Hairstyle comparison
Compare the Long Waves and Italian Bob by length, shape, finish, maintenance, salon wording, and how each changes your overall outline.
Published 21 September 2026
The short version
The Long Waves is defined by long length shaped by loose, continuous bends, while the Italian Bob uses a full weighted bob with soft movement and a flexible parting.
Both are rated medium for maintenance in this guide, so the stronger distinction is flowing and elongated versus full and softly rounded.
| Feature | Long Waves | Italian Bob |
|---|---|---|
| Signature | long length shaped by loose, continuous bends | a full weighted bob with soft movement and a flexible parting |
| Length | long | short |
| Shape | flowing and elongated | full and softly rounded |
| Finish | wavy | polished |
| Maintenance | medium | medium |
Long Waves
You prefer a flowing and elongated outline with a wavy finish and the defining feature of long length shaped by loose, continuous bends.
Salon wording: Ask to preserve the overall length while adding enough long layering to stop the waves from forming one heavy block.
Italian Bob
You prefer a full and softly rounded outline with a polished finish and the defining feature of a full weighted bob with soft movement and a flexible parting.
Salon wording: Ask for a full bob around the chin or upper neck with a weighty baseline, subtle internal movement, and enough flexibility to change the part.
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