The Bell-Bottom Bob Is the Retro Haircut You'll See Everywhere the Rest of Summer

Bob haircuts come in many shapes and sizes, and the bell-bottom bob is a trending summer style that is all about its edges. Pulling inspiration from ‘70s cuts, the bell-bottom bob flips out for a cute and quirky look. We spoke with stylists who explain how to rock this style, how high-maintenance it is, and how you can customize it to look best with your unique features.

What Is the Bell-Bottom Bob?

Hairstylists consider a bell-bottom bob any blunt-cut bob with a flipped-out bottom. “A bell-bottom bob is a short haircut, typically mid-neck length, that is cut blunt and styled with the tips curled out,” explains expert stylist Rogerio Cavalcante.

The throwback style has recently gone viral, and according to hairstylist Alfredo Lewis, it has more volume than other bobs and has a cool, retro feel. “The bell-bottom bob is all about that ‘70s vibe. Unlike your usual straight or blunt bob, this one flares out at the bottom, kinda like bell-bottom jeans but for your hair,” Lewis adds.

Any hair type and face shape can rock this look, but there are some considerations. “This haircut looks more harmonious on people with small faces and delicate features, like Reese Witherspoon,” says Cavalcante. “The short length complements smaller faces, and the curled-out style has a classic feminine look that pairs well with delicate features, such as a heart-shaped face with a thin chin and a smooth jawline.”

Is the Bell-Bottom Bob a High-Maintenance Style?

Most bobs can be high-maintenance if you want to maintain the same length and blunt edge. However, the styling of the bell-bottom bob will allow you to go slightly longer between cuts. Speak with your stylist about a length that is best for your features and lifestyle.

“For those with stronger features, this style would be more flattering if it were a little longer, around shoulder length. But it also looks good on anyone who identifies with the style and feels good wearing it. Confidence is key,” says Cavalcante. 

If you want the classic flip daily, expect some daily heat styling, especially if you have curly hair. “This style can work for anyone willing to put in the effort,” says Cavalcante. “It is easier for those with naturally straight hair, but straightening would be necessary to achieve this style for curly or textured hair.”

How to Style the Bell-Bottom Bob Yourself at Home

For starters, Lewis and Cavalcante say to blow dry your hair straight if it’s not already. Then, you’ll use a round brush, flat iron, or curling iron to flip the ends outwards. Here’s how to do it.

Heat Styling

1. Use a round brush and a hairdryer to blow out the hair straight. Apply a heat protecting spray with conditioning and smoothing benefits, like HASK Argan Oil 5-in-1 Leave-In Spray.
2. Use the round brush to curl the ends outwards.
3. If you’re having trouble getting the flip shape, use a flatiron or curling iron to flip out the ends. “Careful not to leave marks, though,” says Cavalcante.
4.  “Finish with a bit of hairspray to keep the flare in place. And voila, you’re all set!” Lewis adds.

Air Drying

“You can totally air dry it if your hair’s naturally straight or has a slight wave,” says Lewis. Just use a brush specifically designed for air drying, like the Ultimate Styler, to keep it smooth while it dries. But Lewis says to really nail that flared-out look, you probably need to spend some time with a blow dryer or curling iron. “It’s a bit more work, but so worth it!”