Bounce and Bold: 20+ Stunning Short Curly Haircuts to Rock This Year

Let’s be real—curly hair has personality, and when you go short? It’s a total vibe.

Whether you’re craving a cute pixie, a curly bob, or something edgy and effortless, short curly cuts can feel super fresh and freeing.

In this post, I’m rounding up all the chic, low-maintenance, and bold ideas that let your curls do their thing.

Must-See Curly Haircuts

1. The Classic Curly Bob

A classic curly bob brings timeless elegance to the short hairstyle game.

This cut sits just above the shoulders, allowing your curls to bounce freely while framing your face beautifully. It’s incredibly versatile; you can wear it tousled for a beachy look or defined for a polished style. The great thing about the classic bob is that it’s suitable for all hair types; whether your curls are tight or loose, this cut enhances their natural beauty.

To maintain it, regular trims are necessary to keep the shape fresh, and using a good curl cream can help define those lovely locks. A bob pairs wonderfully with highlights or balayage, adding dimension to your hair.

– Use a diffuser when drying to maintain curl shape.
– Experiment with parting your hair differently for new looks.
– Consider incorporating layers for added volume.

2. The Sassy Pixie Cut

Ready to make a bold statement? The sassy pixie cut is the perfect choice.

This edgy hairstyle is not only chic but also low-maintenance, allowing your natural curls to shine. It typically features shorter sides and back, with a longer top that showcases your curls’ texture and volume. This cut works perfectly for those with a heart or oval-shaped face as it accentuates your cheekbones and jawline. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can add fun colors or highlights to really stand out. To style, simply apply curl-enhancing product and let it air dry or use a diffuser for extra oomph.

Quick tips:
– Use pomade for definition on the longer curls.
– Regular trims will keep the pixie looking sharp.
– Play with asymmetry for a more unique take.

3. Curly Lob with Bangs

A long bob or ‘lob’ with bangs is a stunning way to embrace your curls while adding a trendy twist.

This haircut combines the flattering length of a bob with the playful addition of bangs, providing a youthful vibe. The bangs can be blunt or wispy, making it customizable to suit your face shape and personal style.

The lob typically falls between the jaw and collarbone, allowing for versatile styling options. You can wear it curly for a fun, carefree look or straight for a more polished appearance. Hair products that define curls and provide hold are essential for this style to maintain that bouncy look.

Essentials for styling:
– Use a hydrating curl cream to keep curls soft and defined.
– Consider a side part for a different dimension.
– Regular trims will keep your lob looking fresh.

4. The Curly Shag

Get ready to embrace the 70s revival with a curly shag haircut.

This style is characterized by its choppy layers, providing a carefree, tousled look that’s perfect for those with natural curls. The shag cut adds movement and body, making it ideal for giving your curls a little extra bounce.

This haircut looks fabulous on all face shapes and can be styled with minimal effort. Pair it with a bit of texturizing spray or mousse for an even more lived-in look. Plus, the shag cut is incredibly forgiving, meaning you won’t have to worry too much about upkeep—just let those curls do their thing.

– Opt for a layered shag for added texture.
– Use a curl activator to enhance the natural curl pattern.
– Consider curtain bangs for a trendy finish.

5. The Tapered Cut

The tapered cut is a modern twist that beautifully showcases curls while keeping them manageable.

Short on the sides and longer on top, this style cleverly emphasizes the curl texture without overwhelming your features. It’s particularly flattering for those with tighter curls and can create a stunning silhouette. The tapered cut also emphasizes a defined jawline and is incredibly versatile; you can style the top with a pomade for a polished effect or let it be more natural and free. This cut requires regular visits to the stylist to maintain the shape, but the results are often worth the effort!

Quick advice:
– Use a curl-enhancing gel or mousse to define the curls.
– Regular trims will keep the taper looking sharp.
– Explore different lengths for the top for a personalized look.

The tapered cut is your secret weapon! It highlights your beautiful curls while keeping your look effortlessly chic and manageable. Embrace the versatility and let your curls shine!

6. Layered Curly Cut

Layering is a game-changer for curly hair, providing movement and dimension.

This style involves cutting various lengths of curls to create a more voluminous look, giving the illusion of fuller hair. A layered cut can enhance the natural bounce of your curls, allowing them to fall beautifully without weighing them down.

This cut works particularly well for those with medium to thick curls, as it helps to manage volume while still allowing for that playful texture. Regular trims help to keep the layers from becoming too uneven, and a good curl cream can help define the layers while keeping them soft.

Styling tips:
– Use products designed for curly hair to prevent frizz.
– Experiment with different parting styles to change the look.
– Consider adding highlights to enhance the layering effect.

7. Curly Undercut

The curly undercut is the epitome of edgy and cool.

