Born and based in San Jose, California, Nikki Goddard has always had a passion for hair styling and unusual makeup techniques. At the age of 20, she started her education in The Salon Professional Academy and went on an extensive program in hair salons. Today, Nikki is a certified hair stylist and makeup artist with an associate degree in cosmetology. Currently, Nikki is a senior editor at therighthairstyles.com. She takes pride in being the root of inspiration for not only herself, but the entire team at The Right Hairstyles magazine. Her mission is to make the beauty industry available to everyone, and she enjoys teaching people the basics of hairstyling and makeup through the magazine’s articles. Nikki’s attention to detail and her ability to create a unique look that complements each client’s individuality is what continues to motivate her each day.
Read full bio Editorial guidelines
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
@sweetstyles_naturals
For those trying to figure out new and trendy ways to style short natural hair, 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. Such a hairstyle looks best when you let the curls have a little bit of frizz, so don´t overuse any gels or hair creams.
African American women often encounter many surprises and troubles with their natural hair. It’s either difficult to style or lacks length for versatile impressive hairstyles you can see there on Internet. The other problem is when your hair is getting extremely dry and brittle due to experiments with styling products and styling procedures. Sometimes the only way out in such cases is to have a short haircut and wait for the new healthy growth. Meanwhile the other puzzle that emerges is how to style your short natural hair so that it looks decent. Don’t worry, there are many fantastic stylish hairstyles for your short hair. Here we have collected 75 pictures of the classiest ones.
– Protective updos. They do not only look very stately, they also protect the delicate structure of your hair from the elements 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.
Check out the ideas below.
@sashabasha2
A twist-out is an easy natural hairstyle for short hair that African-American women can use to achieve full curls sans heat. It’s a popular protective style among the “naturalistas”. The style is easy to maintain, it 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, which are the most prone to breakage.
If you are blessed with curly hair and seek a low-maintenance hairstyle, try one of these short natural hairstyles for black women. The sharp lines of the razored sides and triangular sideburns are tomboyish 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 short natural hair, 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. Such a hairstyle looks best when you let the curls have a little bit of frizz, so don´t overuse any gels or hair creams.
@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, sassy style, ask for a taper or a fade on the back and sides and longer hair on top. To play up to your short natural hair, add in a bit of a flattering color like dark blonde, red or copper.
@korluhairartist
If you need a quick and easy protective style for your black, natural 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 women seeking natural African American hairstyles that 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
Here is one of the best hairstyles for short natural hair, especially if you want an updo to show off your curls. The upward braids draw the eye to those adorable twisted curls on top. It’s a snazzy hairstyle that can be worn with or without bangs.
@marshasjourney
For black women who are seeking traditional ways to wear their hair, it’s usually all about shaping. If keeping your curly locks protected is not your highest priority, try a tapered hairstyle for your curls. Show off your shiny, healthy hair as you grow it from a shorter to longer taper.
@kendrakenshay
Your naturally curly hair looks amazing when you leave your curls loose for all to see. To style short natural hair so the curls look neat and organized, go with an undercut that has shaved designs on the sides, and add in a glint of red highlights on the ends of the curls for a brighter look.
@sierracjohnsn
Some cute and simple natural hairstyles for black women rely on accessories – headscarves, bandanas, headbands, etc. This look is timeless, it’s versatile, and it’s vital for protecting natural hair. It’s also the perfect ‘do for those days when you simply don’t want to show off your hair.
Inverted cornrows, also known as Didi braids, are magical. Cornrows are ideal for natural hair anyway, especially for women who need a style that protects their hair. The inverse of this popular style looks as a fresh take on traditional cornrows. It showcases a similar sleekness, but the braids seem to be pressed into the hair.
Short natural curls don’t need much to look gorgeous, other than some hold and definition easily achieved with styling products. With this short length you probably won’t use some large accessories, but a couple of hair clips complimenting the texture of your hair will definitely add a lot.
Longer tapers are perfect for women who prefer to wear natural hairstyles for short hair with a big volume on top. Update it with babylights and add your favorite big earrings – the short sides let you show off your jewelry and beautiful Jawline.
