Curly hair can be a whole mood when it’s cut right. If you’ve been thinking about going shorter, but you’re worried your curls might misbehave, don’t stress. The right short haircut can bring out the best in your texture, whether you’ve got loose waves or tighter coils. Consider layers to keep your curls bouncy and light, or go for a tapered cut if you want definition and volume in all the right places. And don’t sleep on a good curl cream—proper product application is key to keeping frizz in check and curls popping.
Ready to find the perfect cut that fits your curl pattern and personal style? Check out these styles for major inspo and tips for your next salon visit!
#1 Trendy Short Curly Haircut
This chic and trendy short curly cut adds a playful edge with loose, defined curls that sit just at the ear. It’s great for women who love low-effort styling with high-impact results. Perfect for medium to thick curls, it offers a lightweight feel while still keeping a bit of volume at the crown. Works well with a curl mousse or light gel to lock in shape.
#2 Short Haircut with Curly Hair
This short curly style strikes the perfect balance between structured and free-form curls. The volume sits nicely around the crown, with minimal length on the sides. It’s best for naturally curly hair types that need a bit of bounce without being weighed down. A great option for active women who want wash-and-go ease.
#3 Short Curly Mullet
A bold take on the curly mullet, this cut features short, voluminous layers on top that transition into a slightly tapered back. Perfect for naturally curly hair, it enhances texture while keeping length in the back for a playful, edgy feel. This look works best for oval and heart-shaped faces and adds lift for finer hair types. However, regular shaping is needed to maintain its structure. Use Ouidad Curl Quencher Styling Gel for frizz-free definition and a diffuser attachment to boost volume.
#4 Pixie for Curly Hair
A curly pixie is a fantastic option for women who love short hair but want to maintain some texture and movement. This style features short, tapered sides with soft, tousled curls on top that add volume and dimension. It’s ideal for women with naturally curly hair and suits round and oval face shapes beautifully. While this cut is easy to style, curls need hydration to stay defined—try DevaCurl SuperCream for moisture and bounce.
#5 Short Curly Fine Hair
Fine-haired girls, this one’s for you! This short curly cut is designed with lightweight layers to create the illusion of fuller, bouncier curls. The soft, side-swept curls frame the face beautifully, making it great for oval and heart-shaped faces. However, without the right products, fine curls can lose their shape—try Moroccanoil Curl Defining Cream to lock in moisture and volume.
#6 Short Wavy Curly Haircut
This cut blends waves and curls beautifully, creating a tousled, effortless look. The layered structure adds dimension, making it a fantastic choice for those with naturally wavy or curly hair. It’s easy to style with a bit of Bumble and Bumble Curl Reactivator Spray and a scrunching technique. The downside? It may require more frequent styling to keep the shape looking fresh.
#7 Short Thick Curly Hair
Managing thick curls can be a challenge, but this short cut helps shape the volume while keeping curls defined. The layers remove bulk while maintaining movement, making it ideal for round and square face shapes. Hydration is key—use SheaMoisture Curl & Style Milk to keep curls moisturized and frizz-free.
#8 Layered Messy Bob with Curls
This layered messy bob is all about effortless curls with plenty of volume and movement. The choppy layers enhance curl definition while preventing bulk, making it a great choice for medium to thick curly hair. Ideal for oval and heart-shaped faces, this cut offers a relaxed, undone feel that requires minimal styling. A touch of Verb Curl Foaming Gel keeps curls defined without stiffness. The downside? Layers may need trimming every 6-8 weeks to maintain shape.
#9 Loose Curly Short Hair
For those who love a more relaxed curl pattern, this cut keeps curls loose and bouncy while maintaining natural volume. The soft layers prevent the style from looking too structured, making it perfect for a carefree, airy look. Best suited for medium to fine curly hair, this cut enhances curl shape without adding bulk. A little Ouidad Advanced Climate Control Featherlight Styling Cream keeps curls soft and frizz-free.
