If there’s ever a time I even consider getting the chop, it’s summer. I have very long, thick hair that requires a lot of styling, and in warmer weather, I dream of having shorter strands that don’t require as much work. That being said, I’m yet to come across a bob hair trend that really speaks to me. So, to get some much-needed inspiration, I turned to not one, not two, but three top hair experts to ask them about the biggest summer bob trends of 2026. Turns out, there are some seriously chic shorter hairstyles to choose from. “The best thing about a good bob haircut is that it grows out beautifully, so it’s a brilliant low-commitment way to try a shorter hairstyle for summer,” says Mark Woolley, founder of Electric London. “Whether it’s a shoulder-length lob or bixie, the bob is everywhere this summer as it is versatile and suits all hair types.”

Below I’ve curated the ultimate list of summery looks that will have everyone wanting to get the chop this season. Of course, I’ve also included the best products to help get the look, so you don’t leave the salon not knowing how to style your new ‘do. Keep on scrolling for everything I want you to know…

6 Bob Hairstyles for Summer 2026

1. The Curly Bob

Of course, curly hair isn’t a trend, but for summer, it’s all about that tousled texture. “This tousled bob embraces soft, natural waves [or curls]—think effortless-looking texture and a matte finish,” says Woolley. If you’re not blessed with natural waves or curls, Woolley recommends twisting small sections of hair around a small tong, then shaking out with your fingers, before adding a little bit of salt spray.

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2. The “Boyfriend” Bob

“Just like the jeans, the ‘boyfriend’ bob is relaxed, low maintenance and easy to wear,” Woolley tells me. “It’s worn a little bit longer, which encourages natural movement and texture. Apply some mousse such as Electric London Cloudburst (£25) for hold and volume through the roots and don’t overstyle; if you think you haven’t done enough, that’s perfect!”

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3. The Soft Contour Bob

This style is definitely a favourite of mine. “The soft contour bob reflects a growing demand for personalised haircuts that are tailored to the individual rather than following one rigid shape,” explains Domenico Sansone, creative director at Butchers Salon. “This style features a softly sculpted perimeter with subtle face-framing detail designed to complement the client’s natural features. What sets this bob apart is its ability to create softness around the face while maintaining enough structure to feel sophisticated and intentional.”

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4. The “Effortless” Lob

You might be able to tell by now, but this summer is all about effortless-looking hairstyles. Enter the “effortless” bob (or lob, in Elsa Hosk’s case). “One of the biggest shifts we’re seeing is a move towards cuts that work with the hair’s natural texture, rather than against it,” says Sansone. “This bob is designed to look beautiful without requiring daily heat styling, making it a particularly relevant choice for summer. The shape is created through subtle internal layering and carefully considered weight distribution, allowing the hair to fall naturally while maintaining structure. It’s an ideal option for clients with natural waves, bends or texture who want a style that feels effortless but still polished.”

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5. The Voluminous Lob

The lob is proving particularly popular this summer, and works perfectly with this voluminous hair trend. Cos Sakkas, three-times British Hairdresser of the Year and TONI&GUY global creative director, tells me that this bouncy cut makes hair look heavy and expensive, making it a perfect choice for finer hair textures.