The Gist
A signature element of the Italian bob is its sharp, chin-length cut that adds structure and sophistication.
Unlike French or shag bobs, the style has fewer layers and a more defined, polished finish.
Many celebrities are opting for the Italian bob as a breezy, playful hairstyle for the warmer seasons.
We’re in full swing of Aperol-Spritz-in-hand season and dreaming up travel plans for a summer in Rome, complete with an Italian bob to bring the Euro vibes. Many celebrities, including Selena Gomez and Hailey Bieber, are embracing this breezy hairstyle that adds a touch of polish and warm-weather fun.
“The Italian bob is a really fitting cut for summer,” says hairstylist Sheila Guillermo. “Most people usually come in wanting a big change, going into the warmer days. This could be really fun, flirty, and easy to style.”
Meet Our Expert
Sheila Guillermo is a hairstylist at NYC THE TEAM founded by celebrity colorist Michelle Hong.
Michelle Cleveland is a celebrity hairstylist and extension expert.
Unlike other bobs, this chin-grazing haircut involves a blunt cut with face-framing edges. It’s quickly becoming a go-to for those seeking a style that gives off chic effortlessness. Who could forget Simona Tabasco’s iconic portrayal of Lucia in The White Lotus?
Ready to try out the daring chop for yourself? We consulted the experts on everything you need to know about the Italian bob and how to achieve the look with your hairstylist.
What Is an Italian Bob?
The Italian bob is the chic, low-maintenance cut that’s having a major moment. According to Guillermo, “An Italian bob is typically a blunt, chin-length haircut with few layers. It can be seen styled smooth and polished with a deep side part to show off more volume, or with soft waves and curls.”
Its versatility is what makes it so popular, whether you’re going for that sleek, high-fashion look or something more relaxed and tousled, the Italian bob does a lot with very little—literally.
How it Differs from Other Bobs
It’s no secret that bobs are having a serious moment right now, with styles like the textured French bob and the butterfly bob making waves across Hollywood and on TikTok. But if you’re craving something a bit more striking, the Italian bob is the one to watch.
“Unlike other bob-style haircuts, the Italian bob has very minimal layering and tips slightly frayed,” explains celebrity hairstylist Michelle Cleveland. “This is what contributes to its sleek and polished look.” The Italian bob’s defining feature is its blunt, chin-length cut, which creates a fuller, more structured finish. While the French bob leans into soft texture and the shag bob thrives on messy, lived-in layers, the Italian bob stands out for its clean lines and glamorous nature.
What to Ask for at the Salon
Before you rush off to book an appointment, there’s a few guidelines you should keep in mind according to experts. “When sitting with your stylist during your consultation make sure you ask for a blunt cut, avoiding taking out too much weight which results in a textured look,” Guillermo advises. “It is best to have the weight on the ends which gives it a more chunky, heavy look on the ends.”
She further suggests asking for minimal layers, explaining it should have just enough layering to “show some movement and give it some volume when styling.”
Below, explore 10 Italian bobs sported by celebrities to bring in as a reference photo.
Side Part
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For those who want to up the ante of glamour, turn to a side part and slight curls like Hailey Bieber. This blunt cut creates a beautiful face-framing silhouette that truly shines.
Bubble Bob
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Raye’s bouncy bubble bob is so chic and reminiscent of Old Hollywood. The Italian bob is especially great for those with textured hair since it creates a voluminous style.
Super Sleek
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Kourtney Kardashian with a sleek bob.
Kourtney Kardashian Barker is the person to go to for ultra-polished styles. Her Italian bob is cut to perfection and is styled sleek and straight.
Slick Back Edge
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Of course, The White Lotus character Lucia is still living in our heads rent-free. This edgy take on the Italian bob feels a bit more rebellious for those who want a daring twist.
Romantic Curls
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Leave it to Zendaya to always serve (no pun intended) an iconic and sophisticated look. The actress’ tousled curls look so stunning and give off timeless chic.
Sophisticated ‘Do
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Keep your Italian bob looking traditional and classic like Cailee Spaeny’s straight and middle-parted cut.
With Bangs
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Have some fun with your Italian bob by throwing in some bangs if you’re in the mood for a retro appearance. Emily Ratajkowski’s edgy bob makes a statement without being too over-the-top.
Slight Waves
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Pretty sure there isn’t a day that’s passed by where Cate Blanchett doesn’t exude major elegance. This slightly wavy hairstyle plays around with volume and texture.
Flipped Out
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A flipped-out Italian bob is the key to creating a nostalgic and modern cut. Just look at Hailee Steinfeld, who has a middle part that makes it feel classic yet contemporary.
Classic Glamour
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With a deep side part, Laura Harrier’s approach to her Italian bob on the red carpet is the definition of a present day 1960s Sofia Loren.
Fanned Out
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Gigi Hadid gives retro style a ’70s twist, channeling Farrah Fawcett with fanned-out waves at the ends of her flipped bob.
Soft and Tousled
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Halle Berry reimagines the Italian bob with a boho-chic flair—think: soft, tousled curls and sun-kissed highlights.
Side-Swept Polish
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Looking every bit the timeless silver screen star, Selena Gomez brings modern freshness to the retro style.
Full Volume
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Is that Marilyn Monroe? Sydney Sweeney transforms her look, trading her signature beach waves for a sculpted Italian bob with face-framing S-waves.
Read the original article on InStyle
