The Vintage Bob is Back: Which Decade’s Version Suits You?

Hello lovely,
There’s something rather satisfying about a good bob haircut. It can look beautifully polished with a little effort, wonderfully scruffy when you can’t be bothered, and it has a habit of making even your most ordinary outfit feel a little bit more interesting.
And vintage girls have known this for well over a century.

The bob has been chopped, waved, curled, flicked and feathered through several decades of fashion history. From the daring short cuts of the 1920s to the choppy, messy layers of the 1970s, each generation has found its own way of wearing it.

Now in 2026, we’re starting to see a lot of familiar shapes pop up again. The flippy bob, soft sculpted waves and shorter shag haircuts have all appeared among this year’s hair trends. Although, if you’ve ever spent any time looking through old fashion magazines, you’ll probably recognise a few of them.

Personally, I love that we can borrow the best bits of these old hairstyles without committing to the hours of setting and spraying that sometimes went into them. A modern haircut can give you the shape, while a little styling brings out the vintage character.

So, if you’ve been toying with getting the chop, let’s have a look at four fabulous vintage bob hairstyles, how they originally looked, and most importantly, what to tell your hairdresser so you don’t leave the salon with something completely different.

Why are vintage bob hairstyles popular again?

Bob haircuts have never really disappeared, they’ve just changed their personality over the years. One season, everyone wants a perfectly straight, sharp little bob. The next, its all soft layers, fluffy fringes and hair that looks better when it’s slightly mussed up.

For 2026, the flippy bob and undone shag bob are among the variations getting attention. Both have obvious vintage influences, but they’re being worn with softer finishes and more natural movement. There’s a practical appeal to all this too. A shorter haircut can feel wonderfully fresh, especially if you’ve spent years growing your hair only to wear it tied up most of the time.

Of course, short hair doesn’t automatically mean less maintenance. Some bobs need a fair bit of convincing with a round brush every morning, while others are quite happy to do their own thing. That’s why choosing the right version for your hair and lifestyle is important.
And that’s where a little vintage inspiration comes in handy.

The 1920s waved bob: sleek, sculpted and rather daring

If you adore Art Deco fashion, cloche hats, dark lipstick and photographs of glamorous silent movie stars, the 1920s waved bob might be calling your name.

The original look

The bob became a fashion statement during the 1920s, although women had been experimenting with shorter hair before the decade began. Cutting away long locks was a striking departure from the elaborate hairstyles associated with previous generations.

Film stars helped to popularise different versions of the cut. Louise Brooks became famous for her sharp, dark bob and straight fringe, while Clara Bow often wore her shorter hair with soft curls and waves. Josephine Baker is another important influence, wearing sleek, sculpted hairstyles that complemented her extraordinary stage presence.

There wasn’t one single 1920s bob. Some were blunt, others tapered at the nape, and some were dressed in elaborate waves that took a considerable amount of time and patience to create. The Denver Public Library’s historical collection explains how women used techniques such as finger waving and Marcel waving to create the styles we now associate with the decade.

Finger waves were shaped into the hair while damp using fingers and a comb. Marcel waves, by comparison, were created using heated irons. Both produced those gorgeous curls that follow the shape of the head.

What does a 1920s waved bob look like?

Picture a short, neat haircut, usually somewhere between the ears and chin, with glossy waves framing the face. A side parting gives it that lovely old fashioned sophistication, while a little curl around the cheekbones adds softness. You can go very authentic with close, sculpted finger waves, but I think the more wearable interpretation is a slightly longer bob with a couple of pronounced waves around the front.
It still has that lovely 1920s shape without looking as though you’re always on the way to a fancy dress party.

Who Does the 1920s Waved Bob Suit?

This is a lovely option if you enjoy short hair with a defined silhouette and don’t mind putting a little effort into styling.

Naturally straight or gently wavy hair can be shaped into smooth, glossy waves. Curly hair can also look gorgeous in a shorter vintage bob, although the cut needs to take your natural curl pattern into account.

If you have a rounder face and prefer a little more length around your jaw, ask for the bob to fall just below your chin. If you love showing off your cheekbones, a shorter version could be just the thing. And if you’re not ready to lose too much length, try the waves on your current haircut first.

What to Ask Your Hairdresser for

Say something like:

“I’d love a 1920s inspired bob, sitting around my chin, with a neat outline and enough length at the front to style into finger waves. I’d like a side parting and a smooth finish, but I don’t want it too severely cropped.”

Discuss whether you need any graduation at the back, and take along photographs of both the original vintage hairstyle and a modern version you like. One important thing to remember is that finger waves are a styling technique, not a haircut. You can have a perfectly suitable bob and still need to set the waves yourself.

