The Mushroom Bob Haircut Is Way Chicer Than It Sounds

If you’ve been flirting with the idea of embracing a shorter haircut for summer, you might have turned to social media for inspiration. In doing so, chances are you stumbled across the so-called “mushroom bob.” This chic, shapely cut first hit the scene decades ago, but has recently enjoyed a boom in popularity thanks to celebrities such as Megan Fox and beauty influencer Meredith Duxbury (both of whom debuted their own version of the chop over the winter). Here’s the rundown on the classy cut, including what to ask for when you hit the salon and styling tips for nailing the sleek look. 

What Is the Mushroom Bob?

In many ways, the mushroom bob is reminiscent of a classic bowl cut — only far chicer and infinitely more flattering. The style, which is named for the look’s resemblance to a mushroom cap, typically features a blunt, chin-length bob that curls softly inward at the ends. It’s often worn with straight strands, though an experienced stylist can adapt the cut to complement wavy and curlier hair textures, too. 

Who Is the Mushroom Bob Good For?

The mushroom bob is a versatile cut that nearly anybody can rock, though the best iteration of the look for you will depend on your hair type, texture, and face shape. If you have a more angular face, the classic chin-length mushroom cut is ideal, as the rounded shape can help balance your sharper features. Those with round faces, meanwhile, may want a slightly longer version of the cut — think collarbone-length rather than chin-length. 

As previously mentioned, the mushroom bob is typically worn straight with just a slight curl at the ends, making it a great, low-maintenance haircut for those with thick, straight strands. If you have wavy or curly hair, we suggest asking your stylist to cut ghost layers throughout your mane. This will help maintain the cut’s blunt appearance while also removing weight from your ends for an airy, sleek finish.

How Should You Style a Mushroom Bob?

The classic mushroom bob is not a tousled or messy look — the key to nailing it lies in careful styling. Start by washing your hair with a volumizing shampoo and conditioner, such as Redken Volume Injection Shampoo and Conditioner. Once you’re out of the shower, work a heat protectant through your mane. We love The Rootist BioBrew Fermented Strengthening Serum, as it protects against temperatures up to 450 degrees Fahrenheit, controls frizz, and adds shine while hydrating your scalp. 

Then, rough-dry your hair until it’s about 90% dry, and grab a large round barrel brush. Working in sections, blow-dry your hair straight, wrapping the bottom few inches of hair around the brush to create a soft inward curl. When you’re satisfied with the look, mist your hair with a flexible-hold hairspray such as Nexxus Comb Thru Flexible Hold Hairspray to ensure the curl holds all day. 

If you want to change up the look, consider playing with your part: A middle part lends the look a modern feel, while a medium-to-deep side part gives it an ultra-elegant edge. You can also pair the classy cut with blunt, eyebrow-grazing fringe for a bold look, à la Uma Thurman in Pulp Fiction. However you wear it, this chic cut is flattering and fun, and provides plenty of opportunity to experiment.