When I first heard that ‘mom cuts’ were trending, my mind immediately went to Kate Gosselin (from Kate Plus 8). Thankfully, the latest short haircut is no longer the asymmetrical bob that gave “Can I speak to your manager?” vibes. Rather, the new ‘mom cut’ is a bit longer and chicer than previous iterations. I chatted with three hairstylists to learn more about the ‘mom cut’ and how to rock it this year (whether you have a kiddo or not).
What Is the Mom Cut (and How Has It Changed Since 2007)?
No, it’s not the one you’re thinking of
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Published Jul 20, 2024
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Meet the Hairstylists
- Juli Akaneya is a New York-based hairstylist who specializes in editorial, advertising and high fashion looks. She has previously worked with brands like Something Navy, Verb and Veronica Beard.
- Tym Wallace is a celebrity hair stylist with 15 years of experience in the industry. His work has been featured in television and film with credits in MTV, VH1 and BET. He also works with many haircare brands including TPH by Taraji, Carol’s Daughter, Dove and Tangle Teezer. His celebrity clients include Taraji P. Henson, Mary J. Blige, Serena Williams, Zendaya and Gabrielle Union.
- Wes Sharpton is the lead brand educator for Hairstory and stylist at the brand's NYC salon. He has experience working for editorial and print publications such as Vogue, Elle and Allure, and is known for creating both trendy and traditional cuts across all hair types.
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What Is the Mom Cut?
The ‘mom cut’ is essentially just a lob (long bob), which falls just above or at the shoulders. As Sharpton explains, “The mom cut is a low-maintenance haircut that’s chic, yet practical, making it perfect for those with busy lifestyles. It’s often cut shoulder-length or to a slightly shorter bob with layers that frame the face.” Also known as the ‘mom chop,’ the cut has become popular recently, changing the narrative of what it looks like to rock a ‘mom cut’ in 2024.
Why Is the Mom Cut Trending Right Now?
In 2024, the search for a ‘mom cut’ has surged 3,500 percent on Pinterest, along with creators showing off the trendy look on TikTok. I also went down a Reddit rabbit hole and found that many moms get it just after giving birth because cutting off a few inches helped combat postpartum hair loss, frizz or thinning hair. “Longer hair requires more styling to create shape, while shorter hair maintains its style as is because the perimeter of the haircut lands right at the shoulders or higher,” says Sharpton. “This style is also great for those that have lost hair during pregnancy because shorter hair feels [and looks] thicker.”
I’ve noticed an influx of celebrities sporting the look lately as well, from Emma Stone to Taraji P. Henson, Selena Gomez and more. Believe it or not, the haircut is no longer associated with Kate Gosselin and Saturday Night Live skits. As Sharpton perfectly explains, “The mom cut has gained popularity due to its blend of style and practicality. It's modern, yet classic, but easy to wear—making it appealing to a wide range of age groups.”
How to Ask for the Mom Cut at the Salon
Come prepared with reference photos. I found it’s the best way to visually communicate the exact look you want regarding the style, length and layers. The experts also suggest asking your stylist for a long bob and a blunt haircut that grazes the collarbone or sits slightly above the shoulders. As Akaneya explains, “Once your stylist understands your desired look, they will cut your hair to the intended length. Then, depending on the amount of texture and layering you want, the stylist will refine the cut using shears or a razor to achieve the desired style. For those with finer hair, a blunt cut is often recommended to create a fuller appearance.”
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Does the Mom Cut Work on All Hair Types?
Luckily, the ‘mom cut’ works for all hair types and textures. “The mom cut is a great transitional style for anyone who is growing out their hair, and it's also flattering and manageable for many different types of hair,” says Akaneya. “However, the key to its versatility is customizing the amount of layering and texturing based on how you want to style and wear the look, as well as your hair's natural texture.” If you have wavy or curly hair, a stylist may add layers to define and improve shape, whereas those with fine, straight hair may get blunter ends that add more volume. Again, the ‘mom cut’ works especially well for those with thin or fine hair, as the shorter length offers the illusion of thicker strands.
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How Do You Maintain the Mom Cut?
The ‘mom cut’ won’t require too much upkeep. The experts recommend getting a trim every six to eight weeks to preserve the look. “The frequency in which your hair grows will ultimately determine how often you need to get trims to maintain your cut,” adds Wallace.
How Do You Style the Mom Cut?
The best part about a ‘mom cut’ is it doesn’t require much styling (which can be great for busy moms who have to wrangle their energetic tots in the morning). But if you have the time to ramp up the look, here are five ways you can rock your mom cut:
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1. Tousled Lob
This style adds movement and softness that’s reminiscent of another classic look: the shag. Go the air drying route to enhance your natural texture and minimize time spent in the bathroom. Akaneya suggests using a styling cream or texturizing spray to really shape your hair.
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2. Sleek and Straight
If you want to show off your blunt cut, Wallace recommends sectioning off hair before taking a flat iron to it for a sleeker finish.
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3. Side Part
Margo Robbie’s waves and side part instantly spice up a mom cut. The style also accentuates her jawline and balances out her distinct heart face shape.
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4. Curly Lob
“For textured hair, using curl-specific products that complement your specific hair texture will be most beneficial for the health and style of your curls,” says Wallace. Since curls tend to require more styling, use a curl refresher and a diffuser to enhance your pattern.
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5. Curtain Bangs
Bangs can really bring a look together, as evidenced here by Rose Bryne’s curtain fringe. The face-framing pieces blend well with the mom cut and flatters all face shapes and hair types.
The Essentials
