Short curly hair can be bold, beautiful, and full of personality. Whether you’re rocking natural curls or enhancing them with a bit of styling magic, the right cut can take your look from simple to stunning.
From pixies and bobs to layered crops and textured fades, these 72 short curly hairstyles prove that you don’t need long locks to make a big impact. Get inspired by the cutest, chicest, and most effortlessly cool short styles for curly hair—there’s something here for every texture, face shape, and vibe.
Essentials for Short Curly Hairstyles
Before you pick your next look, there are a few essentials you’re going to want to have to make sure you new curly hairstyles last all day long without losing its bounce and definition (no one wants frizzy and flat hair)!
- Curl-Defining Cream
Known for its intense hydration and curl-enhancing formula, Moroccanoil Curl Defining Cream contains argan oil that deeply nourishes curls. It helps define short curly hair, giving you a frizz-free finish and a bouncy hold. This product works well on damp hair and is ideal for achieving soft, natural-looking curls without stiffness. - Curl Refresh Spray
Perfect for quick curl touch-ups, Ouidad Botanical Boost Curl Energizing & Refreshing Spray revives and redefines curls between washes. The lightweight formula is packed with botanical extracts to provide moisture, enhancing short curls’ texture and bounce without weighing them down. Great for refreshing day-old curls or adding a bit of lift to limp hair. - Satin Sleep Cap
Protecting curly hair at night is key, and the Grace Eleyae Satin Lined Cap minimizes friction and keeps curls intact while you sleep. It’s designed to prevent frizz and breakage, making it a favorite among those with short curls who want to maintain their curl pattern and texture overnight.
Our Top 20 Short Curly Hairstyles
We have over 70 hairstyles ideas for you to check out. But first, here are some of our favorite options if you want short and curly hair:
1. Blonde Curly Pixie
Light, natural curls create a voluminous pixie cut, exuding a carefree, summery vibe. The short length frames the face beautifully, highlighting soft texture and bounce.
2. Tapered Curly Fro
This classic tapered afro embraces natural curls, adding volume at the top while staying clean and polished on the sides. The style celebrates texture with a touch of elegance.
3. Curly Undercut Pixie
Defined curls cascade over a sharp undercut, giving this pixie an edgy and stylish look. The contrast adds depth and brings a modern twist to traditional curls.
4. Soft Tousled Curls
This relaxed, tousled style keeps curls light and airy, adding volume and texture all around. Effortless yet chic, it’s ideal for a casual, carefree look.
5. Rounded Curly Crop
A rounded, full-bodied crop that’s both playful and sophisticated. The tight curls add a natural volume and frame the face, creating a polished yet relaxed look.
6. Blonde-Highlighted Curls
Blonde highlights bring dimension to these loose curls, enhancing texture and movement. The cropped cut is short, fun, and adds a hint of boldness with the lighter tones
7. Platinum Curly Taper
Bold and refined, this short platinum cut is styled with defined curls that give it a striking silhouette. It’s both edgy and elegant, perfect for making a statement.
8. Soft Bob
Loose, tousled curls styled into a short bob create a soft, layered look. The style is chic and full of movement, giving natural curls a modern, fresh feel.
9. Curly Pixie
Vibrant purple highlights add a playful pop of color to these textured curls. The pixie cut with color accents is daring and full of personality.
10. Ash Brown Curly Pixie
This ash brown pixie blends defined curls with subtle layers, creating a soft, face-framing effect. A chic and understated style that enhances natural texture.
11. Fiery Bob
This vibrant red bob is full of lively, defined curls with soft layers. The voluminous shape beautifully frames the face and highlights the rich, bold color.
12. Dimensional Curly Pixie
With warm highlights woven through, this curly pixie cut adds depth and movement. The mix of curls and color creates a lively, textured style that’s effortlessly chic.
13. Soft Red Waves
Loose, tousled curls in a natural red tone give this cut a romantic, airy feel. The waves are styled with volume, enhancing the playful texture of the hair.
14. Curly Tapered Cut
A bold tapered cut with tight curls on top and shorter sides. Subtle highlights add warmth and dimension to the curls, enhancing the shape and structure of this edgy style.
15. Au Natural
Tightly coiled curls form this classic, short bob. This effortless style celebrates natural texture with volume and bounce, making it both relaxed and chic.
16. Dramatic Fauxhawk
A standout fauxhawk with voluminous curls on top and shaved sides. This edgy look emphasizes texture, showcasing the curls in a bold, fashion-forward way.
17. Golden Afro
A halo of golden curls that frames the face in a soft, rounded shape. This cut brings out the natural texture of the hair with volume and a sun-kissed tone.
18. Voluminous Dark Curly Bob
Dark, bouncy curls styled in a rounded bob for full volume. This look combines natural texture with a slightly tousled effect, adding depth and dimension to the curls.
19. Side-Swept Pixie
A stylish side-swept pixie with defined curls and shaved sides. This cut is both sophisticated and daring, emphasizing the curls with an asymmetrical silhouette.
20. Classic Curly Crop
A timeless curly crop with soft, springy curls that frame the face. This look is simple and elegant, with just the right amount of volume for a natural, polished appearance.
FAQs
Some popular short curly hairstyles include the curly pixie cut, the curly bob, and the shag cut. These styles work well with natural curls and can be tailored to different curl types. Each of these options offers a unique look, whether you want something edgy, soft, or vintage-inspired.
Using a good leave-in conditioner and curl cream can help keep short curly hair defined and manageable. Regular trims are also essential to prevent split ends and maintain shape. Styling with a diffuser on low heat can add volume without creating frizz.
Yes, bangs can look great with short curly hair, especially with a shag or pixie cut. Curly bangs add a stylish, youthful look and can help frame the face nicely. Just make sure to work with a stylist who understands curly hair to get the right shape and length.
More Short Curly Hairstyles We LOVE!
Still struggling to find the look that’s right for you. Then check out this huge, expanded gallery to find the look that’s right for you: