Short hairstyles are incredibly versatile and beautiful. This curated collection of short hairstyles for older and younger women caters to all tastes and preferences. I'll cover everything from short pixie haircuts for women that scream confidence to haircuts for short curly hair that help you embrace your natural texture.
Has your hair become thinner? No worries! I’m here to guide you through short haircuts for thin hair that add oomph to even the finest strands. Plus, I’ll cover all the things you should consider before that big chop, as well as how to style each gorgeous short hairstyle.
Ready to discover the best short haircuts for women that are trending right now? This lineup showcases the versatility of short hair and proves that length is not a measure of beauty.
Index
Choosing the Best Short Haircut for You
Alright, let's get down to the nitty-gritty of finding the perfect short haircut for you. Here are some key factors to consider before your haircut appointment:
1. Consider Your Hair Type and Texture
Take a moment to appreciate your hair's natural texture. Is it straight, wavy, curly, or somewhere in between? Opt for a haircut that plays well with your natural hair type, unless you're up for daily styling. If you have curls, keep in mind that they might bounce up a bit more when you go short.
2. Gauge Your Comfort with Dramatic Change
How brave are you feeling? Cutting your hair short can feel like a style mic-drop moment. If you're ready to make heads turn, go bold! If you prefer a subtler change or are looking for a classy short hairstyle for older women, no worries; there are plenty of chic and understated options too.
3. Styling Commitment
Time for a little reality check. How much time are you willing to spend on styling each day? Some short haircuts are low-maintenance wonders, while others might require daily TLC. Be honest with yourself about your styling commitment.
4. Face Shape Matters
Your lovely face shape plays a role in finding the perfect short haircut. Different styles complement different face shapes. Round, oval, square, or heart - consider what enhances your unique features. In doubt about what might suit you? Read all about the best haircuts by face shape.
5. Personality and Style
Your haircut is an extension of your personality. Are you funky and daring, or do you lean towards classic elegance? Let your style shine through your haircut choice, making a statement that feels authentically you.
What to Consider Before Cutting Your Hair Short
Think you're ready to take the plunge into short hair territory? Awesome! Before you do, let's chat about what you need to know before the big chop. I’ll cover some pros and cons of having short hair, whether you opt for a short haircut for fine hair or a pixie hairstyle.
- Short Hair Is Easier to Wash and Care For - Short hair, don't care - about the hassle, that is! One of the perks is that it's generally easier to wash and maintain. Say goodbye to using half a bottle of shampoo in one go! The best short haircuts for women are the champions of low-maintenance care.
- Short Hair Dries Quicker - Time is of the essence, right? Short hair tends to dry faster, saving you precious minutes in the morning.
- Styling Efforts Vary Based on Style - Very short hair can be a breeze to manage and style. However, be aware that certain styles like longer pixie haircuts or haircuts for short curly hair might demand a bit more styling effort.
- Short Hair Looks Healthy and Voluminous - The magic of short hair? It often looks healthier, sharper, and can add volume even if you have thin hair. Shorter hair has less weight pulling on the strands, allowing them to stand upright and create a fuller appearance.
- Short Hair Requires Frequent Trims - Regular visits to the salon are the secret to keeping that sharp and polished look intact. So make sure to schedule haircuts every 4-8 weeks, depending on the short hairstyle you go for.
- Limited Styling Options - Short hair means saying goodbye to certain styling options. Ponytails and intricate updos might be off the table, but the trade-off is the effortless charm of short hair. It's a style statement in itself!
- Choose Your Stylist Wisely - When going short, make sure your hairstylist is well-versed in the art of short haircuts for women. A skilled professional can turn your vision into a stunning reality, ensuring you leave the salon with the perfect short 'do.
- Bring Your Inspo Game - Finally, bring pictures! Having inspiration pictures ready for your stylist ensures you're both on the same page, making your short hair dreams come true.
5 Short Pixie Hairstyles
Ready to discover the best short haircuts for women? Let’s start off with some of the shortest and boldest options: pixie haircuts for women. What exactly are pixies? Pixie hairstyles are shorter on the sides and back and longer on the top, usually featuring bangs.
1. Edgy, Very Short Pixie Haircut
Let's kick things off with a short pixie haircut that's as bold as it gets. This pastel pink, short pixie haircut is a fearless choice that radiates confidence and sets you apart from the crowd. It is a great short haircut for fine or thin hair if you're in the mood for a bold transformation.
Plus, this short pixie hairstyle is a low-maintenance dream, requiring minimal effort to look effortlessly chic. A quick tousle, and you're ready to conquer the day.
Styling Tips:
- Embrace the texture by adding a hint of matte clay wax for a tousled, lived-in look.
- Consider playful accessories like bold earrings or headbands to accentuate the edgy vibe.
2. Classic Pixie Hairstyle
Next up is the time-tested and utterly charming classic pixie hairstyle. This haircut is a little longer on top, creating a softer and sophisticated look that has stood the test of time. This classic is a great short hairstyle for older women - but truthfully it works for all ages!
