Stylish Women Are Moving Beyond the French Bob and Embracing This Fresh New Hair Trend

Earlier this year, I couldn’t stop thinking about getting a bob. With so many stunning short hairstyles popping up on social media, it felt like the obvious choice for my next salon appointment.

But after months of debating whether or not to go for it, I eventually decided to do the complete opposite and grow my hair out for summer. Honestly, by the time my appointment came around, I was starting to feel a little over all the bob trends and wanted to try something different. Then I discovered the Scandi bob haircut, and suddenly, I was second-guessing everything again.

Yes, this effortlessly cool short hairstyle may have finally convinced me to go for the chop. In my opinion, it is the perfect hair trend for summer. Curious? I thought you might be. Keep scrolling to learn everything you need to know about this chic haircut, and make sure to save this article so you have plenty of inspiration pictures to show your stylist.

@rochellehumes
(Image credit: @rochellehumes)

What Is the Scandi Bob Haircut?

@chloehelenmiles
(Image credit: @chloehelenmiles)

So, what exactly is the Scandi bob? According to hairdresser and Sta Studios founder Samantha Cusick, “The Scandi bob is a sharp, blunt bob that typically falls just below the chin.” The style takes its name from Scandinavian aesthetics, meaning it is all about simplicity, minimalism and clean, polished lines. Celebrity hairstylist James Lear adds that it gives off “major cool-girl hair vibes” while still feeling practical and effortlessly elegant.

Both experts agree that the Scandi bob is set to be a major summer hair trend. Cusick says that many clients at Samantha Cusick London are choosing this haircut because it is low-maintenance while still looking chic and effortless. Lear also notes that while last year was dominated by the French bob and Italian bob, this season is all about the simple, understated, “less is more” feel of Scandi style.

How to Style the Scandi Bob

You know that feeling when you leave the salon loving your hair, but after the first wash, you have no idea how to style it yourself? To avoid that, I asked the experts for their best tips on styling a fresh Scandi bob.

According to Cusick, the Scandi bob is incredibly versatile. You can wear it with a centre parting for a balanced, polished look, or flip your parting to one side to add volume and create a more relaxed, yet still chic, finish.

If your hair has natural waves, Cusick suggests letting it air dry and using a texture spray or salt spray to enhance movement. You can also create soft waves with a straightener or a hair waver for a more styled effect.

As someone with naturally wavy hair, I often wonder how a haircut like this would work with my texture. But after seeing how flattering the Scandi bob looks on both natural and curled hair, I’m even more tempted to try it. The most important thing is finding a stylist who understands how to cut your specific hair type, so it is worth doing your research and asking to see their portfolio before booking with someone new.

Scandi Bob Inspiration

@haileybieber
(Image credit: @haileybieber)

This blunt-cut finish looks incredibly chic.

@emmanuellek
(Image credit: @emmanuellek_)

I love every detail of this hairstyle.

@gigihadid
(Image credit: @gigihadid)

Gigi has given her Scandi bob a soft, subtle wave.

the_oluwaseun
(Image credit: @the_oluwaseun)

This bob looks amazing when paired with braids.

@maryljean
(Image credit: @maryljean)

This photo is enough to make me book a hair appointment immediately.

@francescasaffari
(Image credit: @francescasaffari)

Just look at that shine.

@catlpatterson
(Image credit: @catlpatterson)

Complete the look with a Scandi-inspired Ganni blouse.

@lilyallen
(Image credit: @lilyallen)

This is the ideal bob for summer.

@greceghanem
(Image credit: @greceghanem)

So effortlessly cool.

@kaiagerber
(Image credit: @kaiagerber)

A blunt bob does not have to feel too sharp or severe. Add a little movement for a softer, more wearable finish.

@sylviemus
(Image credit: @sylviemus_)

This bob looks beautiful with a middle parting.

@frannfyne
(Image credit: @frannfyne)

Absolute perfection.

@millakuoksa
(Image credit: @millakuoksa)

This haircut works for every occasion.

@tylynnnguyen
(Image credit: @tylynnnguyen)

Proof that a Scandi bob can instantly elevate your look.

@emmahoareau
(Image credit: @emmahoareau)

A Scandi-style bob at its very best.

@monamali_
(Image credit: @monamali_)

A wispy fringe complements this haircut perfectly.

@selinergulofficial
(Image credit: @selinergulofficial)

Selin’s bob curves slightly under at the ends, adding body and shape.

@rochellehumes
(Image credit: @rochellehumes)

Rochelle Humes’s centre-parted bob looks so effortless.

@aidabadji_
(Image credit: @aidabadji_)

Blunt ends are essential for achieving a great Scandi bob.