@allieyamaguchi
This is a pixie taken all the way to the next level. Those curls are flawlessly formed – neither too tight, nor too loose, soft, manageable, and shiny. The details, such as the baby hairs and the curled sideburns, are particularly gorgeous.
Taking care of natural locks requires special upkeep and styling skills. But sometimes, the lack of length can make the maintenance process a tad more difficult if not impossible. Don’t worry, though, there are many flattering styling options for every hair type and length! Here we collected 75 natural hairstyles for short hair to upscale your daily glam and add a touch of sophisticated charm to it.
First of all, let’s take a look at the most popular cropped hairstyles for your natural hair type:
– Protective updos. They not only look very stately, but also protect the delicate structure of your hair from damage and loss of moisture.
– Twists. These take any extra volume under control and look fancy whether you wear them loose or in elegant updos.
– Puffs. A puff is a substitute for a common bun, so loved by African American ladies. When you also introduce twists or elements of braiding into your puff hairstyles, you have all chances to come up with something truly exquisite and eye-catching.
– Mohawks and Fauxhawks. Never going out of fashion, these hairstyles are perfect for black women who are open to bold solutions and extravagant haircuts.
– Finger coils. If you are searching for hairstyles which make a stake on outstanding textures, finger coils are an excellent idea.
Now that you have a sense of what’s trending, check out the examples below.
@sashabasha2
A twist-out is an easy hairstyle African-American women use to achieve full, heatless curls. It’s a popular ‘do which is easy to maintain and can be slept on without messing up the curl pattern. This look combines a flat twist detail in the front to further protect the edges, as they’re prone to breakage the most.
If you are blessed with curly hair and seek something low-maintenance, try this hairstyle. The sharp lines of the razored sides and triangular sideburns look edgy and pair well with poofy curls on top, giving you extra height just where you want it.
@dosblog
For those trying to figure out new and trendy ways to style their locks, go for a tapered cut with trimmed sides, long bangs, and a lot of loose, curly tendrils piled high on the top of the head. Take it easy on hair gels or creams to let the curls have a little bit of frizz.
@sweetstyles_naturals
Modern and trendy, this wild afro hairstyle makes the most of your naturally kinky tendrils. The deep side part with laid edges sets off the mass of curls on top, and the copper-tinted ends add even more depth to the individual ringlets.
@esh_naturalchic
For a modern style, ask for a taper or a fade on the back and sides and longer hair on top. To play up to your hair texture, add a bit of a flattering color like dark blonde, red, or copper.
@korluhairartist
If you need a quick and easy protective style for your curls, try an updo with flat twists running towards the crown of your head where you can add some extensions if you want. It’s an elegant updo that works great for women with fine or thinning hair.
@ruutos
Long bangs that fall over the eyes are a great way to show off your twist-out curls. The cute Bantu knots are a popular option for African American women who want to pay homage to the past. The loose, curly ringlets can be worn in a Mohawk style as shown, or pulled back into a sweet topknot.
@dlang33
This updo will help you show off your thick curls. The upward braids draw the eye to those adorable twisted coils on top. You can also add bangs to the look for a face-framing effect.
@marshasjourney
For curly-haired women seeking traditional ways to wear their ringlets, it’s usually all about shaping. If keeping your curly locks protected is not your highest priority right now, try a tapered hairstyle. Show off your shiny, healthy hair as it grows out nicely.
@kendrakenshay
To style your curls for a neat and organized look, go with an undercut that has shaved designs on the sides. You can also throw in a glint of red highlights on the ends for a brighter look.
@sierracjohnsn
Some cute and simple hairstyles for black women rely on accessories – headscarves, bandanas, headbands, etc. This look is timeless, versatile, and vital for protecting natural coils. It’s also a perfect ‘do for those days when you simply don’t want to showcase your hair.
@modernsalon
Inverted cornrows, also known as Didi braids, are great protective styles that prevent dryness and breakage. This variation of a popular style looks like a fresh take on traditional cornrows. It showcases a similar sleekness, but the braids seem to be pressed into the hair.
@tasalahq
Curly strands don’t need much to look gorgeous, other than some hold and definition easily achieved with styling products. With short length, you probably won’t use some large accessories, but a couple of hair clips complementing the texture of your hair will definitely add a lot.