How to Style a 1920s Waved Bob Today

For an everyday version, start with a smooth blow dry and create a side parting. Use a small curling tong to form a couple of gentle bends around your face, then brush them together carefully.

For more authentic finger waves, work a suitable setting product through damp hair and use a fine comb and your fingers to shape the distinctive S curves. Let everything dry completely before removing any clips.

Finish with a little shine product and flexible hairspray. A decorative hair slide near the temple looks especially lovely for evenings. Add a dark berry lip and perhaps a silky blouse, and you’re sorted.

The 1930s Soft Bob: Old Hollywood Glamour Without the Fuss

By the 1930s, the bob had started to soften.
The very sharp, boyish shapes of the previous decade gradually gave way to slightly longer hair, gentle curls and beautifully arranged waves.

Hollywood had an enormous influence on the way women dressed and styled themselves during this period. Jean Harlow, Carole Lombard and other screen actresses helped make soft, waved hairstyles enormously desirable.

The change also reflected wider fashion developments. As the Fashion History Timeline on the Fashion Institute of Technology explains, the early 1930s brought softer silhouettes and a renewed emphasis on flowing, feminine lines. Hair of course followed suit.

What Does a 1930s Soft Bob Look Like?

The 1930s soft bob usually has a little more length than its 1920s cousin, often sitting between the chin and shoulders.

Rather than forming one severe line, the ends are curled under or arranged into soft, rounded waves. Deep side partings were popular, with the front section sweeping elegantly across the forehead.

There could still be carefully sculpted waves around the hairline, particularly for formal occasions, but the overall shape became fuller and less severe.

It’s probably my favourite option for anyone who loves vintage glamour but doesn’t fancy looking too dressed up for the supermarket.

A slightly undone version is particularly pretty. Think soft curls brushing your jawline, a sweeping side parting and a little movement whenever you turn your head.

Who Does the 1930s Soft Bob Suit?

If you’ve got naturally wavy hair, this could be a very good place to start. The cut works with movement rather than requiring every strand to sit perfectly straight.

It can also be a flattering choice for fine hair, provided the ends retain enough weight to look full. Soft curls and a side parting can help create the appearance of volume.

Thicker hair may benefit from discreet internal layers, although I’d avoid removing so much weight that the ends become wispy.

And for those of us who aren’t terribly keen on a very short haircut, a longer 1930s inspired bob feels like a much gentler change.

What to Ask Your Hairdresser for

Try asking:

“I’d like a soft 1930s inspired bob, somewhere between my chin and collarbone, with a rounded shape and gentle movement through the ends. I’d like to wear it in a side parting and style it with soft vintage waves, so please keep enough length and weight for that.”

If you’re planning to curl your hair regularly, mention this during the consultation. Your stylist can advise on the finished length, as curls will make the hair appear shorter.

Ask for soft shaping rather than lots of choppy layers.

How to Style a 1930s Soft Bob Today

You don’t need a whole collection of vintage hairdressing equipment to recreate this one.

Apply a little mousse to damp hair, then use medium rollers or a curling tong to create curls that turn towards your face. Once they’re completely cool, gently brush them through until they join into larger, softer waves. The secret is not to leave each curl looking like a separate ringlet. Finish with a deep side parting and a little shine serum through the ends.

For an evening look, tuck one side behind your ear and add a pretty clip or comb.

If you enjoy learning how older hairstyles were actually created, the V&A’s article on Eugène Waver hairdressing magazines is a fascinating glimpse into the beauty routines of the 1920s and 1930s.

The 1960s Flip Bob: A Little Polish and a Lot of Personality

Now, this is a good one. The 1960s gave us some wonderfully distinctive hairstyles, from enormous beehives and backcombed bouffants to sharp, geometric cuts.

And somewhere among all that height and structure was the fabulous little flip. Jackie Kennedy wore her hair in polished, softly rounded styles with turned out ends, while actresses such as Mary Tyler Moore and Marlo Thomas helped establish the flipped hairstyle as a recognisable part of 1960s fashion.

It’s one of those haircuts that looks particularly good with a neat little cardigan, a tailored jacket or a colourful shift dress.

What Does a 1960s Flip Bob Look Like?

The defining feature is the outward turn at the ends. The hair itself is generally smooth and fairly full, with enough weight around the perimeter to create a neat, sweeping shape. There may be volume at the crown, depending on whether you’re going for a very polished early 1960s look or something a little more playful. Lengths varied, from around the chin to the shoulders.

It’s worth mentioning that the flip and the geometric Mod bob were two different approaches to short hair during the decade. Hairdresser Vidal Sassoon became famous for his revolutionary precision cuts, including the Five Point cut associated with Mary Quant. His designs were based on geometric shapes and movement, rather than heavily set curls.

