Timeless cuts and colors may come and go, but some styles remain eternal. The brunette bob is a prime example. In its simplest form, these chic brown hairstyles exude elegance and sophistication. The cropped look perfectly complements rich brunette shades, creating a look that’s truly unmatched (we see you, Victoria Beckham).
With such a solid foundation, there’s an array of brunette bobs that offer unique twists while retaining the same aesthetic. Think asymmetric cuts, dimensional highlights, and tousled finishes. As winter approaches, it’s the ideal time to darken your locks and embrace a shorter cut (because who wants to blow-dry hair when it’s too cold to air dry?).
Below, discover 22 stunning brunette bobs to inspire your next trip to the salon.
1. Full-Bodied Bob
Instagram/ @zendaya
This bob features captivating volume and pin-up curls that evoke old Hollywood glamour. Yet, its dimensional brown hues give it a contemporary and innovative flair. Zendaya nails a statement look that proves timeless.
2. Wavy Bob
Instagram/ @halleybrisker
A choppy cut paired with wave texture brings movement to this bob that you don’t typically see with short hair. The side bangs introduce an asymmetry that enhances the boldness and interest of the look.
3. Bedheaded Bob
Instagram/ @halleybrisker
This tousled bob gives off a “just rolled out of bed” vibe while still feeling intentionally styled. Highlight a chestnut base with caramel baby lights to amplify the texture.
4. Side-Part Bob
Instagram/ @claytonhawkins
A dramatic side part injects an edgy feel into any hairstyle, especially this ultra-sleek bob. This shiny black-brown variant exudes a punk rock attitude.
5. Blunt Bob
Instagram/ @halleybrisker
Drawing inspiration from the 60s mod styles, this blunt-cut bob can be modernized with an angular shape that graduates from the back of your neck to just below your chin.
6. Curly Lob
Instagram/ @yarashahidi
This stunning shoulder-length lob gives Yara Shahidi’s curls remarkable volume and dimension. It’s a perfect example of hair texture and style harmonizing beautifully.
7. Barrel Curl Bob
Instagram/ @claytonhawkins
A few strategically placed curls can transform your short hair look. Use velcro rollers to achieve these big, luscious swirls, framing your face beautifully.
8. Bendy Bob
Instagram/ @missjobaker
For a more relaxed appearance, try incorporating bends instead of waves or curls. This approach offers a subtler dimension on espresso strands.
9. Shullet Bob
Instagram/ @jennychohair
The “shullet” or shaggy mullet falls into its own haircut category. This chestnut example emphasizes layers and angles while maintaining a slightly longer length in the back for a feminine touch.
10. Chin Length Curls
Instagram/ @lauraharrier
Who says messy hairstyles are exclusive to long hair? Laura Harrier’s curls bring volume to her blunt bob, showcasing how to have fun with short styles by letting your natural texture shine.
11. Chin-Skimming Bob
Instagram/ @jourdandunn
A sleek, chin-grazing razor cut is a must-have for brunettes. The key is to keep your hair smooth and shiny, so prep with hydrating and frizz-reducing products before styling.
12. Wavy Lob
Instagram/ @claytonhawkins
A longer bob, or “lob,” gives you more room to experiment with texture. Use a small-barreled curling iron (ideally under 1-inch) and brush through the waves for a loose, romantic finish.
13. The Rachel
Instagram/ @chrisweberhair
This cropped take on the iconic '90s haircut is still relevant in 2024. Made famous by Jennifer Aniston, the Rachel features swishy, face-framing layers and golden highlights. Try a modern twist by adjusting the length from shoulder-skimming to chin-grazing.
14. Caramel Bob
Instagram/ @colorbymattrez
Elevate an ombré brunette bob by moving your part to one side. This creates a waterfall of color around your face, reminiscent of Chrissy Teigen’s caramel highlights.
15. Monochromatic Bob
Instagram/ @justinemarjan
Skip the highlights and embrace a monochromatic brunette shade for your short cut. Maren Morris’s razor cut, for instance, showcases her chestnut strands in all their glory.
16. Brow-Grazing Bangs
Instagram/ @selenagomez
Selena Gomez’s wind-swept, full-bodied bob exemplifies undone glamour. It’s stunning yet not overdone, with wispy bangs adding a hint of French girl chic.
17. Silky Chestnut Brown Bob
Instagram/ @haileybieber
Hailey Bieber's brunette bob has been the talk of the town. Everything about this style is classic—the chestnut brown, blunt cut, flipped-out ends, and the tuck behind the ear—all without feeling stale.
18. Golden Babylights
Instagram/ @kellyrowland
Tiny golden baby lights can add a new dimension to a short mahogany cut. Incorporate larger streaks to frame your face for a brighter look.
19. Vintage Bob
Instagram/ @gemmachan
This polished bob transports you straight to the '50s, cementing the style as a timeless classic. Soft curls and a sultry side part perfectly complement the monochromatic mocha tone.
20. Deep Brown Italian Bob
Instagram/ @christianserratos
Sported by stars like Kaia Gerber, Jenna Ortega, and Zendaya, the Italian bob features blunt, chunky ends and evokes a classic '60s vibe. This deep brown hue is perfect for fall and winter, especially when paired with a fabulous faux-fur coat.
21. Asymmetrical and Angular
Instagram/ @jennychohair
Don’t shy away from sharp angles or asymmetrical cuts. When done right, they result in a striking hairdo. This particular style is a Vidal Sassoon classic with a geometric, blunt shape.
22. Uniform Bob
Image: Tara Ziemba/Getty Images
Kelly Rowland’s bob doesn’t require layers or angles to shine. The cut is uniform in length, but the wavy texture and perfectly cut bangs give it a sophisticated allure.
COMMENTS
Comments are moderated and generally will be posted if they are on-topic and not abusive.
For more information, please see our Comments FAQ