The classic bob is a timeless hairstyle, but committing to such a significant chop can be daunting. What if you could enjoy the chic elegance of a bob for a day or an evening without reaching for the scissors? The faux bob is a brilliant styling technique that allows you to do just that. By cleverly tucking and pinning longer hair, you can create the illusion of a shorter cut, offering a perfect way to experiment with your look. This method is surprisingly simple and provides a sophisticated finish suitable for any occasion.
Preparing Your Hair for Styling
The success of your faux bob largely depends on the preparation. For the best results, start with dry, second-day hair, as it often has more grip and texture than freshly washed hair. If your hair is very fine or silky, applying a texturising spray or a light mousse can add the necessary hold to keep the style in place. You will need a few essential tools:
- A thin hair elastic
- Bobby pins that match your hair colour
- A light to medium-hold hairspray
- Optional: A curling wand or straighteners to add texture
Adding Texture for Volume and Hold
While a faux bob can be created with straight hair for a sleek, polished look, adding some waves or curls beforehand can make the process easier and the result more natural. Gentle waves help to disguise the tucking and pinning, creating a softer, more voluminous silhouette. You can use a curling wand to create loose waves throughout your hair, focusing on the mid-lengths and ends. This initial texture will give the finished style more body and make it appear more authentic.
A Step-by-Step Guide to the Perfect Faux Bob
Creating a convincing faux bob is a matter of following a few simple steps. With a little practice, you'll be able to master this versatile style. The key is to keep the initial ponytail loose and to pin discreetly.
Step 1: Create a Loose Ponytail
Gather your hair at the nape of your neck as if you were making a low ponytail. Instead of pulling the hair all the way through the elastic on the final wrap, create a loop, leaving the ends of your hair out. The length of this loop will determine the length of your faux bob. For a shorter, chin-length bob, make the loop smaller. For a longer bob (a 'lob'), leave the loop larger.
Step 2: Tuck and Roll
Take the tail of hair left out of the elastic and begin to roll it upwards and inwards, tucking it into the space between the elastic and your neck. Continue to roll the entire looped ponytail up and under until it is neatly tucked against the nape of your neck. The hair from the top layers of your head should now fall over the tucked section, starting to form the bob shape.
Step 3: Secure with Pins
This is the most crucial step for a long-lasting style. Use bobby pins to secure the rolled section of hair firmly to the base hair underneath. The best technique is to slide the pins in vertically, from the bottom up, so they are hidden within the roll. Use as many pins as you need to feel secure. Criss-crossing pins can provide extra hold. Make sure the pins are grabbing both the rolled hair and the hair close to your scalp.
Step 4: Shape and Finalise
Once the roll is secure, use your fingers to gently pull and shape the bob. You can loosen the hair around your face to create a softer, more flattering frame. Gently tug at the sides and back to create your desired volume and shape. If some shorter layers fall out, that’s perfectly fine – it adds to the natural look. To complete the style, lightly mist your hair with a flexible-hold hairspray to tame any flyaways and set your beautiful new bob in place.
Variations and Customisation
The faux bob is incredibly versatile. For a glamorous, vintage-inspired look, create deep side parting and smooth the hair into a sleek wave at the front. For a more relaxed, bohemian feel, pull out a few more tendrils around your face and allow the texture to be a little messier. You can also enhance your faux bob with accessories. A decorative clip, a headband, or even a silk scarf tied around your head can add a personal touch and elevate the style further. Don't be afraid to experiment to find the version that best suits your personal style and the occasion.
