From the ‘crop’ to the ‘gloss’ – bobs have been topping the hair trend charts in a variety of styles, and they don’t seem to be going anywhere in 2025. 

If you’ve been pondering the big chop for the past few months but are still sitting on the fence, we may have found a solution to your indecisiveness.

We asked eight women about the one thing they wish they’d known before getting a bob haircut, so you don’t have to experience any regrets. From the one styling product they now can’t live without to the problem they hadn’t considered, here are a few things to consider before you book that salon appointment. 

Deborah Iona, photographer  

“A lot of people ask me if my hair is super-high maintenance since getting it cut. Honestly? No! The three rules I stick by are keeping your hair moisturised (I love Bread’s Hair Oil – it’s basically lip gloss for your hair), using minimal heat and wrapping my hair at night (I use a silk scarf and if that comes off, I have silk pillowcases as they tame frizz and reduce friction on your hair).

My go-to hair tool is the Revlon Hot Air Styler. It’s perfect for smoothing my hair and I only need to go through it a couple of times, limiting heat damage. Also, the brush attachment is great at creating chic styles like flicked-out ends.”

Kitty McGee, Stylist’s executive fashion and beauty director 

“The biggest surprise when cutting my hair was the instant thickness and blunt edge it added. I’d previously assumed my hair would always be fine and lacklustre, so it was a welcome surprise. Having a bob also makes me look more polished; my previous hairstyle wasn’t even a style, whereas a bob feels both classic and on-trend, so I definitely feel like I look more slick and considered.”

Pip Durell, founder and CEO of With Nothing Underneath

“I wish I’d known how annoying it is to tie up. When people talk about how a bob is so low-maintenance, it’s really not true – you have to style it (my go-to is BaByliss’s Big Hair Rotating Hot Brush for adding volume).

The problem with hair is that people try to make general sweeping statements but every texture is different. Mine is fine and light, so I thought a bob would be good for it because it makes it appear thicker, but on the other hand, it’s really wispy and I have to use a lot of product (I love Champo’s Leave-In Perfecting Cream). But as a hair-up kinda gal, I found myself more annoyed at it than I liked it, which is why I’m growing it out.”  

Rebecca Jane Hill, fashion editor and stylist 

“Firstly, I had no idea just how good a freshly trimmed, freshly blow-dried bob would feel. It’s a serious power move. Secondly, a bob is not a get-up-and-go kinda hairdo. It requires styling, especially if your hair has a natural wave to it like mine. My top tip is a hot brush and heat protection spray to keep it looking glossy with minimal effort.”

Rachael Keegan, digital creator 

“I wish I’d known how quick and easy it was to style a bob before. Just a quick flick at the ends with the straighteners and a spritz of hairspray, and we’re good to go!”

Aleah Aberdeen, actor

“Bouncy blows are achievable from home! Bobs are so versatile because of their length. No stylist, no problem – my heated round brush is my bestie. Also, blazers have never looked so good. If you get a bob above the shoulder you get a lovely gap between the hairline and the shoulder pads. It adds way more structure and definition to the overall fit.”

Mollie Burdell, freelance journalist 

“I’m in the process of growing out my bob because one of the things that’s worth noting is that you can’t wear your hair in a slicked-back bun, which I love to do. I’m now in that awkward in-between phase. If you’re thinking of getting a bob, I wouldn’t go the full way at first – just take it bit by bit to see how you get on with it. A hot brush is a godsend, though – I love Drybar’s The Half Shot Round Blow-dryer Brush.”

Joanna Moursi, senior communications manager

“Before I took the plunge and chopped my hair, I seriously underestimated how much maintenance a bob would need. Now, it pushes me to get creative with my hair daily, whether it’s loose waves, poker-straight strands or a sleek, slicked-back look.

With long hair, I’d often leave it undone, but my bob demands more attention. I use Hair By Sam McKnight Modern Hairspray to lock in my style or use the Cool Girl Barely There Texture Mist to give that perfectly tousled, undone vibe. For a more bold, polished look, I slick my hair back. Keeping my hair healthy is important, no matter what style I’m going for. For that, I love Gisou’s Honey Infused Hair Oil to keep my locks shiny and smooth.”

Images: Deborah Iona, Mollie Burdell and Rebecca Jane Hill