Short hair, don’t care? Adding curls can transform your look.
It offers endless style options. Whether you want soft waves, playful ringlets, or a bold texture, curls enhance depth and volume.
However, styling short hair with curls might seem tricky. Don’t worry, though! This guide showcases 18 trendy looks.
They prove short hair and curls are a perfect match. You’ll find everyday styles and special occasion looks. Ready to elevate your short hair? Let’s dive in!
1. Loose Waves
To get loose waves, first apply a heat protectant to your short hair.
Use a curling wand or flat iron. Twist small sections of hair around the tool. Hold for a few seconds, then release.
For a natural look, change the direction of your curls.
Curl some sections towards your face and others away. This adds volume and movement, giving a relaxed, beachy vibe.
Finish with a light-hold hairspray to keep the waves in place.
This won’t make your hair stiff. You can also run your fingers through the curls to loosen them. This style is great for everyday wear.
2. Curly Pixie Cut
To style short curls in a pixie cut, start with a curl-enhancing product.
Apply it to damp hair, then scrunch gently to define your curls. This gives your hair a textured, voluminous look with little effort.
Next, use a diffuser on your hairdryer to dry your curls. This keeps the natural curl pattern and adds bounce. Always use a low heat setting to avoid frizz.
For a lasting hold, finish with light hairspray or curl-defining gel.
This keeps your curls intact all day, ensuring they stay bouncy and defined. Avoid heavy products that can weigh down your short curls.
3. Vintage Curls
To create vintage curls on short hair, start with clean, dry hair. Use a small-barrel curling iron to make tight curls. Let the curls cool completely.
Then, brush them out gently for a soft, glamorous look. This method brings a touch of old Hollywood to your style.
Setting your curls is key to keeping that vintage vibe.
After curling, use a setting spray. Let it sit for a few minutes. This helps the curls hold their shape longer, so your hairstyle lasts through any special event.
For extra volume and definition, try pin curls. Wrap small sections of hair around your finger.
Secure each with a bobby pin. Let them set overnight or use a hairdryer. This technique gives you well-defined curls that look great and stay in place.
4. Messy Curls
Messy curls can make your short hair feel fun and carefree.
To get this look, use a curling iron for loose curls. Then, run your fingers through the curls to break them up and add texture. Finish with light hairspray.
For a more natural messy curl, braid your damp hair before bed.
In the morning, undo the braids and shake out your hair gently. This method gives relaxed waves without heat, keeping your hair healthy.
If you want a tousled style, apply sea salt spray to damp hair.
Scrunch your hair with your hands as it dries to enhance the waves. This technique adds volume and a beachy texture to your short hair.
5. Defined Ringlets
To create defined ringlets, start by washing and conditioning your hair.
Use a curl-enhancing product and ensure your hair is damp. Section your hair, then use a small curling iron on each piece, holding for a few seconds.
For added volume, tease the roots gently before curling.
This adds lift and helps the curls hold better. After curling, let your hair cool completely before touching it. This keeps the shape intact.
Finish with a light hold hairspray. It will keep the curls in place without making them stiff.
For extra shine, apply a small amount of hair serum or oil to the ends. This style works well for casual outings and special occasions.
6. Curly Bob
Adding curls to a bob creates volume and bounce, making it lively and fun. This style is flexible. You can dress it up for a night out or keep it simple for a casual day.
To style short hair curls, use a good curling iron and curl-enhancing products. These help your curls stay defined and last longer. It’s a great way to refresh your bob.
Maintaining a curly bob is easy with the right care.
Regular trims keep the shape neat. Also, using moisturizing products keeps curls soft and frizz-free. This keeps the hairstyle looking polished and well-maintained.
7. Half-Up Curls
Creating half-up curls is easy and stylish. Start by curling your hair with a curling iron.
Then, pull back the top section and secure it with bobby pins or a clip. This style adds volume and keeps hair away from your face.
For a polished look, use a bit of hair serum to smooth flyaways.
You can also add a decorative clip or accessory to elevate the style. This makes it perfect for special occasions or parties.
To keep your half-up curls all day, use a light-hold hairspray.
It helps maintain the curls and keeps the style intact without stiffness. It’s a simple way to look great with little effort.
8. Curly Faux Hawk
A curly faux hawk lets you express your unique style. This look mixes the boldness of a mohawk with the natural beauty of curls. It’s perfect for anyone wanting to stand out in fashion.
You can achieve a curly faux hawk at home easily.
First, section your hair. Use a curling iron or wand to define your curls. Next, apply a strong-hold gel or mousse to shape and secure the curls.
To keep your curly faux hawk looking fresh, maintenance is important.
Regularly trim the sides to enhance the contrast with the longer, curly top. Use a curl-enhancing product to keep your curls defined and frizz-free all day.
9. Soft Curls
Soft curls give short hair a romantic touch, ideal for date nights. This style enhances femininity and makes hair look fuller, creating a charming vibe.
To get soft curls at home, use a medium-sized curling iron.
Wrap small sections of hair around the barrel, holding them for a few seconds. Release the curl and let it cool to set.
For lasting curls, spray a light-hold hairspray after curling. This keeps the soft, bouncy look all evening. Avoid heavy products to maintain light, natural curls.
10. Curly Bangs
Curly bangs bring a fun, youthful vibe to short hair.
They frame your face nicely, giving you a fresh look. This style adds bounce and character to anyone’s hair.
Making curly bangs at home is easy.
First, section off the front part of your hair. Then, use a curling iron or rollers to create curls. This simple method adds a playful touch to your everyday style.
To keep curly bangs defined and frizz-free, use a light mousse or curl cream.
Regular trims are important to maintain the bangs and prevent them from growing too long.
11. Tight Coils
Tight coils bring character and texture to short hair. This style adds liveliness and boldness. It’s perfect for an eye-catching look.
