From pixie crops and blunt bobs to beach waves and long ponytails, there’s plenty of hair inspiration out there right now that has me veering between wanting to chop all my hair off and growing it out long on a daily basis. However, obsessing over the two extremes has meant I’ve been totally overlooking how stylish mid-length hair can look. In fact, the lob (a longer-length bob) might just be the perfect compromise between long and short hair.
“The lob is a classic. It works with so many different hair types and face shapes, hence its popularity,” explained Krysia Eddery, expert hairstylist and owner of Aveda concept salon, Perfectly Posh. “The mid-length is really quite forgiving—there aren’t many face shapes that it won’t sit well with.” And with celebrities from Gemma Chan to Jourdan Dunn embracing the lob—as well as lots of our fashion friends—it’s easy to see why mid-length hair is so appealing.
And the lob isn’t the only mid-length hairstyle we should be looking out for this year—there’s another popular look for. “One of the most prominent styles is the textured shag,” said Eddery. “Reminiscent of ‘70s hairstyles, this style is very relaxed, unkempt and slightly dishevelled. The key is layering to create that movement and texture naturally. Also, mid-length styles that feature fringes or micro-bangs are very popular. This adds an instant edge to your style and frames certain face shapes beautifully.”
As for maintaining your mid-length hairstyle, it might look relaxed, but it’s key to visit a salon for regular trims to keep your style from growing out too long. “This will also eliminate any dry, damaged ends, which can split and cause you to need a bigger chop each time you visit the hairdresser,” advised Eddery. “In addition, treat yourself to a hydrating mask once per week to inject moisture back into your hair and ensure it remains healthy and shiny.”
But before you head off to the hairdresser, keep scrolling for 32 celebrities with incredible mid-length hairstyles.
You might think of long lengths when you think of Rosie HW’s hair, but it’s her beach-wave lob that I love the most.
Curly girls, take note: A mid-length haircut like Zendaya’s is ideal for bouncy-looking curls.
Margot’s lob back catalog is seriously impressive, though this silky blow-dry has to be one of her best looks.
Priyanka’s balayage ends help her layered mid-lengths frame her face all the more. Gorgeous.
Collarbone-grazing curls are our new favourite thing, courtesy of Jourdan.
Jodie’s beachy waves and headband combination is too cute for words.
Probably one of our all-time favourite Kim Kardashian hair looks, use your straighteners to curl the ends of your hair inward to create this retro look at home.
Bella proves that half-up, half-down hairstyles shouldn’t be reserved for longer lengths.
It’s not just Rachel Stevens’s style that we’re obsessed with—it’s her hair too.
The centre parting, the ear tuck, the loosely-tousled waves—Naomi’s ‘do is lob perfection.
Could Tessa’s curls be any glossier? We think not. Like Jodie, Tessa makes her mid-length hair look all the more glamorous with the addition of an Alice band. Something to think about, huh?
Jenna’s mid-length hairstyle is much like her outfit—effortlessly elegant.
Selena keeps her chic, mid-length strands from looking too sleek with a little texture spray through the ends.
Jorja’s natural curls look incredible by way of her blunt mid-length cut.
Naturally, Emily Ratajkowski was one of the first celebs to sport this year’s must-have shag hairstyle.
The queen of the mid-length hairstyle. Alexa, we salute you.
The great thing about a mid-length hairstyle is that it’s low-maintenance enough for every day but can look red carpet–ready like Laura’s voluminous style.
Emma’s cool-girl layers and choppy fringe are so damn stylish.
There’s something decidedly ’90s about Hailey Bieber’s poker-straight lob.
As well as her amazing skin, Rochelle is giving off major curly hair inspiration with this relaxed mid-length style.
Kerry nods to this season’s shag style with her layered lengths and side-swept fringe.
The sharp ends of Reese’s lob lend a preppy finishing touch to her blunt lob. So damn cute.
Yara’s beaded braids are a match made in heaven for her mid-length style.
Textured waves and sweeping bangs keep Jasmine’s mid-length style looking totally modern.
Re-create January’s laid-back mid-lengths by using your a hair straightener or curling wand for easy beach waves.
Yes, she’s a Brit, but Gemma Chan is giving me major French-girl vibes with her chic centre-parted style.
She’s tried everything from pixie crop to hair extensions, but VB has settled on a trusty mid-length hairstyle for the best part of a decade now. Seriously posh.
Can the lob do no wrong? Even if you’re at the beach like Ashley Graham, this mid-length style works.
Hair goals from Bryce.
Pass me the curling wand. I’m head over heels for Olivia Munn’s glam mid-length waves.
Zawe’s shag-inspired style embraces choppy layers and a barely there fringe for a low-maintenance hair look.
It’s not just the length of Sophie Turner’s hairstyle that I love—it’s that perfect shade of blonde too.
Boost and enhance your hair’s natural texture (or add definition if you’re lacking it) with this easy-to-use wave spray.
The quickest, easiest way to add shine and sleekness.
If your hair is thick, you may notice roots lacking volume as it grows longer. This weightless mousse will add bounce back instantly.
Bond-repairing hair treatments are one of the best (and expert-approved) ways to keep on top of hair health.
Since longer hair is prone to tangles, a detangling product is a must-have essential in your haircare arsenal.
This smoothing serum makes light work of styling hair—in both up-dos and loose styles.
This post was originally published at an earlier time and has since been updated.
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