@american_salon
Afro hairstyles are perfect for women who prefer big volume on top. Update your ‘do with babylights and favorite earrings – the short sides will let you show off your jewelry and beautiful jawline.
@lovetriceyy
Vary the length and silhouette of your afro using a taper and an undercut. This crop with sharp sideburns blends femininity and edge for a modern look.
@missalexandrianicole
This stunning afro is all tight curls and high shine. At a time when women are embracing their hair texture more than ever, these hairstyles are absolutely in vogue, and with good reason. Celebrate those curls!
@modernsalon
Wear your hair in an elevated style that has a lot of long and wild curls. The closely cropped sides and the pointy sideburns are the perfect balance to the splash of chocolate curls. It’s an ideal ‘do for women with thick, voluminous hard-to-control hair.
@iam.tiffany.renee
If you’re drawn to undercuts and tapers, but aren’t ready to cut your hair that short, try braided updos that mimic the styles you like. This is a pretty example of a modern protective updo, especially flattering for textured hair.
@touchofheavensalon
This faux hawk is a perfect example of an intricate braided pattern composed of simple twists and zigzag parts. The hairdo has everything, and it’s quite short and comfortable to wear.
@american_salon
Let your loose curls breathe a sigh of relief when they’re fashioned into a bob cut. Your ideal hairstyle should be tailored to your face shape, hair type, and length. It’s not always about braided ‘dos with extensions.
@lovebritmarie
This is a pixie taken all the way to the next level. Those curls are flawlessly formed – neither too tight, nor too loose, soft, manageable, and shiny. The details, such as the baby hairs and the curled sideburns, are particularly gorgeous.
@allieyamaguchi
The faux hawk is a popular style because it’s showy, flattering and quite easy to style. Slick the sides, fluff the curls, and that’s basically all it takes. Of course, the color also means a lot if you want to enhance the feel of Mohawk with hair this short.
@modernsalon
Personalize your afro with a hard deep side part and slicked edges. Finger coil or pick the longer top layers. If you want the sides to be super smooth, consider the molding technique.
@stepthebarber
When you want to sleek your hair back but don’t have enough length, you can either go the popular afro puff route or make a curly half-up top knot. The back is left on its own, a full, lush ‘fro. Together, the two create a dynamic ‘do that will make others do a double take – so simple and so cute!
@shyanhazel
This twist-out ‘fro is fierce, fabulous, and easy to recreate. It lasts for days and is extremely easy to maintain with the right hair products and haircare routine.
@jaleesacharisse
Embrace your frizzy curls and let them go crazy in a modified afro hairstyle. The deep side part brings a cute asymmetry into your look and draws attention to your perfectly shaped eyebrows and beautiful eyes.
@lyssamariexo
If you have a special event and want to try an eye-catching hairstyle, you’ll love this option. The bubble braid with accurate geometric sections will draw many admiring glances.
@ruutos
Embrace those kinky curls and coils. Let them stand out and shine while keeping the sides sleek. Add some product for sheen and structure and enjoy your low-maintenance glam.
@kaaiit_thegreat
Shaved in the back and on the sides, this style embraces textured curls, resulting in a cute super short Mohawk. The curls are tight, flawlessly formed, and add just enough edge to balance out the entire style.
@american_salon
A classy curly pixie can be so eye-catching! If you hesitate whether to cut curly bangs, try styling faux ones using a few pins or a headscarf as shown in these tutorials.
@michellethompsonhair
We love this simple cut because it is just perfectly ordinary. No bangs, no braids, no highlighting, only you and your coils looking pretty, natural, and easy-going. The rounded shape can be styled higher or lower, depending on your preferences.
@lyssamariexo
Show off your healthy, shiny hair and prove that black women don’t always have to wear a full head of braids. There’s just one braid on the side, and the rest of the hair is free to do its own thing. The long side tendril is an extra-cute detail.
@kendrakenshay
This look is super cute. Keep your style simple and fuss-free trying this version of an afro puff. Push it more back and add some sort of pompadour bangs. It’s actually a small roll above your forehead for an added height.
