Zoe Ball has joined the growing list of celebrities embracing bold bob transformations, revealing a chic new look she playfully called “summer madness.” The TV and radio presenter showed off the dramatic change at the BBC’s VE Day 80th anniversary finale after teasing the makeover from the salon chair on Instagram.
Ball’s fresh look comes courtesy of the Hadley Yates salon and includes a full blonde refresh, a blunt bob haircut, and discreet tape-in hair extensions for added fullness. According to salon co-founder Hadley Yates, the goal was to brighten her color and create a fuller, summery style.
“We started with a full head of highlights to lift all the winter blonde out,” Yates explained. “Then we cut her hair above the shoulders—usually it’s longer—with no layers for a thicker, one-length shape.”
One of the most subtle changes is the addition of “hair fillers,” or tape extensions placed at the front of her hairline. These are meant to address common issues like thinning and breakage caused by heat styling or coloring.
“We added four tapes—two on each side—to fill in the front corners of the bob,” Yates said. “They give that section a fuller, chunkier look.” The extensions used are part of the salon’s own CURATED line, which officially launches next month.
This service, known at the salon as a “Hair Booster,” starts at £250 and combines color, cut, and filler extensions for what Yates describes as “an instantly fresh, full, healthy new look.” The key, he says, is precise placement of the tapes, which were installed high enough to stay invisible while adding volume.
Yates also addressed concerns about damage from extensions. “If they’re applied correctly on the right amount of hair and aren’t too heavy, they don’t cause harm,” he noted. “That’s why it’s essential to see an expert.”
For those looking for a lower-maintenance option, the CURATED range will also include clip-ins made from the same high-quality hair, set to launch on June 23.
Zoe Ball’s latest transformation is a smart, stylish refresh—and far too good to be hidden behind the microphone in the Radio 2 studio.
