Introduction
Tired of struggling to style your curly hair every morning? Many women with naturally curly or wavy hair face the challenge of finding flattering cuts that enhance their texture rather than fighting against it. Short curly hairstyles offer the perfect solution, combining manageable length with stunning volume and definition that celebrates your natural beauty.
These 18 trendy short curly hairstyles will transform your look this season with styles that are both chic and easy to maintain. From pixie cuts to textured bobs, each style is designed to work with your natural curl pattern, saving you time while maximizing your hair’s potential. As a hairstylist specializing in curly hair textures for over a decade, I’ve seen firsthand how the right cut can revolutionize a client’s confidence and daily routine.
In this comprehensive guide, you’ll discover why short curly hairstyles are trending right now, how to choose the perfect style for your face shape and curl type, essential styling tips for each look, and expert advice on maintenance. Whether you’re ready for a dramatic chop or just want to refresh your current style, these options will inspire your next salon visit.
Table of Contents
Why Short Curly Hairstyles
Short curly hairstyles have exploded in popularity because they solve multiple problems while delivering maximum style impact. Here’s why you should consider going short with your curls this season:
- Enhances natural curl definition: Shorter length means less weight pulling down your curls, allowing them to spring up with more bounce and definition than ever before
- Reduces styling time dramatically: Wake up with great hair by simply scrunching in a curl cream—no more hour-long styling sessions or complicated routines
- Perfect for all seasons and occasions: From casual weekends to professional settings, short curly styles transition effortlessly while keeping you cool in summer and cozy in winter
- Minimizes damage and breakage: Less length means healthier ends, reduced tangling, and fewer opportunities for heat damage or mechanical stress on your delicate curls
- Incredibly versatile styling options: Despite being short, these cuts offer surprising variety—wear them sleek, voluminous, pinned back, or accessorized for completely different looks
- Low-maintenance yet high-impact: Short curly hairstyles require fewer products, less detangling, and simpler wash routines while still turning heads wherever you go
Choosing the Right Short Curly Hairstyle
Selecting the perfect short curly hairstyle requires understanding your unique curl pattern, face shape, and lifestyle needs. Not all cuts work equally well for every curl type or facial structure.
Best Styles for Your Curl Type
Understanding your curl pattern is essential for choosing a flattering short hairstyle. Type 2 waves work beautifully with textured bobs and shags that add movement without overwhelming finer textures. Type 3 curls—the classic spiral curls—thrive in graduated bobs, layered pixies, and chin-length cuts that showcase their natural spring and dimension.
Type 4 coils and tight curls shine in tapered cuts, rounded shapes, and styles that celebrate their unique texture and volume. Consider how much shrinkage your curl type experiences; tighter curls may need additional length to achieve your desired finished look. Working with your natural curl pattern rather than against it ensures your style looks effortless and feels authentic to your hair’s personality.
Face Shape Considerations
Your face shape plays a crucial role in determining which short curly hairstyle will be most flattering. Round faces benefit from styles with height on top and tapered sides, such as curly pixies or asymmetrical cuts that create the illusion of length. Oval faces are lucky—almost any short curly style works beautifully, from blunt bobs to wispy pixies.
Square faces soften with rounded cuts and side-swept bangs that counterbalance angular jawlines, while heart-shaped faces look stunning with chin-length bobs that add width at the jawline. Long faces should avoid excessive height and instead opt for fuller, wider styles like voluminous bobs or cuts with side-parted curls. Always consult with a curl-specialized stylist who can assess your unique features and recommend the most complementary options.
18 Trendy Short Curly Hairstyles to Try This Season
#1 Short and Curly Round Haircut with Fringe
This adorable style features a rounded silhouette that frames the face beautifully while showcasing natural curl texture. The fringe adds a youthful, playful element that softens the forehead and draws attention to your eyes. This cut works exceptionally well for those with Type 3 curls who want volume without excessive length. The rounded shape is achieved through strategic layering that maintains fullness throughout while the fringe can be styled forward or swept to the side depending on your mood. It’s perfect for oval and heart-shaped faces and requires minimal styling—just scrunch and go for effortless everyday chic.
#2 One-Length Curly Graduated Bob Cut
The graduated bob brings timeless sophistication to curly hair with its slightly longer front pieces that gracefully angle toward the face. This one-length approach creates a clean, polished silhouette while allowing curls to spring freely without competing layers. The graduation—where the back is slightly shorter than the front—adds subtle dimension and prevents the dreaded triangle shape many curly-haired women fear. This style suits professional environments beautifully and transitions seamlessly from office to evening events. It works particularly well for medium-density Type 2B to 3A curls and complements most face shapes, especially square and rectangular faces needing softness around the jawline.
