Short curly hair is something considered to be very difficult to style. There is no wonder why, since many people hardly know the difference between curly and wavy. In fact, that is partly true, especially when it comes to curly hair that is more likely to be of the same ringlet texture throughout the length, while wavy hair is often wavy at the ends.

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Yet, it does not mean that short haircut can’t be extremely fun and sexy-looking. To prove you our point, we have gathered here a number of trendy and extraordinary ideas to try out, if your hair is short and curly. Are you ready to let something new into your life?

What Are The Different Types Of Curly Hair?

What Are The Different Types Of Curly Hair?

Those ladies who are not born with natural curls may not know that there are different types of curly hair too. Here is how you can distinguish and determine your curly hair type:

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Wavy, type 2

Мery bendable waves that form a distinct S pattern, this type is also divided into 3 subcategories:

  • 2a – is simple to straighten and has a lightly tousled texture, due to the lack of texture at the roots, it is advised to use a water-based mouse to grant some volume to your hair;
  • 2b – is a little harder to straighten, the waves start somewhere in the middle of your head, so the crown tends to look slightly flat, using texture hair products will help you deal with the flatness;
  • 2c – is the coarsest of all and highly likely to be frizzy, the S-waves are well defined and start at the roots.

Curly, type 3

Anything on the scale from loose loops to tight corkscrews belongs to the type and are divided into three subcategories:

  • 3a – are loose and large curls that are pretty shiny but quite dry at the same time so that it is suggested to refresh your locks with curl refresher every now and then;
  • 3b – are springy ringlets that turn out to be coarse and dry, that is why adding moisture to your stands and locking it in is a must;
  • 3c – are as tight as corkscrews, naturally voluminous but prone to frizz the most.

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Coily, type 4

The best definition would be a kinky or Afro-textured hair, tight curls that are dry, spongey, but dense describe the type the best. There are three main types to distinguish between:

  • 4a – these are springy coils in the form of an S-pattern that require additional care when it comes to moisturizing. The circumference of such coils is usually that of a crochet needle;
  • 4b – these coils are very dense and at times can bend like a Z-letter, in the majority of cases the coils can be shaped into anything, but you should not forget about proper moisturizing ;
  • 4c – these coils are incredibly alike the 4b sub-type. However, they are a lot more fragile and form such a zigzag pattern that it is hard to notice with a naked eye.

Copper Colored Curly Wolf Cut

Copper Colored Curly Wolf Cut
by @hairbyac_alcorn

If you’re still searching for the right short curly haircut to try, another option is the curly wolf cut. Blend the free-spirited vibe of beach waves with the structured layers of a shag cut to get this remarkable result. The curls look more lively and attractive with light and dark copper tones.

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Curly Bob for Thin Hair

Curly Bob for Thin Hair
by @salsalhair

Women with all hair types and textures are welcome to try out any curly bob cuts of their liking. So, even with a thin hair type, you can create your own curly bob masterpiece with the right hair products. With these loose waves, a curl mousse and curl cream would help style your short bob.

Warm Copper Curls

Warm Copper Curls
by @hairbyac_alcorn

Warm copper hues radiate warmth and soothing energy, perfect for giving you a welcoming appearance. Deep curls like this make your face look smaller and highlight your facial features better. Consider getting a few trims occasionally so your curls don’t look out of place.

Curly Bob with Baby Bangs

Curly Bob with Baby Bangs
by @salsalhair

With everyone having different facial features, it's best to opt for a cut that complements your face best. Baby bangs with a curly bob will give your face more angles and a youthful appearance.

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Side Parted Chestnut Bob

Side Parted Chestnut Bob
by @salsalhair

A dinner date or official event with this side-parted chestnut bob is all you need to stand out from the crowd. Depending on the side your hair falls to, your jawline is more highlighted, and the curly texture of your hair gives it an extra volume and depth.

Classic Curly Bob

Classic Curly Bob
by @salsalhair

When you have naturally curly hair, working with your hair texture is best to produce a breezy and carefree vibe. Go for a shoulder-length bob with little curly bangs that connect with the rest of your hair and effortlessly frame your face.

