How to style long hair short

Want to try a shorter look without cutting your hair? This simple faux bob shows you how to style long hair short using sections, pins, and a little shaping. It is a temporary way to change your look, and you can adjust the pinned pieces to suit your hair and the finish you want.

How to style long hair short with a faux bob

Before you begin, gather bobby pins and a hair tie. Work with dry, detangled hair so the sections are easier to handle, and use a mirror to check the back as you pin. If your hair is particularly thick or slippery, keep extra pins nearby.

Follow these steps to create the tucked-under bob shape:

1. Part your hair horizontally from one ear to the other, creating a top section and a bottom section.
2. Clip or pin the top section out of the way while you work on the lower section.
3. Gather the bottom section into a ponytail.
4. Twist the ponytail into a small bun and pin it flat against your head. Keep it low and compact so it can sit beneath the hair that will cover it.
5. Release the top section and divide it into smaller strands. Smaller sections can be easier to fold and secure neatly.
6. Fold each strand in half and pin it underneath, positioning the ends so they are tucked away. Place the pins where the folded hair can conceal them.
7. Continue with the remaining strands until the length is tucked under and the shape resembles a bob.
8. If you want a softer, flipped finish, carefully use a curling iron to turn the visible ends out slightly. Let the hair cool before making final adjustments.
9. Add an accessory if desired, then secure any loose pieces with additional pins.

Tips for a neater, more comfortable style

Take your time when folding and pinning each section. If the ends show, reposition the strand or add a pin beneath the fold rather than pulling the hair tightly. The bun and pins should feel secure without causing discomfort; if a pin pokes or pulls, remove it and place it again.

When using a curling iron, handle it carefully and keep it away from your scalp and the pins. Avoid curling directly over a bobby pin. A slight bend at the ends is enough to help the tucked sections blend into the faux bob.

Finish and adjust your faux bob

Check the style from the front and back, and gently arrange the outer layers to cover the tucked hair. Add or reposition pins wherever the shape feels loose. Hair length, thickness, and texture can affect how the style sits, so small adjustments may help create a balanced look.

Thanks to Katie for the idea. Happy short-hair days from Elsie and Emma!

With a few sections and well-placed pins, you can style long hair short for a change of look without making a permanent cut. Remove the pins gently when you are ready to wear your hair long again.