27 Stunning Short Curly Hairstyles

Curly hairstyles are a bold, fun, and flattering option for those who want to embrace their natural texture while enjoying the freedom and lightness of a short haircut. 

Curly hair can be styled in various ways, from tight ringlets to loose, beachy waves, making it a versatile choice for different occasions and personalities. 

Short curly hair offers a stylish yet low-maintenance appeal, allowing you to work with and celebrate your hair’s natural texture, which creates an effortlessly chic look. 

Key Considerations for Short Curly Hairstyles

Hair Texture

Short curly hairstyles are an excellent option for textured hair. They can enhance curl definition beautifully, enhancing volume and making it more manageable. With a shorter length, curls can spring up and showcase their natural shape, resulting in a more defined and voluminous appearance. Additionally, the shorter length reduces the weight of the hair, which can make curls tighter and bouncier.

Styling products and techniques can then be used to define curls, add volume, and reduce frizz, maximising the impact of the natural texture. 

Hair Length

Short, curly haircuts such as pixies, bobs and lobs offer diverse volume and shape options due to the way that they interact with different curl patterns and face shapes. The cut, length and layering techniques can enhance volume, complement facial features and create different style aesthetics. 

Face Shape

Different face shapes can benefit from different short, curly cuts.

Round Face Shapes: Can benefit from styles that elongate the face and add definition, such as a curly pixie or a layered bob. Avoid styles that add width, such as blunt bangs. 

Heart Face Shapes: Short or medium-length cuts with bangs or side-swept styles, such as a curly pixie with soft, wispy bangs, can be a good choice to add balance. 

Square Face Shapes: Shoulder-length styles, such as a curly bob with layers, are a good option to soften the angles of the face. 

Oval Face Shapes: Generally, a very versatile face shape that suits a wide variety of styles. Any style that accentuates the cheekbones and eyes is a good choice.

Maintenance

While short curly hair is generally low maintenance, regular trims are recommended to ensure that the curls retain their defined shape, enhancing their natural pattern and bounce. Without regular trims, curls can lose their definition, leading to frizz and difficulty styling. 

Using hydrating products is also important for maintaining softness and curl definition because they combat the natural dryness of curly hair, which is prone to frizz and dryness. By providing moisture, hydrating products enhance elasticity, making curls bouncy and defined, while also preventing them from becoming brittle and unmanageable. 

Top 27 Short Curly Hairstyles

1. Curly Mohawk

A curly mohawk is a hairstyle where the hair in the centre of the head is styled into a mohawk shape with curly or textured hair. The sides of the head are typically shaved or very short, creating a striking contrast with the longer, curly section on top. This style combines the boldness of a traditional mohawk with the natural beauty of curly hair. Seen on celebrities such as Rihanna. 

Suitable Hair Types: It is a great choice for those with naturally curly hair, especially those with tighter curls and coils, as the texture will hold the shape well.

Styling Tips: Apply curl-defining products such as curl cream or curly defining lotions to enhance the control of the curls.

2. Curly Lob

A curly lob, or long bob, is a medium-length hairstyle that combines the sleekness of a bob with the length of a long bob. It typically sits between the shoulder and collarbone, and features curls or waves to enhance the natural texture of the hair. The curly lob is a versatile style that can be easily adapted to different face shapes and hair types. Seen on celebrities such as Rita Ora. 

Suitable Hair Types: Works well on most curly hair types, from loose waves to tighter curls. 

Styling Tips: Focus on hydrating and defining curls, drying with a diffuser for volume, and separating and fluffing for definition. Finish with a light oil for shine and frizz reduction. 

3. Curly Pompadour

A curly pompadour is a hairstyle where the top section of the hair is styled into a voluminous, rounded shape, similar to a traditional pompadour, but with the added texture and definition of curls. The sides and back are typically kept shorter, often faded or tapered, creating a strong contrast with the voluminous top. This style combines the classic pompadour retro flair with the natural movement of curly hair. Seen on celebrities such as Keke Palmer. 

Suitable Hair Types: It is best suited for loose to medium curls, as well as hair that is medium length on top.

Styling Tips: Use a hair dryer for extra volume. Start by blow-drying with a round brush to direct the hair upwards and backwards, creating the height and shape of the pompadour. 

