What Is A 'Graduated Bob?' Celebrity Stylists Tell Us Why This Flattering Fall Cut 'Brings More Life' To Damaged Hair Over 40

If you’ve been scrolling through TikTok or Pinterest lately, you’ve probably noticed an influx of chic, trendy bob cuts that are set to dominate this fall season . (You’re certainly not alone in your observations!) Celebs like Hailey Bieber and Selena Gomez have been spotted flaunting the graduated bob, also known as the stacked bob, which is a short haircut featuring layers that are shorter at the back and longer at the front. This stylish cut has also been memorably sported by stars like Charlize Theron, Saoirse Ronan and Keira Knightley .

To delve deeper into this trendy fall hairstyle, we consulted with celebrity and professional hairstylists. They extolled the graduated bob as an ideal cut for transforming damaged, fine, or thin hair , as the layers can impart both lift and significant style, providing your hair with dynamic movement.

Keep reading for expert tips, suggestions, and insights for anyone keen on embracing the graduated bob this fall, particularly mature beauties over 40 who are looking to refresh their look with a chic, sophisticated edge. We caught up with Gina Rivera , celebrity hairstylist and founder of Phenix Salon Suites, Lauren Udoh , professional hairstylist and Hair Creative Director of WigReports, Davis Feliz , owner and creative director at Davis Feliz Salon and Rod Galvao , professional hair stylist at Gem House.

How A Graduated Bob Can Transform Fine, Damaged Or Thin Hair This Fall, According To Experts

When it comes to a graduated bob, the back section of the hair is meticulously cut at a 45-degree angle , creating a build-up of weight as it ascends the head. Each section of hair is intricately dependent on the one preceding it, forming a sophisticated wedge-like shape. Unlike sharp, abrupt angles, the layers of a graduated bob are typically curved, gradually becoming longer towards the front.

The front sections can elegantly frame the face, with strategic angles designed to accentuate the cheekbones and jawline beautifully. This bob style features a graduated layering around the nape or back of the head. According to Feliz, the ultimate "low-maintenance style that never loses is appeal" is an angled, graduated chin-length and "classy bob" like this. He says that "for this style, a bit of undercutting in the back allows for easier manageability, creating a natural bend for easy wash and wear."

Galvao notes that the "very defined linear design" of the cut can bring "a more modern and sophisticated look with a minimalist style." Feliz adds that "longer faces may need more framing and layers," when it comes to their center-parted, angled, chin-length 'do, while "round faces require less."

Rivera says that a bob like this is a "terrific choice" for "mature beauties who are facing thinning hair," Rivera explains, since it’s a perfect blend of classic yet still modern and trendy. "This style is so hip that it’s perfect for making our ladies in their prime look super chic," she says.

"Removing a bit of length from the hair, [adds] movement and creates a youthful appeal ." When it comes to styling, Rivera notes that "texturing the hair" creates an "opportunity to remove some of the damaged ends and weight which bring more life to the hair as well."

Udoh concurs and concludes that a graduated bob (whether center-parted or with added bangs) can be "adjusted to complement your features and create an attractive silhouette."

The Bottom Line

Rivera shares that it is essential to collaborate with your stylist to tailor the layers in your graduated bob to your specific hair type and to highlight the features you wish to emphasize.

Additionally, Rivera advises that it’s best to always "consult with your stylist on a maintenance schedule but for those trying to regain hair health, make sure to trim every 4-6 weeks."