#10 Short Curls for Oval Faces
A perfect match for oval face shapes, this short curly cut balances volume while softly framing the face. The rounded layers add structure without overwhelming natural curl patterns, making it a low-maintenance choice for naturally curly-haired women. A bit of Mizani True Textures Curl Define Pudding enhances definition while keeping curls soft. The downside? It may require occasional shaping to maintain the rounded look.
#11 Short Curly Cut with Shaved Sides
For a bold, edgy style, this short curly cut with shaved sides creates contrast between volume and sleekness. The top curls add height and shape, making it a great option for those who love dramatic yet easy-to-maintain hairstyles. This style works best on thick curly hair and is a fantastic way to embrace natural texture with a modern twist. Try Cantu Coconut Curling Cream to keep curls hydrated and bouncy.
#12 Short Curly Hair for Women Over 60
This short curly hairstyle is a fantastic choice for women over 60 looking for volume and elegance. The structured layers lift the curls, adding fullness without making the style feel heavy. Ideal for fine to medium hair types, this cut enhances natural curls while keeping maintenance low. A light application of Paul Mitchell Sculpting Foam ensures soft hold and definition without stiffness. The only downside? Regular shaping is needed to maintain volume.
#13 Short Choppy Curly Haircut
This short choppy curly haircut is all about volume and movement, thanks to its lightweight layers. The textured cut enhances natural curls while giving an effortlessly tousled finish. Best suited for fine to medium curly hair, this style helps create body without weighing curls down. For added definition, use Ouidad Advanced Climate Control Featherlight Styling Cream and scrunch with a microfiber towel. The only downside? It may require a quick refresh with a curl mist in the mornings.
#14 Short 3B Curly Hair
This stunning short haircut embraces 3B curls with its layered shape that enhances definition and bounce. The structured yet airy layers keep volume controlled, making it ideal for medium to thick hair types. If your curls need extra hydration, try SheaMoisture Curl Enhancing Smoothie for moisture and definition. The main upkeep? Keeping curls hydrated to prevent shrinkage and frizz.
#15 Chin-Length Curly Haircut
A chin-length curly cut is perfect for those wanting a classic shape that frames the face beautifully. The rounded layering adds dimension and lift, preventing curls from looking too heavy. Great for all curl types, but especially flattering for oval and heart-shaped faces. To keep curls soft yet structured, use Mizani True Textures Curl Define Pudding for hold without crunch. The downside? This length can shrink up more than expected—consider stretching curls with a diffuser if needed.
#16 Low-Maintenance Short Curly Haircut
This low-maintenance short curly cut is designed for effortless styling. The soft layers shape the curls naturally without needing too much daily upkeep. Ideal for those who prefer wash-and-go styles, this cut works best for medium-density curls. A little Pattern Leave-In Conditioner keeps curls hydrated, while a quick scrunch with Curlsmith Moisture Memory Reactivator revives curls on non-wash days.
#17 Short Haircut for 2C Curly Hair
Designed for 2C curls, this short haircut keeps the waves soft and defined without sacrificing structure. The length just grazes the jawline, adding bounce while avoiding frizz. This style works well for those whose curls sit between wavy and curly, offering control and movement. A lightweight curl-enhancing cream is all you need to make it shine.
#18 Short Curly Haircut for Black Women
This stylish curly cut is tailored for Black women with natural curls, focusing on definition and volume. The shape stays compact yet lively, keeping curls soft and bouncy. It’s a wash-and-go style that thrives with the right moisturizing product. Perfect for those who want a bold, natural look with minimal styling time.
#19 Short Curly Haircut for Round Faces
This short curly cut is tailored for round faces, adding height at the crown to elongate the face and prevent it from looking too full. The soft curls give a flattering shape without creating too much volume on the sides. Great for women who want a low-maintenance, face-framing style that doesn’t overpower their natural curls.
#20 Natural Curls with Short Layers
These natural curls are elevated with short layers to prevent heaviness, giving the haircut a light and airy feel. Layers keep the shape defined and help curls maintain their bounce. This cut works wonders on thicker, denser curls that need some shape control without losing volume. A bit of leave-in conditioner is all it takes to keep the curls happy.