4. Curly Pixie

A curly pixie is a short hairstyle that is typically cut close to the head, embracing and showcasing natural curls and coils. It combines the edginess of a pixie with the versatility and texture of curly hair. The style often features shorter layers at the back and sides, with slightly longer layers on top to enhance the curls and create volume. Seen on celebrities such as Halle Berry.

Suitable Hair Types: Works best with medium to thick, naturally curly hair.

Styling Tips: Use a curl-defining cream or mousse to help separate and define curls. 

5. Curly Asymmetrical Bob

A curly asymmetrical bob is a short to medium-length hairstyle where the hair is cut shorter on one side than the other, creating a diagonal line, and styled with curls. This offers a chic look, especially when the curls are defined and frame the face. The asymmetrical cut adds visual interest and can be customised to suit different hair types and face shapes. Seen on celebrities such as Zendaya.

Suitable Hair Types: Works well on medium to thick hair, where curls can maintain their shape and volume.

Styling Tips: Use a curling tong for extra definition to the curls, particularly around the face.

6. Curly Quiff

A curly quiff is a hairstyle that combines volume and an upwards sweep of a classic quiff with the natural texture of curly hair. The top of the hair is styled upwards and back, similar to a regular quiff, but with emphasis on showcasing the natural curl pattern. Sides can be tapered or faded for a more modern look. Seen on celebrities such as Rihanna. 

Suitable Hair Types: Works well with a range of curly and wavy hair types, from loose waves to tighter curls. The key is to work with the natural curl pattern and texture rather than trying to fight against it. 

Styling Tips: Use curl-enhancing creams, mousses or lightweight styling products to define curls and add volume without making the hair too stiff or heavy. 

7. Curly Bowl Cut

A curly bowl cut is a short, rounded hairstyle where the hair is cut evenly around the head, with the top length left long enough to showcase natural curls or waves. It maintains a bowl-like, rounded shape, but with the added texture and volume of curls. This style is typically low maintenance, allowing curls to form naturally with minimal styling. Seen on celebrities such as Rita Ora. 

Suitable Hair Types: This style generally works best with loose to medium curls. 

Styling Tips: Once dry, apply a serum or oil to add shine and reduce frizz for a more refined and polished look. 

8. Curly Bixie Cut

A curly bixie cut is a stylish and modern hairstyle that blends the best features of a pixie and a bob, specifically tailored for curly or wavy hair. It features short choppy layers that add volume and texture, with the length falling around the ears or chin, and longer pieces framing the face. The cut accentuates natural curls, creating a playful look. seen on celebrities such as Zoe Kravitz. 

Suitable Hair Types: Works best with naturally wavy and curly hair types. 

Styling Tips: A volumising spray or mousse at the roots can help to create extra lift and body.

9. Short Shag

A short shag is a layered, textured hair style typically falling just above or below the chin, characterised by choppy layers and a textured fringe. It offers a stylish, low-maintenance look with an effortless and relaxed vibe. The style can be adapted for various hair lengths, from short and edgy to soft and wavy. Seen on celebrities such as Alexa Chung.

Suitable Hair Types: Very versatile and can be adapted for different hair types. Finer hair types can benefit from the layers as it helps create the illusion of fullness and volume. 

Styling Tips: Focus on enhancing natural texture with texturising products such as a sea-salt spray for added volume and definition. 

10. Curly Inverted Bob

A curly inverted bob is a hairstyle that combines the shape of an inverted bob with the texture of curls. It features shorter hair at the nape of the neck that gradually gets longer towards the front, creating an angled, stacked effect. When styled with curls, this creates a dynamic, voluminous look that beatifically enhances the shape of the bob. Seen on celebrities such as Sarah Jessica Parker.

Suitable Hair Types: This style can generally work for any hair type. But tends to work best with naturally curly and wavy hair types. 

Styling Tips: Focus on enhancing its shape and texture. Use curl-enhancing products such as a mousse or cream, and consider using a diffuser on a low heat to maintain curl definition.

11. Curly Buzz Cut

A curly buzz cut combines the short, clean look of a buzz cut with the texture and volume of naturally curly hair. It typically involves a shorter length all over, with enough length on top to allow the curls to maintain their shape and bounce. This style is a great way to embrace natural curls while enjoying the low-maintenance aspect of a buzz cut. Seen on celebrities such as Kristen Stewart. 

