How to Grow Out a Bob With Style, According to Hairstylists

Saoirse Ronan with a wavy blonde bob haircut.

@ninapark / Instagram

Hairstyles and haircut trends may come and go, but one thing is for certain—the battle of choosing to cut or keep your current length is never-ending. After seeing Hailey Bieber's fire hairstyle of the moment, you may opt for a trendy, short bob, only to find yourself missing your longer look a few months later. That's when the decision to grow out your hair is made. But as any of us who have left the salon chair with fewer inches up top know, this process can be a bit awkward.

You may find that what used to be chic layers or a sleek blunt cut is now a shaggy or uneven look due to fast hair growth. Plus, your hair is not yet at the desired length, making it somewhat difficult to style. For tips on managing the transitional phase, we spoke with hairstylists Antonio Gonzales and Ashley Gomila about how they help their clients grow out of a bob.

Meet the Expert

How Long Does it Take to Grow Out a Bob?

"Depending on the desired length, it could take months to grow out a bob," Celebrity hairstylist Ashley Gomila says. "Hair grows about a half inch per month. I always advise clients to take into consideration that within two months, you may only see one inch of hair growth."

Tips on How to Grow Out a Bob

Add Layers

The first method Gonzalez offers to alter the classic bob is to gently remove the heavy corners of the bob—adding in some layers—while keeping the length as is. "This could be done in small increments rather than all at once, so the client doesn't feel like they are sporting a shag," says Gonzalez. "The result is more of a square-shaped cut that should be personalized to suit the individual's facial structure."

Get Bangs

Another option is to add bangs if you didn't have them, or, if you did, to grow them out. Gonzales tells us: "Bangs may be the trick to ease the pain of the in-between length. This may take at least three months to get to a point where you feel comfortable." Consider your haircare routine and lifestyle beforehand, though—styling bangs can be a high-maintenance process, depending on the style opted for.

Create a New Shape

It's important to think of your new goal hairstyle, too. For example, if you've been sporting an A-line bob, and now want a softer look, Gonzales recommends altering the shape. "Start by even-ing off the longer sides in front and gently removing bulk that was created to give that stacked feel in the back. By lowering the shape in the back and lifting the length in the front, you are on the road to recovery," he says. Similarly,

Try Highlights

Adding highlights can alter the perception of the shape—no shears necessary. "As your hair starts to grow, painting in a few highlights may be the way to go. This will help create the illusion of softness of any heavy areas of the previous cut," says Gonzales. 

Are There Any Bob Types That Are Easier to Grow Out?

"Long bobs are an option to consider if you are concerned with how long it will take to grow out your hair again," says Gomila, "It's a good starting point to consider before taking off so much length and committing to a bob."

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