There's no denying that short hair is having a moment. From the popular bob hairstyle to the trendy pixie cut, lots of us are contemplating getting the chop this summer. However, there's a common misconception that short hair is difficult to style in new ways, and whilst we admit there may be less to work with, short strands can boast a new style day after day.
If you lack options in your hairstyle wardrobe, chances are you just need a little inspiration to spark your next look. Ahead, we've rounded up some of the easiest hairstyles for short hair that'll make styling your short 'do simpler than ever.
16 Easy Hairstyles for Short Hair
1. The Retro Flip
A look that truly stands the test of time (an outward flip at the tips and a slicked side part), this '60s style always looks polished.
2. Modern Bob
A sleek bob with bent-in ends and a deep side part is the LBD of short hairstyles. It goes with everything and always works in a pinch. Remember this one the next time you're stuck on how to style your strands.
3. Textured Waves
You know those back-from-the-beach kind of textured waves? You can get them no matter where you are. Use a curling wand to get a bend from roots to ends and massage a healthy amount of texturising spray through your strands for that salty texture.
4. Sleek '60s Bob
This look is easy to achieve by straightening (whilst flipping the ends outward), creating a deep side part, and brushing away flyaways with your tool of choice.
5. Bejewelled Bob
Summon every hair clip, barrette and bedazzled bobby pin in your collection to recreate this blinged-out bob. Slick back one side and create a collage of accessories. Extra points if you can recreate this gorgeous wave, but TBH, when you have such an opulent spread on your head, nobody is looking at how well you curl your hair.
6. Face-Framing Braids
Part your hair down the centre and create two microbraids—one on each side—and say "hello" to your summer go-to. You're welcome.
7. Old-Hollywood Waves
The sultry, shiny, sculptural wave isn't exclusively reserved for waist-length strands. Contrary to vintage imagery, you can get the same voluminous curl with a chin-length cut.
8. Low Pony
When in doubt, a sleek low ponytail with a centre part is always a good idea. Finish it off with an oversized organza scrunchie, and watch as this look suddenly lands a recurring role in your hairstyle wardrobe.
9. Tousled Curtain Bangs
A fringe is a quick and easy way to elevate your short hairstyle. Whether you decide to wear your hair up or down, it will add a fashion-forward touch.
10. Voluminous Pixie
There are no words that adequately describe the cool factor of a voluminous pixie. A few products worked through your roots will make all the difference.
11. Clipped Back
We'll never not appreciate the versatility and ease of a claw clip. Casually gathering the top half in a single grab gives you a half-up je ne sais quoi that you could never get from a hair tie.
12. Simple Three-Strand Braid
A casual pony-braid hybrid will get you far and with little effort to boot. Remember this one the next day you're working with second- (or third-) day hair.
13. Embellished Coif
The beauty of having short hair is its fuss-free nature. If styling doesn't come naturally, a few jewelled clips will make you look polished in a snap.
14. Bouncy Blowout
Blowdry (or enlist the help of a professional) with a large round brush to get tons of volume and a soft bend in your hair.
15. Natural
If you're lucky enough to boast natural curls or coils, there really is no better hairstyle than your own texture.
16. The French-Girl Bandana
A floral handkerchief bandana oozes Parisian elegance.
The Best Products for Styling Shorter Hair
Whether you’re creating sleek pulled-back looks or soft waves, a hairspray that holds your strands in place all day is a must. We love this one by Aveda because it doesn’t give you that hard, crunchy feel.
The smaller size of this hot brush makes it a great option for shorter hairstyles. Plus, it's incredible at adding lasting volume to the hair.
A really good dry shampoo is the key to saving hair in a pinch, but we also love using it on clean strands to create a cool, lived-in texture. This one from Ouai also smells divine.
No hairstyle is complete without a healthy-looking shine. This multipurpose hair oil by Gisou is infused with sustainably sourced honey to moisturise, soften and smooth strands from roots to tips.
This hydrating cream from Bumble and Bumble will help to enhance natural waves and curls.
This summer's must-have hair accessory.