You can read more about the development of these styles in the Sassoon Academy’s history of the 1960s. Personally, I rather like combining the two ideas. A neat, well cut bob with a soft little flick at the ends gives you that 1960s charm without requiring half a tin of hairspray.

Who Does the 1960s Flip Bob Suit?

This version is particularly good if you like your hair looking neat and styled but don’t want elaborate curls. Straight hair is an obvious starting point, especially if it holds a blow dry reasonably well. Fine hair can also look lovely with a little root lift and a fuller, blunt outline. If your hair is very thick, your hairdresser may need to remove some internal weight to stop the style becoming too triangular.

Naturally curly hair can certainly be worn in a 1960s inspired rounded bob, but achieving the classic smooth flip may require more heat styling than you’d want to do every day. As for face shape, the flip can be adjusted by changing the length and where the volume sits. A little extra length around the jaw can soften the silhouette, while shorter versions draw more attention to the cheekbones.

What to Ask Your Hairdresser for

Ask for:

“I’d like a 1960s inspired flippy bob with a smooth, fairly blunt shape and enough length to turn the ends outwards. I’d like it to sit around my chin or just above my shoulders, with a little volume but not too much layering.”

If you want a full fringe, talk about how it will work with your natural hair growth and whether you prefer it straight or slightly swept to one side. Take a photograph of the flip you actually want. A subtle outward bend and a dramatic, shoulder length 1960s flick are quite different hairstyles.

How to Style a 1960s Flip Bob Today

This one is surprisingly straightforward once you get the hang of it.
Apply heat protection and blow dry your hair with a round brush, keeping the roots smooth but allowing a little lift at the crown. As you reach the ends, turn the brush outwards rather than underneath. You can also use a straightener to bend the last few centimetres away from your neck. For extra bounce, set the ends in large rollers while the hair cools. Don’t go mad with the hairspray. A flexible hold will keep the flick in place while allowing the hair to move naturally.

For a more obvious Mod look, pair your flip with a full fringe, oversized earrings and graphic eyeliner.

You can find plenty more inspiration in my guides to 1960s fashion on the high street and 1960s make up.

The 1970s Shaggy Bob: Messy Layers and a Bit of Rock Star Attitude

If the thought of carefully curling your hair every morning makes you want to crawl back into bed, the 1970s shaggy bob might be more your thing. By the early 1970s, layered hairstyles were becoming increasingly fashionable, and the shag offered a rather different silhouette from the precise cuts of the previous decade.

One of the most famous examples was Jane Fonda’s wonderfully choppy hairstyle in the 1971 film Klute, created by hairdresser Paul McGregor.

The cut featured short layers, a fringe and plenty of movement, and it’s still referenced by hairdressers today. Vogue’s look at Jane Fonda’s influence explains how that distinctive hairstyle continues to inspire modern cuts.

It’s worth remembering that the original 1970s shag wasn’t necessarily a bob. Many versions were considerably longer. The modern shaggy bob simply takes that layered, slightly rebellious shape and brings it up to a shorter length. And very lovely it is, too.

What Does a 1970s Shaggy Bob Look Like?

Unlike the smooth 1960s bob, this hairstyle is all about movement and texture. The outline is softer, the layers are more obvious, and a fringe can be used to frame the face. You might choose a short, choppy fringe, longer curtain bangs or a softer full fringe that blends into the sides. Lengths generally range from the jaw to the neck, although a slightly longer version can look particularly good if your hair has plenty of natural wave.

I love the contrast of this haircut with more tailored clothing. A shaggy bob with a tweed blazer, silk shirt and chunky earrings has a wonderfully relaxed 1970s feel. Or go full rock chick with a vintage band T-shirt, denim and a little smudged eyeliner.

Who Does the 1970s Shaggy Bob Suit?

This can be a brilliant choice for naturally wavy hair. The layers encourage movement, and the style generally looks best when it isn’t too carefully arranged. Curly hair can also work beautifully with a shaggy shape, provided the stylist understands how your curls sit and how much they spring up when dry. For thick hair, layering can remove bulk and make the haircut feel lighter.

If your hair is very fine, however, be a little more cautious. Too many short layers can make the bottom of the haircut look rather thin. Ask for a softer shaggy bob that keeps more weight through the ends.

What to Ask Your Hairdresser for

You could say:

“I’d like a 1970s inspired shaggy bob with soft, textured layers and plenty of movement. I’d like it around jaw to neck length, with some shorter pieces framing my face. I want it to work with my natural hair texture rather than needing to straighten it every day.”

If you have fine hair, add that you’d like to maintain fullness through the bottom of the haircut. And if you’ve got curls, I’d recommend finding someone who regularly cuts curly hair. How those layers behave when dry makes an enormous difference to the finished shape.