@lovetriceyy
Vary the length and silhouette of your short afro using a taper and an undercut. This tapered cut with sharp sideburns blends femininity and edge for a modern look.
@missalexandrianicole
This stunning afro is all tight curls and high shine. At the time when women are embracing their natural hair more than ever, afros are absolutely in vogue, and with good reason. Embrace those curls!
Wear your hair in a short afro 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 style 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 particularly stunning for African American women.
@touchofheavensalon
This natural faux hawk is a work of art. It’s a perfect example of an intricate braided pattern composed of simple twists and zigzag parts. Look at those clear zigzags, the flawless lines, and the twisted curls. This ‘do has everything, and it’s quite short and comfortable to wear.
Let your loose curls breathe a sigh of relief when they’re fashioned into a feminine bob. Short natural hairstyles should be tailored to your face shape, hair type, and length. It’s not always about braided hairstyles 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.
The faux hawk is a popular style among women with natural hair 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.
It’s incredible how diverse a teeny weeny afro can be! Personalize yours with a hard deep side part and sleeked 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 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 strangers do a double take – so simple and so cute!
This twisted out ‘fro is fierce, fabulous, and fantastically easy to steal. A twist out lasts for days and every new day it looks a bit different, making everyone think you are making something new with your hair every day.
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 eye-catching and unique natural African American hairstyles, 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. Add some product for sheen and structure, but for the most part, this ‘do is low-maintenance and high glamour.
Love androgynous looks? Adore super short black natural hairstyles? Pick this one next time. Shaven in the back and on the sides, this style also embraces textured curls, resulting in a cute super short Mohawk. The curls are tight, flawlessly formed, and add just enough feminine edge to balance out the entire style.
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, black natural cut because it is just perfectly ordinary. No bangs, no braids, no highlighting, only you and your super short hair 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 cute hairstyles for black women don’t always have to involve 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.
For an easy style that you can dress up or dress down, short hair is where it’s at. All-one-length curls make for a classy, chic look that can go with just about anything. To make the style extra special, brush and pin hair back at the temples.
Natural short hairstyles don’t have to be completely natural. It’s more about natural texture — the color is totally up to you. This style is fun and bright. Plus the color blocking is a creative way to transition from black to blonde.
Short hair is on trend and super easy to manage. The nape undercut is subtle and decorative, yet when combined with highlighted natural curls, the contrast it creates is totally chic. This cute curly hairstyle is the perfect look for all occasions and all seasons.
@360_hairstudio
This wild curly style oozes sex appeal and confidence. Tapering the curls in the back with them growing longer in the front creates a bang-like effect that adds mystery to your look. If you are feeling bold, complement this look with the classic red lipstick and winged liner makeup for a daring appearance.
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 short hairstyle and enhance the bounce of longer hair on top!
@sweetstyles_naturals
Natural black hairstyles are all about embodying the natural beauty of African American hair. A tapered cut always looks put together while letting your texture thrive.
@deecarrington
If somebody is ever looking for a unique way to spruce up their natural hairstyles, the Mohawk is always the first place people turn. However, for those unwilling to make such a daring commitment, this chic alternative is perfect. It looks great with natural hair, and provides the edginess of a Mohawk while remaining fashionable.
She is killing it with that kinky hair. When you’re on the hunt for natural hair ideas, it can be easy to forget the classics in the search of something new. But the best idea might just be the classic, side-parted afro.
If you can’t pull your hair into a ponytail, pinning it into a Mohawk in the middle of your head allows to get it out of your face without trying to force it into a tiny bun or ponytail. Add in a parted design for a unique natural hairstyle for short hair. Or you can try making it more spiky.
What really makes this look special is how beautifully cinnamon red shade looks against her warm-toned skin. Ask your stylist what shade would help bring out your inner glow.
@kingdomofcurls_
Many hairstylists believe that every woman should go platinum at least once in their life. And here’s why: it will always be the classiest, chicest way to stand out. Platinum color looks gorgeous on natural hair because it’s even more unexpected.
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.
Short rounded bob gives a great shape to natural hair, and the side-swept variant flatters round faces perfectly. Style an effortless wash and go or finger coil the ends for playful defined curls.
