42 Trending Short Curly Hairstyles For Women(2023 Guide)

Are you a woman looking for a new stylish, and effortless hairstyle? Consider trying out a short curly hairstyle! Short curly hairstyles for women offer a great way to add texture and volume to your hair without putting in too much effort.

These hairstyles can be worn in various ways, from polished curls to messy bedhead looks. They are also versatile, allowing you to create multiple looks. Whether you want to make a statement or just want to keep things simple, a short curly hairstyle is perfect for you.

Today’s guide will look at the 42 best short curly hairstyles for different styles and textures. All you need to do now is pick a style you like and take it to your hairstylist for styling. 

How to Style Short Curly Hairstyles?

  • Start with clean, damp hair: Wash your hair with a moisturizing shampoo and conditioner for curly hair. Gently squeeze out excess water with a microfiber towel or an old t-shirt.
  • Apply a leave-in conditioner: Apply a small amount of leave-in conditioner to your damp hair, focusing on the ends and areas prone to dryness. This will help keep your curls hydrated and defined.
  • Use a wide-tooth comb or your fingers to detangle: Starting from the ends, use a wide-tooth comb or your fingers to gently detangle your curls. Avoid using a brush, as it can disrupt the curl pattern and cause frizz.
  • Apply a curl-enhancing product: Take a curl-enhancing product, such as a curl cream or gel, and rub it between your palms to distribute it evenly. Flip your head upside down and scrunch the product into your hair, starting from the ends and working your way up towards the roots.
  • Scrunch your hair: With your hands cupped, gently scrunch your hair upward towards your scalp to encourage curl formation. Repeat this scrunching motion all over your hair.
  • Air-dry or diffuse: Let your hair air-dry for a more natural look. If you prefer more volume, attach a diffuser to your blow dryer and set it on low heat and low airflow. Use the diffuser to lift your curls at the roots and gently dry your hair, scrunching as you go.
  • Refine and shape your curls: Once your hair is dry, you can use your fingers to separate and define individual curls. If desired, you can also use a small curling iron to touch up any sections that need more definition, but be cautious not to overuse heat styling tools to avoid damage.
  • Finish with a light-hold hairspray: To set your curls and prevent frizz, mist your hair with a light-hold hairspray. Hold the can about 10-12 inches away from your head and spray evenly.

Short Curly Hairstyles For Women

42 Trending Short Curly Hairstyles For Women

  1. A Simple Up-do

A Simple Up-do Short Curly

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Short curly hair is just as capable of getting pinned into a cute updo as long hair is. To achieve the look in the image above, gather and tie all your hair strands in the back, but leave some wavy front layers falling in the front.

  1. A Sharp Side Part

A Sharp Side Part

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A sharp side like the above will easily elevate a wet look from just showered to the ready red carpet. If you opt for this short curly hairstyle, the trick here is to apply just the right amount of hair oil to your dry hair, and you’ll attain the look.

  1. Bedhead Hairstyle

Bedhead Hairstyle

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Did you think that bedhead hairstyles only apply to long hair locks? We’ll think again because the image above proves that nothing could be further from the truth. You can add some pomade or wax to give your curls some texture to get a bedhead hairstyle on your short curly hair.

The resulting look should be, “I woke up like this.”

  1. Short Curly Hair Pulled Back

Short Curly Hair Pulled Back

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Few things can be prettier than short curly hair romantically pulled back and secured with a sparkly rhinestone clip. Feel free to add some highlights to the end of your hair’s strands if you’d like to turn some heads around wherever you go.

  1. Light Layering Techniques

Light Layering Techniques

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To attain this soft wavy look, ask your barber or hairstylist for some light layering at the bottom section of your hairline. This hairstyle is suitable for all face shapes because it’s almost medium-length rather than extremely short.

  1. Golden Glow

Golden Glow

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Whoever lied that hair color does not matter has never seen the power of the golden color. This is particularly true when the shade is aired with brighter skin complexions or nude makeup choices. So, try out this short haircut for your curly hair with an entirely new color palette, and you’ll see how successfully it turns out.

  1. Loose Curls

Loose Curls

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Asking for layered and loose curls for your short hair is less than a step away from reaching stardom in fashion designs – particularly when you have loose curls that fit perfectly in any short curly cut.

  1. Afro

Afro

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An afro like the one above is a refreshing silhouette that not most women are willing to try. Most people know that the tighter the hair texture, the better the afro is likely to turn out.

Why? Well, because one needs extra volume to get the full-on bobby effect. Another thing worth noting is that this haircut best goes with oval or round face shapes.

  1. Angled Cut

Angled Cut

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The key to this hairstyle is the angle that enables the lady’s hair locks to look elongated forward while still keeping the face centralized. To top it off, you won’t have to fear messy hair. Nowadays, having messy hair is an ‘in’ and no longer a flaw.

  1. Au Naturel

Au Naturel

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Sometimes, going out with your short natural curls is all you ought to do. Note, though, that this option works best for everyday strolls and casual occasions. This means you may need to pick something different if you’re trying to find a women’s short curly hairstyle for formal events.

