Meet Mary Allen, a writer at The Right Hairstyles Magazine with a passion for the artistry of hair, who first joined our editorial team in January 2022. With a keen eye for trends in haircutting and coloring techniques, Mary Allen explores the diverse spectrum of beauty, ensuring that her articles resonate with women from all walks of life.
Read full bio Editorial guidelines
Passionate author specializing in the vibrant world of hairstyling. With a knack for unraveling trends and sharing expert insights, Marissa crafts engaging content on the latest hairstyles, techniques, and industry innovations. Committed to empowering readers with knowledge, inspiration, and the confidence to embrace their unique style.
Read full bio Editorial guidelines
Sarah D’Angelo is a hairstylist and educator from Ontario, Canada, specializing in cutting and coloring naturally wavy, curly and super curly hair types. Sarah values growth and education and loves helping people embrace their natural texture. Her introduction to curl specific techniques in 2012, after almost a decade in the hairstyling industry, felt contradictory to everything she had learned; yet as a fellow curly person who could relate to its challenges, she recognized there was a need for inclusivity in hair education. Sarah enjoys the diversity and customization of working with her clients’ unique hair types. Her areas of expertise include dry hair cutting, hand-painted coloring techniques and product education. When not working behind the chair, Sarah loves to train new stylists, create tutorials, read and write.
Read full bio Editorial guidelines
@mefiu
Oftentimes, curly and wavy hair won’t have a clean, even part. Embrace this natural spontaneity in your locks. A great option is parting your hair deep to the side and letting your waves fall freely.
Many women are tempted to cut their naturally wavy hair shorter for summer but hesitate, wondering how to achieve a trendy and low-maintenance look. We have gathered the best examples of short hairstyles, recommended by stylists for wavy hair. Check out the pictures below, enjoy and get inspired!
Speaking of basic haircuts for short hairstyles, contemporary ladies with wavy hair prefer short bobs and pixie haircuts. They both offer layering options, which are advantageous for curly hair. The less density your hair has, the less layering you can typically afford unless your haircut is extremely short.
Larger curls or loose waves look very trendy in short hairstyles. They can be bouncy curls with a defined shape or tousled waves with a “bedhead” effect. Color accents in short hairstyles are one of the chicest trends currently. There can be nuanced or contrasting highlights throughout the head or just on the bangs. It’s best to trust such delicate coloring jobs to the skillful hands of a professional stylist.
No matter how experienced, we can’t lay all the responsibility of your new image on your stylist’s shoulders. You have the most important job – finding a look you feel is yours. To help you in this journey, try our free hairstyle generator for creative ideas and inspiration.
@soraverly
Short-to-medium cuts are currently very popular. Long, shaggy tendrils parted in the center are a great way to rock your natural, wavy hair. This wash-and-wear cut, with its tousled chocolate brown curls, looks effortless and summer-ready all year round.
It’s not often that natural curly-haired girls opt for pixie cuts. The trick is to make sure that your strands stay hydrated and frizz-free. You can accomplish this using water-based leave-in products and sealing with a dry serum containing argan, coconut, or macadamia oil.
@cheyhair
A tousled beach wave is an iconic trend for short curly hair that will never go out of style. When paired with a short bob, it gives hair a bouncy, voluminous look. Utilizing a tapered wand to add more definition rejuvenates two- or three-day-old hair. Loosening waves with fingers gives hair a more relaxed look.
@soraverly
A jaw-length cut helps to delineate round and oval-shaped faces by creating a halo that contours the lines of the face. Tight curls easily add height and/or width where necessary, without extra product or manipulation due to the curls’ inherent voluminous nature.
@tatumneill
Curly-haired women can rock longer pixie cuts beautifully. The style is ideal for women with low-maintenance loose waves. Cute side bangs will help thick, curly locks frame your face nicely.
@hairbypaulahouston
Your short, naturally curly hair will look incredible with a voluminous jaw-length bob. Part your thick, large curls to the side or in the middle to create a nice, round shape that looks great on petite women. Subtle highlights will bring even more depth to your luscious curls.
@thebestofnjbeauty
If you have decided to embrace your wavy, curly hair, you might want to keep an overall defined shape. A side-swept, inverted bob will stay slightly weighed down if you let the curls grow long enough. The inverted angle gives you that sense of freedom and confidence that curly-haired girls thrive on.
