Why the Laser Cut Bob is Trending This Autumn
When the trees start to shed their leaves, we too start to get that itch to shed some length from our hair. Be it to make a change with the season or or to better complement a cosy turtleneck, the bob has always been a go-to for fall and winter looks.
This autumn, the laser cut bob is taking centre stage, a sharp style that promises to be as transformative as the season itself. To delve into this trend, I visited Salon64, dubbed London's first super salon, where owner and celebrity hairstylist Ricky Walters shared his insights with me on the popularity of this cut and what makes his salon the go-to for the perfect bob.
Located in Soho, London, Salon64 is made for on-the-go city dwellers, boasting amenities like its very own café and cocktail bar. Head here for bobs, choppy layers, and impeccable dye jobs – all while charging your phone and sipping from a champagne glass. As evening approaches, the styling desks disappear and the transformable space becomes an after-hours haunt complete with drinks and DJs.
I had the pleasure of sitting down with Ricky, a seasoned stylist who launched Salon64 in October 2017 after honing his skills at Daniel Galvin's salon at the Corinthia Hotel. Ricky’s clientele reads like a who’s who of Hollywood stars and primetime TV presenters, making Salon 64 the perfect location for those seeking both luxury and style.
When asked about his approach to drastic changes like a bob for the new season, Ricky explained, "They say when a client wants to change their hair, they want to change their life. The first thing we find out is what has caused this drastic change? How long has a client been thinking about it? Do they have any images of their dream hair? Cutting all your hair off from long to short is a huge step and a big statement, so it’s just important to make sure we fully understand the reasons behind it and the brief."
Ricky always asks clients to bring image references of their dream hair to their appointments. "Colour is very hard to describe in words for both the hairdresser and client to then end up at the exact same shade. Image references are always a bulletproof way of achieving the hair of your dreams."
The laser cut bob, Ricky explained, is essentially a super blunt chunky one-length bob. "Our clients in Soho love it! Best worn with a solid block colour such as a glossy brunette or sleek white blonde to give the look an extra bang."
When it comes to bob transformations, Ricky’s enthusiasm was palpable. "I love cutting off and transforming hair. I very recently cut the actress Saffron Hocking from super long locks to a crisp laser cut bob. It suits Saffron so well that we can’t ever imagine her with long hair again!"
As for maintaining a bob, Ricky advised, "When cut right, on the right hair type, bobs can be one of the most low-maintenance and easy-to-manage hairstyles. For hair without frizz, simply rough dry the hair until 90% dry before then getting a brush involved. Using a brush on soaking wet hair will simply waste time and give you arm ache. Products are key and selecting the right shampoo and conditioner is a must. A greasy, oily bob will never sit right or look its best. SALON64 Viva La Shine Shampoo is ideal for those looking to freshen up a bob for longer." Looking ahead, Ricky predicted that the bob will evolve for a winter look to be a little longer and softer, perhaps with a bit of layering.
For those considering a bob this autumn, Ricky and his team at Salon 64 offer more than a haircut. With its luxurious setting and expert stylists, it’s no wonder that celebs choose Salon 64 for their hair transformations before red carpets and events. Known for their precision and expertise, they are a trustworthy choice for those looking to make a drastic change with a laser cut bob. Whether sipping on an espresso martini or enjoying the salon's groovy tunes, clients are sure to leave feeling refreshed, stylish, and ready to embrace the new season.