Keep an eye on emerging markets trend As a beauty editor, this is one of my favorite things to do—especially when they move so fast. Although last year was all about nail2024 is undoubtedly the year we are all obsessed with hair again. certainly, Bob Absolutely supreme, but the streets are filled with incredible stuff micro trends and cool color Inspired to make multiple trips to the salon this year. Shipping has also started in the fall. here London, cowgirl cuts and curtain bangs is the order of the day, and Glossy Chocolate Cherry Hair and “Old Money” Bob It’s about to hit the big time this winter—and it’s proof that expensive-looking hair isn’t going away just yet.
But if you’re a little bored classic bobbut not entirely sure Basic long layered cutthen this little-known hairstyle might be just for you. Enter: the jellyfish bob hairstyle.
The evolution of this year’s obsession with textured, nostalgic hairstyles—think stretchy kitten cut and 70s style choppy shag– Jellyfish Bob is a way to play with length and learn a higher contrast. Experts are obsessed with it. Interested? Keep scrolling as we break down what a jellyfish haircut is and how you can embrace this trend at your next salon appointment—if you’re brave enough.
What is the jellyfish bob hairstyle?
“The jellyfish bob haircut is a bold, structured style that combines a short, sleek bob on top with longer layers underneath, creating a contrast that’s reminiscent of the shape of a jellyfish,” explains hairstylist Edward Jamesfounder of Edward James Salons and The Hair Consult. “It’s a very high-fashion cut with sharp lines and bold shapes, but there are ways to make it more wearable with subtle adjustments.”
@mayliknopf ♬ Original Sound – Hen
Personally, while I love how playful and dramatic a jellyfish bob looks on other people, I’m not sure I’d be brave enough to go to a salon and ask for a haircut. james Suggest a few tweaks to make it feel less editorial and more day-to-day.
“Choosing face-framing layered or curtain bangs instead of dramatic, straight bangs can give the hairstyle more versatility without requiring as much maintenance,” he advises. Also, asking your stylist to ask for more blending and softer layers between the bob and longer lengths can give it a more relaxed feel.
Jellyfish Hairstyle Inspiration:
Admittedly, the jellyfish haircut may feel like a bold choice at first, but a quick scroll through Instagram will reveal that celebrities have been embracing this unusual trend for a while. “Kerry Washington rocked a stunning version of this hairstyle, Maisie Williams wore a shorter bold version, Hoyeon Jung tried a slightly textured version with long bangs, and the black Úrsula Corberó went for a slightly ’70s-style cut with more textured bangs,” explains james.
(Image credit: Getty Images/Charley Gallay/Stringer)
Style Notes: Kerry Washington opted for a blunt, razor-sharp bob in the front but a shorter length in the back — more like a little jellyfish, if you will.
Style Notes: Rather than a dramatic cut between bob and length, Maisie Williams’ jellyfish bob adds some structured layers that feel cool and wearable.
Style Notes: Hoyeon Jung’s slender layered hairstyle is a clever take on the jellyfish hairstyle, combining face-framing layers and varying lengths for a low-maintenance nod to the trend.
Style Notes: Ursula Corberó’s wet jellyfish cut is really eye-catching – I love how the short feathery fringe contrasts with the longer length in the back.
(Photo credit: Getty Images/Fraser Harrison)
Style Notes: Joan Smalls’s sleek, graphic hairdo certainly turns heads, proving that a jellyfish haircut can not only show off length, but also accentuate a sharp bob.
Is the jellyfish bob suitable for all hair types?
“While the jellyfish bob can technically work on different hair types, it works best with straight or slightly wavy textures to showcase a clean, sharp cut,” explains james. However, if you’re willing to spend some extra styling time, this hairstyle can also look great on textured or curly hair—it just means there’s less definition between layers. “To help shorten styling time, a keratin smoothing treatment might be a good option, or a product like Color Wow Dream Coat to extend the time you can take off heat styling,” advises james.
@rmbln.rose ♬ Original Sound – Ciera ❤️🔥
How to create a jellyfish bob hairstyle at home?
If you’re looking for something incredibly low-maintenance, the jellyfish bob may not be the best hairstyle for you. As with any bob haircut, you do need a trim every 6-8 weeks to maintain the hair’s intended shape. “The jellyfish bob is a bold statement and I must say when we cut and style them in the salon they look incredible but are often altered around the face with more texture or longer bangs. Be gentle to make them more wearable. james explained.
As for home decoration style, james It’s recommended to invest in smoothing serums, blow-dry creams, and moisture-proof lotions to help keep your hair follicles as smooth and frizz-free as possible to showcase sharp lines and differentiate the cut bob portion from the longer lengths.
Avida
Smooth Infusion Style-Prep Aveda Smoother 100ml
“This helps smooth and reduce frizz while maintaining moisture in dry hair texture,” explains james.
orib
Straight Away Smoothing Blowout Cream 150ml
“This is great for straightening hair and protecting it from heat, and also adds a lot of reflection and shine, which is great for showing off definition with a jellyfish cut,” explains james.
color wow
Dream Coat Supernatural Spray 200ml
james It’s great for curly or textured hair as it does “extend heat styling time and resists humidity.”
Are there any good alternatives to the jellyfish bob hairstyle?
Much like the mullet’s resurgence a few years ago, I can definitely see the jellyfish bob being a controversial hair trend that’s definitely not for everyone. So, I’m interested in knowing if james Any other hair tips for those who want to try a textured, choppy but more wearable style?
“Shapes like the Italian bob, with rounded edges, or ’90s-style layers are becoming increasingly popular because they’re easier to style and look better on longer,” advises james. “Sabrina Carpenter bangs are another pastel trend worth keeping an eye on because they offer a similar effortless, chic look but are less restrained.”
