Fall Trend Alert: The Ripped Bob Is Kicking All Other Short Haircuts to the Curb

FYI: Bobs are *still* the coolest haircut around, and stylists predict we’re going to add another style to the family. Let me introduce you to the ‘Ripped Bob,’ a chic, choppy hairdo that’s going to be everywhere this fall. This season marks the decline of blunt, sleek and straight bobs in favor of more voluminous, piecey styles instead. 

So, what’s the key to mastering this look? I chatted with my expert buddies to learn more about the rising bob, including all the tips, tricks and styling ideas to make it your own this season. 

• Paul Perez is a hairstylist and co-owner of Flore Los Angeles. He specializes in high-end bridal and fashion-forward cuts. He blends timeless elegance with modern edge, styling clients from Los Angeles to destination weddings worldwide.
• Gregory Patterson is a celebrity hairstylist and a DIY Color & Styling expert for Sally Beauty. He’s based in New York City and has previously worked as a lead stylist for Project Runway. His previous clients include Britney Spears, Anne Hathaway and Julianne Moore.

Also known as a textured, shaggy or lived-in bob, it’s a one-length cut with piecey ends and loads of movement. As Perez explains, “The ripped bob is a modern, textured version of the classic bob. Instead of sharp, blunt edges, the cut is layered and choppy with shattered ends. The result is a style that feels effortless, undone and a little edgy—the perfect balance of chic and cool.”

Believe it or not, it’s not new at all. Patterson says it’s been popular for a while and is currently having a resurgence for the season. “We’re coming off of summer, where our hair was exposed to sun, salt, chlorine and highlights, so I would suggest that the fresh French cut bob has grown out into this ‘worn in’ look that’s easy [to achieve],” he shares. 

Our favorite stars have already been spotted rocking this bob haircut, from Gigi Hadid to Halle Berry. Its popularity stems from its lived-in texture and subtle movement that works for all hair types. Plus, it’s also a low-maintenance cut that grows out naturally—so you may be able to skip a trimming sesh. 

Not all stylists are going to know what a ‘ripped bob’ is, so come prepared with some visuals on the haircut you actually want. Patterson suggests using descriptive words like ‘jagged, lived-in, textured and raw.’ He adds, “Tell your stylist you don’t want a blunt bob, instead you want something intentionally irregular and broken in.” 

Aside from sticking to your monthly trims, Patterson recommends key products to enhance your new hairdo. “This cut comes alive with grit and separation. I love enhancing the natural texture with a wave spray, adding flat iron bends instead of curls, and finishing with a dry texture spray for movement,” he explains. 

“The ripped bob works beautifully with natural movement, photographs well and gives that ‘I woke up like this’ confidence,” says Perez. If you want to achieve Gigi Hadid’s relaxed bob, add some texturizing cream or spray (like Styling Solutions by Ion) and you’re all set—no heat tool required. 

Show off your gorgeous curls and enhance definition using styling gel or cream. For extra hold, consider applying a lightweight mousse to each section.