20 gorgeous short haircuts for curly hair that will make you ditch the straightener

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A middle part chin length bob or a side parted chin length bob with lots of volume are great options. These styles frame your face beautifully and allow your curls to shine.

These styles are trendy and can be customized to suit your personality. A pixie with curly bangs on gray hair or pixie with natural tight curls can create a chic and youthful appearance.

Use products like mousse or curl cream to define your curls and enhance their natural texture. For a playful touch, try chin length with curly curtain bangs or asymmetrical curls.

Now, without further ado, let’s dive into 20 gorgeous short haircuts for curly hair that will make you ditch the straightener.

Forward Facing Curls

Begin by washing your hair and applying a heat protectant to prevent damage. Then, use a curling wand or a flat iron. For loose curls, wrap sections of hair around the wand, leaving the ends out for a more relaxed look. Hold each curl for about 6-8 seconds, then gently shake it out to separate the curls and add volume.

You can create a side part or a center part, depending on what looks best on you. If you want to keep hair off your face, try a twisted top knot or a braid. For a twisted top knot, gather the top layers of your hair and twist them into a bun, leaving some curls free to frame your face.

Finally, don’t forget to add some finishing touches. A light hairspray can help hold your curls in place without making them stiff. If you notice your curls losing volume throughout the day, try flipping your part to the opposite side; this can instantly lift your hair and reveal more defined curls. Remember, the key is to have fun and be creative with your hairstyles—there’s no one right way to do it, so find what makes you feel confident and beautiful.

Middle Part Chin Length Bob

Use a blow dryer to add volume, aiming the heat at the roots while lifting them with a round brush. This technique helps create a bouncy look that makes your bob appear fuller. If you want to add some waves, consider using a curling iron.

Use a heat protectant spray before applying any heat to your hair to keep it healthy. After styling, apply a light hairspray to hold your look in place without making it stiff. If you have natural waves, scrunch in a curl cream before blow-drying to enhance texture.

A half-up, half-down style works great with a bob; simply gather the top section of your hair and secure it with a clip or band. You can also try a crinkle effect by using straighteners to create soft waves, giving your bob a unique twist. Remember, practice makes perfect, so don’t be afraid to try new techniques until you find the styles that suit you best.

Boxy Pixie

A boxy pixie features shorter sides and back with a bit more length on top, creating a squared-off look. This style is great for adding volume and can be tailored to suit different face shapes. When getting this haircut, it’s essential to communicate clearly with your stylist about the length and shape you want.

Use products that add texture and hold, like a light wax or pomade. Start with clean, damp hair and apply a root-boosting product to give your hair some lift. Blow-dry your hair using a round brush to create volume on top.

Regular trims every 6 to 8 weeks will help maintain the shape and prevent it from growing out too much. Experiment with different styling products and techniques to find what works best for you. Don’t be afraid to play around with your hair; the boxy pixie is versatile and can be styled in many fun ways!

Volume at Crown with Natural Curls

First, when you wash your hair, avoid using shampoo too often, as it can strip your curls of natural oils. Instead, try co-washing, which means using conditioner to cleanse your scalp. After washing, gently scrunch your hair while it’s still wet to help define your curls.

Instead of using a regular towel, which can cause frizz, use a microfiber towel or an old t-shirt to gently squeeze out excess water. After that, apply a curl cream or gel to your wet hair using the “prayer hands” method—this helps keep your curls together and reduces fluffiness. For added volume, flip your head upside down while drying or use a diffuser attachment on your hairdryer.

A stylist who understands curly hair can give you a cut that adds layers, which helps with volume at the crown. Regular trims are important to keep your curls healthy and bouncy. Remember, it takes time to learn what works best for your unique curl pattern, so be patient and experiment with different products and techniques until you find your perfect routine.

Side Parted Chin Length Bob With Lots of Volume

A chin-length bob should have some layering to create movement and prevent it from looking flat. Ask your stylist for shorter pieces around the front to frame your face nicely. This will help add volume and make the hairstyle look more dynamic.

Use a blow dryer and a round brush to lift your hair at the roots while drying. This technique helps create volume right from the start. For added texture, consider using a light mousse or volumizing spray on damp hair before blow-drying.

Once styled, use a texturizing spray to give your hair a bit of grit and hold, which helps maintain volume throughout the day. If you notice any flat spots, you can tease the roots gently with a teasing brush. A light hairspray can help keep everything in place without making your hair stiff. Remember to experiment with different partings; a deeper side part can also add to the volume and shape of your bob.

