Curtain bangs and bob haircuts have been two of the biggest hair trends over the past couple of years. For the ultimate chic look, why not combine the two for a trend squared? While many trendy haircuts right now require a lot of work, the curtain bob is great for those who want a low-maintenance but stylish cut, says hairstylist and co-founder of IGK Hair Care Franck Izquierdo. Also, if you do want to take the time to style it “the beauty of the curtain bob is in its versatility. You can style it in so many ways,” says hairstylist and vice president of technical education at R+CO Adam Federico.
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What is the curtain bob?
“The curtain bob is this perfect fusion of classic and contemporary. It takes the timeless structure of a bob and adds a softer, more relaxed element with curtain bangs or face-framing layers,” says Federico. “It’s got that effortlessly cool vibe—chic but not trying too hard.”
Izquierdo notes that a curtain bob length usually falls between the chin and collarbone and is parted with face-framing curtain bangs. The curtain bangs are shaped like an inverted “V” that swings open like curtains, explains hairstylist and creative director at Maxine Salon in Chicago Amy Abramite. “Layers can be added to make the texture light and shaggy for movement, or it can be blunt with no layers for a smoother texture with a weightier design line,” she adds.
What should someone ask for in the salon if they want the look?
“When you’re in the chair, ask your stylist for a bob with curtain bangs. Be clear about how you want the layers to frame your face and the length you’re aiming for,” says Federico. “This cut is all about personalization, so talk about whether you prefer something more textured or sleek. The key is to find that balance between structure and softness.”
Abramite notes that the important factors to think about are the variables in length. “The bob, bang and layer length determine the overall feeling of the style,” she says. “Less layers and a shorter bang and length will be more classic and clean feeling. More layers and longer bangs and overall length will add volume and movement for a lighter, softer texture.”
How to style a curtain bob
“The curtain bob has so much style variety, so anything goes,” says Abramite. “For a shaggy look, use a curling iron for a lived-in texture or for a bouncy style, use a round brush to bend the ends and swoop the bangs. A flat iron will straighten out the hair for a smoother texture look, and natural air dry or diffuser will add wavy texture for movement and volume.”
For a relaxed look, Federico recommends using a curling wand or flat iron to create loose waves, giving it an effortless undone feel. “If you’re after something more polished, a round brush and blow-dryer will get you that sleek, sophisticated finish. Want more texture? A good volumizing mousse or texturizing spray will give it that lived-in, tousled vibe. I like R+Co CHIFFON Styling Mousse ($38) for extra volume, body and shine.”
To do a quick and easy look when you have to run out the door and don’t have time to fuss Iziquerdo recommends products like IGK Beach Club High Shine Texture Foam ($32), Beach Club Touchable Texture Spray ($34), Rich Kid Wave Enhancing Air-Dry Cream ($29) or Best Interest Deep Repair Air Dry Styler ($38) then let your hair air dry for an effortless, natural feel.
Who does the curtain bob work for?
“Honestly, the curtain bob works for almost everyone. It’s all about how you tailor it. Oval, round, heart-shaped faces—it flatters them all by framing the face beautifully,” says Federico. “Whether your hair is straight, wavy or curly, this cut can be adapted to enhance your natural texture and fit your personal style. It’s a cut that evolves with you.”
Abramite says that since the cut looks great on everyone when someone comes into the salon and doesn’t know what they want to do, she often suggests a curtain bob, and they end up loving it. Izquierdo notes that curtain bangs are great for creating “balance by softening wider foreheads or elongating rounder faces.”