The slightly longer top opens doors to styling possibilities. Whether you prefer a sleek and polished look or want to add some playful texture, this pixie haircut for women can adapt to your mood.
Styling Tips:
- Play with texture by adding light curls for a modern twist on the classic look.
- Experiment with side-swept bangs or a slicked-back look to personalize your style.
3. Wavy Pixie Haircut with Sharper Edges
This pixie haircut for women is an exquisite blend of softness and boldness. The soft, natural waves on top provide a touch of elegance, while the short and sharp edges on the sides and back give it a modern vibe.
This pixie hairstyle is a match made in hairstyling heaven for those with coarse strands or natural waves, showcasing your hair's natural texture.
Styling Tips:
- Enhance the waves with a sea salt spray for that effortlessly undone look.
- Experiment with subtle highlights to add even more dimension to the top sections.
4. Tousled Pixie Haircut
This short hairstyle for women effortlessly captures the essence of laid-back chic. If you're a fan of the "I woke up like this" vibe, this pixie hairstyle is your go-to option. The beauty of this messy pixie lies in its ability to make even the finest hair types appear voluminous, making it a great short haircut for thin hair.
A dab of styling wax is your secret weapon for achieving tousled perfection. Just a little scrunch, and you're ready to seize the day.
Styling Tips:
- Embrace the messy vibe by tousling your hair with your fingers for a lived-in appearance.
- Consider adding subtle highlights to enhance the textured look.
5. Elegant Pixie Cut with Bangs
This timeless pixie with bangs is a refined and classic choice that exudes grace. A favorite among the elegant crowd, it’s a popular short hairstyle for older women. The combination of precision and soft bangs adds charm while maintaining a sense of class.
Elevate the look with volumizing products to provide body and hold but also enhance the overall polished appearance.
Styling Tips:
- Use a volume spray or hair styling powder for added volume that looks natural.
- Experiment with a side-part or curls to add a touch of modern flair to the classic elegance.
5 Chin-Length Short Haircuts for Women
Chin-length haircuts hit that sweet spot, framing your face beautifully. From classic bobs to daring mullets and delightful "bixies" (that's somewhere between bobs and pixies), these short haircuts for women redefine your perception of what short hair can be.
1. Slightly Messy Bob
This short haircut for women takes the timeless charm of a bob and gives it a modern upgrade. With a hint of texture and light layers, it adds a playful and effortless element to the timeless bob.
If it’s versatility you’re after, this might be the best short haircut for women. It can be styled in various ways - slicked-back for a polished look, kept all-natural for a casual vibe, or tousled and textured for an edgy appearance.
Styling Tips:
- Experiment with different styling products and tools to achieve the desired level of texture, from light waves to tousled locks.
- Play with parting options, center-parted for a classic look or off-center for a modern twist.
2. One-Length Bob
This no-fuss chin-length haircut channels pure elegance, where all strands align at the same length. The one-length bob is the epitome of classic simplicity. The straight cut enhances the sleekness of straight hair, offering a polished and refined short haircut suitable for fine hair.
While the cut itself is uniform, you have the power to infuse texture and life into it. Adding subtle waves to this popular short haircut for women gives it a dynamic but sophisticated appearance.
Styling Tips:
- Use a curling wand or flat iron (with a heat protectant!) to create gentle waves for a touch of movement and texture.
- Use a smoothing hair oil or a non-aerosol hair spray to create a sleek and shiny look.
3. Shaggy Short Haircut with Bangs
This textured short bob dances on the edge of playfulness and sophistication. The shaggy cut brings an element of edge to the classic look. It works especially well for those with wavy locks amplifying the natural texture for a youthful vibe. Bangs take the chic factor up a notch, framing your face with flair.
Styling Tips:
- Embrace the shaggy texture with a pea-sized amount of wax, and tousle your hair with your fingers.
- Experiment with different bang styles - full bangs for a bold statement or side-swept bangs for a more subtle effect.
4. Chin Length Haircut with Wispy Curtain Bangs
This cute short haircut for women is a delightful variation of the classic one-length bob. The addition of wispy bangs elevates the style, creating a look that's both contemporary and soft. Explore more bobs and mid-length haircuts here.
The curtain bangs may require a little extra styling, but overall, it's a practical and pretty low-maintenance option.
Styling Tips:
- Style the curtain bangs by creating a bend with a round brush or a flat iron for a soft, face-framing effect.
- Switch up the look with hair accessories like headbands or create bouncy waves with a curling iron.
5. Modern, Short Mullet
This is a short, contemporary take on the classic mullet, or as some call it, a "mixie" blending the short pixie haircut with the longer mullet. This edgy option boasts short bangs, sideburns, and a textured longer back, but fear not—it's a far cry from the heavy, lengthy mullets of the '80s. It's a daring choice that creates a statement hairstyle that works for fine hair as well.