Layered Curly Bob

Instead of washing it completely, dampen it slightly with a spray bottle. This helps refresh your curls without the hassle of a full wash. Then, apply a curl cream to your hair, focusing on sections about one inch wide.

This technique locks in the curls without creating frizz. If you want to add more definition, you can use a curling iron on the top layers of your hair, curling a few standout pieces for extra flair.

When applying the hairspray, lift your hair slightly to ensure even coverage. This will help your curls stay bouncy and defined throughout the day. With these steps, you can easily achieve a stylish layered curly bob that looks great for any occasion.

Curly Wedge Cut on Gray Hair

A wedge cut is shorter at the back and gradually longer towards the front, which helps to frame the face nicely. For curly hair, it’s best to cut it when it’s dry because curls can shrink when wet, making it hard to gauge the final length. Before cutting, make sure to detangle the hair thoroughly to avoid any knots that could mess up the cut. You can section the hair into manageable parts, which will make it easier to work with and ensure an even cut throughout.

Products like curl building serums can help define curls and reduce frizz. It’s also important to avoid over-washing gray hair, as it tends to be drier. Instead, try to wash it a few times a week and use a purple shampoo once a week to keep the gray looking bright and vibrant.

Look for semi-matte styling products that add a bit of shine without making the hair look greasy. Hair oils can also help soften and moisturize gray hair, making it easier to manage. Regular trims will keep the shape of the wedge cut looking fresh and prevent split ends. By following these steps, you can master the curly wedge cut on gray hair and embrace your unique style confidently.

Pixie with Curly Bangs on Gray Hair

A pixie cut is short and can be very chic, especially when paired with curly bangs. Start by washing your hair and using a good leave-in conditioner to keep your curls hydrated. After that, you can use a curling iron or a flat iron to create defined curls. Focus on curling the bangs and the top of your hair while keeping the sides and back less voluminous for a balanced look.

You can achieve this by using volumizing products or texturizing sprays. When styling, use a round brush to lift your hair at the roots while blow-drying. This will give your pixie cut a fuller look. Additionally, you can use a small amount of styling cream or wax to define your curls and keep them in place.

Regular trims will help keep the shape and prevent split ends. If you’re growing your hair out, be patient and consider styling it in different ways during the transition. Experimenting with accessories like headbands or clips can also add flair to your look. Remember, confidence is key—own your style, and you’ll rock that pixie with curly bangs beautifully!

Pixie with Natural Tight Curls

The Curly Girl Method (CGM) is a popular approach that helps enhance your natural curls without using harsh products. Begin by avoiding traditional shampoos and instead use a conditioner to wash your hair. This method focuses on keeping your curls moisturized and healthy, which is crucial for achieving that cute pixie look.

After washing, gently scrunch your hair with a microfiber towel or an old t-shirt to remove excess water. Apply a curl-enhancing cream or gel while your hair is still wet, using a scrunching motion to help define the curls. This is important because it helps your curls hold their shape and reduces frizz.

You can let your hair air dry or use a diffuser on a low heat setting. Once your hair is completely dry, gently scrunch out any crunchiness from the gel or cream to reveal soft, defined curls. Don’t forget to shake your curls out a bit to add volume! With practice and patience, you’ll find the right products and techniques that work best for your unique curl pattern, helping you rock that stylish pixie cut with confidence.

Short Curly Bob with Bangs

First, slightly dampen your hair using a spray bottle, focusing on the areas around your face. This helps refresh your curls without a full wash. Next, apply a curl cream to your hair and twist small sections. The size of the sections will determine how tight your curls will be, so if you want bouncier curls, use smaller sections.

Choose a barrel size that matches the curl size you want; for tighter curls, a smaller barrel works best. Start curling the top layers of your hair first, curling sections away from your face. This technique not only adds definition but also gives your hair more volume at the roots.

Finally, finish your style with a light hairspray to keep everything in place. Hold the spray can up while lifting your hair to ensure even coverage. This step is crucial for keeping your curls looking fresh throughout the day. With these tips, you’ll be able to rock a stylish short curly bob with bangs that frames your face beautifully and showcases your curls.

Chin Length With Curly Curtain Bangs

When cutting curtain bangs, it’s essential to begin with longer strands than you think you want. This way, if you need to trim more later, you can do so without losing too much length right away. For curly hair, remember that curls can shrink when they dry, so it’s often best to cut bangs when they are dry to see their true length.