@rosehapuque
For an easy style that you can dress up or dress down, this look is an excellent choice. All-one-length curls make for a classy, chic glam that can go with just about anything. To make the hairdo extra special, brush and pin hair back at the temples.
@justmargie_
This look is more about texture — the color is totally up to you. The style is fun and bright. Plus the color blocking is a creative way to transition from black to blonde.
@ashley4odom
The nape undercut is subtle and decorative, yet when combined with highlighted natural curls, the contrast it creates is totally chic. This cute curly ‘do is a perfect look for all occasions and seasons.
@360_hairstudio
This wild curly style oozes confidence and allure. Tapering the curls in the back while letting them grow longer in the front creates a bang-like effect that adds mystery to your look. If you are feeling bold, complement the hairdo with the classic red lipstick and winged liner makeup for a daring appearance.
@good_chxng3
For those preferring to stay away from braids, knots, or other more confined styles, twisted curls are for you! The twists with undone ends have a flirty, enthusiastic vibe sure to brighten your mood.
@deecarrington
Many curly-haired women struggle with edges and face-framing strands when they don’t end up curling properly. Keeping hair on the temples short and sleek with a product is a great idea to refresh your hairstyle and enhance the bounce of longer hair on top!
@sweetstyles_naturals
Embrace the natural beauty of African American hair with a closely-cropped haircut. A tapered crop always looks put together while letting your texture thrive.
@deecarrington
If somebody is ever looking for a unique way to spruce up their locks, the Mohawk is always the first place people turn. However, for those unwilling to make such a daring commitment, this chic alternative is perfect.
@american_salon
When you’re on the hunt for new hair ideas, it can be easy to forget the classics in search of something unusual. A traditional side-parted afro is always a good choice for those who crave change.
@american_salon
If you can’t pull your hair into a ponytail, pinning it into a Mohawk in the middle of your head allows you to get it out of your face. Add in a parted design for a unique hairstyle. Or you can try making it more spiky.
@modernsalon
What really makes this look special is how beautifully the cinnamon red shade looks against warm-toned skin. Ask your stylist what shade would help bring out your inner glow.
@kingdomofcurls_
Platinum hair color will always be the classiest, chicest way to stand out. The platinum color looks gorgeous on curls because it’s even more unexpected.
@christolhair
This style is the result of an easy wash-and-go routine. Of course, you don’t actually leave the house after washing, but first apply the right moisturizing and styling products.
@kaaiit_thegreat
A short bob haircut gives a great shape to your hair, while the side-swept variant flatters round faces perfectly. Style an effortless wash-and-go or finger coil the ends for playful defined curls.
@korluhairartist
The side part directs your locks towards your face, giving your style an extra air of elegance. To keep those ringlets defined, don’t forget to apply a curl cream throughout the length and enjoy your new hairdo.
@xpressionsofyou
If you find yourself completely over your everyday afro, just know you aren’t alone. Many naturalistas get bored with their curly q’s and yearn for something new. A gorgeous twist out is an instant solution to this common issue. Pin up one side for an added bit of style.
@modernsalon
Sick of your normal wash and go? Throw a few twists along your hairline. It’s super easy and incredibly cute for any length or texture of hair. This is a quick way to add some pizazz to a simple afro.
@_simplystasia
Who says pin-up styles are a thing of the past? Curly hair with a 50s twist is both classic and modern, depending on how you do it. This style incorporates a pastel bandana and the ever-favorite front bump. The contrast between the coily strands atop and the smoothed sides is deliberately stylish.
@consciouslylisa_
This look has enough eye-catching elements, but they all come together to create one of the classiest hairstyles. The twisted curls with flawless form spring out over the tightly braided cornrows on the sides, which create a kind of faux undercut. The two-tone hair color is also worth attention.
@modernsalon
Keeping your hair moisturized and trimmed is the most stylish thing you can do. Your curls look the nicest when they’re taken care of. Maintaining healthy hair is essential.
@modernsalon
To achieve the look, wrap your hair tightly around some straws or small flexirods, and sit under a dryer or let it air dry overnight. Pull them out and voila – you get an excellent ‘do. Separate the ringlets for even more curls and body.
@modernsalon
Choose a universally flattering style that suits your face and curl pattern. Tapered crops look good and give you an opportunity to try a popular two-tone dye job — such as this gorgeous burgundy and copper combination.
@haircolorkilla
Different red hues are great for dark hair, whether you prefer plum reds or copper reds. This style reverses the trendy ombre look by fading upward into bright burgundy coils up top.
@american_salon
This hairdo is nothing less than spectacular. From the cute baby hairs to the pops of color and vivid orange scarf, it’s simplicity, convenience and beauty, 3 in 1. Afros are not protective, as you don’t wear your ends tucked away, but there are clip in afro puffs you can use for this purpose.
@american_salon
Elegant in its shape, this cut works great for your coily strands. The warm and vibrant color enhances the funky look. A perfect choice to make a bold statement.
@dreamcutsbarberlounge
For this look, the curls are both loose and soft as well as tight and structured. The style is effortlessly glamorous and fabulously casual at the same time. Enjoy your new, modern silhouette!
@modernsalon
Faking an undercut is simplicity itself – do it with a few side plaits. The braids and twists in this hairstyle definitely stand out, but the tawny, gorgeous profusion of curls is the real statement.
@annisalimara
For a quick updo, pair chunky cornrows with two adjacent front buns and get a lovely look that will last all day long. This creative yet simple style can help you transition from day to night look with easy.
@modernsalon
Individual braids are a go-to protective hairstyle, as they provide more versatility than flat cornrows and twists. For shorter styles with braids use a hair accessory like a thick headband. Is it winter or summer outdoors, you will always look great.
@american_salon
Curly hair should be maintained with natural creams and oils. These products will not only have a positive impact on your hair health but also help you in styling.
@modernsalon
Bobs are extremely popular among women of all ages, but for some reason, some ladies don’t think they can rock one with textured hair. Still, curly locks can be bobbobbed, benefiting particularly from varied layers.
@haircolorkilla
Just because you have a closely-cropped cut does not mean that you cannot experiment with your look. The blonde color on top makes the style pop, and the parted design adds a bit of interest on the sides. If you want to maintain the cut, simply change the tone and designs to keep the look fresh.
@naturalhairqueens
The pixie cut is compatible with every curly hair type. When styling, add a side part, ideal for women new to the pixie club and testing new hairstyles.
@artistry4gg
This cascading updo creates a visually interesting and dynamic look that uplifts any casual outfit. Pro tip — elongate the lifespan of your ‘do by protecting it at night with large satin bonnets, or satin/silk pillowcases!
@e._k.a.h.l.e.r
If you want to add some spice to your braided style, try a fun roll with a regal bouffant. This appealing hairstyle can carry you easily from work to party.
@modernsalon
It’s hard to pick out the most gorgeous aspect of this style. It highlights those stunning, all-natural curls, which are twisted and formed into flawless spirals. The color is on-point, too.
@american_salon
Wearing your tresses naturally requires confidence. Upgrade your curly ‘do with some cool side bangs if you want a more romantic style in a short length!
@hautehairbylauren
Give your good old afro a stylish upgrade with a trendy side-part look. The edges may need some pomade or coconut oil for more definition and a clean finish.
@heyqray
A tapered hairstyle like this is great for all age groups, and it’s extremely modern. Here is a wonderful example of a fail-proof, classic hairdo as an impeccable accessory to your outfits, so wear it with pride!
@rimmysparkles
Flat twists can be a lovely idea if you want to design a new updo. No fuss, no muss, here’s a fantastic hairdo that’s protective and low maintenance. In case you are in search of something that is youthful and won’t take up a lot of styling time, this hair idea is for you.
@touchofheavensalon
A subtle balayage is a smart color solution for your hair. The curls get much more depth and bounce, and your complexion also benefits from delicious shades like a mix of caramel, mocha, and espresso.
@shaddah_elyse
If your length is not sufficient to make even an afro puff, there are still creative ways to style your coils in a beautiful way. Pinning the sides with delicate combs adds visual interest; also try metal combs for a look that pops a little more.
@afroririhaircare
As you can see, your hair length and texture don’t set any particular limitations for your hairstyle. You can go sleek or frizzy, choose braiding or twists, make an updo, or wear your cute coils loose. Experiment and find your most flattering look!
