How to Choose the Right Bob Haircut for Your Face Shape

You’re over 40. You’re a busy professional. And you’re ready for a change.

You don’t want something wild. You want something stylish. Something easy. Something that actually flatters your face.

Let’s talk about bob haircuts.

I’ve been cutting and coloring hair for over 30 years right here in Niagara Falls. And let me tell you—bob haircuts for women over 40 are one of the most asked-about styles in my chair.

But not every bob is right for every woman. The trick? It has to suit your face shape.

So let’s figure out what bob will make you look and feel your best.

If You Have a Round Face

Think fuller cheeks and a softer jawline. Your face is about as wide as it is long.

For a round face, I recommend a longer bob—also called a “lob.” It hits just above or below the shoulders. Why? It draws the eyes downward and adds length.

You’ll want to avoid a chin-length bob. That can make your face look even rounder.

Add some angles. A side part or light layering works wonders. Skip the heavy, straight-across bangs. They cut your face in half and add width.

This style is low-maintenance but looks polished. It’s a favorite among my Niagara Falls clients who want to look sharp but don’t have an hour to style their hair every morning.

If You Have a Square Face

You’ve got a strong jawline and a broad forehead. Think Sandra Bullock or Olivia Wilde.

For you, a soft, layered bob works beautifully. Aim for a cut that hits just below the jaw and has texture.

Layers are your best friend. They soften those edges and add movement. A deep side part helps too—it breaks up the symmetry and flatters your bone structure.

Blunt cuts? Skip ‘em. They’ll just highlight the sharpness.

Looking for ideas? I’ve got a whole post on haircuts for women over 40 that has more inspiration and tips.

If You Have a Heart-Shaped Face

A heart-shaped face means you have a wider forehead and a narrow, sometimes pointy chin.

The goal here is balance.

A chin-length bob with side-swept bangs is your go-to. It adds fullness around your jaw and softens the top half of your face.

Add a bit of wave or curl to the ends. That helps fill out your lower face and keeps the style playful—not harsh.

I once had a client named Tracy—professional, mid-40s, and feeling “blah” about her hair. We gave her a textured bob with curtain bangs. She walked out grinning. She said she felt ten years younger.

That’s the magic of getting the right cut.

If You Have an Oval Face

Congrats—you’ve got the “universal” face shape. Most cuts will work for you.

But that doesn’t mean one-size-fits-all. Let’s make it personal.

You can go short, medium, or long with your bob. Want to show off your cheekbones? Try a sleek chin-length bob with a center part. Want something softer? Add layers or waves.

One of my favorite things to do as one of the best hair stylists in Niagara Falls is to take a basic bob and tailor it to the person, not just the face.

Do you wear glasses? Do you want to spend five minutes or twenty on your hair in the morning? Do you use product? These things matter.

We’ll figure it out—together.

A Quick Word About Hair Texture

Face shape matters. But hair texture is just as important.

Got fine hair? A blunt bob with minimal layers adds volume.

Got thick or curly hair? Go for longer layers to reduce bulk and keep your shape.

If your hair is thinning (which happens to so many of us over 40), a shoulder-length bob with a slight angle gives the illusion of fullness. I’ve done this dozens of times for clients who walk in worried and walk out glowing.

What About Maintenance?

Here’s the honest truth:
Some bobs are low-maintenance. Some are not.

A super sleek bob with sharp lines needs more visits to the salon. A layered bob with soft movement? A little more forgiving.

During your appointment, I’ll ask questions. I’ll learn about your schedule, your lifestyle, your tools. Then I’ll suggest a bob that works for your real life.

No stress. No pressure. Just honest advice from someone who’s been doing this for decades.

Finding the Right Salon Matters

Let’s be real. Not every stylist gets it.

You need someone who listens. Someone who knows that haircuts for women over 40 aren’t about chasing trends—they’re about highlighting you.

If you’re looking for hair salons in Niagara Falls, my place—LJ Hair Design—was built for women just like you. Cozy. Private. No assembly-line chaos. Just great conversation, strong coffee, and a stylist who knows her stuff.

You deserve that.

Final Thoughts: It’s Not Just Hair

A good bob can change how you feel walking into a room.
It can make you stand taller. Feel sharper.
It’s not just about looking good. It’s about feeling good.

So if you’re a working woman over 40 and ready for something fresh, let’s talk.

Call LJ Hair Design. I’ll listen. I’ll advise. And we’ll figure it out together.

Ready to explore more styles?
Check out this article: The Ultimate Guide to Haircuts and Hairstyles for Women Over 40