This bold style features short sides or back with longer curls on top, allowing for an exciting contrast. It’s not just a statement haircut; it’s also practical for managing thick hair. The undercut can be styled in various ways, from sleek and polished to wild and free, depending on your mood.

This look works especially well for those with thicker curls, making styling a breeze. To maintain this look, regular trips to the barber are necessary to keep the undercut fresh, and curl-enhancing products can help define the curls on top.

– Use a strong-hold gel for a more structured look.
– Embrace the natural hair texture for a more relaxed style.
– Add designs or patterns on the undercut for personalized flair.

8. The Curly Bowl Cut

The bowl cut is making a comeback, especially with curly hair!

This unique style involves a rounder shape that instantly gives off a retro vibe while enhancing your natural curls. While it may sound unconventional, the curly bowl cut can be incredibly chic, especially with a modern twist such as soft bangs or an uneven edge. This cut works best for those with medium to fine curls and can be styled with minimal effort. To keep the bowl looking fresh, regular trims are essential, and a light styling cream can help maintain softness while showcasing the curl’s shape.

Things to remember:
– Use a wide-tooth comb to detangle without losing curl definition.
– Consider coloring the hair for a more vibrant look.
– Keep it professional with well-maintained edges.

9. Curly Side Part

A curly side part is a simple yet stunning way to switch up your look.

This style involves creating a deep side part that adds asymmetry and draws attention to your facial features while allowing your curls to cascade elegantly. This cut is particularly flattering for those with oval or square face shapes. Whether your curls are tight or loose, a side part can add an extra dimension to your hairstyle. The key is to define the curls in the front to frame your face while letting the back remain bouncy and full. Pairing a side part with a vibrant color can also create a dramatic effect.

Quick tips:
– Use a curl-defining cream to enhance texture.
– Experiment with parting depth for different looks.
– Add accessories for a chic twist.

10. The Curly Mohawk

For the fearless, the curly mohawk is the ultimate statement haircut!

This daring style features shaved sides with a voluminous section of curls in the center, allowing you to showcase your curls in a bold and creative way. It’s a fantastic way to express individuality and can be styled in many ways, from defined curls to wild and free. The mohawk can be playful and fierce, perfect for those who want to make an impact. While it requires some upkeep to maintain the shaved sides, styling the curls can be as simple as scrunching in a product for definition.

– Use gel for a sleek finish.
– Embrace your natural texture for a wild look.
– Add color for an extra pop.

11. Curly Fringe

Fringe is always in fashion, and when paired with curls, it adds a playful touch to any look.

A curly fringe can soften your features and draw attention to your eyes, creating a youthful and fresh appearance. This cut can be styled in various ways, whether you opt for soft, wispy curls or a thicker, more dramatic look. The key is to keep the curls defined to ensure the fringe doesn’t get lost in the mix. To maintain this style, regular trims are necessary, and a curl cream will help keep the fringe looking its best.

Things to consider:
– Experiment with different fringe styles to find your best match.
– Curl products with moisture can prevent frizz.
– Style the fringe using a diffuser for added volume.

12. The Curly Faux Hawk

If you’re not ready to commit to a full mohawk, the curly faux hawk is a stylish compromise.

This look features longer curls on top styled upward, while the sides remain shorter—creating the illusion of a mohawk without the commitment. The faux hawk is versatile and can be dressed up or down depending on the occasion. With curls, this style becomes playful and eye-catching, allowing you to express your unique style. To style, use a strong hold product to keep the curls defined and upright while maintaining softness.

– Use mousse for volume on top.
– Experiment with parting styles to change the faux hawk appearance.
– Keep the sides neat for a polished finish.

13. Curly Updo

A curly updo is perfect for special occasions, showcasing your beautiful curls in an elegant fashion.

This style involves gathering your curls into a chic updo, which can be accented with accessories or worn simply for a sophisticated look. The height and volume of curly hair can create stunning shapes that highlight your facial features. Updos work well for weddings, parties, or any event where you want to impress. A good styling product to keep the updo secure while maintaining curl definition is essential for this look.

– Use bobby pins to secure curls in place.
– Consider adding decorative hairpins for a touch of glam.
– Always start with defined curls for the best result.

14. Curly Textured Lob

Textured lobs are trendy and can be particularly flattering for curly hair, as they add body and movement.

This look features a longer bob that is layered for a tousled, carefree appearance, perfect for embracing natural curls. The texture allows curls to bounce freely, creating a whimsical vibe that can be styled effortlessly. A textured lob can be customized with variations in length and layering, making it a versatile choice for all face shapes. To maintain the shape and texture, regular trims and a good curl cream are important.

Style your textured lob with these tips:
– Use sea salt spray for added texture.
– Consider highlights for a sun-kissed finish.
– Embrace natural drying for a softer look.

15. Curly Asymmetrical Cut

Asymmetry brings a modern twist to short curly haircuts, creating a unique silhouette that stands out.

