25 Short Curly Hairstyles That Are Big on Style
Short curly hair is playful, confident, and surprisingly versatile. Whether you have tight coils, soft waves, or bouncy spirals, short curly hairstyles can help you embrace your texture while keeping styling quick and fun.
These 25 short curly hairstyles show you just how bold and beautiful your curls can be, even without the length.
Tapered Cut with Curls
The tapered cut is a favorite for curly hair shorter on the sides and back, with more volume up top. It creates structure and enhances your natural curl pattern, giving a sharp yet stylish look. It’s ideal for tighter curls or coils and works well with defined or fluffy textures.
Curly Pixie Cut
The pixie cut gets a major upgrade when you add curls. It frames your face, highlights cheekbones, and keeps styling simple. You can wear it tousled for a soft, romantic vibe or sleek with edge control for a modern twist.
Short Curly Afro
Let your curls form a rounded, mini afro that sits close to the head. This classic look celebrates natural texture in its purest form and can be shaped with a pick for more volume. It’s low-maintenance and full of personality.
Defined Wash-and-Go
Short curls love a well-defined wash-and-go. Just apply a curl-defining cream or gel to damp hair, scrunch, and go. The look is fresh, springy, and highlights your natural pattern with very little fuss.
Curly Bob
A chin-length bob with curls adds softness and volume while staying manageable. You can wear it with a middle or side part, and it’s easy to refresh with a quick water mist or curl spray.
Faux Hawk
Create a curly faux hawk by pinning or fading the sides and letting the center curls rise high. It’s bold, edgy, and full of movement perfect for when you want your curls to stand out.
Finger Coils
Great for tighter textures, finger coils are created by twisting small sections around your finger to form neat, defined spirals. This style lasts days and gives a polished look without heat.
Curly Bangs
Add personality to short curly hair with bangs. They can be cut blunt across the forehead, swept to the side, or kept wispy for a soft, feminine vibe. Bangs enhance your facial features and add flair to even the simplest cut.
Buzz Cut with Curls on Top
Keep the sides buzzed and leave just a bit of curl on top for an ultra-clean and minimal style. It’s easy to manage and gives you a high-fashion edge with almost no daily effort.
Short Shag with Curls
The shag cut uses layers to create movement and volume. On short curly hair, it gives a rockstar vibe messy, cool, and carefree. Add a few face-framing layers and you’re good to go.
Mini Bantu Knots
Style your short curls into mini Bantu knots for a protective and cultural look that’s full of charm. You can do the whole head or just a few at the crown to mix it up.
Curly Undercut
Shave or fade the sides and keep the top section full of defined curls. The undercut is edgy and modern, adding contrast and shape to short curls.
Side-Parted Curls
Changing your part can completely refresh your short curly style. A deep side part adds asymmetry and volume, while a zig-zag part can create a fun, fresh look.
Twisted TWA (Teeny Weeny Afro)
Add definition to a TWA with two-strand twists. Once dry, you can keep them in or unravel for a soft, defined twist-out. It’s great for stretching and styling short curls without heat.
Cropped Curls with Color
Add a pop of color like honey blonde, auburn, or copper to elevate your short curly cut. Whether you dye the tips or go full-color, it adds personality and brightness.
FAQs About Short Curly Hairstyles
Are short curly hairstyles low-maintenance?
Yes! Short curls are quicker to wash, condition, and style. Just make sure to keep your hair moisturized and shaped with regular trims.
Can I still wear protective styles with short curly hair?
Absolutely. Styles like mini twists, Bantu knots, or flat twists work great on shorter lengths while protecting your curls.
What products are best for short curly hair?
Use lightweight leave-ins, curl creams, and gels that define without weighing curls down. A curl refresher spray is also handy for next-day styling.
How do I prevent shrinkage with short curls?
Twist-outs, braid-outs, and stretching with a blow dryer on low heat (using a diffuser or tension method) can help reduce shrinkage while keeping curl definition.
Conclusion
Short curly hair might not have the length, but it makes up for it with shape, texture, and endless style options. Whether you prefer something sleek and defined or wild and free, these 23 short curly hairstyles prove that your curls are always your best accessory no matter how short your cut.
