Thinking About a Fresh Cut? Stylists Say the Halo Haircut is the Spring Bob That Anyone Can Pull Off

Bob haircuts are making a comeback in 2024—but not the usual blunt versions. You might have spotted the Baroque bob with its sleek, soft waves, or the modern A-line bob, which is shorter at the back and longer in the front. Another rising star in the world of haircuts is the 'halo' style.

The halo haircut is designed to frame your face with a rounded shape, mimicking a halo. We consulted with a professional stylist to dive deeper into this trendy cut, learn how to style it, and figure out if it's the right match for your unique features.

What Exactly Is the Halo Haircut?

Similar to a bowl cut, the halo haircut is a chin-length bob with connected bangs. "The halo cut blends a bob and a bowl cut. It features the length of a bob but includes bangs that connect to the framing," says stylist Wes Sharpton. "This eliminates the traditional bob angle in the front, creating more of a halo effect. The style also includes layers throughout, giving it a more bowl-like shape."

When styled shorter, "the halo haircut takes on the appearance of a pixie or a short shag, with blunt edges that add thickness around the perimeter for a fuller look," explains salon owner Nunzio Saviano. The retro-inspired style works well for all face shapes and hair types.

"I believe anyone can pull off this style. The key is in customizing the elements to suit your look," says Sharpton. For example, if you have curly hair, the layers can highlight your curls' natural volume and shape. For straight hair, the rounded layers of the halo cut can accentuate your face’s natural features.

How to Personalize the Halo Cut with Your Stylist

The halo haircut can appear unflattering if not tailored to suit you—or if it grows out too much. "Like with any trendy haircut, it’s essential to ask your stylist to personalize it for your needs," says Sharpton.

"Some people might want the cut shorter, while others may prefer it a bit longer. What’s key is discussing with your stylist how you'd like the cut to look, what will work best for you, and what will make you feel your most confident," Sharpton adds.

When consulting with your stylist, Saviano recommends asking for "rounded layers throughout the head and soft, rounded edges along the perimeter to achieve the halo effect." For curly hair, make sure to discuss your desired length and account for any shrinkage when dry. (Feel free to bring photos for reference.) For straight hair, talk about a length that naturally curls under. Layers that are too long may flip out, spoiling the halo look.

Maintenance and Styling Tips

Since this cut isn’t low-maintenance, expect to visit the salon for a trim about every six weeks. "You might be able to trim the bangs once the style is set, but I highly recommend against attempting to cut this shape yourself," says Sharpton.

This is not the kind of haircut you want to attempt with a stylist you're unsure about. "Bowls and bobs take years of practice to perfect, so definitely seek out an expert to achieve this look," says Sharpton.

Daily styling can be as simple or as detailed as you prefer. "You can wear it as is, embracing its natural texture—whether straight, curly, or somewhere in between—or you can blow it out and/or use hot tools to create waves," Sharpton explains.

Heat Styling

For straight hair, Saviano suggests using a volumizing spray on damp hair, followed by blow-drying with a round brush to lift the roots and soften the edges. Finish with a light texturizing spray to enhance the halo effect and add movement.

For curly hair, apply a volumizing mousse with curling cream to damp hair and blow-dry using only a diffuser. Saviano recommends finishing with a cream to separate and add shine to the curls.

Air Drying

For a natural look, you can air dry your hair by applying a leave-in conditioner, mousse, or a product like Hair Balm to define and soften it, then allow it to dry naturally. For curly hair, hair plopping is a perfect heat-free alternative.