Side-Swept Curly Bob

Side-Swept Curly Bob
by @salsalhair

Ladies with square faces need not keep their hair straight on the sides, as such styling won’t really flatter their facial features. Instead, our Glaminati expert stylists advise you to style some of your curls to one side for a more playful and flirty appearance. The loosely styled tresses add volume and bounce to your hair, accentuating your stunning facial angles.

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Bubble Gum Clouds

Bubble Gum Clouds
by @hairbyac_alcorn

Pink is a gorgeous shade, and we love pairing it with thick curls to create a masterpiece. You can also replicate these bumble gum pink curls or use a pink shade that best represents your style. Those with really cool skin tones should consider this short, curly hair.

Vibrant Auburn Curls

Vibrant Auburn Curls
by @hairbyac_alcorn

Another way to make your curls pop despite their length is to choose the right hair color. This auburn shade would look good on all skin tones. Ask your stylist to mix dark and bright tones to accentuate the curls better.

Easy Maintenance Curly Bob with Bangs

Easy Maintenance Curly Bob with Bangs
by @salsalhair

It’s no longer news that bangs tend to trend once every few years, but we have to say they always pair well with short curly hairstyles. With a variety of bangs available, what you opt for is left to you, but ensure that they bring out the beauty and bouncy nature of your curls.

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Voluminous Afro Hair

Voluminous Afro Hair
by @salsalhair

If you can’t bear to stress yourself when it comes to styling, voluminous afro curls have worked well for many black women. All you have to do is ensure your hair is well moisturized and put in place, as you don’t need to often style your afro. Your face appears smaller, and with the right layering technique, your natural curls are well enhanced.

Blonde Shaggy Bob

Blonde Shaggy Bob
by @salsalhair

From time to time, we’ve noticed how short curly haircuts tend to appear more healthy and lively, as it’s a little easier to make them look healthy. Introduce highlights to add more fun to short-length curly hairstyles, as these warm blonde curls with a soft, radiant glow are nothing short of alluring.

Thick Curls Round Hair Cut

Thick Curls Round Hair Cut
by @salsalhair

Short curls are often an excellent choice for those with thick hair, as they allow you to shed little weight and still make your hair look voluminous. Consider round haircuts with short bangs to utilize your natural curls and give your hair a chic shape.

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Side-Swept Beach Curls

Side-Swept Beach Curls
by @salsalhair

With loose waves, you can create the perfect beach look that’s both cute and sassy. If you’re not a natural curlie, use a diffuser and curling iron to create your curls, and don’t forget to add a center part to perfect the style. You will always look good in any beach outfit and at any gathering.

Shaggy Bob with Bangs

Shaggy Bob with Bangs
by @salsalhair

Opting for a shaggy bob with your curls gives you all the youthful energy you need to slay the cut. Creating this style means combining bangs with layers; we agree it is a sight to behold. A short curly shag has all the goodies of short curly hairstyles, including low maintenance.

Wet Rose Gold Layers

Wet Rose Gold Layers
by @salsalhair

These wet layered curls are a great option if you don’t fancy volume and have a thin hair texture. The rose gold tone is extraordinarily beautiful, and the loose curls appear wet and thin, softening your facial features. You have a soft and romantic look, and maintenance is easy.

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A Curly Shag with Sun-Kissed Tones

A Curly Shag with Sun-Kissed Tones
by @salsalhair

If you are not exactly mad about clean geometric shapes in curly haircuts, we are glad to offer this pretty rounded shag with springy eye-grazing bangs accentuated by lowlights. Playing with lowlights to create sunkissed tones makes your deep curls look more perfect and complements your skin tone as it isn’t mild nor extravagant.

A Natural Curly Afro with Effortless Grace

A Natural Curly Afro with Effortless Grace
by @salsalhair

Even with an afro bob, your type of curls matters a lot in achieving the right volume and highlighting the texture better. Regardless, our stylists recommend asking for layers if you do decide to get an afro bob. The best way to style this curly bob is to spray your hair with sea salt spray, tease it, and let it dry naturally to add depth and texture.

