You know how the saying goes, 'every brunette needs a blonde best friend', well here at Cosmo, we prefer the saying 'every brunette needs a bob haircut' (it's a real saying, trust us...) Brown hair is timeless and universally flattering, and when paired with a chic, on-trend bob cut, you can be certain in the knowledge that your hair will *always* be fashionable.
So, for all my fellow brown-haired beauties out there, we've scoured the web for some of the most stylish inspiration pics you can take into the new year to freshen up your locks. From curly hair types to different brunette shades and hues, we have something for everyone in this ultimate brown bob style guide.
Micro braids
These micro braids are so dainty and fine, you might also miss them on first glance. Whilst a time-consuming hairstyle at first, this protective look should last you right through to the new year and beyond, taking all the fuss and hassle out of party prep this season.
Blunt brown bob
If you're a less-is-more kinda person, then a straight, blunt cut is the style for you. The no-frills chop means you don't have to fuss around with styling your layers or adjusting your fringe for the millionth time. Just run a straightener through your short ends and you're good to go.
Shoulder-skimming curls
These bouncy curls are giving serious Hollywood glamour and make for the perfect party-season do. The subtle auburn highlights also help lift the look, bringing dimension and interest to an otherwise one-dimensional colour.
XXL volume
Speaking of Hollywood glamour, the volume and body in this styled bob is a sight to behold. The sweeping side part helps create exaggerated layers on one side of the face, which pairs so well with the blown-out ends.
Everyone's clicking on...
Chin-length ringlets
We can't deny it's the season for a curly 'do, and if big loose waves aren't your cup of tea, try a smaller barrel curling wand and opt for tighter ringlets. This type of style should also last longer if your hair is prone to dropping.
Brown micro bob
Micro bobs are somehow both modern and retro. The 60's cut is refreshing and easy to style (plus, it gives you more time between hair appointments if you can't keep up with the 6-weekly chop a bob haircut usually demands).
Lightly tousled brown bob
There’s something very chic about unfussy hair. A quick zhuzh with some sea salt spray will add a little texture to your strands, helping to achieve that effortless model-off-duty look.
Curly bangs
If you’re lucky enough to have a curl pattern like this, then it often does all the talking for you. But, as all curly-haired girls will know, whilst this style looks effortless, the secret is all in the maintenance. Investing in a curly hair routine that prioritises deep conditioning, diffusing, and sleeping in a silk bonnet means you can wake up knowing your curls are in tip-top form for days on end.
Middle-part brown bob
The debate between a middle part and a side part has been a big one in the Cosmo beauty department, but it’s hard to deny the timelessness and universally flattering nature of a sharp centre part!
Side-part brown bob
On the other hand… a side parting is the easiest way to add some intrigue to your style. The asymmetry can help balance facial features and frame your face in a way that a middle part just. can’t. do.
Low-lights lob
Sometimes, the health of your hair does all the talking for you. When your strands are as silky and shiny as Selena's, you can forego the sock curls and texturising sprays in favour of your simple, flowing locks. Plus, her lowlights add some natural lift to her brown shade.
Amy May Ellis (she/her) is the SEO Manager for Cosmopolitan UK, Women's Health UK, Men's Health UK, and Runner's World UK. Her love for all things beauty, fashion, and wellness is evident in her work with these lifestyle and fitness brands. Providing content recommendations for everything from new gut health supplements to the latest fashion trend, Amy has a keen eye for detail and loves to spot trends before they fully flourish. Follow her on Instagram or find her on LinkedIn.
