If you’re torn between an edgy shag and a chic bob haircut, we’ve got good news for you: the cowgirl bob just might be your match made in haircut heaven.
Unfamiliar with the cowgirl bob? The best way to describe it is a grown-up take on the viral cowgirl cut but with a hint of soft femininity – à la the French bob.
“The cowgirl cut is rough and ready — a little imperfect but beautiful, so that’s where the name came from,” says hairstylist Luke Hersheson, who coined the term ‘cowgirl cut’ in the first place. There are strong similarities with a shag or lob, but a key element of the cowgirl cut is the curtain bangs, he adds.
Now take this blueprint and apply it to a bob. “The cowgirl bob is a longer twist on the ‘French bob,’ with chic piece-y bangs and a blunt-full length,” says New York City hairstylist Dan Williams. Better yet, the cowgirl bob is equal parts flattering and versatile. While the look is on-trend, it can also be customised so your cut doesn’t end up looking like a carbon copy of anyone else’s style (unless you want it to).
Now that spring has finally arrived, it’s no surprise that cowgirl cuts are evolving into cowgirl bobs, pulling inspiration from short, hot-weather-friendly styles we already know and love. It also doesn’t hurt that country music is still having a moment right now.
How to style the cowgirl bob
“This bob is fabulous if you like a fuller, one-length, short bob with just a mild amount of texturising on the ends,” Dan continues. He also suggests cutting downward into the bangs “to add more of a wispy effect when styling.”
When creating your look, Dan recommends using a one-inch curling iron and “twisting the hair as the curl releases.” If that sounds too scary, we get it: Simply opt for a self-rotating curling wand, like the Dyson Airwrap Multi-Styler.
When curling, just “make sure to leave the ends out to help emphasise texture and give that little kick on the ends,” Dan adds, reiterating the importance of prioritising your hair’s health at the same time.
“Always use a good heat protectant,” he says, pointing to Bumble and Bumble Heat-Shield Thermal Protection Hair Mist as the perfect product for the job.
“Finish off this style with a good texture spray, such as the new Bumble and Bumble Thickening Dryspun Texture Spray Light.”
Et voilà: “This look is perfect for living your true cowgirl fantasy,” Dan concludes. We couldn’t agree more. Yeehaw!