Jaw-Length Curly Brunette Bob

Jaw-Length Curly Brunette Bob
by @salsalhair

For an easy-to-style haircut for your wavy, curly hair, go for a classic, jaw-length bob with layered ringlets. The side part helps control the volume, and a sweet, tiny barrette placed strategically in the front will keep the long bangs out of your eyes. This brunette bob is particularly great if you’re looking for a style that suits formal settings.

What Is The Best Haircut For Short Curly Hair?

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Short Sassy Style for Thick and Curly Hair

Short Sassy Style for Thick and Curly Hair #hairhighlights #ombrehairstyles
Credit photo: instagram.com/Soraverly

For those women who want to play up their natural curls and color, short hair is a great option. Make sure to treat and deep condition your curls to keep them from becoming dry and brittle. You can totally rock the messy look with this adorable short style!

Contemporary Wavy Short Bob

Contemporary Wavy Short Bob #curlyhair #wavyhair
Credit photo: instagram.com/soraverly

This look is the epitome of all the contemporary trends. Use a deep side part to enhance your facial features, creating a veil on one side of your face. Keeping the waves down and away from your face on the longer side will help you rock this style with ease.

Teasing Locks

Teasing Locks #teasinglocks #carelesshair
Credit photo: instagram.com/soraverly

For those with elongated faces, this style works best and shows little to no volume at the crown and features horizontal lines to accentuate your face. This fun, easy going style is perfect for those with a busy lifestyle who want a low maintenance but stylish cut.

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Large, Bouncy Curls

Large, Bouncy Curls #curlybob #brownhair
Credit photo: instagram.com/mary_solodun_hairstylist

This style will take your natural look to a new level. Leave one side open and free while letting long waves flirtatiously caress your face on the other side.

Controlled Chaos

Controlled Chaos #shaggyhair #shaggyhairstyle
Credit photo: instagram.com/Soraverly

This adorable chin-length bob works great with larger curls and waves as it gives them the appearance of random curls. If you add bangs and a new and exciting color, you can rock this short and sassy look with style and ease.

Tips For Short Curly Hairstyles

Each hair type requires individual care routines. There is no use denying it. That is why we have gathered some practical tips for short curly hair that you can benefit from:

  • Use shampoos and other hair products designed for curly hair specifically. If you do that, you will provide your curly hair with necessary moisture and nourishment, not to mention that you will reduce the frizz too.
  • If you want your hairstyle to last longer, ensure that your hair is not exposed to heat or humidity.
  • When you are shopping for some hairspray or mousse, it is best to choose those that are designed for light hold. Otherwise, you will overweight your hair.
  • To enhance the natural shape of the curls, start with blowing them dry and then proceed to curling them with a curling iron.
  • For an easy-going effect, just wash your hair without additional styling.
  • When straightening your hair – use a smoothing balm on your damp hair and blow-dry it using a round brush. Only after that, it is advised to proceed with straightening.
  • Do not use flat iron too often since the heat will damage your hair.

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FAQ: Short Curly Hair

Do bangs look good with curly hair?

Bangs complement each curly hairstyle (from 2c to 4c) giving your hair volume and movement. Surely, bangs on curly hair need maintenance. Consult your hairdresser on tips about choosing the right bangs for you and how to maintain this style.

Does curly hair need to be cut differently?

Curly hair should be cut dry or damp. It shouldn’t be straightened before. Stylist needs to follow your natural curl pattern and create defined curls, often using angled cutting technique. This technique allows to remove excessive volume from the sides. Curls should look like they fit perfectly into each other. There is 6-8 weeks gap between trimming appointments or until they begin to knot easily.

Are protective styles really protective?

Protective styles prevent hair from frizzing, pulling, tugging. However, you shouldn’t forget about your hair care routine, especially about moisturizing. Don’t leave in your protective style for too long. Most protective styles incorporate extensions which can cause hair loss, if you wear them for too long.

REFERENCES:
  • Decoding your curl type can be confusing.Source
  • Determining your hair type will help you figure out how to handle, cut and style your hair more effectively. Source

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