Suitable Hair Types: Can work well on most hair textures and curly hair types, but is particularly beneficial for thick, curly and wavy hair types as it reduces bulk. 

Styling Tips: Focus on hydration and scalp health to enhance curl definition and prevent dryness. 

12. Curly Bob with Micro Bangs

A curly bob with micro bangs is a bold and stylish haircut that features a chin-length or slightly longer bob haircut with very short, choppy bangs that sit well above the eyebrows. This style embraces the natural curl pattern, adding texture and playfulness to the classic bob shape. The micro bangs, also known as baby bangs, create a striking, fashion-forward look that frames the face and accentuates the eyes. Seen on celebrities such as Emma Watson.

Suitable Hair Types: Can suit a variety of different hair types, but it particularly shines on those with naturally curly and wavy hair.

Styling Tips: Apply product and style bangs while they are still wet, using your fingers to shape them into the desired curl pattern.

13. TWA (Teeny Weenie Afro)

A TWA (teeny weenie afro) is a very short, cropped natural hairstyle for individuals with naturally curly or coily hair. It is typically a style worn after transitioning from relaxed hair or after a “big chop”, where damaged hair is cut off to encourage natural hair growth. A TWA is usually defined as having a hair length of two inches or less. Seen on celebrities such as Viola Davis.

Suitable Hair Types: Naturally curly and coily hair. 

Styling Tips: Headbands, scarves, and hats can be used to add personality and flair to a TWA. 

14. Curly Mullet

A curly mullet is a hairstyle that combines the classic mullet cut with natural or styled curls, creating a look that is both striking and modern. It features the traditional shorter length on top and sides, with a longer back, but with the added texture and volume of curls. This style can range from subtle to dramatic, depending on the length and curl type, and adds a bit of modern retro flair. Seen on celebrities such as Miley Cyrus.

Suitable Hair Types: Works best on naturally curly or wavy hair types. 

Styling Tips: Use a lightweight pomade to define curls and tame frizz. 

15. Wispy Curls with Babylights

Wispy curls with babylights feature soft, delicate curls with subtle, sun-kissed highlights and can often be achieved through the balayage technique. The wispy nature of the curls adds a light, airy and effortless look, while the babylights create dimension and movement. Seen on celebrities such as Charlize Theron.

Suitable Hair Types: Works best on naturally wavy hair.

Styling Tips: Focus on lightweight products and heat-free styling, and techniques that will enhance volume and texture. 

16. Cropped Bouncy Curls

Cropped bouncy curls, also known as a French crop or a textured crop, is a hairstyle that emphasises natural curls or waves to create a voluminous, bouncy look. The sides and back are typically shorter, sometimes faded, while the top hair is left longer, allowing the curls to express their natural texture and bounce. Seen on celebrities such as Yara Shahidi.

Suitable Hair Types: Works on a variety of curly hair types but typically works best on those with looser curls. 

Styling Tips: Regular trims every 4-6 weeks can help to maintain the shape and health of the curls.

17. Cropped Bob with Big Curls

A cropped bob with big curls is a short, above-the-shoulder hair cut featuring bouncy, voluminous curls, often with a slightly rounded or angled shape. It is a versatile style that can be achieved with natural curls or through styling techniques to create more defined curls. The cropped length adds a modern edge, while the big curls bring a touch of glamour. Seen on celebrities such as Selena Gomez.

Suitable Hair Types: Can be adapted for various hair types and textures, but it is particularly well-suited for those with naturally curly or wavy hair. 

Styling Tips: Choose a product based on your desired finish. A curl cream will provide more definition. While mousse can create a more voluminous, textured look.

18. Side-Swept Waves

Side-swept waves involve styling hair, so it is mostly to one side of the head, often with a wavy or curled texture. This style can be achieved on various hair lengths and textures, from straight to curly, and can be tailored to different occasions and personal preferences. The asymmetry of the style adds a playful and stylish element. Seen on celebrities such as Jessica Alba.

Suitable Hair Types: can be adapted for various hair types, including straight, wavy and curly hair. The key is to adjust the styling technique and products used to complement your hair’s natural texture and achieve the desired look. 

Styling Tips: To create a side-swept wave, section your hair, curl it away from your face with a curling tong, and then use your fingers or a wide-tooth comb to gently separate and shape the waves. 

