes on curly hair can look brilliant when they’re slightly looser and less perfect.

Thick hair: It’s all about using the weight of your hair to your advantage. Internal layers can stop the shape from becoming triangular while still keeping that fullness people love. When styling, don’t over-smooth it. A little texture is what makes a midi bob feel modern.

Straight hair: This hair type spotlights the silhouette of a sharper bob, but if your hair is prone to looking flat, add texture through the ends or use a texture spray to take away that freshly styled finish. The goal is for it to look like you’ve lived in it for a day or two.

Fine hair: A midi bob can actually make fine hair appear much thicker because you’re concentrating the weight into a stronger shape. Keep products light and avoid anything too heavy around the roots. A soft fringe can create the illusion of fullness around the front and make the entire haircut feel more substantial.