Aveda Theory Hair Salon

Short hair can feel limiting especially if you grew up assuming “cute hair” always meant long locks. With the right cuts, accessories, and styling tricks, short hair becomes your playground.

As a hairstylist, I see clients with pixies, bobs, lobs, and shags, all asking the same question: How do I make short hair adorable, not ordinary? Here’s your guide to turning that short crop into an attention-grabbing statement.

Top 10 Cute Hairstyles to Rock with Short Hair

I’ve grouped these by how much time or tools they require. Pick what fits your day.

1. Side Twists with Pins

This is simple, quick, and great for casual or polished looks. Take small front-side sections, twist them back, and secure with bobby pins or stylish clips. The twist softens the face and gives you a little structure without full updos.

2. Textured Tousle / Messy Waves

Use a small barrel curling iron or a flat iron to add bends or soft waves to your hair. Then run your fingers through or scrunch in a light texturizing spray. For short hair, you don’t want perfect curls, just enough texture to give movement.

3. Half-Up Mini Pony / Clip-Up

Even short hair can borrow a half-up idea. Gather top layers (crown or front) and secure with a tiny elastic or pretty clip. Let the rest fall free so it doesn’t look forced.

4. Accessory Play (Clips, Barrettes, Scarves)

A decorative clip, a pearl barrette, or a slim headband can instantly glam up a short style. Use these on a deep side part or over your twisted section.

5. Mini Braids / Accent Braids

You can take a small front or side section, braid it (even a 3- or 4-strand), and pin or weave it as an accent. Don’t pull the braid tight. Leave it a bit loose so it blends with your natural texture.

6. Faux Side Sweep / Deep Side Part

Changing your part can be as transformational as a cut. Flip your part to the deepest side it allows and sweep hair over slightly. You’ll get an instant asymmetry that frames the face beautifully.

7. Faux “Bun” or Rolled Up Back

With very short hair, you can fake a mini updo. Gather hair at the nape or back (as much as it goes) and roll or tuck it with pins. Use a teasing method or dry shampoo first so you have grip.

8. Pixie with Finger-Styled “Pieces”

If your cut is very short (pixie), you can style “pieces” using a matte clay or light pomade. Lift or separate small sections to create intentional disarray or wispy accents.

9. Sleek & Slicked Side

For a more elegant or evening look, smooth one side back with gel or styling cream. Keep the other side textured or loose. This juxtaposition is classy and edgy at once.

10. Ribbon or Bow Tie

Tie a thin ribbon or bow in an underlayer or at the back (if your hair is long enough). Works especially well when your cut allows a little tail or low volume.

Growing Out or Travel Tips

If you’re growing out your short hair, keep these styles handy. Many of them adapt through transitional phases. Also, carry mini styling tools (a small dryer or travel flat iron) and a few clips so you can refresh your look on-the-go.