19. Scrunched Curls

Scrunched curls refer to a hairdressing technique where curls are formed or enhanced by gently squeezing or ‘scrunching’ sections of wet hair with your hands. This process helps to enhance the hair’s natural curl pattern, leading to defined and naturally bouncy curls. Scrunching can be done with or without styling products, but is generally more effective with products designed for curly or wavy hair. Seen on celebrities such as Nicole Ritchie. 

Suitable Hair Types: Scrunching is most effective for naturally wavy or curly hair as it helps to enhance natural curl patterns and add definition and volume.

Styling Tips: To scrunch curls, start with wet hair and apply your chosen styling products. Then gently scrunch your hair upwards from the ends towards the roots, encouraging your natural curl pattern. 

20. Half-Up, Half-Down

A half-up, half-down, short, curly hair style involves styling the top half of the hair up while leaving the bottom half flowing freely. This can be achieved through various techniques like a ponytail, bun, or braids for the top section, and often includes face-framing curls or waves in the down portion. Seen on celebrities such as Dua Lipa.

Suitable Hair Types: Half-up, half-down hairstyles are incredibly versatile and can be adapted to suit nearly all hair types and lengths. 

Styling Tips: Consider adding braids, twists or a messy bun for a unique and playful look. 

21. Curly Bob

A curly bob is a short haircut, typically chin-length or just below the shoulders, specifically designed to enhance and showcase natural curls or waves. It is a versatile style that can be customised to flatter various face shapes and curl types. The key to a successful curly bob lies in proper layering and length adjustment to enhance the curls’ fall beautifully, and the overall style is manageable. Seen on celebrities such as Jennifer Lopez.

Suitable Hair Types: A curly bob is a versatile style and can be flattering for various curly hair types, including those with loose waves, tight curls, and coily textures. 

Styling Tips: Use lightweight products to avoid weighing down curls, diffusing on a low heat for volume and curl definition. 

22. Side-Parted Bob Cut

A side-parted bob is a classic bob hairstyle with a deep or subtle side-part, creating an asymmetrical look that adds volume and movement, often with a more relaxed and modern feel. It is a versatile style that can be tailored to different face shapes and hair textures. Seen on celebrities such as Hailey Bieber. 

Suitable Hair Types: A side-parted bob is a versatile style that can suit a variety of hair types, including straight, wavy and curly textures. 

Styling Tips: Add volume at the roots by using texturising products and experimenting with different part depths. 

23. Undercut with Curls

An undercut with curls involves shaving or closely clipping the hair on the sides and back of the head, while leaving the top section long enough to showcase curls. This creates a striking contrast between the short, neat sides and the voluminous, textured curls on top. Seen on celebrities such as Kelly Osborne.

Suitable Hair Types: An undercut with curls is a versatile hairstyle that can suit a variety of different curl types, from loose waves to tighter coils. 

Styling Tips: Use curl-enhancing products such as creams or mousses to define and reduce frizz.

24. Asymmetrical Dry Cut

An asymmetrical dry cut is a haircut where one side of the hair is longer than the other, and the cutting is done on dry hair, allowing the stylist to work with the hair’s natural texture and movement. This technique helps to enhance the natural shape and texture of the hair, creating a unique and personalised look. Seen on celebrities such as Ashley Olsen.

Suitable Hair Types: Can suit a variety of hair types, but this style particularly shines on thick, wavy and curly hair types.

Styling Tips: Consider tucking one side behind your ear to accentuate the length difference, and don’t be afraid to experiment with different parting styles.

25. Curly Wolf Cut

A curly wolf cut is a hairstyle that blends the edgy, choppy layers of a wolf cut with the natural volume and texture of curly hair. It features shorter, layered sections at the top around the face, transitioning to longer, shaggier layers at the back, creating a bold, voluminous look that complements curly hair. Seen on celebrities such as Billie Eilish.

Suitable Hair Types: It is relatively versatile and can be adapted for various hair types, but works best on naturally curly and wavy hair types.

Styling Tips: Focus on enhancing curls, adding texture, and achieving a balanced, voluminous look. Start with clean, hydrated hair, use curl-enhancing products, diffuse or air dry, and incorporate a texturising spray for added definition. 

