Chic Bob Styles Trending For Summer 2026

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There's no doubt lush and long locks look stunning, but summer is a great time to switch up your look. After all, you can battle humidity with hairstyles that are short, chic, and low-maintenance. Bobs have never not been trendy, but in summer 2026 we're going beyond a one-style-fits-all formula to embrace the style that'll work best for your hair texture and face shape. Let's be honest, the last thing anybody wants is a hairstyle that accidentally makes your face look rounder. 

To help our readers pick their perfect summer bob, Glam exclusively spoke with LA-based hair and makeup expert Luna Viola. Not only did we get the insider details on the chic bob styles that are trending for summer 2026, but we also found out the tips, tricks, and products that will keep your chic bob looking completely effortless, even on the most humid summer days. If you've been wanting to change up your image and you're considering chopping inches off your hair, this season's trending bob styles give you the perfect excuse to just go for it.

Just because you've made the decision to go for a bob doesn't mean you have to go to extreme lengths — literally. During our exclusive chat with hairstyle expert Luna Viola, we learned that a soft textured bob is perfect for anyone wanting to test the short hair waters without making a drastic change. "This style is a longer bob that hits the collarbone but instead of sharp, blunt ends, the edges are softened and curved; adding movement and an overall feminine look," Viola shares.

This style offers a beautifully relaxed and carefree silhouette. While many people prefer the edgy and sharp bobs that hit above the chin, the length of this style allows for a more fluid and feminine look. That mid-length makes this cut easier to style and offers versatility — you can toss it into a bun or a claw clip without strands falling out. 

The next chic bob is one that celebrities like Zendaya and Raye have rocked on red carpets and magazine covers. This retro style is all about using your curling iron or hot rollers for a voluminous, high-gloss bounce. "Think of a modern version of the Marylyn Monroe hairstyle, shorter and bouncier," hair expert Luna Viola shares exclusively with Glam.

Raye nailed the Old Hollywood bob, as Viola specifically names her as the perfect reference. The British singer has showcased the cut's incredible versatility as she often pivots between soft, brushed out curls for a casual day off, and full-on sculpted curls for performances and red carpet events. The modern take on this glam bob feels so fresh because it allows the hair to bounce with an airy, swishy movement. You can rock this style for swanky summer parties, for lounging by the pool, or simply running errands while looking like a movie star. 

When it comes to styling the Old Hollywood bob, curl definition is everything. To achieve those lush curls, our expert says you'll want to take time prepping your hair. Viola recommends starting your styling routine by applying Cécred Volumizing Mousse. This type of product is key "to prep the hair for bouncy blow outs." You'll also want that high-gloss look, and that can be achieved if you finish with the Goldwell StyleSign Shine Spray. 

With sophisticated comfort being a key element to Scandi fashion, it's no surprise that Scandi hairstyles lean heavily into that same effortlessly chic and low-maintenance vibe. We introduce to you, the Scandinavian bob. Our hairstyle expert Luna Viola classifies this specific bob in our exclusive chat as a "simple, more classic cut bob." Blunt ends are a must to this style. This is the ultimate carefree bob that is bound to look fabulous when you step out of the salon, but keeping that same effortless look requires some work on your end. 

Fortunately, it doesn't seem too hard. Viola says go ahead and forego the intense heat drying routine entirely. Instead, you can rely on the good ol' air dry method and simply add some lightweight volumizing products into your routine. If you're unfamiliar with volumizers, don't fret. Our expert suggests trying the RŌZ Root Lift Spray, noting it's a great option for creating effortless root volume, especially if you have fine hair. 

The final chic trending bob style for summer 2026 is none other than the French bob. This bob has always had a strong presence in the beauty and fashion world, and has cemented itself as a look that never really goes out of style. However, according to our hairstyle expert Luna Viola, it's made a modernized comeback. Viola tells Glam exclusively that this bob is best when it's "short, chin grazing, and tousled."  

With the modern French bob, bangs aren't always a given, but our expert says go for it. She specifically suggests "short bangs for a modern take on the iconic Amelie French character." If you're drawn to this style, but you're unsure whether it will work for you, just take our expert's advice — Viola says this style works great for those with "slightly wavy hair and small featured faces." 

To nail that signature look with little to no effort, just let this bob air dry completely, then use your fingers to piece out those short bangs. Our expert recommends a finishing spray like the John Freida Volume Lift Pushed Up Texture Spray as it will "add lived in texture."