Spring 2026 trend squares: 7 chic cuts to adopt according to a four-time world hairdressing champion

Strict bobs are a thing of the past. In spring 2026, women are looking for movement, volume and a natural look. Hairdresser Raphaël Perrier, four-time world hairdressing champion, reveals the seven most fashionable bob versions this season.

The classic bob gives way to lively, textured cuts. Celebrities like Hailey Bieber, Zendaya and Beyoncé have all adopted this trend. Yet each style has its own strengths, depending on hair texture and face shape.

Why say goodbye to the strict square in 2026

The fashion for XXL lengths is gradually fading. Customers now want a more assertive look with character. Raphaël Perrier asserts: women need cuts that are more alive than ever before.

This era of naturalness and lightness will last beyond a single season. As a result, the too-strict bob with fixed lines is no longer seductive. Controlled movement is becoming the new hair norm.

“We’re in an era of naturalness, volume and lightness, and it’s a trend that will last beyond a single season.”

The French bob and the long bob: two revisited classics

The French bob stops neatly at the jawline. It perfectly frames the face, making it a very flattering cut. Beyoncé surprised everyone last February by adopting this ultra-chic style.

The long bob reaches the collarbone. This option lets you change your head without sacrificing length. Hailey Bieber, purveyor of the clean girl look, is a firm believer.

• French bob: chic, effortless jawline cut
• Long bob: reaches the collarbone, ideal for those who hesitate to cut short.
• Glass hair bob: clean lines and an Old Hollywood mirror finish
• Cloud bob: light and airy with natural movement
• Boho bob: soft gradients inspired by the 70s

The most daring versions to avoid a strict carré

The glass hair bob plays the card of perfect minimalism. Its clean lines and mirror finish impose an architectural allure. Zendaya perfectly embodies this sophisticated style, as does Kim Kardashian in the Ryan Murphy series All’s Fair.

Cloud Bob, on the other hand, is all about absolute lightness. This airy bob gives the impression of floating, thanks to its natural volume. It’s the ideal cut for those who want style without rigidity.

The boho bob is clearly inspired by the 70s and bohemian style. It relies on soft gradations and blurred waves for a masterfully coiffed-décoiffé effect. Actress Sienna Miller is a big fan. This version is particularly suited to fine hair, as it adds body without weighing hair down.

The flippy bob and the tuft bob: a retro rock spirit

The flippy bob is a direct throwback to the 90s. Its outward-facing tips give it a fun, graphic energy. This cut assumes its mischievous side while remaining easy to wear every day.

What’s more, the tuft bob breaks all established codes. Its deliberately irregular strands create a deceptively messy look. Zoé Kravitz caused a sensation with this style at the 5th Annual Academy Museum Gala last October. She wore a Saint Laurent dress.

How to maintain your bob to avoid a strict bob effect

A bob requires a minimum of discipline to stay neat. Refreshing the nape of the neck and the tips every six to eight weeks helps maintain structure. This regularity avoids the unintentional blurred effect that nobody wants.

Daily styling remains essential. A texturizing spray helps achieve a dynamic look. Blow-drying with a round brush adds volume, so you can get away from the strict, rigid bob.

Moisturization remains non-negotiable for optimal results. A serum or oil guarantees the desired shine. Raphaël Perrier also recommends a mask once a week. In his own words, a shiny bob is a living bob.

Finally, the choice of styling product depends on hair texture. Fine hair needs a volumizing spray. Curly hair needs a defining cream. Light styling is preferred on thick hair. The strict bob can be avoided with the right gestures and targeted products.

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