26. Curly cut with V-Cut Nape

A curly cut with a V-cut nape is a hairstyle where the curly hair is layered to create a ‘V’ shape at the back of the neck, with the longest layers at the centre and the shorter layers towards the sides. This cut is popular for curly hair as it adds definition and shape, preventing a triangular look and allowing for body and movement. Seen on celebrities such as Miley Cyrus.

Suitable Hair Types: It is a flattering style that works well for various curly hair types and is ideal for showcasing the natural curl pattern of textured hair. 

Styling Tips: Use a diffuser attachment on your hairdryer to dry your curls gently. This helps to minimise frizz and define curls. 

27. Messy Wavy Style

A messy, wavy hairstyle is characterised by intentionally dishevelled, loose waves that create a relaxed and effortless look. It is often described as a ‘bed head’ look. The key is to achieve a balance between undone and stylish, with a touch of texture and volume. Seen on celebrities such as Sienna Miller.

Suitable Hair Types: Can generally work with all hair types, but works particularly well with wavy or naturally textured hair. 

Styling Tips: Pomade, mousse, or a texturising product can help to achieve the tousled effect.

Tips for Styling Short Curly Hairstyles

Use the Right Products

For short curly hairstyles, focus on using lightweight, moisturising products that define curls and provide humidity protection to minimise frizz. Curl creams, leave-in conditioners, and lightweight gels are great options. 

It is also important to use a heat-protectant spray to protect the hair’s health if you are using heat styling tools. 

Dry Naturally or Blow-Dry

Air drying short, curly hair, especially when aiming for more of a relaxed look, will minimise heat damage and encourage natural curl patterns. It is a great option for those seeking a low-maintenance, effortless style while preserving hair health. Drying naturally can also be beneficial for achieving a more relaxed, less defined wave, as the natural drying process allows for more movement.

If blow drying, use a wide-tooth comb or diffuser attachment for tighter curls to avoid frizz and to enhance volume. 

Regular Maintenance and Trims

It is important to have regular trims, generally every 6-8 weeks, so curls remain looking fresh and defined. Regular trims also help hair to retain moisture, manageability and overall health.

Without regular trims, split ends can travel up the hair shaft, causing further damage, leading to frizz and uneven curls. Trims help the top remove damaged ends, allowing curls to spring back and retain their natural shape.

Avoid Over-Washing

Washing curly hair less frequently and incorporating co-washing (using conditioner to wash) helps to maintain hydration by preserving natural oils that are essential for healthy, moisturised curls. Over-shampooing can strip these oils, leading to dryness, frizz and breakage, while co-washing will gently cleanse the hair and keep it hydrated. 

Protect Your Curls at Night

To protect curls at night, consider using a satin or silk pillowcase and/or a loose scrunchie. A satin pillowcase minimises friction and frizz, while a loose scrunchie, especially in a “pineapple” style (loose high ponytail on the top of the head), prevents tangling and crushing of curls. 

Tips for Maintaining Short Curly Hairstyles

Use the Right Products

Using the right lightweight curl creams, gels, or mousses is important for maintaining short, curly hairstyles without causing heaviness or build-up. These types of products will help to define curls and reduce frizz. Choosing the wrong formula can lead to stiffness, stickiness, and weigh the hair down. Opting for lightweight formulas ensures that curls retain their natural bounce and movement while staying defined.

Regular Trims

It is important to have regular trims, generally every 6-8 weeks, so curls remain looking fresh and defined. Regular trims also help hair to retain moisture, manageability and overall health.

Hydrate and Protect

Hydrating hair masks and oils are recommended for maintaining short, healthy curly hair as they provide deep moisture, reduce breakage and protect against dryness. Masks can help replenish moisture lost due to styling and environmental factors, while oils create a barrier against humidity and lock in hydration. This combination results in softer, smoother, and more manageable curls with enhanced shine and reduced frizz. 

Enhance Natural Texture

Using a diffuser is recommended to enhance the hair’s natural texture, as doing so will help to disperse the air flow when blow-drying, which will help to create a more relaxed, bouncy look while minimising frizz. It allows for even drying and can encourage the hair’s natural curl pattern and reduce the risk of heat damage from a concentrated airflow. 

Book Your Short Curly Hairstyle Appointment at Rush

Ready to find the perfect curly hairstyle for your hair type and lifestyle? Book an appointment at your nearest RUSH salon and let our expert stylists bring your curls to life.