Finding the balance between a haircut that's flattering yet incredibly low-maintenance is quite the ask — yet Kristin Scott Thomas's latest look does just that. Cut at the jaw, with a focus on natural texture and an effortlessly windswept finish, it taps into one the season’s biggest hair trends: the 'boyfriend bob'.
In case you're not already acquainted, it's the haircut experts say women over 50 need on their radar this season. We caught up with top hairstylist and co-founder of Haug London Haus, Phillip Haug, to get the lowdown.
What is the boyfriend bob?
Essentially, think of it as a more relaxed take on the traditional bob. ‘It looks cool, relaxed and easy to wear, just like your favourite boyfriend jeans,’ explains Phillip.
Kristin, 66, debuted her version last night at the 2026 Serpentine Summer Party. Her locks appeared slightly more grown out than usual, falling effortlessly to her jawline. ‘Kristin wears her ‘boyfriend bob’ with a side parting that really opens up the face,’ says Phillip.
He adds, ‘the relaxed cut means it works great with her natural texture, and the colour is also stunning — a slightly rooty blonde that looks relaxed but simultaneously head-turning. It’s youthful in its timelessness. It’s a cut that would look good at any age.’ Sign us up.
What makes it so flattering for mature women?
Beyond creating a youthful look. Phillip explains that it’s also a haircut that works particularly well for finer, mature hair types. ‘The ‘boyfriend bob’ features gentle layers that retain movement and volume,’ he says. ‘Since the haircut itself is not too heavy or structured, it can actually help create the illusion of movement and body.'
He recommends asking your stylist for short internal layers. ‘Cutting internally is a bit like scaffolding for hair, it’s a clever trick that your hairdresser can use to support volume,’ he explains.
What makes it low maintenance?
Low-maintenance, our two favourite words to hear when it comes to hair. As Phillip explains, it’s a haircut that does a lot of the hard work for you. ‘It won’t take much styling, it’s quick to dry and it complements most hair textures,’ he says.
Equally, he notes that you won’t even need to use hot tools to make it look good (which, in the long run will contribute to healthier tresses). ‘While you could use blowdry it with a round brush, you can just as easily leave it to air dry, and it’ll look fantastic with a bit of natural movement and texture,’ he says.
Better still, it works with pesky root regrowth too. Phillip explains, ‘since it’s a relaxed style, and it’s not a really geometric precision cut bob, you can go a little longer between appointments and it’ll grow out really well.’
What to ask for in the salon
The beauty of a boyfriend bob is that it’s customisable. ‘I would say a picture speaks a thousand words,’ says Phillip. He notes that while Kristin shows off a shorter version of the cut, Penélope Cruz also recently debuted a longer version of the look. So yes, it really is versatile.
‘Take your favourite picture reference and tell them what it is that you like about the look. They can then take those elements and personalise them to suit your hair type, texture and face shape,’ he says.
How do I style it?
While heat might not be necessary, a bit of product never did harm. ‘The the key to this look is relaxed, lightweight products,’ says Phillip.
'I’d recommend getting a good foundation by applying a product like Schwarzkopf Osis Grip Mousse,’ says Phillip. ‘This gives thickness and volume with a more gentle hold and no crunchiness.’
For that tousled effect like Kristin, he recommends sticking with matte hair products and teasing the hair with your fingers for an effortless feel.
One thing’s for certain, this is a boyfriend you won’t regret.
