Everyone's getting this retro cut for fall—thanks to its Quiet Luxury, low-maintenance vibe

While 'Cowboy Copper' hair has been having a moment over on TikTok, bob hairstyles continue to dominate the beauty circuit, especially this uber-layered, bouncy bob.

The look—also coined the 'Butterfly bob'—(if you need to visualize it) is a cross between Rachel Green's iconic 'shag' cut from season one of Friends) and Monica's hair, but with a 2023 Quiet Luxury twist. It's flicky, face-framing and wonderfully voluminous and right now, it's all over TikTok.

"Bouncy bobs are such a chic style for fall," says Mason Josh, advocate stylist at London's Josh Wood salon. "Not only do they look amazing they allow you to accessorize with scarves and jackets for your perfect autumnal looks." So beauty lovers have been ditching their long locks for the effortlessly chic, '90s blowout look and naturally, we need to talk about it...

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What is the bouncy Butterfly bob, exactly? 

Even the likes of Zendaya and Keke Palmer have succumbed to the Butterfly bob's appeal and it's safe to say this look is going to be everywhere by the time the leaves turn orange.

But what is this chic, pouffy bob exactly? Well, according to expert stylists at London-based salon, Top One: "The butterfly bob is just a more flexible, laid back version of your standard bob. It plays with layers and lengths with a lot less structure, allowing the hair to frame the face more naturally," adding that it they've been seeing more and more requests for similarly natural and untamed looks this year—from wispy bands to wolf cuts.

Top One explains that "the term ‘butterfly’ bob comes from its face-framing, feathered layers and curtain bangs, which can resemble butterfly wings that allow for some serious movement."

Will the Butterfly bob suit you?

If you want to change up your vibe with this whimsical bob, Top One says while the style does suit various hair textures and face shapes but, "the cut needs to be adapted to complement each person perfectly."

They add: "If your face is on the round or square side, opt for a wavy, middle part that will bring attention to the center of your face, creating the illusion of a longer shape. We also recommend wave spray, to give the cut more movement with this face shape. We suggest Ouai’s Wave Spray (at Sephora) used by the likes of the Kardashians, Gigi Hadid and Gwen Stefani (to name a few), granting gorgeous separation and flexible hold.

For an oval face shape, "allow the layers to flow and sweep away from the face. Opt for a chin or just below chin length, for an off-center diamond-like effect. Whilst this length can often appear too voluminous if not styled correctly, the addition of feathered layers that work with the hair's natural texture will achieve a look that is face-framing and flattering."

And if you have a heart-shaped face, Top One says: "Chin-length curls can help soften the face and add some movement, creating fullness around the jawline, bringing balance and symmetry to the heart-shaped face."

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Texturewise, Top One recommneds going to a professional for this cut, "with experience in this style that can incorporate texturising techniques into their chops. Hot tools, volumizing sprays and mousse may be needed in order to maintain the style for finer, thinner hair. 

"With thick and coarse hair, the ‘butterfly wing’ effect can be more challenging, but certainly not off limits. The key is to keep the layers long enough to allow room for shrinkage, and cutting according to your face shape."

How to ask for this bouncy '90s bob?

So, if you think this look is for you, Top One stylists say to bring along a reference picture of the length and style you like, adding: "Don’t be afraid to ask your hairstylist how to achieve the look you want in a way that will complement your face shape. A trusted hairdresser will  give you the best advice on how to maintain the look for your texture, and recommend the best products for you."