The term "messy" might not immediately spring to mind when you think of a bob cut, but today, the neat and tidy look of yesterday's bobs has evolved into something far more relaxed and laid-back. The messy aline bob, beloved by celebs like Alexa Chung and insurgent on Instagram, has taken the hairstyle world by storm. This cut is all about embracing your natural texture and letting your hair have a mind of its own. So, if you're ready to ditch the GHDs and embrace the tousled, windswept look, here's how you can create a DIY messy aline bob at home.
The beauty of the messy aline bob lies in its effortless stylishness. It's perfect for those of us who want a low-maintenance hairstyle that still looks fabulous. Here, we'll guide you through the steps to achieving this trending cut, from prepping your hair to styling it to perfection.
Preparing Your Hair
Before you pick up the scissors, there are a few things you need to do to prepare your hair. This will ensure that your DIY messy aline bob turns out just the way you want it.
The first step is to determine your face shape. The aline bob looks best on oval, square, and heart-shaped faces. If you have a round face, you might want to consider a slightly longer bob to create the illusion of a moreangular shape.
Gather Your Tools
Once you've determined that the aline bob is right for you, it's time to gather your tools. You'll need a sharp pair of hair scissors (NOT kitchen scissors!), rat-tail comb, hair clips, a Barber's hair cutting comb, and a pair of hair cutting scissors.
If you have very fine hair or want to add some texture to your cut, you might also want to invest in a set of hair thinning scissors. These have a serrated edge that helps create layers and texture, making them perfect for achieving that messy, tousled look.
Section Your Hair
Start by combing your hair out thoroughly to remove any tangles. Then, using your rat-tail comb, part your hair down the middle and section it off into four equal parts.
Clip the top two sections away, leaving the bottom two sections free. You'll start cutting from the bottom to ensure that you leave enough length at the top to create your bangs.
Creating the Cut
Now that you've prepped your hair, it's time to start cutting. Remember, patience is key here. Don't rush through the cut, and keep checking your work as you go.
Start by cutting the back section of your hair. Using your Barber's hair cutting comb, comb the hair out straight and hold it taut. Using your hair cutting scissors, cut the hair to your desired length, holding the scissors parallel to the floor. This will create a straight, blunt cut that forms the basis of your messy aline bob.
Creating the Layers
Next, it's time to create the layers that will give your bob its messy, tousled look. Using your rat-tail comb, section off a small triangle of hair at the front of your head, just behind your ears. Clip this section away.
Starting with the bottom layer, use your hair thinning scissors to cut into the hair at an angle, creating a layered effect. Work your way up the layers, cutting less hair as you go to create a soft, graduated effect.
Adding the Bangs
Now it's time to tackle the bangs. Unclip the two top sections of your hair. Comb one section forward and decide where you want your bangs to fall. Cut the hair to this length using your hair cutting scissors, holding the scissors vertically to create a straight edge.
Use your hair thinning scissors to add layers to your bangs, starting from the middle and working your way outwards. This will create a soft, wispy effect that frames your face perfectly.
Styling Your Messy Aline Bob
Now that you've created your DIY messy aline bob, it's time to style it. The great thing about this cut is that it looks best when it's a bit chaotic and imperfect.
Wash and Condition
Start by washing your hair with a volumizing shampoo and conditioner. This will help give your hair some body and make it easier to style.
While your hair is still damp, apply a small amount of texturizing mousse to the roots. This will help give your hair somehold and prevent it from looking too flat.
Rough-Dry Your Hair
Next, rough-dry your hair using a blow dryer on a low heat setting. Rough-drying encourages your natural texture to come through, which is perfect for achieving that messy, tousled look.
Use your fingers to scrunch your hair as you dry it. This will help to create some volume and texture, as well as encourage any natural waves or curls to form.
Finish with Product
Once your hair is about 80% dry, apply a small amount of sea salt spray to your mid-lengths and ends. This will help to enhance your hair's natural texture and give it some grit, making it easier to style.
Finally, use your fingers to tousle your hair into place, creating a messy, unstyled look.If needed, use a curling iron or straightener to add some additional texture or to perfect any areas that aren't falling into place. Then, mist your hair with a light-hold hairspray to keep everything in place.
Aline bob might seem intimidating, but with a little patience and practice, you can achieve this trendy cut at home. So, why not grab your scissors and give it a try? Your hair will thank you for the low-maintenance style, and your wallet will thank you for the salon savings!