NYC HAIR GUIDE
NYC Bob Haircuts You Can Still Tie Back
Find the right length and shape for a versatile bob, with consultation questions and local NYC examples.
Every image you see is a bookable style. Click any photo to view details and book an appointment with a stylist.
Yes, you can get a bob that you can still tie back. The key is ensuring the front pieces and the hair at your nape are long enough to gather into a hair tie. This often means opting for a long bob (or "lob") or an angled cut that preserves length where you need it most. The main tradeoff is versatility versus the sharp, classic look of a shorter, chin-length bob; a longer perimeter is more practical for updos, but a shorter one creates a more distinct shape.
The Long Bob (Lob): Your Safest Bet for a Ponytail
Shoulder-grazing lengths offer the most versatility for tying hair back without needing clips or pins.
A long bob, or lob, typically has a perimeter that sits at or just above the shoulders. This extra length, as seen in these NYC salon examples, provides enough slack to easily pull all your hair into a low ponytail or bun. Whether your hair is curly, straight, or wavy, a one-length lob is the most straightforward way to get a bob with full updo functionality.
Consultation tips
Bring your hair tie to the consultation
Physically gathering your hair and showing the stylist where you want your ponytail to sit is the clearest way to communicate your length requirements. You can test exactly where the line should be drawn to meet your needs.
Discuss your hair's texture and growth pattern
Hair with a strong wave or curl pattern will appear shorter when dry. Discuss how much length to keep to account for shrinkage. Likewise, cowlicks or a low hairline at the nape can affect how shorter pieces behave when pulled up.
Before you book
Compare portfolio photos
Look for local NYC salon examples of bobs on hair with a texture similar to yours. This will give you and your stylist a more realistic starting point for what's achievable.
Prioritize your primary goal
Be clear about what's more important: the specific look of the bob when it's down, or the ease of tying it back. This helps your stylist balance the cut to best suit your lifestyle.
Compare portfolio photos and discuss your goals with a stylist.