#3 Deeply Side-Parted Curly Cut
Drama meets elegance in this deeply side-parted style that sweeps voluminous curls dramatically to one side. The exaggerated part creates asymmetry that’s incredibly flattering and adds instant sophistication to your look. This styling approach works with various lengths from pixie to bob and emphasizes your best features by drawing the eye across your face diagonally. The heavy side with more volume balances beautifully with the lighter side, creating visual interest and dimension. This style particularly suits round and square faces by adding angles and movement. Use a strong-hold gel on the shorter side to keep it sleek while allowing the fuller side to showcase maximum curl definition and volume.
#4 Big Curls for Short Tresses
Maximize your curl’s natural volume with this style that celebrates big, bouncy ringlets on shorter hair. This look is all about hydration and definition—well-moisturized curls spring into gorgeously plump spirals that command attention. The key is cutting curls while dry to ensure they fall at the perfect length when they spring up. This style works beautifully for Type 3B and 3C curls that have natural volume and definition. Use a generous amount of curl-enhancing cream and diffuse with your head flipped upside down to create even more volume. The result is a head full of touchable, dimensional curls that feel as amazing as they look and work wonderfully for special occasions or everyday glamour.
#5 Curly Red Ringlets
Turn heads with vibrant red color combined with perfectly defined ringlets in this show-stopping short style. The rich red tones—from copper to auburn to burgundy—add incredible dimension to curly hair, making each ringlet pop with light and depth. Curls naturally catch and reflect light differently than straight hair, so color appears more multidimensional and dynamic. This style works for chin-length to shoulder-grazing cuts and requires excellent curl definition through proper cutting and styling techniques. Use color-safe, sulfate-free products to maintain vibrancy, and deep condition weekly to keep colored curls healthy and bouncy. This bold look suits confident personalities and works beautifully for medium to high-density curls of any type.
#6 Voluminous Frizzy Chin-Length Curls
Embrace the beauty of texture with this voluminous, intentionally frizzy style that celebrates natural curls without obsessing over perfect definition. This modern approach to curly hair accepts and enhances the halo of texture that naturally occurs, creating a soft, romantic, and effortlessly cool aesthetic. The chin-length cut provides enough weight to prevent excessive volume while still allowing beautiful curl movement. This style works particularly well for Type 2C and 3A curls with a naturally fluffy texture. Style by applying minimal product and air-drying or diffusing with minimal manipulation. The result is a carefree, beachy vibe that’s perfect for casual settings and low-maintenance lifestyles while still looking intentionally styled and fashion-forward.
#7 Modern Short and Curly Grey Hair
Silver, grey, and white curls create a stunning statement in this sophisticated short style that proves transitioning to natural grey is absolutely gorgeous. The modern approach to grey curly hair emphasizes shine, health, and excellent cut quality rather than hiding your natural color. Short cuts showcase the beautiful silver tones while making hair appear thicker and healthier than longer lengths might. This style works for all curl types and typically features some layering to enhance texture and movement. Purple-toning shampoos keep grey curls bright and eliminate brassiness, while extra moisture combats the dryness that can accompany grey hair. This confident, age-positive style suits women embracing their natural beauty at any age.
#8 Jaw-Length Curls with a Side Parting
This classic yet contemporary style features jaw-length curls with a flattering side part that adds elegance and sophistication. The jaw-length cut is universally flattering, highlighting your best features while providing enough length for versatility in styling. The side part creates natural volume at the crown and allows curls to cascade beautifully around your face, framing it with soft, feminine texture. This style works exceptionally well for Type 2B to 3B curls and suits most face shapes, particularly oval and heart-shaped faces. The length is perfect for those transitioning from longer hair to shorter styles, offering a comfortable middle ground. Style by applying curl cream to damp hair, creating your part, and diffusing or air-drying for polished, professional-looking curls.
#9 Short Ringlets with Bangs
Playful and youthful, this style combines tight, bouncy ringlets with curly bangs that add personality and frame the face beautifully. The bangs can be cut to eyebrow length or slightly shorter, depending on your preference and curl tightness—remember that curls will spring up significantly when dry. This style works magnificently for Type 3B and 3C curls with natural ringlet formation. The combination of short length and bangs creates a vintage-inspired look with modern appeal. Styling requires good curl definition products and careful diffusing to encourage ringlet formation without frizz. The bangs may need daily refreshing with a spray bottle and curl cream, but the overall effect is worth the minimal extra effort for this charming, distinctive look.