@brunodantte
This throwback 1980s hairstyle is here for another round as more and more women are chopping their long locks and opting for short, thick wavy styles instead. Those with naturally curly hair will have the most success with this, as it can be easily styled with a quality hair product. For those who aren’t blessed with a natural kink to their hair, a perm would be a low maintenance solution.
@cyancutshair
Try shaping your fine tresses into one of these sophisticated short haircuts for curly hair. You’ll be amazed at how thick and healthy your natural waves can be. A pixie cut with a lot of height on top and closely cropped sides looks chic and modern. Add some long, side-swept curly bangs for a unique, feminine touch.
@allthingsneena
Women with curly hair long for styles that will hold up against humidity and temperature fluctuations throughout the day. A short curly pixie with sideburns and extra height will never disappoint. This cut with shaved geometric designs in the nape boasts an edgy, unexpected detail.
@tatumneill
While monotone colors tend to mask texture, highlights accentuate each individual ringlet. Boosting the texture with a sea-salt spray and light-hold hair spray gives this hairstyle more interest.
@hair.by.elvira
Layers and angles work well with naturally curly hair, so if you’re thinking of making the switch to a shorter cut, give the angled bob a try! The shape of this hairstyle keeps unruly curls under control.
@ashleypagestylist
A well-shaped short bob will look fantastic on women with thick and thin curly hair. If your hair is dark brown, it will look more dimensional with highlights. Add some subtle copper highlights for extra shine and appeal.
@mista.willis
An outgrown bob can be easily transformed into a versatile short, wavy hairstyle. By taking off a little length, just enough to get rid of damaged ends, your curly hair will spring back immediately. The slightly inverted shape and side-parted bangs give a subtle sexy appeal.
@tutyhair
When you’re looking for an easy-to-style haircut for your wavy, curly hair, go for a classic, jaw-length bob with layered ringlets. The side part helps control volume, and a sweet, tiny barrette placed strategically in the front will keep long bangs out of your eyes.
@arcscissors
Curly textures are sublime for showing off cute modern cuts and salon quality colors. Highlights and lowlights swirl elegantly. The key to this look is an angled cut, elongated towards the front, so be clear when describing to your stylist exactly how you expect the hair to frame your face.
@modernsalon
There’s so much you can do when you have short wavy hair. The relaxed texture of your waves looks great when cut into a bob. Include caramel highlights to really accent your curls and bring life to the cut. If you wish, you can add side bangs that softly frame your face.
@littlehair22
In this pretty cut, wildness meets precision, and the natural brown color is brightened by copper highlights. The elongated sideburns are an extra detail that can help you make this hairstyle one of a kind.
@arrels.perruqueria
This angled haircut has an elegant yet spunky vibe. The slight lift in the nape gives a geometric shape to the cut, while curls soften strong lines. Short wavy hairstyles have never been more feminine and classy.
@briahna_studio30two
Bronde hair colors are great middle-ground shades that don’t require too much commitment or maintenance. Pairing this hairdo with bangs and “wet” styling for definition is sure to turn heads.
@atoya_thecurlyhairstudio
A favorite choice of short, curly haircuts is an inverted bob that can also be blown out and worn straight. This jaw-length cut is subtly angled and parted on the side, while the long, bouncy side bangs add a sassy flair to your look.
@gimmethisgimmethat
Not everyone has time in the morning to spend 20 minutes styling their hair to perfection. Those who live on-the-go will appreciate a simple cut that allows you to air dry your hair and still get a cute hairstyle. You can use a special air-dry product. Simply scrunch in to shape your ringlets and then be on your way.
@hair_by_marlo
If you’re looking for short, wavy haircuts for women with thick hair, try a short, tapered pixie with a voluminous crown. The closely cropped nape helps control volume, while the outgrown bangs and side sections work with fluffy waves to celebrate their volume and unruly nature.
@flaviasantoscachos
Blonde curls have dimension and definition like no other color. However, blonde is also the first color to exhibit signs of damage. Deep condition once a week to maintain the health of your hair.
@hojojojo
You should always strive to put a little personality into your hairstyle. If you like to live on the edge, opt for long, uneven layers with a pixie cut. If your hair is naturally wavy, it’s a beautiful and low-maintenance cut for you to try at your next salon visit.
@publichairhouse
Bouncy curls signify moisturized and pampered locks. To achieve this hairstyle for short curly hair, scrunch in a lightweight leave-in conditioner that has aloe vera or glycerin while the hair is still damp. Then gently diffuse with a blow-dryer on a low heat.
