Bobs are having a major moment right now. Whether it’s the effortlessly cool Italian variant or the sleek nape-neck style, bob haircuts are everywhere. But once you’ve taken the plunge and committed to a big chop, figuring out how best to style it can be a bit of a challenge, especially when the weather heats up. 

If you’re stuck for hair styling inspiration, you’ve come to the right place. We spoke to some of the best hairdressers in the industry to discover the top bob styles to wear this summer. 

Whether you’re looking to add texture, keep things sleek or embrace a beachy wave, these expert-approved styles will help you make the most of your bob, no matter what the weather throws at you…

“The best way to style a bob in summer is to add texture,” says Sam McKnight MBE. “If your hair is straight, you might need to encourage some waves in your hair through heated or heatless styling. If your hair is naturally curly, this is your moment to shine.

“Define and enhance your hair’s natural movement with Hair By Sam McKnight Sundaze Sea Spray (£26) for soft, sea-kissed texture. It also protects hair from UVA/UVB damage, which can lead to colour-fade, dry brittle strands, broken or split ends, thinning and frizz.”

This style is perfect for those looking to add movement and a carefree vibe to their bob. The key is in the texture – whether your hair is naturally curly or you create texture with a curling iron, the result is a relaxed, beachy look that’s perfect for summer.

“A hydro bob is a great option to keep hair cool and sleek in the warm months,” says hairstylist Tom Smith. “Use a treatment mask or flexible gel on slightly damp or dry hair and use a wide-tooth comb to create a sharp parting, then tuck the hair behind your ears. The product will dry into your hair, leaving you with a fashionable, yet comfortable and practical hairstyle.”

This sleek, polished look is perfect for those hot summer days when you want to keep your hair out of your face and looking fresh. Plus, using a treatment mask means your hair stays nourished and protected, even in the sun.

“Think Daisy Edgar-Jones bangs with a razored edge below the jawline, which creates enough length so you can still get an undone beach wave,” says hairstylist Syd Hayes. The new BaByliss Air Wand (£120) is perfect for getting that root lift and volume, whether you want to keep your hair straight or add some waves.

The beachy bob is all about that laid-back, sun-kissed vibe. This style works particularly well if your bob has some length to it, allowing you to play with waves and texture for a look that screams ‘effortless summer’.

“In the heat, keep your bob light and airy. Try a tousled, undone look by drying in Davines Invisible Serum (£21.75) with your fingers. It’s effortless and cool, just like summer should be,” says Sam Burnett, hairstylist at Hare & Bone.

This look is perfect for those days when you just want to run your fingers through your hair and go. The key is in the serum, which adds just the right amount of shine and hold without weighing your hair down.

“If your bob is cropped short, slicked-back hair is such a great look,” says hairstylist Errol Douglas MBE. “Smooth a generous amount of gel through your hair and comb it back. Lock it in with Living Proof Full Dry Volume & Texture Spray (£31).”

The slicked-back bob is a great option for a chic, minimalist style. Perfect for evenings out or when you need your hair to stay put all day, this look is sleek and sophisticated.

“I love a flicked bob – it’s all about the 90s and is the perfect bob style for those looking for an extra edge,” says celebrity hairdresser Louis Byrne. “This works well on both side and centre parts and is great with an ear tuck blow dry. Use L’Oreal Professional Metal Detox Hair Oil (£30) to protect the hair before using a heated tool to manipulate your flick for the perfect shape and fix.”

“If you want to embrace a wavy bob in the heat, it’s crucial to focus on enhancing the natural texture,” says Edward James, co-founder of The Hair Consult. “Apply a curl-enhancing product that combats frizz, such as Aveda Be Curly Curl Enhancer (£28), which offers control and definition. For finer hair, use Color Wow Dream Coat for Curly Hair (£27) and twist sections away from the face. Let your hair air dry or use a diffuser to gently dry it without disturbing the wave pattern.”

“Prep your hair with Glaze Mirror Glaze Super Sleek Shine Spray (£17.99) from root to tip and dry in with heat to activate the product,” says celebrity hairstylist Jack Luckhurst. “Afterwards, braid your hair and run straighteners over the braids. Let them cool down and then release for a summer boho style.”

“In summer, you might want to keep your bob out of your face – so a sleek look is perfect,” says Andreas Wild, stylist at Larry King Notting Hill. “After you’ve just washed your hair, use Larry King Social Life Cream (£12) or My Nanna’s Mousse (£22) to sleek it off your face. A deep side parting with a few hair grips can keep it in place.”

This style is perfect for those who prefer a more polished look and is a great way to keep your hair under control in the summer heat.

“Half-up, half-downs are very cute as well. You can always do a little top knot too if your hair is short,” suggests Wild.

Images: Getty; Instagram