@korluhairartist
Short, natural haircuts can be styled as creatively as longer hair. The side part with tree braids that direct hair to the sides give this short hair an extra air of elegance.
@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.
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. For those still skeptical about wearing natural black hairstyles, this is a quick way to add some pizazz to a simple afro.
Who says pinup styles are a thing of the past? Natural hair with a 50’s 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 natural curls atop and the smoothed sides is deliberately stylish.
This look has enough eye-catching elements, but they all come together to create one of the classiest natural 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.
The best way to keep your natural style up to par is with simple maintenance. Keeping your hair moisturized and trimmed is the most stylish thing you can do. Healthy hair looks best, and your curls look the nicest when they’re taken care of. This is one of the cutest short natural hairstyles for black women that showcases the importance of healthy hair.
This twisted look may seem impossible to achieve at first glance, but it’s actually much easier than you may think. Wrap your hair tightly around some straws or small flexirods, and sit under a dryer or let it air dry overnight; these tiny spirals are an excellent protective style for naturally curly hair. Pull them out and voila! Separate the curls for even more curls and body or let wear them tight and compact.
Shorter natural hairstyles for black women are versatile and universally-flattering once you’ve chosen a nice shape that suits your face and curl pattern. Tapered hairstyles flatter many women 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 natural 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. Add some color to your curls and give new life to your favorite short style.
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.
Elegant and feminine in its shape, this mohawk cut works with your beautiful, natural hair. The warm and vibrant color enhances the funky look of the cut. If you want to make a bold statement, then this fantastic hairstyle is just for you.
@dreamcutsbarberlounge
Take a moment to observe this beauty. Somehow the curls are both loose and soft as well as tight and structured. This style is effortlessly glamorous and fabulously casual. It’s the best of all worlds, indeed, and the silhouette is modern.
Faking an undercut is simplicity itself – do it with a few side braids. The braids and twists in this hairstyle definitely stand out, but the tawny, gorgeous profusion of curls is the real statement. This woman is fierce, and she knows it.
For a quick natural updo hairstyle, 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 transition from day-to-night with ease.
Individual braids are a go-to protective hairstyle for African American women, 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.
The best natural curls are ultra-moisturized. Curly hair should get regular doses of natural creams, butters, and oils. These products will not only have a positive impact on your hair health, but also help in styling.
Bobs are extremely popular among women of all ages, but for some reason, some naturalistas don’t think they can rock one with textured hair. Wrong! Natural hair can be bob-cut, benefiting particularly from varied layers.
@haircolorkilla
Just because you have a closely-cropped cut does not mean that you cannot experiment with your look as this natural hair style shows. 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 color and designs to keep the look fresh.
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
The refinement of many natural hair styles makes you look done. This beautiful cascading updo creates a visually interesting and dynamic look that uplifts any casual outfit. Pro tip — elongate the lifespan of your ‘do by protecting at night with large satin bonnets, or satin/silk pillow cases!
@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 short afro hairstyle can carry you easily from work to play.
It’s hard to pick out the most gorgeous aspect of this style. Like many short natural hairstyles, it highlights those stunning, all-natural curls, which are twisted and formed into flawless spirals. The color is on-point, too.
Short natural hair is intimidating to some women because, quite honestly, it requires confidence. Upgrade your curly ‘do with some sassy side bangs if you want a more feminine style in a short length!
@hautehairbylauren
The obsession with side parts hasn’t passed by natural hairstyles for short hair, and you see, the good old afro is getting a cool update. The edges may need some pomade or coconut oil.
A tapered hairstyle like this is great for all ages, and it’s current. Here is a wonderful example of how refined short natural hairdos are! A fool-proof, classic hairstyle is an impeccable accessory to your outfits, so choose it thoughtfully.
@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 search for something that is youthful and won’t take up a lot of styling time, flat twists are for you.
@touchofheavensalon
A subtle balayage is a smart color solution for short natural 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. Sweet and fragrant!
@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.
As you see short natural hair doesn’t set you any particular limitations. 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 styles!
Enter your email to get this picture to your inbox, and get other ideas you might like 💌