#10 Corkscrew Curly Haircut for Black Women
Celebrate tight, springy corkscrew curls with this tailored cut designed specifically for Type 4A and 4B hair textures. This style typically features a rounded or tapered shape that showcases the beautiful natural texture while maintaining a polished, intentional appearance. The cut should be performed on dry hair to account for shrinkage and ensure proper proportions. This versatile style can be worn in its natural state, stretched for a different look, or accessorized with headbands and clips. Moisture is essential—use leave-in conditioners, curl creams, and oils to keep these tighter curls hydrated and defined. This empowering style celebrates natural Black hair texture and requires a stylist experienced with curly and coily hair for best results.
#11 Perfect Ringlets for a Bob Cut
This polished style features immaculately defined ringlets in a classic bob shape that exudes sophistication and elegance. Achieving “perfect” ringlets requires proper cutting technique—each curl should be cut individually while dry to maintain optimal spring and shape. The bob length, typically between chin and shoulder, provides ideal weight distribution for ringlet formation without dragging curls down. This style works beautifully for Type 3A to 3C curls and requires quality styling products including a curl-enhancing cream and strong-hold gel. Apply products to soaking wet hair using the “scrunch and pump” method, then diffuse with low heat. Once completely dry, scrunch out the gel cast for soft, touchable, perfectly formed ringlets that last for days.
#12 Side-Parted Caramel Balayage Curls
Add sun-kissed dimension to your short curly hair with caramel balayage highlights that create depth and movement. The hand-painted balayage technique places lighter pieces strategically throughout, and curls naturally showcase these tones as they catch light from different angles. The side part enhances the dimensional color effect while adding elegance to the overall style. This works beautifully on chin to shoulder-length curls of any type, though Type 2C to 3B curls particularly showcase the color variation. Caramel tones complement warm skin undertones gorgeously while remaining professional enough for any environment. Maintain color vibrancy with sulfate-free products and regular deep conditioning treatments to keep highlighted curls healthy, hydrated, and bouncy while preventing brassiness.
#13 Brushed Back Curls
Make a bold statement with this sleek yet textured style where curls are brushed back from the face and secured with gel or pomade at the roots. This sophisticated look works for very short to medium-length curly hair and creates an elegant, fashion-forward aesthetic. The front and sides are smoothed back while the crown and back maintain voluminous curl texture, creating beautiful contrast between sleek and textured elements.
This style particularly flatters oval and diamond-shaped faces by emphasizing cheekbones and eyes. Apply strong-hold gel to damp hair at the hairline and smooth back with a brush or your hands, then allow the remaining curls to dry naturally or with diffusing. Perfect for formal events or when you want a polished, put-together appearance.
#14 Glowing Curly Bob with Fun Fringe
Radiate personality with this joyful style combining a bouncy curly bob with playful fringe that adds whimsy and charm. The “glowing” effect comes from healthy, well-moisturized curls that shine and reflect light beautifully—achieved through proper curl care and possibly subtle highlights. The fun fringe can be styled in various ways: straight across for a bold statement, side-swept for softness, or curly for cohesive texture throughout.
This versatile style suits most face shapes and curl types from 2C to 3C. The bob length provides manageability while the fringe adds personality and frames your face beautifully. Style with lightweight products to maintain bounce and movement, and trim fringe regularly to prevent it from becoming too long and losing its playful effect.
#15 Rezo-Inspired Curls with Blonde Highlights
The Rezo cut—a revolutionary curly cutting technique—creates incredible shape and curl definition, and when combined with strategic blonde highlights, the result is absolutely stunning. This cutting method involves cutting each curl individually while dry, creating a custom shape that enhances your natural curl pattern. The blonde highlights, whether subtle or bold, add dimension and movement to the sculptural shape. This style works for all curl types and typically results in a rounded, voluminous silhouette with exceptional curl definition. The highlights should be placed thoughtfully to enhance the cut’s shape and your face. This investment-level cut requires a certified Rezo stylist but delivers transformative results that last through multiple wash cycles with minimal styling effort required.
#16 Dusting Cut on Curly Hair
The dusting technique involves trimming only the very ends of each curl—literally just “dusting” off damaged ends without removing length or altering curl shape significantly. This maintenance approach keeps short curly hair healthy and bouncy while preserving your desired length and style. Dusting should be performed on dry hair, curl by curl, removing only split ends and damaged portions. This technique works beautifully for maintaining any short curly style between major cuts and prevents the blunt, uniform look that traditional cutting can create. Schedule dusting appointments every 6-8 weeks to maintain hair health while gradually allowing growth if desired. The result is healthier, springier curls with better definition and less frizz without sacrificing precious length.
