Known to be universally flattering to all face shapes, the lob shows no signs of getting cut from salon requests anytime soon. Incredibly versatile and easy to wear, this not too short and not too long style is the talk of the hair world, especially when styled with texture. So what is this style and how do you get it? Read on to learn more and get inspired.
Learning the lob
The lob found its place in the hair hall of fame thanks to some indecisive individuals struggling to make the transition from long to short. Luckily, this lead to finding that the in between length was a look that could be adjusted to suit all hair types and face shapes. It’s also a sneaky way of changing your look without the drama of going short and keeping the ability to wear up-dos. Often the cut grazes the nape of the neck and can fall in a square or a-line shape depending on the texture and how you wish to wear it.
What to ask for
So what is important to discuss with your stylist before going for the lob? It’s all about your hair type and layering. Those with fine hair don’t panic that the word layers means you will be left with a wispy style that lacks body. Talk to your stylist about soft layers to give your locks a little movement which works really well with the textured lob. You should also think about cutting this style with a centre-parting as this will grant you the opportunity of wearing the look in a variety of different ways.
Your stylist will advise you on the right amount of layering for the look you want, ensuring that they adapt it to suit your individual face shape and work with your natural hair texture. For example, if you have a longer oval face shape, look at adding a fringe or side bangs to balance out your features. Those with squarer face shapes may choose to add layers to frame the face giving a looser effect to the cut. If you have thick hair speak to your stylist about other techniques, such as slicing or razoring, to create texture and softness to your lob...
Get wavy
One of the best aspects of the lob is it’s low maintenance yet edgy style that makes it a look suitable for whatever occasion you’re faced with. To achieve a laid-back look with waves you can either plait over night or grab a volumising mousse and a little sea salt spray to get a grungy look that screams cool beach babe. If you have more unruly locks, you’ll probably need to use heat (and heat protection spray!) After washing and blow drying your hair, grab some flat irons and start from the top down making an ‘S’ shape with your wrist and bending the hair creating that effortless bedhead look.
Celebs have lead the way with undone waves with heaps of volume. Khloe Kardashian is the queen of the more polished bed-head. To get her more structured beachy waves grab your curling tongs after you’ve blowdried. Curl random sections of hair in alternating directions. Take thin and thicker sections and shake through with your fingers to break up the waves, finishing with a texturising spray.
Often with the lob, colourings are kept natural using the balayage technique to allow soft sun kissed blondes to mix with browns. The colouring allows light to bounce off waves and gives an illusion of volume.! Growing out your roots also works well with the textured lob adding grit and edge to the overall cut.
Tending to your tips
Styling with heat can take its toll on your hair whatever the style. Take extra care with the lob as the variety of layers may be more prone to damage. To keep your lob looking luscious by regularly using a nourishing mask particularly concentrating on the tips. If you are using texturising sprays, work a cleansing shampoo into your routine to remove product buildup which can make hair appear lank and heavy.
Styling waxes and pomades can transform your styling routine completely. A little of either product worked through with your fingers to define waves can ramp up the tousled style whilst giving hold. This still leaves you with the softness that is lost with using hairspray. Dry shampoo is also a great way to add some ‘oomph’ if your lob has fallen flat. Spray underneath layers and try not to brush hair, instead use fingers to disrepute evenly.
Book your consultation to talk through the textured lob with one of our expert stylists. For more inspiration, check out the rest of our blog.