Considering the Wedding Chop? These Expert-Approved Styling Products Are Must-Haves

The recent trend where brides lop off inches of their hair mid-wedding is taking over TikTok and it’s not surprising why. The wedding chop is striking and symbolic, representing a fresh start for this new chapter of your life. 

Yet anyone who has drastically gone from long to short hair knows it can be quite an adjustment, especially when it comes to your styling routine. While long hair can be fairly low maintenance, you’ll likely have to put in more effort to get your shorter layers and ends just right. The last thing you want to worry about on your honeymoon is how to do your new hair.

to help, we spoke to professional hairstylists to get their expert techniques and product recommendations on how to style a lob or bob. Even when your wedding glam squad is gone and you're jet setting across the globe, you’ll be able to tame your tresses into a chic cut with these products and techniques. No wedding day regrets here.

ghd Platinum + Styler - 1" Flat Iron

Buy it: $279, Amazon.com

According to celebrity hairstylist Glenn Ellis, the key to achieving that sleek bob is a flat iron. His personal favorite is ghd Platinum + Styler - 1" Flat Iron, which can be used to both straighten and curl the hair thanks to the curved edges. After blow drying your hair straight, pass the iron through your ends to preserve the smoothness for multiple days. Or switch it up with some waves. “I love going in with the flat iron and adding a bend to the hair for a more effortless look,” says Ellis. “Tousled waves are also super chic at this length.”

YS Park Curl Shine Styler Round Brush

Buy it: $43, Amazon.com

To help in the blow drying process, Ellis recommends investing in a good round brush. Made from wood, this one from YS Park is lightweight and helps distribute your hair’s natural shine thanks to the boar bristles. You want to make sure the barrel isn’t too big—Ellis says 60G1 and 55G2 are perfect sizes for lobs and bobs.

Oribe Supershine Moisturizing Hair Cream

Buy it: $52, Dermstore.com

Since you’ll be using a few hot tools to achieve your sleek bob, you’ll want to protect your hair with a heat styler. Acting as a leave-in conditioner, this formula from Oribe moisturizes with amino acids and jojoba oil while locking in your smooth style. “​​This not only puts moisture back in the hair, but also adds shine,” says Ellis.

Not Your Mother’s Curl Talk Activating Mousse

Buy it: $9, Ulta.com

Let’s be real—you won’t want to be styling your hair every day on your honeymoon. For a "wash and go" look, hairstylist Jennifer Korab recommends embracing your hair’s natural texture. “I love a wet look for a honeymoon,” says Korab. “I suggest applying a mousse, combing through, and tucking behind the ear.” This budget friendly mousse enhances waves and curls while protecting against humidity and frizz. Snag the travel size to pack in your suitcase.

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Emily Cieslak is an Assistant Commerce Editor, covering all things beauty and fashion. While she currently has long hair, she has dabbled with wearing bobs and lobs.