Whether you've already got a shorter cut (and you're looking for ways to spice it up) or you're about to have a major hair overhaul, let us introduce you – or, perhaps, re-introduce you – to the choppy bob.

Popularised in the 90s, thanks to Jennifer Aniston's iconic 'The Rachel' cut on Friends, the choppy bob is once again back in the spotlight, taking over our social media feeds and appearing on the likes of Hailey Bieber, Jenna Ortega, Yara Shahidi, Emma Myers and more.

Leaning towards getting one yourself? We don't blame you! Here's everything you need to know about the choppy bob haircut, including how to style the soon-to-be everywhere look, according to expert Ryan Forsythe at Trevor Sorbie. Plus, scroll on for 17 inspiring choppy bob styles to suit all face shapes and hair types...

What is a choppy bob haircut?

"A choppy bob is a textured, layered take on the classic bob, with deliberately uneven or piece-y ends that create movement and an effortless, tousled look," says Forsythe, artistic education director at Trevor Sorbie, a multi-award-winning hair salon and hairdressers in London. "A choppy bob is designed to feel modern, a little edgy and low-maintenance," he continues.

Best face shapes and hair types for a choppy bob haircut

"A choppy bob style suits a variety of face shapes," the expert tells us, before adding that it works "especially well" on oval and heart-shaped faces because "the texture softens the features and adds balance".

As for which hair types work well with a choppy bob, according to Forsythe, this hairstyle is ideal for "straight to wavy hair types". That's because "these textures help show off the layers and natural movement." What's more, the expert explains that fine hair benefits from a choppy bob, too. "The choppiness can create the illusion of volume," he says.

How to style a choppy bob haircut

"The best way to style a choppy bob is to enhance its natural texture," Forsythe advises. As for how to do that, the expert says to use "sea salt sprays, light mousses or texturising creams, followed by a rough blow dry or air dry."

"A quick bend with straighteners or curling irons can add definition to the layers," he notes, adding: "Finishing with a wax/texture spray will really bring the style to life."

Choppy bob styling essentials

Choppy bob haircut inspiration

choppy bob haircut ideaspinterest
Emma McIntyre//Getty Images
choppy bob haircut ideaspinterest
Leon Bennett//Getty Images
choppy bob haircut ideaspinterest
Getty Images
choppy bob haircut ideaspinterest
Getty Images
choppy bob haircut ideaspinterest
Monica Schipper//Getty Images

Happy (choppy) bobbing!

Headshot of Jade Biggs
Jade Biggs
Freelance Writer
Jade Biggs (she/her) is one of Cosmopolitan UK's freelance writers, working across all sections including entertainment, beauty, body, and sex and relationships. She previously held the position of Features Writer, covering everything from breaking news and the latest royal gossip, to the health and fitness trends taking over your TikTok feed. Jade has a degree in journalism and has been a journalist and content editor for ten years, interviewing leading researchers, high-profile influencers, and industry experts in that time. She is a cat mom to four fur babies and is obsessed with Drag Race, bottomless brunches, and wearing clothes only suitable for Bratz dolls. Follow her on Instagram, Twitter, and LinkedIn.