Recently, the internet has been buzzing about Leslie Bibb’s striking “c*nty bob,” a haircut that perfectly complements her character, Kate Bohr, in the popular series “The White Lotus.” This sharply tailored style, crafted by Hollywood hairstylist Chris McMillan, emphasizes a sleek and uncompromisingly straight aesthetic, devoid of any layers or texture. Yet, as someone who has embraced the bob hairstyle for years, I find myself drawn to a different variant: the “broken bob,” which resonates much more with my personal style. I was inspired to pursue this looser style after spotting a picture of Winona Ryder from 1988, showcasing an effortless yet chic aesthetic that is both refined and disheveled.
My hairstylist, Grace Newton-Hedges at Hershesons, took my vision and brought it to life. This new trend reflects a broader shift in the beauty industry, with influential names like Guido Palau unveiling styles that prioritize a more lived-in look. During the autumn/winter 2025 shows for Prada and Miu Miu, Palau’s disheveled hairstyles encapsulated a movement towards a more authentic and relaxed approach to beauty; it’s all about embracing that “burnt-out glam” with hair that appears intentionally tousled and, at times, even chemically distressed. The runway demonstrated that the polished “clean girl” aesthetic is taking a backseat to a more varied and gritty realism.
My conversations with Grace took a turn when I brought forth this desire for a “broken bob.” For the past eight years, our unspoken agreement centered around maintaining the essence of my bob while changing it just enough with each visit. But now, I had a specific vision. Grace’s confusion was palpable—had she ever had someone provide a reference for their haircut before? Our usual routine was interrupted, and I offered her a glimpse of Winona’s artfully messy hair from “Heathers.” It was clear that she understood my intention the moment I showed her the image; the visual embodied a carefree attitude that matched my new style aspirations.
I delivered this inspiration alongside a specific gif showcasing Winona in various scenes, complete with voluminous, tousled locks that seemed to defy gravity yet somehow appeared effortlessly stylish. As I pointed to the images, revealing the very essence I wanted captured in my new bob, Grace’s expression shifted from bewilderment to excitement. This haircut was no longer just about length or cut but rather a statement of attitude—a blend of nostalgia and contemporary allure. It signified a departure from the pristine styles of the past and leaned more into a freedom of expression, allowing the hair to fall in unpredictable but stylish ways.
In many respects, this evolution in hair trends mirrors a broader cultural shift. The industry is moving away from rigid standards of beauty towards a narrative that celebrates individuality and authenticity. Styles like the broken bob allow for a more personal touch, encouraging women to embrace their natural hair texture and styles that appear like they’ve emerged from a spirited late-night gathering rather than a salon. It’s about finding your unique expression in the chaotic realm of fashion and beauty—not adhering strictly to one type of standard, but rather embodying a blend of chic and nonchalance.
As I left the salon with my new bob, I felt liberated—embracing both nostalgia for the past and excitement for the present. This haircut wasn’t just a style; it was a representation of my journey and exploration of self-expression. The broken bob, with its delightful mix of elegance and casualness, encapsulated the kind of effortless sophistication that resonates with so many today. In a world of over-polished perfection, this style feels like a breath of fresh air, reclaiming the beauty of the imperfect, and standing as a testament to the vibrant individualism that characterizes our lives today.