Zendaya’s ‘mermaid bob’: the hair trend that’s officially taking over

Zendaya’s consistently pushing boundaries, and her latest hair transformation – the ‘mermaid bob’ – is no exception. It’s not just a haircut; it’s a statement, and frankly, a masterclass in effortless cool.

Decoding the drenched effect

Forget stiff, sculpted styles. This look, meticulously crafted by Ursula Stephen, is all about controlled chaos. Think deliberately drenched, with a glossy, textured finish that mimics a recent dip in the ocean. It’s a sophisticated subversion of the classic wet-hair aesthetic, leaning heavily into the undone and slightly piecey.

The key is the finish – a subtle sheen that adds depth and dimension. It’s a textural paradox: simultaneously weighty and weightless, demanding attention without feeling overtly fussy.

Recreating the siren’s style

Stephen’s process begins with clean, wet hair, strategically blown away from the face. Then comes the cocktail: a carefully blended concoction of moulding cream and hair oil. This isn’t about heavy product buildup; it’s about creating a framework for the texture.

“We started with clean, wet hair and blew the hair away from the face,” Stephen explained. “Next, I created a cocktail with a moulding cream and hair oil, and worked it into the hair.”

Finally, a detangling brush is used to pull and separate the strands around the face, building those crucial framing pieces. It's a deliberate manipulation, creating the illusion of movement and a slightly windswept effect. The result? A chic, beachy vibe that’s surprisingly easy to achieve—especially on shorter cuts like bobs and lobs.

Shop the look

Moroccanoil Treatment Original (£38.50 at LookFantastic) – Provides the foundational moisture and shine. The Mermaid Wet Detangling Brush (£70 at Free People) – Essential for creating those piecey, textured strands.

This trend isn’t just about replicating Zendaya’s style; it’s about embracing a more relaxed approach to hair. It’s a reminder that sometimes, the most impactful looks are the ones that appear effortlessly cool. And honestly, who doesn't want a little bit of that mythical sea creature vibe in their life?