#21 Short Curly Haircut for Women with Glasses
A perfect blend of playful curls and practicality, this short haircut complements glasses effortlessly. The round shape frames the face neatly, while the curly bangs soften the overall look. Ideal for women with finer curls, it adds just the right amount of volume without becoming overwhelming. A touch of curl mousse keeps it bouncy and frizz-free throughout the day.
#22 Asymmetrical Short Curly Haircut
This asymmetrical curly cut brings some excitement with uneven lengths, creating a bold, eye-catching shape. It’s perfect for those who like to keep things playful and different. Works best with looser curls or waves that don’t mind being styled a little differently on each side. A fun cut for women who enjoy standing out.
#23 Short Shaggy Haircut for Curly Hair
This shaggy cut brings texture and layers to the forefront, giving curly hair a bit of an edge. The curls are left loose and carefree, creating a fun, tousled look. Best for medium to thick hair that needs some shape but can handle the volume. Great for those who want a playful, lived-in style.
#24 Short Curly Hairstyle for Women Over 50
This short curly cut has plenty of shape and definition, making it a fantastic pick for women over 50 who love embracing their natural curls. The length hits just above the ear, adding volume without making the hair feel too heavy. This look works best with salt-and-pepper curls, adding a touch of elegance.
#25 Short Curly Haircut with Curtain Bangs
This curly cut pairs soft curtain bangs with short, defined curls for a look that feels both modern and effortless. The bangs help frame the face while giving some extra character. It’s a great option for those looking to switch things up without committing to a full fringe.
#26 Short Bob for Natural Curls
This playful bob emphasizes natural curl definition with layers that fall just above the shoulders. It’s a versatile cut, ideal for embracing the curl pattern while keeping bulk under control. Works wonders on naturally curly hair with a bit of product to keep frizz in check.
#27 Short Curly Hairstyle for Women
This chin-grazing curly cut offers simple elegance with minimal fuss. It’s perfect for busy women who want to maintain a neat, chic look. The curls fall naturally into place, creating a fuller, more defined style. Best for those with high curl density who want easy styling but still appreciate shape and structure.
#28 Short Bob for Curly Hair
This curly bob cut stops right above the chin, making it a great match for those with thicker curls. The shape adds definition and controls bulk, ensuring the hair stays polished and not overwhelming. It’s perfect for square or round faces that need some light framing without going overboard on volume.
#29 Short Curly Haircut with Bangs
This curly cut adds some playful bangs, blending them naturally with the rest of the curls. The short length ensures easy care, while the bangs soften the forehead and highlight the eyes. Perfect for finer curls, it keeps a casual, laid-back shape with just enough structure. Minimal frizz with the right curl products makes it a win.
#30 Short Curly Haircut
This soft, chin-length curly cut is playful yet practical. The curls frame the face beautifully, adding lift and volume around the cheeks, making it perfect for oval and heart-shaped faces. It’s ideal for women with medium-density hair, offering natural movement without too much maintenance. This style thrives on mousse or curl cream to keep those spirals bouncy.
#31 Spirabob Cut
The spirabob is a curly twist on the classic bob, with structured layers that enhance the natural curl pattern. This cut is ideal for those with tight curls who want definition without losing shape. The volume is evenly distributed, making it great for round and square face shapes. Use Bounce Curl Light Hold Crème Gel for definition and light hold without stiffness. One thing to note—regular trims are key to keeping the bob’s structured shape.
#32 Fluffara Cut
The fluffara cut is all about embracing volume while keeping curls lightweight and soft. The airy layers create movement without making the style feel bulky, making it perfect for medium to thick curls. This cut works well on all face shapes, but especially complements oval and long faces. To style, use Briogeo Curl Charisma Leave-In Defining Crème for a lightweight hold with moisture. The only con? It can require a refresh with dry shampoo or a curl mist to maintain its airy feel.
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