A perennial classic, the bob always comes into its own as the temperature drops and roll-neck jumpers and scarves return to the wardrobe. The latest iteration to watch? The cloud bob, a short-to-mid-length cut defined by its ethereal sensibility. “It’s a rounded haircut with a soft, airy silhouette,” says hairstylist Tom Smith. “Unlike the sharp, architectural bobs of seasons past, this version is light, weightless and characterised by its effortless lift and movement.”
Acielle StyleDuMonde
Tapping into the current trend for hairstyles that work to enhance and elevate one’s natural texture—frizz and flyaways are part of the charm—the cloud bob offers a halo of face-framing volume and a natural kind of ease. “This bob, with its fluffy, powdery texture, is the new way to do undone waves,” says Anita Rice, co-founder of salon Buller and Rice.
Organic and expressive, it works best on hair with some form of natural movement, be it a gentle wave or a defined 4C coil. “Its rounded shape makes it ideal for those with square or more angular features, who wish to soften their look,” says Smith. For rounder face shapes, the cut can be tailored with subtle asymmetry, such as a deep side parting or simply tucking one side behind the ear.
As with most looks, the haircut itself is key. For those who don’t naturally have ample volume, Rice suggests asking your stylist to build in an invisible layer—a subtle technique that enhances texture and maximizes fullness.
How to style a cloud bob
Once the hair is, well, cut to suit the cloud bob—styling it is all about amping up natural texture. How you do so will depend on what your hair is currently like, but as an overarching rule, avoid using heavy products that weigh the hair down, says Rice.