Start by using a heat protectant on your hair before applying any heat tools. Blow-dry your bangs forward and to the sides using a round brush to create a soft curve. If your bangs are frizzy, a quick pass with a straightening iron can help smooth them out.

This will help hold your style in place without making it stiff. If you want an extra shine, consider using a shine spray as a finishing touch. With these steps, you can confidently rock chin-length hair with curly curtain bangs that frame your face beautifully.

Simple Short Curly Bob

Begin by slightly wetting your hair using a spray bottle. This helps refresh your curls without a full wash. Focus on dampening the areas around your face and the top of your head, where people will notice the most. Once your hair is damp, apply a curl cream to define your curls.

Use a hairdryer set to low speed and high heat to dry each twisted section. This method helps lock in your curls while minimizing frizz. You don’t need a diffuser for this style. After your hair is dry, you can enhance your look by using a curling iron on the top layers.

Finally, finish your hairstyle with hairspray to keep everything in place. Lift your hair as you spray to ensure an even application. This will help your curls stay bouncy and defined throughout the day. If you want to add extra volume, consider using a texture spray or a light mousse before styling. With these steps, you’ll have a stylish and manageable short curly bob that looks great and is easy to maintain.

Ear Length with Subtle Highlights

This style usually falls just above the shoulders and can be achieved by visiting a salon or cutting your hair at home. If you choose to cut it yourself, make sure to use sharp scissors and take your time. It’s best to cut a little at a time, as hair tends to look shorter once it dries. For a fresh look, consider adding layers to create movement and texture, which can make your hair more lively and easier to style.

You can opt for a color that is one or two shades lighter than your natural hair color for a soft effect. If you’re doing it yourself, use a highlighting kit from a beauty supply store, following the instructions carefully. Apply the highlights in small sections to create a natural look. If you’re unsure, it’s a good idea to ask a friend for help or consult a professional stylist.

You can also use styling products like mousse or a light gel to keep your hair looking great throughout the day. For a casual look, try curling the ends slightly or adding waves with a curling iron. This will enhance the highlights and give your hairstyle a fun, effortless vibe. Remember to practice and experiment with different styles to find what works best for you!

With Wispy Bangs

Wispy bangs are softer and feathered compared to traditional blunt bangs, allowing some of your forehead to show. This style is great for adding texture and dimension to your hair, making it look effortlessly chic. They typically hang below the eyebrows, which gives a more relaxed vibe.

Use a small round brush while blow-drying to create volume and movement. You can also use a flat iron to smooth them out or add a slight curl for a more polished appearance. For those with curly hair, a diffuser can help enhance the wispy effect.

Finally, maintenance is important to keep your wispy bangs looking fresh. Regular trims are necessary to prevent them from getting too long, and many salons offer complimentary bang trims. If you find your bangs getting greasy, use a bit of dry shampoo to keep them looking lively without over-washing your hair. With these tips, you can easily rock wispy bangs and switch up your hairstyle whenever you want!

Asymmetrical Curls

Before using any heat tools, apply a heat protection spray to prevent damage. This is important because it helps keep your hair healthy while you style it. Next, section your hair into manageable parts. This makes it easier to curl each section evenly.

For asymmetrical curls, wrap the hair around the iron in different directions. For example, curl some sections away from your face and others towards it. This creates a more dynamic look.

Finally, once all your curls are done, gently run your fingers through them to separate and soften the curls. You can also use a light hairspray to keep them in place without making them stiff. Remember, practice makes perfect! Experiment with different sizes of curls and directions to find the style that suits you best.

Copper Ear Length Curls

Begin with slightly damp hair instead of washing it completely. You can use a spray bottle to mist your hair lightly. This helps to refresh your curls without making them too wet. After that, apply a curl cream to your hair. A good product to use is a curl taming cream.

Next, it’s time to dry your curls. Use a hairdryer on a low speed setting to dry each twisted section. This method helps to lock in the curl shape and reduces frizz. You don’t need a special diffuser; just be gentle with the heat.

Remember to curl them away from your face for a more flattering look. Finally, to keep your curls looking great all day, finish with a light mist of hairspray. Lift your hair slightly while spraying to ensure even coverage. This will help your curls stay in place without feeling stiff. With these steps, you can achieve beautiful copper ear-length curls that look bouncy and stylish!

Chin Length With Side Swept Bangs

It’s best to cut them when your hair is dry, as wet hair can shrink when it dries, leading to bangs that are too short. Begin by sectioning off the bangs at the front of your head, ideally around the highest point of your eyebrows. Use sharp hair scissors to make small, diagonal cuts, starting from the outer edges and moving towards the center.

