The Bell-Bottom Bob Is The Flippy And Flirty Haircut Of The Moment

You probably know that there are a couple of versions of the bob that were predicted to be a trendy haircut 2024. Now, there's a new variation of the classic cut that'll have you, well, flipping out: the bell-bottom bob. Named after the super flared pants that were big in the 1970s, this short hairstyle features noticeably flipped out ends, giving your hair the shape of a bell. Think the flippy bob we've seen Gigi Hadid rocking, but more exaggerated.

That said, the bell-bottom hair is more about styling than it is a specific cut, so if you already have hair that's neck-length or shorter, then you can achieve the flippy look in under five minutes. One of the best ways to do it is to take a hair straightener to the ends of your tresses and flick the device upwards (after applying heat protectant properly, of course). The Dyson Airwrap or Shark FlexStyle can also get you this look. Simply place the barrel horizontally against the bottom of the hair and release.

Want a little vintage look to your bell-bottom bob? Try smaller flicks that are still perfectly defined. Proving you don't have to do over-exaggerated flicks to still make this trend work, this style is perfect for those who have shorter, chin-length bobs as you don't need a whole lot of length to play with to make it work. This version can also be great for those with hair that doesn't hold curl well, as it gives you the chance to create a tighter flick to begin with that, even if it drops, still looks awesome.

Instead of flicking the ends out all together, use your straightener (or a curling iron) to curl smaller sections (a few inches in width) inward. This will create a polished, rounded shape. Depending on how your bob layers are cut, the flicks may appear less uniform, creating more of a lived-in, textured version of the trend with plenty of volume. If you've got fringe, use a straightener to keep that flat and separate it so that splits at the forehead.

Though bobs aren't exactly famous for offering an abundance of different styling choices, there's no reason why you can't add a little extra something to a bell-bottomed bob to create your own look. For those who like to take inspiration from y2k styles, try a cool TLC-inspired half-up, half-down look. Section off the top part of your hair and create a partially undone bun at the back that lets the ends fray out like spikes. Flip out the bottom section with a flat iron to maintain the flippy effect. Or, pull one side of your hair behind your ear for a one-sided bell-bottom that's sure to make a statement.

You don't need bangs to make an impact with your flippy bob. One way to get an instantly more interesting style from the bell-bottom bob is to part your hair to the side and pull the front strands of hair behind your ears. Yes, it really is that simple to give this look a little extra something. Tucking those small sections of hair away will give the look a more structured and chic appearance, as well as keeping your hair away from your face. 

Billie Eilish gave us inspiration for another retro-style flippy bob variation in an Instagram selfie. In the photo, the ends of her chin-length, blonde hair are curled outward in feathered-looking sections for a total 1970s vibe. To achieve a similar look, use small hot rollers to create several smaller outward flicks on the hair closer to face and a few larger, flirtier curls on the hair towards the back. You can flat iron each piece and pull it upwards at the end, though this might ruin your volume at the crown. Keep in mind this will look best if you have a wispy, graduated fringe or even stylish curtain bangs that can frame flicks around the face.