Not All Bobs Are Created Equal—These 11 Are Low-Maintenance and Effortlessly Elegant

“The longer the hair, the higher the maintenance” is something we’ve all probably thought when considering cutting our hair into a bob. However, the honest truth is that even the shortest of haircuts can still require a lot of upkeep, something that I’m sure low-maintenance girlies like myself are heartbroken to hear. But fear not, because not all bob hairstyles are created equally. In fact, there are plenty of low-maintenance bob hairstyles around.

Last week, I sat down with celebrity hairstylist Larry King to get his honest thoughts on the best bob haircuts to opt for if you’re looking for something that’s low-maintenance and easy to style without compromising on elegance.

So, if you’re over the countless hours spent styling your hair each week and are looking for a hassle-free bob hairstyle that still looks incredibly chic, keep scrolling to discover the best low-maintenance bob haircuts to suit every hair type.

Can a Bob Haircut Actually Be Low Maintenance?

King says, "A bob can be low-maintenance if the cut is tailored to your natural hair texture. If you’ve got a natural wave or bend, it's best to shape it so it dries beautifully with just a scrunch and a dab of some styling clay. Whereas if you have poker-straight hair, then [cut in] a blunt bob, and it’ll fall into place without fuss".

The 11 Best Low-Maintenance Bob Haircuts

1. French Bob

Arguably one of the chicest cuts you can opt for, a French bob is sharply cut, typically somewhere between the cheekbones and the chin. This allows for a low-maintenance cut that looks as elegant as it is easy to style. And the best part? You can let this shorter length grow out without the hair looking messy or undone. “These chin-length, slightly undone bob styles are perfect for wash-and-go enthusiasts,” says King.

2. One-Length Bob

Layers can help to add definition and shape; however, they also require a lot of upkeep. For an easy bob style, opt for a one-length cut, like Hailey Bieber's above, which requires less maintenance than a traditional cut and provides a sleeker, more polished look without the hassle of styling.

3. Textured Bob

If your hair has natural, tousled waves to it, embrace it in the form of a textured bob. This voluminous cut will give your hair effortless structure and needs minimal styling to look cool. King suggests adding a very light internal layering so that the bob moves and air-dries well.

4. Lob (Long Bob)

King says, “A long bob allows the hair to grow out gracefully, so you don’t need constant trims or trips to the salon”. And you’ll be pleased to know that this longer, more elegant cut works on every hair texture.

5. Pixie Bob

A pixie bob not only looks incredibly stylish, but this micro length haircut allows for an extended growing out time, meaning you won’t find yourself in and out of the salon every week. Simply opt for a sharper edge, which will add a sense of movement and keep it looking fresh.

6. Curly Bob

The easiest way to look after your bob? Embrace your natural hair texture and allow your curls to come through. It’s laid-back, elegant and the bob will evolve without any interference needed as it grows out

7. Full-Fringe Bob

If you want to add some interest to your bob, a full fringe is the way to go. I personally love Amy’s straight, micro iteration above, but you can opt for this chic style no matter the length or texture of your haircut.

9. Curtain-Bang Bob

Curtain bangs are a universally flattering way to frame the face and give some structure, as well as give the appearance of more volume and body to those of us with finer hair. Not to mention, this style comes French-girl approved, as shown on Julie above.

10. Torn-Bang Bob

Torn bangs might just be the most low-maintenance fringe trend there is, so it’s only fitting to pair this up with a shaggy bob for the ultimate easy hairstyle. This is definitely not a style suited to self-proclaimed "clean girls"; however, it’s fuss-free, easy to upkeep, and looks incredibly cool, might I add.

10. Side-Part Bob

I usually swear by my middle part, but I must admit that it can be a struggle to perfect it in the mornings when I’m doing my hair. A side-part will give a bob the appearance of looking intentional and put-together with minimal effort.

11. Flicked Bob

The flicked bob is an easy style that only takes a couple of minutes with a pair of hair straighteners. You can look chic and polished, as well as add movement and volume to the hair.

How to Achieve a Low-Maintenance Bob

Larry King has five key tips for achieving a low-maintenance bob:

1. Steer clear of super-sharp, geometric bobs. if you’re not up for daily styling – those babes demand precision.

2. Invest in the right tools. I love the Dyson Supersonic—it dries without blasting the cuticle, so your bob looks smooth without hours of styling.

3. Product is your friend. My A Social Life for Your Hair Cream is perfect for giving it that lived-in, effortless finish—not too polished, not too messy.

4. Cut for your lifestyle. If you’re a “wash and dash” kind of person, ask for a bob that works with your natural texture, not against it.

5. Trim smart. Every 8–10 weeks keeps the shape, but a well-cut bob should still look fab as it grows.

Best Products for Low-Maintenance Bob Haircuts