Do you have clients who want to try a bob but are afraid of losing their long locks? Give them a "faux bob" to try on for size! Famed stylist Rodney Cutler created this faux bob for The Salon at Ulta with Redken products. Based on the style's widespread appeal, Cutler developed a custom faux bob exclusively for The Salon at Ulta. Elly Torres, an Ulta Master Designer who worked alongside Cutler backstage at New York Fashion Week, will oversee the training of stylists in 389 Salon at Ulta locations to replicate the faux bob this spring. Here's how Cutler achieved the look:
Mastering the Faux Bob

Step 1: Prep hair by applying a small amount of Redken Full Frame 07 Protective Volumizing Mousse to damp hair and blowdrying with a round brush for volume. Once hair is dry, back comb the hair all over to create a cushion at the scalp.

Step 2: Create an anchor at the nape by creating a 1-inch wide braid, extending from side to side. Use pins to make the braid lay flat against the nape hairline horizontally.

Step 3:Divide hair into three low ponytails. To create the ponytails, use small elastic bands and secure each section near the ends of the hair. The elastic band should be placed several inches away from the scalp so the ponytail is extremely loose hanging.

Step 4: Create your faux bob by grabbing the very tips of one ponytail between thumb and forefinger. With opposite hand, grab the elastic band and "rough" it or push the band backward toward the scalp. Repeat this process with all three ponytails. This will create a wide bubble of hair across the back hairline with 3 long tails at the end of the bands. Roll and tuck these tails and elastics under the bubble of hair and pin into the anchorbraid to secure. Use your fingers and Redken Quick Dry 18 Instant Finishing Spray to mold the hair into the final shape, which will look like a soft bob hair cut.

Step 5: Lightly run your fingers over the surface of the faux bob to create some airy pieces over the surface for softness. For added personalization around the face, twist at the temple area and pin into place or use a fashion bobby pin to secure. Mist Redken Quick Dry 18 over the entire surface for all-day hold.

For reprint and licensing requests for this article, Click here.