Styling Tips:
- Experiment with styling products to play up the texture, giving the modern mullet that effortlessly edgy appearance.
- For added boldness, experiment with different hair colors.
5 Haircuts for Short, Curly Hair
Curly hair comes alive when cut short. Here are the five best short haircuts for women with curly hair. Embrace your natural texture, and don't hesitate to seek out a hairdresser familiar with cutting short curly hair to achieve the best results.
1. Round-Shaped Haircut for Curls
This haircut for short curly hair brings out the charm of natural curls. While some styles might not translate as well for straight hair, this one is tailor-made for curls. The rounded shape complements the bounce of your curls, creating a playful and charming aesthetic.
When styling, enhance your natural curl pattern, define those ringlets, and let your curls shine.
Styling Tips:
- Apply curl cream to damp hair, scrunching it in to define the curls and reduce frizz.
- If your curls are on the finer side, apply some curl mousse for a volume boost.
2. Very Short Pixie for Curls
Pixies are not just for straight hair! This gorgeous haircut for short curly hair showcases the versatility of curly hair. It’s a low-maintenance option that strikes a perfect balance between edgy and soft.
For those who crave simplicity without compromising on style, this curly pixie is a blessing. It requires significantly less styling than longer curls, making it a practical and time-saving choice.
Styling Tips:
- Skip the styling products and embrace your natural texture by allowing the curls to define themselves, giving the pixie a carefree appearance.
- To tame frizz and provide hydration, apply a tiny amount of curl cream or gel onto damp curls.
3. Layered Curly Bob
This short bob embraces the inherent texture of curls. Unlike their straight counterparts, bobs for curly hair are all about enhancing that natural bounce and movement. The layered cut brings out your curls, allowing them to cascade with effortless charm.
This short hairstyle for older and younger women with curls is a versatile option that can easily transition from casual to chic.
Styling Tips:
- Apply defining mousse evenly to damp hair for enhanced volume and definition.
- Experiment with a deep side part for an asymmetrical look that complements the layers.
4. Pixie Hairstyle for Curls
This charming and slightly longer pixie is tailor-made for curly hair. It’s a delightful and cute look that celebrates the playfulness of curls. With longer strands on top and a shorter silhouette on the sides and back, this pixie haircut for short curly hair enhances your natural curl type.
Styling Tips:
- Apply curl cream or mousse to damp hair, scrunching it in to enhance curl definition and provide hydration.
- Experiment with different parting options to find the style that complements your face shape and personal preference.
5. Wavy Pixie Hairstyle
Bring out your natural waves with this effortless pixie haircut. This easygoing look is a go-to option for those who appreciate a look that's both stylish and easy to maintain.
Say goodbye to elaborate styling routines, as this wavy pixie thrives on simplicity, letting your natural texture take center stage with minimal effort.
Styling Tips:
- Embrace air-drying and wrap your hair in a gentle hair towel for a natural and effortless wave pattern.
- Consider adding subtle highlights to enhance the dimension and movement of your waves.
9 Best Styling Products for Short Hair
Styling short hair is a game-changer, and the right products can make all the difference in achieving that perfect look. Embrace the uniqueness of short styles with these must-have styling products tailored to cater to your hair's specific needs:
For Messy Texture: Mineral Clay Wax
Create that effortlessly tousled and textured look with the hold and flexibility of this Mineral Clay Wax. Perfect for adding a touch of controlled chaos to short styles.
For Volume with a Matte Finish: Volume Wizard Hair Powder
Elevate your short hair with body that speaks volumes! This hair powder adds instant lift and texture to all short haircuts for women.
For Sleek Styles: Final Touch™ Hair Spray and Styling Stick
Achieve sleek perfection with the Final Touch™ Hair Spray and/or Styling Stick. These non-aerosol products keep those strands in place while adding a glossy finish for a polished and refined appearance.
For Short Curls: Curl Crush™ Defining Gel, Cream, and Mousse
Embrace your curls with the Curl Crush™ series that includes a Defining Gel, Defining Cream, and Defining Mousse. Whether it's definition, hydration, or bounce you seek, these styling products have your haircut for short curly hair covered. Read more about how to style curly hair here.
For Heat Protection: Thermal Shield™ Heat Protectant
Keep your short locks safe during styling adventures with Thermal Shield™ Heat Protectant. It shields against heat damage, maintaining the health of your hair.
For Beachy Texture: Ocean Water Sea Salt Spray
Bring the beach vibes to your short hair with the Ocean Water Sea Salt Spray. It’s perfect to achieve that tousled, wavy texture for an effortless and stylish look.
This article has unveiled some of the best short haircuts for women. Whether you're a fan of the playful short pixie haircuts for women or adore the chic haircuts for short curly hair, the possibilities are endless. Short hair speaks volumes, capturing attention with its health, volume, and ease of maintenance. Choose a haircut that resonates with you, enhances your natural beauty, and makes you feel confident.
