short · sleek
Blunt Bob
A blunt bob uses a strong, nearly level perimeter around the chin, trading visible layering for a crisp and graphic outline.
Hairstyle guide
French Bob: What It Looks Like and How to Ask for It
Explore the French Bob, defined by a jaw-length bob with soft texture and an intentionally relaxed edge. Compare its shape, maintenance, salon wording, styling, and virtual try-on tips.
Published 18 July 2026
Quick answer
A French bob sits around the jaw with a softer, less rigid finish than a classic blunt bob and often includes a light fringe or lived-in texture.
- Length
- short
- Shape
- compact and softly rounded
- Finish
- lived-in
- Maintenance
- medium
What defines the look
The defining feature is a jaw-length bob with soft texture and an intentionally relaxed edge. That distinction is more useful than relying on the style name alone, since names can be interpreted differently between salons.
- bob
- soft
- jaw length
- texture
What to ask your stylist
Ask for a jaw-length bob with a soft perimeter and natural movement, then decide whether a light fringe belongs in the final shape.
Bring a saved preview and clarify which parts of the generated result matter most to you. Your stylist can translate the reference for your current hair and practical routine.
Styling and upkeep
Air-dried movement or a slight bend supports the relaxed outline better than an overly rigid, glassy finish.
Maintenance labels are broad comparisons within this guide library. Your starting texture, chosen length, and preferred finish can change the real routine.
How to preview it
A straight-on photo with your jaw visible makes it easier to judge the defining length and compact shape.
Try the French BobCompare nearby looks
Related hairstyle guides
short · curly
Curly Bob
A curly bob places a bob-length perimeter around naturally curved texture, allowing definition and volume to shape the outline rather than a rigid edge.
short · textured
Bixie Cut
A bixie sits between a pixie and bob, keeping cropped lightness around the edges while retaining enough length for movement through the top.
medium · polished
Long Bob
A long bob, often called a lob, keeps the recognisable bob outline but drops the perimeter toward the collarbone for more length and movement.