  1. It’s All About The Frizz

It’s All About The Frizz

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Some people think frizzy curls are the only variation that can scream young and beyond attractive. The truth is that more curls can lead to better results. Take the hint and run with it.

  1. Hair Products are Always an Option

Hair Products are Always an Option

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The best curly fairies do not appear as perfect and flawless as quickly as one may think. Sometimes you will need to meddle and give your hair a slight boost with some hair products. This is no different than taking an energy drink on sleepless nights.

  1. Messy

Messy

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As noted earlier, messy hairstyles are not in style and are trendy. That’s because individuals worldwide are becoming lazier, making this effortless hairstyle for short and curly hair a viral option.

  1. Cute Chopped Bob

Cute Chopped Bob

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Choosing to chop off your curls randomly will, without a doubt, create an eye-grabbing appeal and unique texture. That’s because when it’s random, it becomes different and exciting, unlike what everybody else is doing. That’s what you should be opting for with this variation of short curly hairstyles.

  1. Short Curly Hair with Highlights

Short Curly Hair with Highlights

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Adding a little flare is all you need to make your short curly hair catchy and exceptional. To do this, you could try highlighting a small section of your hair and enjoy your limited time in the spotlight.

  1. Up in a Bun

Up in a Bun

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“Almost medium” length hair can also be holstered up into a fan when the weather in your area is hotter than usual. By doing this, your curls will still retain their frizz while at the same time allowing your neck to be airy and hair-free.

  1. Shiny and silky waves

 shiny and silky waves

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Does preparing for work 1st thing every morning usually end up running out of your home with everything out of proportion? This hairstyle should make things easy for you. Since short and curly hair has a seductive texture, you can opt for this “I just rolled out of bed” look and still look amazing.

  1. Neck Length Bob

Neck Length Bob

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Short curly hairstyles don’t necessarily mean pixies or ear-length cuts. If you do not have the heart to let go of your long hair but would still like to style a short hairstyle, you could always pick a mediocre cut and save time on styling or maintenance.

  1. Freestyling Hairstyle

Freestyling Hairstyle

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When you aren’t sure of the intensity of curls you desire or the hair length you’d like, you could freestyle your way and see how everything turns out. You could make your look come to life (just like the lady in the image above.)

  1. Curly Pixie Cuts

Curly Pixie Cuts

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This variation of short curly hairstyles for women is not for the weak-hearted. That’s because it’s a daring move to execute this drastic change while not sure of how the final look might turn out.

  1. Side Bangs

Side Bangs

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If you are not a fan of Mohawks or side-swept undercuts, side bangs may be the right choice for your needs. Even though these were a great hit back in the day, that does not necessarily mean that they cannot be as stylish in the present.

  1. Slightly Wet

Slightly Wet hairstyle

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This hairstyle works best for ladies who hate it when their hair strands dry and start floating all over the place. Give it a try, and apply mousse to your hair after washing to keep the wet appeal.

  1. Adorned Curls

Adorned Curls

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Were you scouring the internet looking for the best short curly hairstyle that doubles up as the best haircut to sport while getting married? If you did, these adorned curls could be precisely what you are looking for.

  1. Slightly Asymmetrical

Slightly Asymmetrical

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You could think a bit out of the box when everyone else is going for short curly bobs. If you’re a newbie and are still afraid of making drastic changes to your current style, you could try this asymmetrical bob out.

  1. Faux Curls

Faux Curls

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Are you a lady with straight hair craving swirls and curls for your next hairstyle? Then you’re in luck. All you’ll need to do is head out and ask your hairstylist to award you some hair extensions or faux curls that you can set aside and groom beforehand.

  1. Ideal Curls

Ideal Curls

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Adding idealistic twists to your already curly hair is one of the best decisions you could make today. Doesn’t the lady in the image above look super stunning?

  1. Red Ringlet Curls

Red Ringlet Curls

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Why stick to your natural hair color when you can easily experiment with something attention-grabbing or bold (like these red ringlet curls)?

  1. Cute Curly Pixie Crop

Cute Curly Pixie Crop

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If you are looking for a girly and cute way to manage curly hair, why not consider awarding yourself a pixie crop like the one in the above image?

  1. Short Curly Hair with Blonde Highlights

Short Curly Hair with Blonde Highlights

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Let your short curly hair stand out for all the right reasons, and make a statement by adding some blonde highlights.

  1. Tapered and Short Curls

Tapered and Short Curls

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For a no-nonsense and fashion-forward take on short curly hairstyles, wear your curls long on the top and then have them tapered and cut short into your neck.

  1. Short Curly Bob with Side Swept Fringe

Short Curly Bob with Side Swept Fringe

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This curly bob, coupled with a side-swept fringe, is the perfect hairstyle to help you make the most of your curly hair without spending many hours styling or maintaining it.

  1. Half Shaved Hairdo

Half Shaved Hairdo

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Nothing can complete a short curly pixie haircut like shaving one side of your head. It will undoubtedly add a distinct dimension to your face (not to mention the edgy detail.)

  1. Ponytail with Red Highlights

Ponytail with Red Highlights

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When all you need is your short curly hair out of the way, you can always gather it in a cute ponytail and secure it using a bandana or contrasting ribbon. Topping off the hairstyle with red highlights wouldn’t be bad, either.