#17 Vintage-Inspired Curls
Channel old Hollywood glamour with this retro-inspired short curly style featuring defined waves and curls reminiscent of 1940s and 1950s starlets. This sophisticated look works beautifully for special occasions or when you want classic elegance with modern appeal. The vintage aesthetic is achieved through setting techniques—pin curls, rollers, or modern equivalents—combined with proper products to create uniform, polished curl formation.
This style particularly suits Type 2B to 3A curls that can be molded and set easily. Apply strong-hold mousse or setting lotion to damp hair, create your desired curl pattern using your chosen method, dry completely, then gently separate and shape curls. Finish with light hairspray for long-lasting vintage perfection that photographs beautifully and turns heads wherever you go.
#18 Curly Pixie with Tapered Sides
Make a bold, confident statement with this dramatic pixie cut featuring curly volume on top and closely tapered sides. This modern style combines edginess with femininity, celebrating natural curl texture while creating clean, precise lines. The contrast between short sides and curly top creates stunning visual interest and emphasizes facial features beautifully. This cut works for all curl types and particularly suits oval, heart, and diamond face shapes. The tapered sides require regular maintenance—plan for trims every 3-4 weeks to keep the cut sharp. Style the curly top with curl cream and either air-dry or diffuse for maximum volume. This low-maintenance yet high-impact style suits confident personalities ready to embrace boldness and stands out in any crowd.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I wash short curly hair?
Most curly hair types thrive when washed every 3-5 days rather than daily. Curly hair produces less sebum and is naturally drier than straight hair, so frequent washing strips necessary oils and causes frizz and dryness. Between wash days, refresh curls with water-based sprays and dry shampoo at the roots if needed. Some people with very active lifestyles or scalp conditions may need to wash more frequently—listen to your hair and scalp’s needs. Co-washing (washing with conditioner only) between regular shampoo sessions can provide cleansing without stripping oils. Short curly hair actually benefits from slightly less frequent washing than longer hair because there’s less length to collect product buildup and environmental debris.
Can I straighten my short curly hair occasionally?
Yes, you can occasionally straighten short curly hair for style variety, but do so carefully to minimize damage. Always use a heat protectant spray or serum on every section before applying heat. Use the lowest effective temperature—usually 300-350°F for fine curls, 350-400°F for coarse curls. Pass the flat iron through each section only once or twice rather than repeatedly. Avoid straightening more than once or twice monthly, as frequent heat styling permanently damages curl pattern over time. Deep condition before and after straightening to maintain moisture.
Accept that short hair may not achieve the same sleek length as longer hair when straightened due to overall length limitations. Remember that embracing your natural texture keeps hair healthiest and often looks more striking than struggling for smoothness.
What’s the best way to sleep with short curly hair?
Protect short curly hair during sleep by switching to silk or satin pillowcases that reduce friction and moisture absorption compared to cotton. For chin-length and longer short styles, loosely gather hair on top of your head in a “pineapple” using a silk scrunchie—this preserves curl formation and volume. Very short pixie cuts don’t require special nighttime treatment but still benefit from satin pillowcases. Alternatively, wear a satin bonnet that fully covers hair without compressing curls. Avoid sleeping with damp hair, as this creates frizz and irregular drying patterns—ensure hair is at least 80% dry before bed. In the morning, refresh curls by lightly misting with water, scrunching, and allowing to air-dry for a few minutes before heading out.
Conclusion
Short curly hairstyles offer the perfect combination of style, manageability, and celebration of your natural texture. Whether you choose a bold pixie, a sophisticated bob, or something in between, these 18 trendy options provide inspiration for your next transformation. The key to success lies in choosing a style that complements your unique curl pattern and face shape, maintaining it with proper care and regular trims, and styling it with quality products designed for curly hair.
Ready to take the plunge? Book a consultation with a certified curly hair specialist who can assess your texture and recommend the perfect short style for your features and lifestyle. Don’t forget to save your favorite styles from this guide to share during your appointment. Fire up your confidence and try one of these stunning short curly hairstyles this season!
Join thousands of curly-haired women who’ve transformed their look and simplified their routine with the perfect short cut. Share your before-and-after transformation on social media using #ShortCurlyHairstyles and inspire others to embrace their natural texture with confidence. Your dream short curly hairstyle is waiting—it’s time to make it a reality!
