This year the bob haircut celebrates its 100th birthday, sealing its status as an iconic style. The look was first popularised in the 1920’s, when actress Louise Brooks first chopped her long locks into a neat bob and, since then, the cut has been adopted by stars such as Rihanna, Uma Thurman, Katie Holmes and Victoria Beckham.
It was created in 1909 in Paris by the hairdresser Antoine, who was inspired by socialite Luana Cowley. In Britain it became popular in Bloomsbury circles before the end of the First World War, but was made widely popular in the 1920s by flappers.
It seems crazy now but when the look first became popular it was considered the ultimate act of rebellion and men even divorced their wives for sporting the unconventional style. Its arrival in America was also met by a storm of controversy, which reached fever pitch when preachers declared: "A bobbed woman is a disgraced woman."
Falling anywhere from by the ears the just below the chin, the chopped-off style is known for being both versatile and low maintenance. "The bob has seen a huge resurgence in recent years, thanks to its newfound celebrity status," said Sacha Mascolo-Tarbuck, global creative director of Toni& Guy. "It is the most versatile of styles and has stood the test of time by constantly re-inventing itself in a variety of lengths and textures, creating a different feel and attitude.
"What is really unique about the bob is its ability to suit a multitude of face shapes, whether it’s a classic cut bob or a more modern graduated shape, the bob can be personalised to suit whatever your style."
It may be a century since the look was first created but the bob has never gone out of fashion. So, whether you opt for a Victoria Beckham inspired 'Pob' or a classic style sported by the likes of Anna Wintour - the bob is a style that continues to stand the test of time.
