Perfectly messy hair is a contradiction that works wonders. When it comes to messy bob hairstyles, think tousled, carefree hair that still looks stylish.
It’s that “I woke up like this” vibe, but way more polished. Whether you’re off to brunch or just running errands, a messy bob instantly elevates your look without much effort.
From wavy to curly, messy bob hairstyles suit all hair types and face shapes. I’ve tried a few myself (some were more messy than others), and let me tell you, finding the right bob is a game-changer.
Ready to dive in? Let’s explore the best messy bob styles and how to rock them effortlessly!
1. Textured Messy Bob
The textured messy bob is the epitome of effortless cool. This style gives your hair a bit of grit, adding volume and dimension.
I love how it works for both fine and thick hair—adding that perfect “I just rolled out of bed” vibe while still looking polished.
For a chic finish, use a sea salt spray and scrunch your hair with your hands.
If you’re interested in other chic bobs, check out our easy bob hairstyles.
2. Wavy Messy Bob
Waves are timeless, and a messy wavy bob is a great way to add a laid-back yet stylish touch to your look.
If you’ve ever seen a celeb with that enviable “beachy waves” hair, this is it!
A curling wand works wonders here—just give your strands a loose curl, and you’ll be good to go.
It’s perfect for medium to thick hair, and the best part? It requires zero perfection! For more on waves, check out wavy bob hairstyles.
3. Messy Bob with Curtain Bangs
Messy bob hairstyles with curtain bangs? Yes, please!
This look is one of my absolute favorites—it frames the face beautifully while adding movement and softness.
Curtain bangs work best for those with a round or square face shape, and it’s an easy style to maintain with a blow-dry and light texturizing spray.!
For more curtain bang inspiration, see our curtain bangs medium hair styles.
4. Tousled Side-Part Bob
If you love volume, this one’s for you! The tousled side-part messy bob works great for adding height and shape.
I personally love to part my hair on the side and use a dry shampoo to add texture.
It gives that “I didn’t try too hard, but I look fabulous” vibe.
5. Messy Bob with Loose Curls
A messy bob with loose curls is a fantastic way to bring some bounce and body to your look without going overboard.
This works especially well for those with medium to long hair. Loose curls are relaxed but still polished—perfect for casual days or a night out.
I always love using a curling iron with a bigger barrel to get that relaxed, lived-in curl.
6. Choppy Messy Bob
Choppy, messy bobs are all about that edgy vibe. If you’re into bold styles, this is your go-to.
The layers create a textured look that feels both modern and carefree.
I recommend working with your natural texture, whether it’s straight or curly, and using a lightweight texturizing spray to enhance those pieces.
This look works best on fine to medium hair types. For other bold haircuts, explore curly haircuts.
7. Voluminous Messy Bob
A voluminous messy bob is perfect for those of us who want a bit more oomph without the effort.
Think big, bouncy waves and fullness. I’ve tried this style many times, and it always makes me feel like I walked straight out of a glamorous movie scene.
8. Messy Bob with Headband
A messy bob with a headband adds a touch of boho-chic charm to the mix.
This look works for just about any occasion—whether you’re heading to a music festival or a casual day out.
I love how it keeps hair in place while looking stylish and effortless.
A thin leather or fabric headband works best here for a laid-back vibe.
9. Undone Straight Bob
The undone straight bob is ideal if you love a sleek look but want it with a bit of edge.
Straight hair, but not too perfect. I swear by a flat iron for this—just keep it loose and add some dry texture spray for that messy but still controlled look.
This style is best for those with straight or slightly wavy hair.
10. Messy Bob with Wispy Fringe
Messy bob hairstyles with wispy fringe add an element of softness and movement.
I love how this look works for pretty much any face shape, especially those with a square jawline.
Keep the fringe light and airy, and use a lightweight styling cream to avoid weighing it down. It’s perfect for a no-fuss, effortlessly chic vibe.
11. Half-Up Messy Bob
A half-up messy bob is a playful twist on the classic bob. If you love mixing up your style, this one’s for you.
I like pulling back the top section of my hair and leaving the rest loose for an easy yet fun style.
This works great for wavy or straight hair, and the half-up look keeps hair out of your face while still showing off that messy bob texture.
12. Messy Bob with Scrunchie
I love adding a scrunchie to a messy bob—it’s like the ‘90s came back and gave my hairstyle a cute upgrade.
The scrunchie adds a fun pop of color or texture, and it keeps your hair in place without looking too neat.
You can’t go wrong with this if you’re going for a laid-back, casual vibe.
13. Layered Messy Bob
Layered messy bobs bring volume and movement to any hair type.
I always get compliments when I go for layers it adds shape without requiring constant touch-ups.
For a more natural look, use a lightweight mousse to enhance the layers and give your hair some definition.
This one works for all face shapes and hair textures!
14. Messy Bob with Side Tuck
A side tuck on a messy bob is an understated yet stylish way to change up the look.
I love tucking one side behind my ear for a more polished yet relaxed style.
It works best with medium-length hair and gives a little extra definition while still maintaining that “effortless” look.
If you’re into quick styling tips, check out our easy everyday hairstyles for women.
15. Curly Messy Bob
Curly messy bobs are a fantastic way to embrace your natural texture while keeping it chic.
If you have curls, this is your moment! You can rock this style with light mousse or curl cream to keep the curls bouncy without the frizz.
The messy part? It adds more body, which is always a win in my book.
16. Messy Bob with Hair Clips
Hair clips are back in a big way, and when paired with a messy bob, they add a playful yet stylish element.
I love using a few decorative clips to keep my hair in place or just as a cute accessory.
Whether you go for colorful clips or sleek metal ones, this look is easy to style and always on-trend.
17. Beachy Messy Bob
The beachy messy bob is my go-to during the summer months. It’s relaxed and carefree, with that sun-kissed look that says “vacation.”
To achieve this, I spray my hair with salt spray and scrunch it up for that naturally tousled texture.
It’s the perfect combination of laid-back and stylish.
18. Messy Bob with Soft Waves
Soft waves in a messy bob give off a romantic, easygoing vibe. I adore this look for its ability to add body without too much effort.
Use a loose curling wand to create soft, natural waves, and finish with a texturizing spray to keep the style fresh and light. This works well on all hair types!
19. Asymmetrical Messy Bob
An asymmetrical messy bob is for those who want to make a bold statement.
One side is slightly longer than the other, giving it an edgy, modern twist.
It’s a striking yet easy-to-maintain style, and the best part is, it looks great messy! A little pomade will help define those angles without making it look too stiff.
20. Messy Bob with Ribbon
Adding a ribbon to a messy bob is a sweet way to dress up your hair without too much effort.
I love how a simple ribbon can add a fun, youthful touch to a messy bob.
Just tie it around the base of a loose ponytail or let it hang in your hair for a chic and playful look.