@hairbyjackieb
One of the great things about curly hair is a lovely texture with minimum effort and an opportunity to showcase color variation with balayage. Any highlights look more natural with curly hair since the lighter pieces are intertwined and blended with the darker base.
@evanjosephcurls
Subtle caramel highlights cascading over a chocolate-brown base bring a summery feel to any season. Accompanied by soft curls, this look is feminine and gentle. Spritz a salt spray and tousle with your fingers for a beach-ready vibe.
@bloomasheville
Maintenance and styling methods for thick curly hair can be time-consuming to repeat on a daily basis. To decrease maintenance and manageability, ask your stylist for a short naturally curly haircut that removes bulk. This look is aesthetically pleasing both in pictures and in real life.
@karenzoee
Because it is so easy to wake up with beautiful hair, short haircuts for curly hair are naturally more laid back. With the right products, you won’t have to use any hot tools when styling your locks. Simply scrunch for definition and you are ready!
@hairbypaulahouston
The wet-hair look was popular in the nineties and has resurfaced with a modern twist. Medium-hold gel hydrates ringlets resulting in a tousled yet polished hairstyle.
@shanell_theyoungamerican
Frizzy hair can be utilized in a manner that is wearable and chic. To accomplish this, use a few drops of a light serum to manipulate hair in a dry state and create curl-by-curl separation.
@davidyubeauty
Athletic women with short, curly hair will appreciate a haircut that´s fast and easy to style right out of a locker-room shower. Something between a pixie and a bob will give you a low-maintenance, pretty look that fits perfectly with your active lifestyle.
@rodrigovizu
With curls, super short hair can seem daunting, and at times, impossible. However, the right haircut can offer more options than you would imagine. Don’t shy away from cropped style. Choose a short bob and let your naturally curly hair be your signature style.
@mahrithemaven
Long bangs and face-framing tendrils keep the strong silhouette of this hairstyle feminine and soft. This short, layered haircut is a great option for women with thick or thin hair because closely-cropped sides work well with any hair type.
@silva.hairdresser
A light brown bob with blonde highlights will make your natural curls look healthy and shiny. A deep side-part is an ideal choice for women with round face shapes, as it builds the necessary height on top for balance and elongation.
@brunodantte
Dynamic layers and razored ends are the perfect combination for an edgy bob. A dramatic dark brown, almost black, color tops off the punk vibe of this haircut. Ask your stylist for a gloss color treatment for an enviable shine and a touch of glamour.
@headrushdesigns
For women who have difficulty finding styles that make their fine hair appear thicker, we suggest a wedge bob with tousled, sassy waves. Wearing your short, wavy hair in a jaw-length bob gives you a youthful appearance. Bright blonde color with slightly darker roots creates the illusion of thicker and more voluminous curls.
@arcanasalon
This shattered short bob in a rich, dark color has dramatic Hollywood flair. This hairstyle is best for women who have naturally wavy hair and don’t mind the spontaneity of having it look slightly different each time it’s washed and styled.
@parloursalondc
Short curly hairstyles naturally provide a lot of volume, so use it to your advantage! To give structure to a texturized hairstyle, get a neatly trimmed nape that frames the scrunched, tousled curls above.
@thefactoryhair
Fine, chestnut brown hair doesn’t have to be plain; add a subtle splash of light brown highlights to liven it up. Use your natural, wavy texture to your advantage and try an inverted style. To define your waves, scrunch a bit of curl cream into wet hair and tousle it a few times while air-drying.
@girl_with_the_curl_
Short, curly hairstyles can be as fun and feminine as longer hairdos. This short bob is eye candy from every angle! It’s a great choice for long and triangular face shapes because it softens strong angles and creates round fullness on the sides.
@rodrigovizu
A little Tinker Bell, a little sexy vamp – out of all of the short curly options, this undercut is an excellent choice. Add subtle highlights to brighten your look and keep your thick, wavy hair lovely all day long.
@adrileeartistry
Go for a curly bob when you’re looking for a hairstyle that is all glam without a ton of effort. If you have a unique hair color like red, flaunt it instead of hiding it. Try brightening highlights or a henna wash to make your fiery locks stand out from the crowd.
@justindillaha_hair
The decision between a curly bob with bangs and a curly pixie is very much a preference on length. Want to have it all? Opt for a long pixie. Gorgeous childhood curls are revived with this grown-up hairstyle. Curls pop from everywhere on this long pixie, including the wispy sideburns and neckline.
@modernsalon
Short, tapered cuts can look masculine while soft waves add a flair of delicate femininity. Long earrings exemplify elegance, while emphasizing the neckline and chest, balancing your look.
