Italian bob: This chic, 60s-inspired haircut that is all over

Let’s talk about the Italian bob. The Italian bob is one of the hottest hair styles for 2022. It has been seen everywhere, both on and off the runway. The long, chubby hairstyle was first worn by Raffaella Carra, a ’60s actress, and has since been made famous on TikTok by Sean Paul Nother and Nick Lathan, AKA The Hair Bros.

It’s easy to think that the bob is just one style. There are many bob hairstyles you can choose from. There are the French bob, the bangless bob. Then there’s the bob with bangs (a bob-pixie hybrid) and the Italian bob. The Italian bob was invented by The Hair Bros. It’s a chunky, neck-grazing cut with lots of volume at the ends.

Adam Reed, UK editorial ambassador for L’Oreal Professionnel says that the Italian bob is very popular. “It’s fun, dynamic and chic – while also being easy to style every day.” Reed continues, “It’s great for anyone who wants a standout style that doesn’t require much upkeep.” We break down the Italian Bob and explain why it could become your next signature style.

WHAT IS THE ITALIAN BOB?

Ryan Forsythe is the artistic education director at Trevor Sorbie Covent Garden. He explains that the Italian bob is a one-length, heavy bob that falls just above the shoulders and below the chin. Forsythe continues, “Generally, the hair rolls down at the ends.” But, it is possible to wear the bob with subtle, natural movement. This was the look that Raffaella Carra, an iconic Italian actor and singer, wore in the 1960s.

Reed says that the Italian bob is different from other short hairstyles. Reed says volume is the key to this style. It requires lots of movement and body, as well as thick, chunky ends.

WHO DOES THE ITALIAN BOB SUIT?

The Italian bob’s main appeal is its versatility and flattering appearance. Forsythe says, “It’s an elegant look that suits all ages and can also be worn casually or professionally.”

Reed suggests speaking with your stylist before you try the Italian bob. Reed says that the Italian bob is a great style that suits a variety of hair types and face shapes. However, it’s best to talk to your stylist to discuss how they can tailor the cut to you. Forsythe adds that the length can be altered to fit different faces.

ITALIAN BOB VS FRENCH BOB: WHAT’S THE DIFFERENCE?

Although they look very similar, the French and Italian bobs are actually quite different. Reed says that the main difference between the French and Italian bobs is the volume. Reed continues, “The Italian Bob isn’t afraid of being big with lots body and movement,” adding that “it showcases texture but still looks chic and polished.”

Forsythe says that a French bob is shorter than an Italian one in terms of length. The French bob, on the other hand, is longer and more dense.

HOW TO STYLE THE ITALIAN BOB

Reed says that the Italian bob can almost be styled by itself with a great haircut. He continues, “But, there are some key products that I always use on clients to help manage this style.” Reed’s favorite product is L’Oreal Professionnel Techni Art Pli. “The formula activates with heat so the style stays put all day,” he says. Reed also recommends using texturizing dust to add texture and body.

For heat styling, Forsythe recommends using a hair dryer with a medium-sized brush and a hairbrush to “roll sections under for a beveled effect.”

• L’Oreal Professionnel Tecni Art Beach Waves RRP $20

This is a great way to add a tangled finish to your vintage look. You should not use this product on fine hair. Medium to thick hair textures may need more. To enhance the effect, you can tangle the hair with your fingers while it dries.

This is the perfect companion for an Italian bob – use before blow drying to lift roots, give you long-lasting bounce, and keep those beveled ends.

• L’Oreal Professionnel Tecni Art pli Shaper at LOOKFANTASTIC UK, for $15.44

Latham uses Hair Story Lift Volumizing Spray in his viral TikTok tutorial for The Hair Bros. Latham says, “Then we put the hair into small buns and lightly cut the top pieces to encourage lift, volume, and volume,” before using a hairdryer. Reed suggests a quick trick to get volume: “Mix up your parting and flip it to the other side.”

5 ITALIAN BOB STYLES WE LOVE

Are you thinking of a bob? Our edit of Italian bob haircuts, as seen on A-listers throughout the years, will inspire you.

1. BEACHY ITALIAN BOB

An Italian bob haircut can be given movement and body with beachy, tousled waves. Use your curling iron to recreate this look.

2. CLASSIC ITALIAN BOB

This classic Italian bob is elegant, sophisticated, and heavy at its ends. This style can be achieved by asking your stylist for blunt ends with minimal layering. To style your hair at home, you should invest in the best straightener brush to get smooth and straight hair.

3. LONG ITALIAN BOB

A slightly longer version of the Italian bob is a good option for medium hair. You can create both updos with short hair and downdos with the added length.

4. WAVY ITALIAN BOB

Pair an Italian bob and a Hollywood wavy for the ultimate go-out look. These soft waves can be created with a curling iron, or one of the top hair straighteners.

5. SLEEK ITALIAN BOB

Are you looking for hairstyles that work for straight hair? The sleek Italian bob is perfect for oval faces, and it’s stylish!