This style involves one side being shorter than the other, adding an interesting element to your curls. The asymmetrical cut can be dramatic or subtle, depending on your preference, and it’s fantastic for showcasing the texture of your curls. This look is suitable for all face shapes and can be paired with a bold color for an even more striking appearance. Maintaining this style requires regular trims to keep the asymmetry intentional and fresh.

– Use curl cream to define curls and prevent frizz.
– Play with accessories for added flair.
– Experiment with side parting to enhance asymmetry.

16. The Curly Side Shave

For the daring curly-haired fashionista, a side shave can add an edgy touch.

This style combines longer curls on one side with a shaved or very short section on the other, creating a bold visual contrast. The side shave allows you to show off your curls dramatically while keeping maintenance easy on the shorter side. It’s a fabulous style for those who want to stand out and express individuality. Styling products will help define the curls and keep them looking voluminous. Regular maintenance is essential to keep the shaved side looking fresh.

– Use curl defining products to maintain shape.
– Switch up curl patterns for different appearances.
– Always keep the shaved side neat for balance.

Embrace your curls and get edgy! A curly side shave not only highlights your beautiful locks but gives you a unique way to express your individuality. Dare to stand out and make a statement with your short curly haircuts!

17. Curly Vintage Updo

Channel your inner retro queen with a curly vintage updo that’s perfect for special occasions.

This style gathers curls into an elegant shape, often with rolls, twists, and waves that exude classic charm. It’s ideal for those special events where you want to make an impression—think weddings or a night out. The vintage updo beautifully showcases the texture of your curls while offering a sophisticated finish. To achieve this look, you’ll need hairpins, a good setting spray, and defined curls to start. Regular practice can help you master this elegant style.

– Use setting sprays to keep curls in place.
– Accessorize with combs or flowers for added elegance.
– Practice styling in advance for a polished finish.

18. Curly Beach Waves

For a laid-back, summery vibe, curly beach waves are the way to go.

This hairstyle mimics the effortless look you get from a day at the beach, perfect for casual outings or vacations. Beach waves can be achieved on curly hair by using a texturizing product and allowing the curls to dry naturally for that carefree appearance. This style works well with layered cuts, as it creates volume and movement. To maintain that beachy look, use products designed for texture and hydration.

– Use mousse to enhance volume and create waves.
– Apply a salt spray for a true beachy effect.
– Air-drying is best for achieving the carefree look.

19. Curly Retro Bouffant

The bouffant is back and better than ever, especially for curly hair!

This style adds height and drama, creating a voluminous silhouette that is eye-catching and fabulous. A retro bouffant is perfect for formal occasions or when you just want to elevate your everyday look.

To achieve this, curls are teased at the roots for volume and then styled back or to the side for a sophisticated touch. This look works beautifully with hair accessories like clips or headbands, adding a fun flair.

– Teasing at the roots is key for volume.
– Use setting spray to keep everything in place.
– Pair with bold lipstick for a complete retro look.

20. Curly Bantu Knots

Bantu knots are a fun and creative way to style short curly hair!

This protective hairstyle involves sectioning the hair and twisting it into small knots, creating a vibrant and playful look. Bantu knots highlight your curls while giving them a break from everyday styling. They’re perfect for festivals or casual outings, providing a unique twist on traditional curly hairstyles. To maintain this look, using a leave-in conditioner will help keep your curls hydrated while preventing frizz.

– Experiment with different sizes for the knots.
– Use vibrant accessories to embellish the look.
– Consider leaving some hair down for a mixed style.

Bantu knots are more than just a hairstyle; they’re a celebration of curly hair! Embrace the fun and creativity while giving your curls a break—your hair will thank you!

21. Curly Mohawk with Color

Ready to really turn heads? Try a colorful curly mohawk.

This bold style combines the dramatic impact of a mohawk with the beautiful texture of curly hair, elevated by vibrant colors that express your individuality. Different shades can be blended or contrasted to create a unique look, making this style perfect for those who love to experiment. Maintenance involves keeping the sides shaved and ensuring the curls are hydrated and defined. This look is a great conversation starter and can be worn casually or for special occasions.

– Use curl-defining products to keep curls popping.
– Experiment with different color combinations for variety.
– Keep sides trimmed for a clean and defined look.

Dare to stand out! A colorful curly mohawk is not just a hairstyle; it’s a bold expression of your unique personality. Embrace the drama and let your curls do the talking!

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These 21 stunning short curly haircuts offer something for everyone, whether you’re looking for something edgy, sophisticated, or playful.

Curly hair has a charm that’s hard to resist, and with the right cut, you can embrace your natural curls like never before.

Remember, your hair is an extension of your personality, so don’t be afraid to try something new! Which of these styles are you excited to try? Let us know in the comments below!

Frequently Asked Questions