Zendaya Proves 2023's Hottest Haircut is Back for 2025

There are plenty of haircuts that have taken space in my mind, from the kitty to jellyfish cut. But one that has been flying under the radar is the Italian bob. This 2023 favorite is making a comeback and inspiring me to finally book a vacay to Naples. Here’s everything you need to know about the stylist-approved cut and five ways to rock it in 2025.

• Sarah Potempa is a celebrity stylist and co-founder of The Beachwaver Co. She is known for designing the first-ever rotating curling iron, the Beachwaver, and uses the tool to create waves for her clients. Her work has been featured in Vogue, Marie Claire, Teen Vogue and Vanity Fair, and her celebrity clientele includes Camila Cabello, Jennifer Garner, Ana de Armas and Lea Michele.
• Christopher Naselli is a celebrity hairstylist and owner of Naselli & Co. in New York City. He specializes in cuts, color and styling services, including balayage, blowouts and keratin treatments. His clients include Nina Dobrev, Annie Murphy, Michelle Yeoh and Dianna Agron. 
• Laurie Heaps is a celebrity hairstylist and brand ambassador for Redken. She specializes in cutting, coloring and styling. She is best known for Sabrina Carpenter’s iconic fringe and blonde locks, which went viral online. Her work has also been featured in red carpet events and TV shows like Friends and Still Standing. Her clients include Sabrina Carpenter, Rowan Blanchard and Barbie Ferreira. 

Marked by an intentionally ruffled texture and flipped ends, the glamorous style also features plenty of volume and shine. The Italian bob is typically cut just below the chin and above the shoulders, carrying the bulk of its weight at the ends, so that your hair hugs the back of your neck. “It embodies the luxurious, sophisticated aesthetic of Italian fashion, think Rome and Milan street style,” shares Heaps. “It's low-maintenance yet stylish, offering volume, movement and versatility. It also suits many face shapes and works well with natural textures, making it a go-to for effortless elegance.”

Bring photos of people rocking your desired cut, especially with a similar hair type and face shape to really get a feel of what it might look like after your stylist is done. From there, a stylist can work with achieving your very own Italian bob. “There are many versions of this effortless haircut, but it’s mainly cut just at chin-level with no angles in the front, only sharp heavy ends to create softness around the face with the illusion to give a strong jawline. This cut also really looks great when done with a deep side part,” notes Naselli. 

Does an Italian Bob Work for All Hair Types?

Though the Italian bob works with most hair textures, it’s especially great for those with thick or wavy strands, given the cut’s bottom-heavy nature. However, those with fine, thin or thick curly hair may have a harder time achieving the cut. Heaps tells me, “Those with very fine, limp hair might struggle with volume, while those with very thick, curly hair may find it hard to keep the shape without extra styling.” 

However, there is a way to enjoy the look by following specific styling methods. According to Heaps, those with fine and/or straight hair should consider blow-drying upside down and using a round brush (like TEK Professional) for volume. Also, using a mousse for much-needed lift. Meanwhile, those with curly strands should use a diffuser and curling cream to create definition. 

Hair type aside, the Italian bob works best for round, oval and square face shapes as it can help balance facial features and soften sharp angles.