beauty

You might not want to ask your stylist for the latest hair trend.

If you've watched The White Lotus Season 3 lately (precisely all of us) or scrolled through your Instagram feed, you've probably spotted it — that perfectly chic, chin-grazing bob that's suddenly everywhere.

Yes! That's the one. We're talking about the cheekily named "c**ty little bob" — the haircut that's having quite the moment thanks to Leslie Bibb's iconic character in The White Lotus.

Heard of it?

Watch: Speaking of hair, here's how to perfect your everyday ponytail game. Post continues below.


Video via Mamamia/You Beauty.

From Michelle Williams and Jenny Slate at the recent Dying for Sex premiere to influencers across your social feeds, this particular take on the bob is a statement look that's very much serving confidence and an IDGAF vibe.

See below:

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Michelle! We love!

So, what makes this bob different from all the other bob trends? And why are we referring to it as 'c**ty'?

All very valid questions. Allow us to explain.

What exactly is the c-bob?

If we were to describe it as a person, the c-bob is essentially a blunt, chin-length bob with an attitude problem (in the best possible way).

Legendary hairstylist Chris McMillan — yes, the same Chris responsible for Jennifer Aniston's iconic 'Rachel' cut — is calling it the "kinky little bob" on Michelle Williams, while dubbing Leslie Bibb's version the "c**ty little bob" in his Instagram posts.

"Ummmm can you say iconic?? @mslesliebibb and I are always trouble together," McMillan wrote. "Now let's see the 'c**ty little bob' become the look of the year with colour by @traceycunningham1."

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Unlike softer, more layered bobs we've seen in recent years (like the 'old money bob'), this cut is unapologetically bold with minimal layering and maximum impact. It's sharper than your typical bob, with precision-cut ends that make a statement.

What separates it from other bobs is its intentional edge — there's nothing accidental about this cut. It's precise, sharp, and worn with confidence that says, "Yes, I meant to do this." And as we've seen with Leslie Bibb's character, it perfectly matches a personality that doesn't hold back.

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Why is everyone suddenly getting this cut?

Like many of our favourite hair trends, this particular bob style gained momentum through a perfect storm of influences. The most obvious being 'The White Lotus effect'.

The HBO show has become a cultural touchstone, with Leslie Bibb's character and her razor-sharp bob becoming instant conversation starters. Like, can we just think back to that unforgettable political conversation scene? It only amplified the attention on both her character and her distinctive hairstyle.

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Then, as we said before, there are celebrities like Michelle Williams and Jenny Slate. When the pair showed up to their Dying for Sex premiere sporting matching versions of the cut, social media went wild, and suddenly the hairstyle had a cheeky nickname that stuck.

Michelle Williams and Jenny Slate.Michelle Williams and Jenny Slate. Image: Getty.

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Cute!!

What's more, when someone as iconic as celebrity hairstylist Chris McMillan champions a look, the industry listens. He knows a thing or two about hair, so when he declares it will be "the look of the year", it carries significant weight.

While we're only in April, this year is undoubtedly already the year of the bob, with different variations blowing — from the 'Italian bob' to the 'rom-com bob' and the 'flippy bob' (thanks, Kendall Jenner). However, it looks like we're moving on from these styles to something with more edge and attitude.

Who suits this bold style?

The beauty of the c-bob is that it's adaptable to most face shapes, though the specific length can be customised to suit your features and hair texture.

For example, while the cut works well with straight or wavy hair textures, it can be adapted for curly hair with the right styling techniques.

If you're wondering if it's the right cut for you (because there's nothing quite as confronting as making a rather large decision in the hair salon chair and regretting the hell out of it, immediately), it's a great choice if you have:

  1. A strong jawline you want to emphasise

  1. High cheekbones that'll benefit from a lil framing

  1. Fine hair that appears thicker with a blunt cut

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As always, though, when it comes to beauty — there are no rules, so you do you! If the c**ty bob makes you feel good, then great!

What to ask your hairdresser for.

Alrighty. Ready to take the plunge? Remember, it's all in the details — so have this little list handy!

Here's exactly what to request:

  • Ask for a blunt, chin-length bob with minimal to no layers.

  • Reference Chris McMillan's work on Leslie Bibb in White Lotus.

  • Specify whether you want it perfectly straight across or slightly angled (slightly longer in front).

  • Request weight removed from the ends for movement without obvious layers.

  • Discuss whether you want any face-framing pieces around the front.

  • Use phrases like "precision cut" and "sharp ends" to convey the vibe.

  • Bring reference photos! (Always the safest bet).

Remember to discuss styling requirements too — while this bob looks effortless, it'll likely require some heat styling to achieve that perfect sharp finish. So, be prepared to put in some time when it comes to heat tools, etc.

This isn't just another boring bob. It's bold, edgy, and it comes with the same confident energy as Leslie Bibb's scene-stealing White Lotus character.

So. See you at the hairdressers?

What do you think of the c**ty bob? Share your thoughts with us in the comment section below.

Feature image: The White Lotus, HBO.

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