How to Style a 1970s Shaggy Bob Today

The beauty of this haircut is that it can be relatively easy to style, assuming the cut works with your natural texture. Work a little mousse or lightweight styling cream through damp hair, then scrunch gently to encourage movement. If you have waves or curls, use a diffuser on a low heat or allow your hair to air dry. Straight hair may need a few loose bends with a curling tong to bring the layers to life.

Once dry, gently separate the pieces around your face and fringe. You can use a touch of texture spray if you want a slightly more tousled finish. But don’t feel you need to turn it into an enormous, backcombed 1970s hairstyle. A shorter shag looks lovely when it’s soft and quite understated.

If you’re fond of the decade, have a peek at my 1970s fashion icons and trendsetters for more inspiration.

Which Vintage Bob Hairstyle Is Best for Your Hair Type?

If you’re still torn between the four, I would start by looking at how your hair behaves naturally rather than choosing purely on the photograph you like best.

For fine or thin hair: A 1960s flip bob or softly rounded 1930s bob could be a good choice. Both can retain a fuller outline, while a little styling adds volume. Avoid excessive layering if your ends already look sparse.

For thick hair: You have several options, but a 1970s shaggy bob can be particularly useful if you want to reduce bulk. A 1920s inspired bob can also look beautiful, although the shape may need careful adjustment to prevent it becoming too wide.

For naturally wavy hair: I’d be looking closely at the 1930s soft bob or the 1970s shaggy bob. Both make use of natural movement, although the finished effect is quite different.

For naturally curly or coily hair: Any of these decades can provide inspiration, but the cut should respect your curl pattern, density and shrinkage. A rounded, softly shaped bob may be easier to maintain than a style requiring regular straightening or setting. The 1970s shaggy shape can also work well when the layers are carefully planned.

For straight hair: The 1920s bob and 1960s flip are obvious contenders, particularly if you enjoy a clean outline. You may need to set curls or waves to achieve the more sculpted vintage styles.

One thing I wouldn’t worry too much about is being told that a particular face shape can’t wear a bob. Length, fringe, parting and volume can all be adjusted. A decent hairdresser should be able to explain how to get the overall look you want while making it work for your features.

What to Consider Before Getting a Vintage Bob Cut

There’s a difference between admiring a hairstyle in a photograph and living with it every morning. Before making an appointment, it’s worth considering a few practical things.

How Much Styling Are You Willing to Do?

If you love getting ready and enjoy playing with curlers, styling brushes and setting products, a 1920s or 1930s inspired bob could be enormous fun. If your usual hair routine involves five minutes and a quick look in the mirror, you might be happier with a textured 1970s cut. The 1960s flip tends to sit somewhere in the middle, although naturally straight hair can make life considerably easier.

Are You Happy to Have a Fringe?

A fringe can change the whole personality of a bob. A short, blunt fringe gives a 1920s cut that lovely Louise Brooks look, while a full, smooth fringe works beautifully with a geometric 1960s style. For something softer, consider a side swept fringe with a 1930s bob or curtain bangs with a 1970s shag. Just remember to discuss cowlicks and how your fringe behaves naturally. If it has a mind of its own, your hairdresser needs to know before picking up the scissors.

How Often Do You Want to Visit the Salon?

Sharper bobs tend to show growth more quickly, particularly when the cut relies on a precise length around the jaw. Softer, layered cuts can often grow out more gracefully. Ask your hairdresser how regularly they’ll recommend a trim for your chosen style, and whether the haircut will still look good as it gets longer.

Can You Try the Look Before Committing?

Absolutely.
You can experiment with a side parting and finger waves on longer hair, create a temporary 1960s flip using a round brush, or pin your hair underneath to give the impression of a shorter bob.

This is particularly handy if you’ve never had short hair before. And take more than one photograph to your appointment. A front view is lovely, but photographs showing the sides and back make it much easier for your hairdresser to understand exactly what you’re after.

So, Which Vintage Bob Would You Choose?

I think that’s what makes vintage hairstyles so much fun. You can find an old photograph, fall completely in love with the haircut and then work out how to make it fit your own style.

You might adore the glossy sophistication of a 1920s waved bob, prefer the soft glamour of the 1930s, or find yourself drawn to a cheeky little 1960s flip. And then there’s the 1970s shaggy bob, for those days when you want your hair to look rather fabulous without spending half the morning wrestling with it.

There’s no reason to recreate every historical detail, unless that’s your thing, of course. A well chosen cut can carry plenty of vintage character while still feeling entirely comfortable to wear today. So save a few photographs, have a proper chat with your hairdresser and see what takes your fancy.

Which decade’s bob would you be tempted to try?
I’d love to know whether you’re a polished 1960s girl or more of a shaggy 1970s sort.

Until next time, stay delightful darling.

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