As we transition into the crisp, cool days of autumn, now is the perfect time to freshen up your hairstyle. A standout trend we’re leaning into this fall is the “crob,” or cropped bob—a chic and versatile haircut that floats between lengths offering a polished feel with less commitment than traditional short cuts. If you’re contemplating going shorter this season but aren’t quite ready to commit to a pixie cut, the crob is the perfect middle ground.
What is the Crob?
The crob, or cropped bob, is a hybrid haircut that sits between a traditional bob and a pixie cut. It’s short enough to give you a standout look, but with enough length to ensure a soft finish that’s easy to style. The inspiration? The crob draws inspiration from the iconic ’90s hairstyles, with a particular focus on that of Natalie Imbruglia’s textured, tousled bob that became a symbol of effortless cool.
Reason’s You’ll Love The Look
- Effortless: The crob has a perfect balance of style and ease. It’s short enough to require minimal styling but long enough to allow for some versatility. Whether you prefer a smooth, polished finish or a more textured, tousled look, the crob can be easily tailored to suit your personal style.
- Movement & Volume: One of the defining features of the crob is its ability to add movement and volume to your hair. The shorter length, combined with subtle layers or wispy ends, helps to create a sense of fullness and bounce. This makes it an excellent choice for those with fine hair who want to add a bit of body.
- The Noughties: The crob is steeped in ’90s nostalgia, which is a significant part of its appeal. The ’90s have been a major influence on fashion and beauty trends over the past few seasons, making the crob the perfect example of how a classic style can be reinvented for the modern day. It’s a nod to the past, but with a fresh, contemporary twist.
How to Style the Crob
Styling the crob is as versatile as the cut itself. For a sleek, sophisticated look, use a flat iron to smooth out any waves and finish with a shine serum for a glossy effect.
Shop: Sam Villa Professional SLEEKR Flat Iron
If you’re after something more relaxed, try adding texture with a sea salt spray or a texturizing mousse, and let your hair air-dry for a natural, undone finish.
Shop: VoCê Surf Mist
The crob also works beautifully with bangs, whether you prefer blunt, straight-across bangs or soft, side-swept fringes. Pairing the crob with a fringe adds an extra layer of dimension and can help frame your face, accentuating your features. To extend the life of your style, always pair your fringe with dry shampoo.
Shop: Dry Shampoo
Some of the links in this post are affiliate links. This means that Bangstyle will collect a small share of the sale from any purchase you make from the products we recommend.