This just in from the other side of the pond: The ‘Diana bob’ (aka Princess Diana’s forever iconic hairstyle) is back and, according to Glamour UK, it’s the low-maintenance look we didn’t know we needed for spring (and easing into a post-COVID world). Still, skeptics might be scratching their heads. Can we really pull off Princess Diana’s volume? Her piece-y layers? That deep side part? It’s 2021, not the 80s, after all. To find out, we consulted Ryan Trygstad, celebrity hairstylist and co-founder of the Mark Ryan Salon in New York City, to get his take.
The ‘Diana Bob’ Is Trending for Spring—Here’s How to Pull It Off
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Published Apr 5, 2021
Edward Berthelot/Princess Diana Archive/Getty Images
1. Mimic The Length And Layers To Make It Feel Modern
Princess Diana’s hair was an evolution—this we know. In other words, there’s a difference between the Diana Bob circa her engagement to Prince Charles in 1981…and Diana’s hair in the early 90s (hello, revenge dress). This is where specificity at the salon is critical: “Diana’s cuts are still very modern, but it all comes down to the way you style them,” Trygstad explains. “Most of her lengths would look great on anyone, but if you have pixie features, opt for a shorter length. If your face shape is soft, a longer bob is going to be more forgiving.” Bottom line: You should think of the Diana bob as wash and wear hair. “Shaped haircuts like Diana’s are perfect for throwing in some pomade or texture cream, giving your hair a comb-through and heading out the door.”
Edward Berthelot/Central Press/Getty Images
2. You Can Incorporate Volume Without Going Full 80s
Think Princess Diana on the weekends in the English countryside where her hair would have dried a bit more on its own and less big 80s hair, Trygstad explains. The key is to keep the styling natural and loose. “The bubble hair is a bit tricky to pull off for most,” he adds. “Unless you are 15 and a model, too much of a round, voluminous look can add to a wide jaw line and an already wide nasal bridge.”
Jonathan Brady/Princess Diana Archive/Getty Images
3. When In Doubt, Bring A Pic To The Salon
According to Trygstad, look no further than Diana’s soon-to-be alter ego on seasons five and six of The Crown for inspo: “Elizabeth Debicki’s short cropped hair is so pretty on her long neck. It’s so confident and eye-catching.” Other modern examples of Diana’s look: Kristen Stewart, Kaia Gerber, even Emma Corrin, who played Diana in season four of The Crown. You can also simply call up a shot of Diana herself. “I really like the short, layered cut styled back off her face that was worn by a young Diana. Also, Diana on the cover of Harper’s Bazaar in 1991. I love both those looks and they work great for women who can carry a more stylized haircut,” Trygstad says.
