The Cup Bob Is Trending This Season—and It Might Be Our Favorite Short Hairstyle Yet

Bobs are having yet another moment, and honestly, are we even surprised? From Hailey Bieber’s sleek chin-grazing cut to Zendaya’s tousled Parisian lob, the bob has been dominating red carpets, Instagram feeds and salon mood boards alike. The latest iteration to steal the spotlight? Say hello to the cup bob.

This ultra-precise, slightly curved bob is all about harmonizing structure and softness. As the name describes it, the latest version of the classic bob cups your jawline ever so delicately for an elegant and feminine look. Unlike a blunt bob or the airy butterfly bob, the cup bob is cut with subtle inward shaping, giving it a rounded, almost sculptural effect that’s universally flattering. 

Besides its instant face-framing magic, the internet is obsessed with the cup bob for its refreshingly low-maintenance wear. It works with any texture, requires minimal styling and gives off that polished-but-playful energy we’re all trying to achieve. Basically, it’s the shortcut to looking effortlessly put together. 

Ready to take the plunge? Keep reading for exactly how to style it—and what to tell your stylist to nail the look.

What to Ask Your Stylist

When you sit in the salon chair, tell your stylist you want a softly curved, structured bob that gently tucks in toward your jawline. The length is up to preference and depends on what flatters your face shape best, but ideally should hit between your chin and just above your shoulders, says Rogerio Cavalcante, owner of The Second Floor Salon.

The key to this cut is precise yet subtle layering that creates that signature rounded effect without looking too stiff. Soft, beveled ends instead of a harsh blunt cut will also help to achieve that natural inward curve. If you want a little movement, you can always ask for slight internal layering to prevent the shape from feeling too heavy. And if you love a little extra lift, mention incorporating hidden undercut layers at the nape for a more sculpted finish. 

As always, your stylist should tailor the shape to complement your bone structure, so bring plenty of inspo pics to make sure you’re on the same page.

How to Style the Cup Bob

Going for the big chop can feel intimidating, especially when you’re used to the styling routine of long hair. But the reason bobs are always on trend is because of the many different combinations you can create and their ease of styling, says Howard McLaren, co-founder and creative director of R+Co—and the cup bob is no exception. 

For a quick and effortless way to style your cup bob on the go, start by sectioning your hair and misting it with a smoothing spray. Blow-dry as usual, then grab a curling iron to create that signature inward bend, curling the ends slightly toward your chin for that sculpted, polished look. To finish, smooth a lightweight hair balm over your part to tame flyaways and add a glossy boost, focusing on the crown for extra shine, says McLaren. It’s a foolproof way to achieve that effortless, it-girl finish in minutes.