A. Boy, do I hear what you are saying. There is that certain length of bob that goes from absolutely chic to positively blah in the matter of skipping a trim. But don't fret, a well-cut bob will grow out to follow its original proportion and angle and not look exactly like those shapeless midlength don'ts-- although you may see the frumpish association otherwise.

For those who are confused about the nuance of a bob going from dowdy to amazing, it's all in the proportion and how the cut works with your face shape.

Mama, get some life in your look, if this sounds like you: The Midwestern classic soccer mom bob is cut all one length with no hint of graduation- therefore the hair lacks any movement or volume and just sits there like a styleless latke. When there are bangs, they are cut straight across, right above the brow. The color is usually generic dishwater brown that wouldn't hurt from a few well-placed highlights. This do coupled with shapeless eyebrows, some boring and safe drab colors, a pair of clunky white sneakers, and a floral quilted tote bag is style killer Número Uno. yikes, am I describing that woman who is always across the aisle on a plane and asking for more pillows?

Yes, I understand your fear. However, take that same general hairstyle and finesse its grow-out phase you get magic! What you might want to consider, and it worked for me when I was growing out my bob, is to add a few long layers around your face. The graduation there will counteract that awkward hair length phase and create some nice movement as well. If you keep the layers long, you'll avoid the Seventies sitcom shag hairstyle, another hair nightmare altogether. Once your hair passes this length, which should be a haircut or two, you can style it anyway you chose.

Don't forget to try our commitment-free Virtual Hairstyle Makeovers and see how you look in a new hairstyle.

--October 25, 2008