  1. Thick, Short Natural Curls

Thick Short Natural Curls

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This short haircut for ladies with thick natural curls is shaped and resembles the Mohawk. It’s broader and chicer.

  1. Grey Short Curly Hair

Grey Short Curly Hair

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You will find that you do not mind your grey hair much when you realize how great the color will look on thin or thick curly hair.

  1. Short Curly Blonde Hair

Short Curly Blonde Hair

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Even someone super stylish as Marilyn Monroe would approve of how this hairstyle makes the blonde curls look extra bouncy. While they are not platinum blonde, these golden curls are just as stunning.

  1. Short, Curly Brown Hair

Short Curly Brown Hair

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Particularly good on oval faces, this bob should stop at the jawline and can also be filled with curls that make the chestnut brown hair enviable. To cut down unmanageable hair, add layers.

  1. Short, Thin Curly Hair

Short Thin Curly Hair

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Help your thin curls appear more shapely and lush b using your favorite hair product to plump them up. Topping it off with a side part should switch up the shape of your face while simultaneously styling the overall look.

  1. Short Curly Hairstyle for Ladies Over 50

Short Curly Hairstyle for Ladies Over 50

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Are you over 50 years old and looking for a low-maintenance haircut? Why not go super short, like the pixie length, and then use some mouse to shape the curls? A side part like the one above should be able to help switch up your face’s dimensions.

  1. Short Layered Curly Hairstyle

Short Layered Curly Hairstyle

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Layering your hair is one of the quickest ways to tame your short curly hair. Rather than maintaining a frizzy shapeless blob, your hair will look and have a healthy shape.

  1. Short Curly Hairstyle for Round Faces

Short Curly Hairstyle for Round Faces

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Ladies with round faces will appreciate the way short curly bobs frame their faces.

  1. Short Curly Hairstyle for Black Ladies

Short Curly Hairstyle for Black Ladies

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One fantastic way to make your short curly hair more manageable is to keep it short and chin-length. This proper level will result in healthy curls and is guaranteed to frame your face even more beautiful. Looks exceptionally cute on black ladies.

FAQs

1. How do I style short curly hair?

Styling short curly hair is all about embracing your natural texture. Start with a hydrating and curl-enhancing product, such as a leave-in conditioner or curl cream. Apply the product to damp hair and scrunch your curls to enhance their shape.

You can let your hair air dry or use a diffuser to speed up the drying process. Avoid brushing or combing your curls, as it can cause frizz. Instead, use your fingers to gently separate and define your curls. For extra hold, you can use a lightweight hairspray or mousse.

2. Can I straighten my short curly hair?

You can straighten your short curly hair if you want to switch up your look. However, keep in mind that frequent heat styling can cause damage to your hair. Use a heat protectant spray before using any hot tools to protect your curls.

It’s also essential to use a high-quality flat iron or curling iron with adjustable heat settings. Start with a low heat setting and gradually increase the temperature if needed. After straightening, use a nourishing hair mask or conditioner to restore moisture.

3. How often should I wash my short curly hair?

The frequency of washing your short curly hair depends on your hair type and preference. Some people with curly hair find that washing their hair less often helps maintain moisture and prevent frizz.

As a general guideline, you can wash your short curly hair 2-3 times a week. However, if your scalp tends to get oily or you engage in activities that make your hair sweaty or dirty, you may need to wash it more frequently. Experiment with different washing schedules to find what works best for you and your curls.

4. How can I prevent frizz in my short curly hair?

Frizz is a common concern for people with curly hair, but there are steps you can take to minimize it. First, keep your hair hydrated using a moisturizing shampoo and conditioner specifically designed for curly hair. Avoid towel-drying your hair vigorously, as it can create friction and lead to frizz.

Instead, gently squeeze out excess water with a microfiber towel or an old cotton t-shirt. Applying a leave-in conditioner or a serum can help lock in moisture and smooth down the hair cuticle, reducing frizz. Lastly, avoid touching your hair too much throughout the day, as it can disrupt your curl pattern and cause frizz.

5. Can I dye my short curly hair?

Yes, you can dye your short curly hair to change its color or add highlights. However, it’s important to take extra care when coloring curly hair, as it can be more prone to damage. If you’re dyeing your hair at home, follow the instructions carefully and choose a hair dye specifically formulated for curly hair.

If you’re unsure or want to achieve a more complex color, it’s best to consult a professional hairstylist who has experience working with curly hair. They can assess the condition of your hair and recommend the best coloring technique and products for your desired result.

6. How can I protect my short curly hair while sleeping?

Consider investing in a satin or silk pillowcase to protect your short curly hair while sleeping. Unlike cotton, satin, and silk are smoother and create less friction, reducing the risk of frizz and breakage.

You can also tie your hair up in a loose pineapple or use a satin or silk bonnet or scarf to keep your curls intact. Additionally, applying a leave-in conditioner or oil before bed can help keep your hair moisturized and prevent dryness and frizz. Experiment with different sleep routines and find what works best for you and your curls.