3 Creative Ways To Dress Up Your Bob

Thanks to celebrities such as Olivia Wilde and Shakira, Hollywood's chic bob trend has continued into the New Year. And while taking off a few inches is a great way to start 2012 off fresh, many of us get stuck in a creative rut with our short tresses. If you're pondering a dramatic crop—or you already took the plunge!— we've rounded up a few star-inspired styles that are perfect for chin-length locks.

VANESSA HUDGENS 

While still growing out her hair after last summer's shocking cut, Vanessa has experimented with a slew of styles. One of our favorites? Her edgy, roughed up curls at this year's People's Choice Awards. Recreate the look by loosely slicking back hair with a pomade—be sure the hair looks tousled, not slick, in the front. Use bobby pins to secure mane around crown and texturize the ends with your fingers for a piece-y effect.

HAYDEN PANETTIERE

Short and sweet! A ponytail doesn't have to be long and flowy for a chic effect. Hayden proved that a petite version or a tiny tucked knot (left) can look elegant when paired with a polished front. Make sure to curl ends under before securing above the nape of your neck with a small clear elastic.

DIANNA AGRON

Spring's lacquered locks trend is ideal for shorter tresses. Get a sleek pompadour style like Dianna Agron’s, by backcombing the top roots before gently flipping them back. Apply gel to the sides and brush and tuck them back behind your ears to make the top look even more voluminous.