After cutting, use a round brush while blow-drying to give your bangs some volume and shape. You can also use a flat iron to smooth them out and create a more polished finish. To keep your bangs in place, consider using a light hairspray or styling cream.

As your hair grows, your bangs may need to be trimmed every few weeks to keep them looking fresh. If you want to change up your look, you can also experiment with different partings or add some texture by lightly feathering the ends of your bangs. This can make your hairstyle feel more dynamic and less heavy, giving you a chic and modern appearance.

Auburn Chin Length

Auburn hair can range from deep red-brown to lighter copper tones. If you’re unsure, consider consulting a stylist or using at-home hair dye kits that offer various auburn shades. Make sure to select a color that enhances your natural features, as this will make your hairstyle stand out even more.

To achieve waves or curls, you can use a curling iron or a flat iron. For straight hair, a good quality straightener will help you achieve a sleek look. Remember to use heat protectant products to keep your hair healthy.

Use a lightweight mousse or styling cream to add volume and texture to your hair. If you want a polished look, consider using a shine serum or hairspray to keep everything in place. Experiment with different styles, like parting your hair in the middle or to the side, to see what looks best on you. With practice and the right products, you can easily master the auburn chin-length hairstyle.

Icy Blonde Layered Cut

The icy blonde color is a light, cool-toned blonde that can give your hair a fresh, modern look. Layering involves cutting the hair at different lengths, which adds volume and movement. This style works well for medium-length hair and can be customized to suit your face shape. Make sure to choose a good quality hair dye to achieve that icy effect, and consider consulting a professional stylist for the best results.

This technique helps to blend the layers seamlessly. You can use point cutting, where the scissors are held vertically to create soft edges, or blunt cutting for a more defined look. It’s essential to keep the hair damp while cutting, as this makes it easier to manage.

Use a sulfate-free shampoo and conditioner designed for color-treated hair to keep the color vibrant. Regular trims will help maintain the shape of the layers and prevent split ends. Additionally, using a leave-in conditioner or a hair serum can keep your hair hydrated and shiny, enhancing the overall look. Experiment with styling products like mousse or texturizing spray to add extra volume and texture to your layered cut.

Low Maintenance Short Cut

For example, straight hair can handle various cuts, while curly hair may need specific styles to look its best. It’s important to communicate clearly with your hairstylist about what you want. Bring pictures as examples, and avoid using complicated hair jargon.

Once you have your haircut, styling it should be quick and easy. Use products like dry shampoo to add texture and volume without much effort. For a simple look, try curling your hair with a straightener to create loose waves.

Lastly, maintain your hairstyle by keeping it clean and trimmed. Regular haircuts help keep your style fresh and manageable. You can also experiment with different accessories like clips or scrunchies to change up your look without needing a lot of time. The key to a low-maintenance haircut is to find a style that you feel comfortable with and that fits your lifestyle, so you don’t have to spend too much time getting ready every day.

Q&As for short haircuts for curly hair

Q: What are some good short haircuts for curly hair?

A: Some great short haircuts for curly hair include a chin-length bob, a boxy pixie, and a layered curly bob. These styles help showcase your curls while keeping your hair manageable and stylish.

Q: How can I style my curls to face forward?

A: To achieve forward-facing curls, you can use a curling cream or mousse and scrunch your hair while it’s damp. This will help your curls bounce forward instead of falling back.

Q: What is a middle part chin-length bob?

A: A middle part chin-length bob is a haircut that falls at your chin and is parted in the middle. This style works well with curly hair, giving a balanced look and highlighting your curls.

Q: How do I add volume at the crown with natural curls?

A: To add volume at the crown, try using a volumizing spray or mousse and lift your curls at the roots while blow-drying with a diffuser. This technique helps create a fuller look.

Q: What is a curly wedge cut, especially for gray hair?

A: A curly wedge cut is a short hairstyle that is tapered at the back and longer at the front, creating a wedge shape. It’s great for gray hair as it adds texture and style without being too high maintenance.

About Me

Meet Sara, the creative force and resident accessory artist behind this bridal wonderland. Armed with an array of sparkling crystals, delicate lace, and a sewing machine that's seen more action than a wedding DJ's playlist, Sara turned her accessory-making hobby into a full-fledged passion project. Her unhealthy obsession with finding the perfect pearl and mastering intricate beadwork has made her the go-to stylist for brides seeking that special touch.

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