We've been sold the idea that getting a bob means signing an exclusivity contract with one hairstyle. Chop it off and suddenly you're sentenced to the same chin-skimming blow-dry every morning until it grows back. Hair monogamy? Yuck!
Well, not so, says Hannah Waddingham.
Brick by brick (or rather, hairstyle by hairstyle), the actor has single-handedly built a masterclass in making the short cut feel anything but repetitive, switching up between polished, playful and glamorous looks. Better still, they're flattering and low-maintenance. A one-trick pony[tail], Hannah is not!
Whether she's embracing soft Hollywood waves, twisting her lengths into an impossibly chic French updo or reviving Tumblr's mighty side part, Hannah proves that a bob is less of a limitation and more of a creative playground. So, less of the limiting bob propaganda and more of recognising that range has very little to do with length... wink, nudge.
Flicky bob and side-parted fringe
A side part has been enjoying a very deserved renaissance, and Hannah's version leans fully into its face-framing powers. Paired with flicked-out ends and a sweeping fringe to rival that of every emo kid circa 1999, the look is unmistakably 90s.
French pin updo
This right here? This is proof that bobs can absolutely be styled up! The softly pinned French-inspired updo leaves a few wispy curls around the face, giving movement to the style and a face-framing finish. And while it does look (and sound, TBH) complicated, a handful of grips, a little texture spray and some strategic twisting does most of the heavy lifting.
Everyone's clicking on...
Quiffed fringe and bun
A little lift at the root works wonders for those with fine, short hair. So, if you want to make like Hannah, gently tease volume through your fringe or front strands before sweeping the rest into a small bun. Plus, it's a clever trick that instantly elongates the face.
Middle-parted curtain bangs
Curtain bangs soften almost every haircut, and a bob is no exception. Hannah wears hers with a clean middle part, allowing the face-framing layers to skim the jawline while the rest of her hair has been pulled back into a low-fuss updo. Business in the back, party in the front... mullet enthusiasts, look away.
Low ponytail
Ahh, the humble low ponytail; it rarely gets the applause it deserves. Bless. Hannah's version, however, is one to note: It's sleek on her head (no volume with this style, folks) but amped up with face-framing softness around the face.
Romantic curls
These softer, looser curls bring instant romance to the classic bob. Rather than perfectly sculpted ringlets, the bends are relaxed and airy, creating movement without overwhelming the haircut's shape.
Hollywood curls
We're truly doing the bob a disservice by convincing ourselves it can't handle a strong curl. Hannah's glossy Hollywood take makes a compelling case otherwise. Sitting neatly at jaw-length with unmistakable Marilyn Monroe energy, it's enough to convince even the most committed bob sceptic to invest in a curling tong.
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Lia Mappoura (she/her) is the Beauty Writer at Cosmopolitan UK, with over four years of experience reporting across the brand's print, social, video and digital platforms. Lia covers everything from emerging trend analysis to viral celebrity hair and makeup moments, making her an expert at spotting the season’s next big beauty look (before it takes over social media feeds).
In 2025, she was named The Rising Media Star at the Love Perfume Awards with The Perfume Shop, recognised for her outstanding digital fragrance content and for building genuine authority within the space. She is passionate about challenging outdated beauty stereotypes, championing inclusive representation in beauty, and educating readers on the trends, products and conversations shaping the industry today. Follow her on Instagram or find her on LinkedIn.