You can create tight coils at home with the right tools.
A small curling iron or flexi rods works well for defined curls. With practice, you can get salon-quality results without leaving home.
To maintain tight coils, moisturize regularly. This keeps curls fresh and bouncy.
Use a good leave-in conditioner and avoid brushing the curls to keep their shape. This simple routine keeps your hair healthy and vibrant.
12. Textured Curls
Textured curls can make short hair appear fuller and more stylish.
This method adds volume and movement. It gives your hairstyle a fresh, modern feel. Use a curling iron or hair rollers for an easy look.
To make your style last, apply a heat protectant before curling. This protects your hair from damage and helps the curls hold better.
Finish with a light hairspray to keep your textured curls in place all day.
Try different curl sizes for added dimension. Mixing tighter and looser curls creates a natural, textured effect.
This looks sophisticated and effortless. You can customize your look for any occasion.
13. Curly Undercut
The curly undercut combines a bold shaved undercut with voluminous curls.
This creates a striking look for those who want to stand out. It’s also perfect for staying cool and stylish.
Styling a curly undercut at home is simple.
First, apply curl-defining cream to damp hair. Then, use a diffuser with your blow dryer to enhance the curls. The undercut allows the curls to shine without distractions.
Maintenance is key for a curly undercut. Regular trims keep the undercut sharp and curls fresh.
Use moisturizing products to prevent frizz and define curls. This style requires little effort but makes a big impact.
14. Curls with Accessories
Enhance your curly hairstyle with headbands.
They keep your curls in place and add style. Choose from many colors and styles to match your outfit and mood.
Clips are great for styling short curly hair. They help section your hair and create unique looks. Use decorative clips to add sparkle and personality.
Scarves are a versatile accessory for curly hair.
You can wrap them around your head or tie them into a bow. They also protect your curls from wind and humidity.
15. Curly Shag
To get a curly shag, start by cutting your hair into layers.
This adds volume and movement. It makes your hair lively. Use a curling iron to create loose curls for a relaxed style.
For a more defined curly shag, try a texturizing spray.
It enhances your natural curls and adds depth. This makes your hair look fuller and more dynamic. The goal is to keep it casual and unpolished.
Maintaining a curly shag is easy. Regular trims refresh the layers.
For short hair curls, use a light mousse or curl cream. This defines the curls while keeping them soft and touchable. It’s perfect for a laid-back vibe.
16. Curly Side Part
To get a curly side part, start by making a deep side part in your hair.
This adds style and elegance, perfect for any occasion. The deep part boosts volume and makes curls pop.
Next, use a curling iron to create soft curls.
Curl small sections for a more defined and polished finish. This technique enhances your overall look, giving short hair a chic vibe.
Finally, use a light hairspray to keep the curls in place.
This helps your style last all day. A deep side part with curls looks classy and adds a modern twist to short hair.
17. Curly Bob with Highlights
Adding highlights to your curly bob adds texture and depth.
This makes your hair look fuller and more vibrant. It’s an easy way to refresh your look without a full dye job.
Try the balayage technique for a natural highlight effect. This method blends highlights seamlessly with your curls.
It creates a sun-kissed look that is both stylish and low-maintenance.
To keep your highlighted curly bob looking great, use sulfate-free shampoo and conditioner. This helps maintain vibrancy.
Regular trims will keep your curls bouncy and healthy, ensuring your style looks fresh.
18. Curly Mohawk
A curly mohawk lets you showcase your curls and make a bold statement. This style is perfect for anyone wanting to stand out and embrace their uniqueness.
To style a curly mohawk, follow these easy steps.
First, trim the sides short and leave the center longer. Then, apply a curl-enhancing product to define and hold your curls.
Maintaining a curly mohawk is simple with regular care.
Trim the sides often and use a moisturizing product to keep curls soft and bouncy. This hairstyle can be a fun project for anyone wanting to try something new at home.
Conclusion
Styling short hair with curls can be both fun and easy. Whether you prefer a casual look or something more polished, these 18 styles offer plenty of inspiration.
Try them out and see which ones suit you best. Remember, the key is to experiment and have fun with your hair. Happy styling!
How can I achieve loose waves in short hair?
To create loose waves in short hair, use the right tools and techniques. First, apply heat protectant spray. Then, use a curling iron or wand with a 1-inch barrel.
Take small sections of hair, wrap them around the barrel, and hold for a few seconds. Alternate curl directions for a natural look.
For heatless waves, braid slightly damp hair or twist sections and pin them overnight. In the morning, undo the braids or twists and gently comb through with your fingers.
Finish with a texturizing spray or light hairspray. This enhances texture and holds the waves. Avoid over-brushing to keep a soft look.
This method adds movement and volume to short hair, keeping it simple and effective.
What is the best way to style a curly pixie cut?
Styling a curly pixie cut is fun and creates a bold look. First, wash your hair with curl-enhancing shampoo and conditioner to add moisture.
Then, apply a light cream or mousse to define curls. Use your fingers or a wide comb to spread it. Next, scrunch your hair to boost natural curls.
Dry it with a diffuser, flipping your head for more volume. For tighter curls, use a curling iron on small sections.
Finally, apply a light gel or serum to reduce frizz and add shine. Remember to trim regularly to keep the shape and bounce.
How can I create vintage curls on short hair?
Making vintage curls in short hair is fun and classy. First, apply mousse or gel for volume.
Then, dry and shape hair with a round brush. Next, curl small sections using a 1-inch curling iron. Leave the ends out for a retro feel. Hold for a few seconds, then pin curls to cool.
After cooling, remove pins and tousle curls for waves. Finally, use flexible hairspray for hold. This method gives a timeless, chic look. Perfect for short hair.
