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The Choppy Lob Is Here to Give Your Hair Volume, Movement and Thickness

Put your trust in this versatile look.

If you’re looking for a low-maintenance haircut that gives thin hair more volume and movement, you’ve met your match with the choppy lob. The textured long bob is trending just in time for warmer weather and carefree styling. Hairstylist Jacelyn Bautista says she’s noticed the choppy lob is trending right as the new season approaches. She adds that it’s a great choice for anyone looking for a change. Plus, the look can work on just about anyone. Celebrity hairstylist Jennifer Korab notes it’s “super versatile—whether you style it sleek or with soft waves.” Sold? Read up on expert advice before going in for the chop.

Featured experts

• Jacelyn Bautista is a hairstylist at NYC The Team
• Jennifer Korab is a celebrity hairstylist
• Raven Hurtado is a hairstylist at Maxine Salon

What is a choppy lob?

“A choppy lob is a modern twist on the classic long bob. It sits right around the collarbone with textured layers and intentionally uneven, choppy ends that create natural movement and an effortlessly cool finish,” explains Korab. “This cut adds texture, body and bounce to fine hair while helping to remove bulk from thicker textures.”

According to Bautista, it’s also still possible to get the look without layers. “This shoulder-grazing length doesn’t always require layers. It is more so the length choice and styling of the ‘s’ wave to accentuate a choppy look,” says. “But if you are someone who is looking for a little change—a choppy bob with layers and choppy fringe can be a great look.”

What to ask for at the salon

Korab recommends asking “your stylist for a collarbone-length cut with a lot of texture and movement. Mention that you want piecey, undone layers rather than a blunt finish, and request cutting techniques be used like point cutting or razor work to break up and shatter the ends.” She says it’s helpful to note that you’re going for an effortless, lived-in look that can work both straight and wavy.

The experts also recommend bringing in inspiration images. “Photos can answer a thousand questions. Other people’s versions of choppy can look way different than what you had envisioned on yourself. Some people are afraid of the word, and others are all for it,” says Bautista. To get a personalized cut, chat with your stylist to figure out the best length and whether or not to add a bang depending on your face shape, hair texture and willingness to style, says Bautista.

Who is a good candidate for the choppy lob?

“The choppy lob looks good on anyone who wants to add movement and volume, which works with fine and thin hair,” says hairstylist Raven Hurtado, who notes it can also work with any face shape. However, you don’t have to fine hair to have the cut. Korab says the chop could be customized to remove bulk from thicker hair as well.

Hurtado notes that the choppy lob is a great option for those looking for a low-maintenance style. “The choppy lob is great for someone who is looking for a more playful look with volume and body with minimal styling,” says Bautista. She adds that the look can easily be made to look more edgy with texturizing and volumizing products.