@alizaquefez
When choosing a short haircut for curly hair, make it your own with customized layers, length, and color. A heavily layered cut creates texture, while long layers create a smooth, polished look.
@thecurlorista
Short haircuts for curly hair are fun, low-maintenance, and chic. Natural curls are gorgeous, and if you happen to have straight hair, you’re not out of luck. Today’s curly hairstyles are often done with heat and heat-free tools that are gentler on hair than ever before. Don’t forget to use a strong hold spray, but opt for the one that still allows your hair the flexibility to look soft and beautiful.
@modernsalon
Wavy hairstyles are perfect for romantic cuts like a soft nape-length bob with bangs. A wavy bob looks great when paired with a sophisticated color, so opt for an ashy brown. Sprinkle subtle, light brown highlights throughout for a natural-looking vibrance.
@mefiu
Curly girls can rock a bob like no other – keep it modern with a trendy hair color and plenty of dimension. A blunt, close cut at the neckline topped with a mass of gorgeously highlighted ringlets will make for a winning look any time you want to update your short style.
@shannelmariano
Want your curls to look like a halo? A super short bob can help you achieve this effect. Cut stacked layers and thick bangs so your hair forms a halo-like shape around your head. Throw in blonde balayage highlights to complete your heavenly look.
@sherflair
Short hairstyles for curly hair often depend upon some length variation. As is shown with this style, the underneath layer of hair is cut close to remain straight, while the top layer of longer curls is allowed to flow free.
@headdress_hairsalon
When you have tight ringlets, sometimes a tidy and clean short style is the best option. Consider this tapered curly cut that boasts curls and keeps the nape neat, thanks to the close crop. It’s important to ensure your curls stay defined. You might want to invest in a flexible hold hairspray or styling cream that will help maintain your curls all day.
@curlsbyyogirl
Short, curly hairstyles don’t need to be perfectly styled. Apply a few pumps of texturizing spray to your wet locks and scrunch for a tousled look. The result is effortless, and easy to achieve!
@hairbylily_
Knowing your hair’s texture is key to finding the perfect cut and style for your curls. High-density, fine hair lends itself well to textured, tapered pixie cuts. Spice it up with subtle highlights to enhance the dimension of the look.
@lindseywillishair
Some may think that rocking wet, mermaid-style hair means you need long, flowing locks, but you can pull off the look even on a short bob. Layer in babylights that accent your ringlets. Dark brown shades are great damp or dry, so no matter what hairdo you’re in the mood for, you have a style that will work.
@curl_evolution
Being blessed with natural spirals can come with the challenge of maintenance. Hair care can feel like a complex game involving dozens of expensive magic potions. So why not keep it simple and go short? With the front just a teeny bit longer and the top full of volume, this style is easy to pull off.
@yourbestcurlfriend512
Oftentimes, curly and wavy hair won’t have a clean, even part. Embrace this natural spontaneity in your locks. A great option is parting your hair deep to the side and letting your waves fall freely.
@mefiu
Natural curls have a special effortless flair that can be hard to achieve when straight hair is curled. Instead of straightening your bob, encourage your curls, defining them with your preferred product of choice – mousse, cream, or foam.
@alchemyorlando
Short curly hair is fun and easy to style. To get the most out of your hair, let your natural curls fall where they wish and smooth any frizzy pieces with a texturizing or de-tangling spray. Your hair will look vibrant and enviable!
@thehivesalon
Wavy hairstyles for short hair are so diverse and individual. Every wave is exceptional, and every shape is distinctive. By following even just one of these examples, your hairstyle will already elevate, but when it’s complimented by your unique facial features and texture, it becomes something especially unique.
When your hair gets proper care, it’s much easier to style. You can use cleansers, masks and conditioners specifically formulated for curly hair and follow the basic Curly Girl method or adopt the routine for wavy hair. It’s vital to nourish and moisturize your locks to control frizz and create juicy curl clumps. With short hair, you won’t be able to plop, but diffusing and micro-plopping will work just fine. Hairstyles for naturally curly and wavy hair can last days with minimal refreshing.
Enter your email to get this picture to your inbox, and get other ideas you might like 💌
Short wavy haircuts provide many opportunities to design a unique, customized cut based on your preferences. While you will likely want to book more frequent trips to the salon than when your hair is long, less hair means less time and product consumption day-to-day at home. It makes an extremely confident statement with a little less effort.”