Is the Sleek “Hydro Bob” Trend Too Wet for Our Climate? Check Out 10 Ways to Wear It

There are numerous styling options to explore, despite the misconception that short hair limits creativity.

Lately, the “hydro bob” trend has gained immense popularity among celebrities, mesmerising everyone with its elegant and effortless appearance. The captivating pictures might even tempt you to rush to the salon for a fresh look.

Tom Smith, the renowned hairstylist and international artist in residence at Billi Currie, coined the term “hydro bob” and predicts it to be a major hair trend in the upcoming spring season.

In other words, if you’re itching to do something to your hair and chop it all off instead of cutting bangs (c’mon, we’ve all been there), this short hair look is probably something you wouldn’t regret.

“Hydro Bob”: A Glossy Take on the Short Hair Trend

@tomsmithhd

I feel like this one is getting more and more popular every day! Defined and hydrated, this cool and mid-length bob shape brings a little bit of high fashion to ready-to-wear hairstyles. #hydrobob #wetbob #hairtrend #springhairtrend #bobhaircut #tomsmith #fyp

♬ Instrumental – Vibe – pedrin cria

The “hydro bob” takes inspiration from the beloved “boy bob” but adds a unique twist: a sleek, wet appearance that brings a contemporary and sophisticated vibe.

This adaptable hairstyle showcases a similarly short and precise cut, giving it a slightly gender-neutral charm and a hint of edginess.

The length can be tailored to enhance one’s distinct features and usually falls between the lips and mid-neck.

“It’s got that sharp, slightly androgynous, tailored look to it, but the key here is that there’s a little high fashion element that makes the hair look slightly more defined – it’s almost like a soft wet look.

The idea is that the chop should take on a dewy dimension and look “drenched in gloss and moisture,” said trend forecaster and leading hairstylist Tom Smith on Glamour.

@fayeredfernhair

Would you have this haircut?? #shorthair #bob #hydrobob #hairtrends #hairtok #hairtrends2024

♬ Show Me How – Men I Trust

Hairstylist and educator Faye Redfern went on TikTok very recently to share her thoughts about how obsessed she was with the “hydro bob” trend and how it can make women feel sexier.

If you already have a bob or short hair, this fresh take and sleek look will be the perfect update for your bob as we head into spring!

Related read: 2024 Hair Trends Set to Go Viral, According to Experts

Why It Could Be Perfect for Malaysia’s Weather

The wet look may seem trendy, but it may not be the most ideal choice in hot weather. Your hair might feel heavy and pull at the roots, or the humidity can cause frizz and ruin its sleek appearance.

Additionally, while the “hydro bob” is cooler than long hair, it may not provide enough airflow around the neck, depending on how it is cut.

Despite all that, the “hydro bob” can still be adapted to Malaysia’s climate without making you look like a dishevelled hot mess.

• Opt for a slightly shorter version of a bob with more layering to help with better airflow.
• Instead of gels, use lightweight styling creams or leave-in conditioners to add shine and definition without weighing your hair down.
• The polished, controlled style can still appear put together even if you sweat.

Plus, the “hydro bob” can be achieved more quickly than other styles which might be appealing in hot weather.

Related read: Quick 30-Second Tests to Find Out If Long or Short Hair Suit You Best

How to Style a “Hydro Bob”

@tomsmithhd

Here’s the easiest way to take on this springs ‘hydro bob’ trend! Nourishing and stylish in one! #wetbob #hairhealth #hairtok #tomsmith #fyp

♬ nyc in 1940 – berlioz & Ted Jasper

It does look high maintenance but it’s not that hard to achieve, we promise.

Selecting hair products that are lighter and more appropriate for your hair type is crucial, particularly for the “hydro bob” style that heavily relies on styling.

To prevent a greasy appearance, prioritize products that offer more moisture than oil to keep your strands hydrated and oil production in check.

However, we’re not exactly talking about hair gel. According to Smith, you can recreate this look with hydrating hair products that you likely already have!

“Whilst nourishing leave-in creams such as Olaplex No.6 Bond Smoother are ideal for the definition and hydration this style requires, a great trick for those who don’t find the time to do weekly masks or treatments is to simply style the hair with your favourite moisture mask,” he shared on Who What Wear.

This will give your hair that semi-wet effect and also simultaneously let your hair soak in all the goodness from a hair mask!

Related read: 16 Best Boar Bristle Brushes for Shinier, Healthier Hair

10 Ways to Wear the “Hydro Bob”

Classic Slicked Back

It’s simple yet classy and elegant with a sprinkle of edge. The classic slicked-back wet look won’t disappoint and is also really easy to achieve.

You can also play with your hair’s parting and try a side parting!

Tucked Back With Face-framing Tendrils

If the classic look is boring to you, separate a few small pieces of your fringe and let it frame your face!

Creatively Styled Baby Hair

Cutting and styling your baby hair has been an ongoing trend for a while now.

The fact that you’ll need styling products to “stick” your baby hair down or manipulate it into your desired shape makes this a perfect accompaniment to the “hydro bob”.

Loose Wet Bob

It doesn’t have to be fully slicked back to still look edgy. You can choose to rock a simple “hydro bob” with neat yet loose strands.

This style would probably look even more enigmatic if you have coloured hair!

Everyday is Beach Day

Who says we can’t be delusional about living on the beach like Hannah Montana? Mussy and tousled, this look really amps up the cool and edgy factors.

Lightly Texturised With Bangs

Not into pin-straight hair? Add a little texture by teasing your hair and pile on the hair moisturiser for that “salt-in-hair” look.

Curly and Intentional

For those with waves and coils, this wet look could really benefit your style and tresses since curly hair is naturally dryer than the rest!

You could try a wet look with a voluminous side parting or push it all back and leave a few strands of your fringe out.

Half Up, Half Down

 

All of your hair doesn’t always have to stay down for a “hydro bob”.

To make it a little bit more interesting, go with a half updo and see if you’d like your fringe to be tied up or let down to frame your face.

Micro Pigtails

Fancy something that leans towards cute more than cool? Go for little micro pigtails to elevate your “hydro bob”.

You can even make it coquette by adding some ribbons to your look!

Zig-Zag Parting With a Spiky Bun

Of course, you can also combine two or more hair trends together to create something truly artistic and eye-catching!

Here, Steph incorporated the “hydro bob”, a spiky bun, and a zig-zag parting for a high-fashion look.

Featured image credit: @stxph.h/Instagram, @fayeredfernhair/TikTok, @hannahkleit/Instagram