“It’s the biggest mistake”: a hairdresser reveals what you should never ask to go bob

The bob is still the star cut in salons this season. Yet one hairdresser warns of a common mistake that often spoils this long-awaited change of look. Before taking the plunge, it’s best to be aware of this classic pitfall.

Why the square is so appealing in 2026

The bob continues to rule hair trends this year. Whether it’s an ultra-smooth old-money version, a blurred Italian bob or a graphic chin-length bob, there’s no escaping it. On social networks and among celebrities, from Hailey Bieber to Emma Stone to Gracie Abrams, this cut is everywhere.

So many are tempted to finally go short before summer. This desire for radical change leads some to rush headlong to the hairdresser. But this rush often leads to regrets a few days later.

The trap that keeps coming back to salon

The most common problem remains the same, according to the professionals. Many customers want to change their head a little too quickly. As a result, they end up with a haircut they can’t live with.

“This is the biggest mistake when you want to go from long hair to a bob.”

This warning comes from Keeks Reid, Cosmopolitan UK’s beauty director and a trained hairdresser. She was interviewed by Cosmopolitan US on this very subject. Her conclusion is clear: too radical a change is problematic.

The mistake to avoid according to this professional hairdresser

Cutting far too short in one go is the most common pitfall. The problem isn’t necessarily the bob itself. On the other hand, the sudden change is disruptive for those who have been used to lengths for years.

• Cutting too short in one go
• Not anticipating adaptation time
• Forgetting that short hair limits styling options
• Underestimating the psychological effect of radical change
• Don’t ask your hairdresser for advice before making a decision

A very short haircut can be hard to live with. The result: many people think they don’t like their new head when they’ve simply cut it shorter than they imagined. This discrepancy between expectation and reality leads to disappointment.

What’s more, a very short bob leaves less freedom when it comes to styling. Styles, waves, blurred wavy effects: some options quickly disappear. This loss of versatility often surprises customers.

What to ask your hairdresser

The best thing to do, according to this experienced hairdresser, is to go gradually. Keeks Reid recommends asking for a version that’s slightly longer than you initially imagined. You can always shorten it at your next appointment.

The ideal is to start with a lob, in other words a long bob that reaches the collarbones or skims the shoulders. This is the right length to test the trend without losing all your versatility. This cautious approach avoids many regrets.

Best practices at the show

At the salon, it’s best to ask for a square that retains some length. Ask for material so you can texturize it as you wish. A haircut that’s easy to style on a daily basis remains the best option for a successful transition.

In short, this hairdresser reminds us of a simple rule when it comes to hair. It’s best to cut step by step. You can always shorten more, but it’s much harder to go back.

That’s why it’s essential to take the time to think about your hair change. An experienced hairdresser will be able to guide you towards the length best suited to your face and lifestyle. Your patience will be rewarded with a result that truly reflects you.

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