Shorter styles are trending particularly hard, and what better way to change your look than with a fresh cut? From classic to trendy, this guide explores the coolest short haircuts for women to flatter every face shape and hair type. Whether you're after a low-maintenance style or something with a bit more edge, there's a short haircut here for you.
Short haircuts tend to be easier to manage than longer haircuts, simply due to the fact that there’s less hair to wrangle. Generally speaking, low-maintenance haircuts are easy to style, painless to grow out, and work with (rather than against) your natural hair texture. Not all low-maintenance hairstyles are truly wash-and-go-some may require a little finesse to look their best-but for the most part, you can expect a streamlined styling routine when you opt for a low-maintenance cut. Keep in mind, however, that haircuts aren’t one-size-fits-all: Those with fine, straight hair will typically have different needs from those with thick, curly hair, and vice versa.
Bobs of all kinds-from the chopped bob to the easygoing undone bob-are having a moment, but there are more options than ever when it comes to short hairstyles, from buzz cuts to shoulder-skimming lobs. The cut has the line and length of the bob, but the top layers have much more texture, so it’s lighter on top and easier to flip around. If you’re a fan of the side part, you’ll enjoy flipping your hair to either side.
One of the biggest short bobs of the moment is the Old Hollywood bob. A red-carpet favorite, this retro style has been spotted on the likes of Selena Gomez, Beyoncé, and Zendaya.
“We’re seeing a resurgence of Old Hollywood and vintage-inspired haircuts because there’s a craving for timeless elegance and glamour,” says Helen Reavey, celebrity hairstylist, certified trichologist, and founder of hair care brand Act+Acre. “With the fast pace of trends today, many are drawn to these iconic styles that evoke a sense of nostalgia and sophistication. It’s versatile and polished while still standing out.”
Read also: Guide to Bob Haircuts
One of the most popular bob haircuts of this year? The ’90s-supermodel bob. “The cut has the line and length of the bob, but the top layers have much more texture, so it’s lighter on top and easier to flip around,” says celebrity hairstylist Marc Mena, who says that this bob is the easiest-and chicest-way to instantly add volume and texture to short hair. If you’re a fan of the side part, you’ll enjoy flipping your hair to either side.
“The French bob is a chic, classic bob that typically ends around the jawline with a slight curve inward,” says Federico. “It often features a fringe or bangs and is styled to look effortlessly tousled.” This style is both sophisticated and easy to maintain, he adds. “It gives a Parisian vibe that’s timeless and flattering for various face shapes. The French bob can be worn sleek or with soft waves, making it adaptable for different occasions.”
To get the look, request a textured bob cut that falls just at or slightly below the jawline and a natural-looking fringe or bangs that blend seamlessly with the rest of the hair. “The goal is a soft, rounded shape with a bit of texture for that effortless French look.”
“The blunt bob is timeless and chic, offering a polished and professional look,” says Izquierdo. “It works well for both straight and wavy hair and is easy to maintain with regular trims.”
Ask your stylist for a bob cut that falls just below the jawline with a blunt, straight-across end to get the look. “Ensure the cut is sharp and even, with minimal layering for a sleek finish,” he says. “For styling, use a flatiron to smooth the hair, and apply a shine serum like IGK Crybaby Smoothing and Finishing Serum to enhance the sleekness.”
Read also: Rebellious Hairstyle: The Jelly Roll
“A rounded bob is fantastic because it flatters nearly every face shape,” says celebrity hairstylist Andrew Fitzsimons. Kim, Khloé, and Kylie have all been spotted in the style.
“Out with the messy texture; in comes the polished structure,” says Riawna Capri, co-owner of Nine Zero One in LA, about the return of sleek cuts. She says that fuzzy, bedhead hair is being traded in for more sleek styles of all lengths, and you can expect to see “more blunt, thick lines in haircuts instead of shattered, piecey texture.”
Short hair can walk a fine line between childish and grown-up, but Simona Tabasco, of White Lotus season two fame, proves that a bob can be totally cool. The tousled texture and bangs pushed to one side are to thank for this sexy take on the look. “Don’t be afraid to ask your hairdresser to show you several looks using various products so you know how versatile short hair can be,” he says. Hailey Bieber always has an air about her that says she “woke up like this,” but even more so when she wears a bob. This style especially works for thin hair and fine hair.
“An asymmetrical bob is the perfect edgy style, and it’s a great choice if you’re looking to make a statement,” says Leo Izquierdo, cofounder of IGK Hair Care. “It’s giving Victoria Beckham in the 2000s.”
To get the look, ask your stylist for a bob that’s longer on one side and slightly angled, says Izquierdo. “For styling, keep straight hair to highlight the asymmetry, using a flatiron and a smoothing serum.”
Read also: Explore Fringe Haircuts
For a retro-inspired chop that looks good on everyone, Federico recommends the trending ’90s bob. “The lob offers a modern twist on the classic bob and provides more versatility in styling,” he says. “It’s long enough to tie up or tuck behind the ears but still short enough to remain manageable and stylish.”
To get the look, request a cut that falls between the shoulders and collarbone with subtle layers to add movement, and mention that you want a style reminiscent of the ’90s to capture that nostalgic vibe, he advises.
“A shaggy lob is perfect for adding volume and movement to your hair,” says Izquierdo. “It’s a great option for those who want a bit of length while still enjoying the ease of a shorter style.”
When talking to your stylist, ask for a long bob with layers. “For styling, use texture spray or texturizing mousse to enhance the natural waves or curls.”
“This is a longer version of the classic bob, typically falling between the shoulders and collarbone, that often features subtle layers and can be worn straight, wavy, or with a slight bend,” Federico says of the bombshell lob. To make it more bombshell and less Spice Girls, opt for Old Hollywood waves.
“When styling at home, start by applying R+Co Bleu Essential Hair Tonic, which creates soft memory and shine, and tousle dry the hair until 100% dry,” he says. “Utilizing your flatiron or blow-dry brush, create soft, gentle bends through the hair.”
If the French bob feels too cropped for you, consider its slightly outgrown cousin: the French lob. Celebrity hairstylist Glenn Ellis especially loves this medium-length haircut for people with a square or rectangle face shape.
“I recommend shoulder-length or shorter,” he says. “A nice lob is great.” And it’s perfect if you have curly or textured hair.
Equal parts low-maintenance and chic, the mid-length beach bob is the best of both worlds. “It’s such a good in-between length for easy styling,” says Mena, who created the look for Madelyn Cline. “It’s long enough to pull back into a ponytail or low chignon bun, but doesn’t weigh itself down.”
To get the look, Mena suggests requesting a lob with long, layered angles in the front; this isn’t a blunt chop. “You need some angles and long layers to create the shape on your face,” he clarifies. “The top layers and texture will keep it from falling flat.”
According to Amy Abramite, creative director and stylist at Chicago’s Maxine Salon, the flipped-out lob is a different texture option for a smoother look than the popular beach wave. “For the flipped lob to work, the length must be cut above the shoulders and have medium to thick density to support the outward motion,” she says. “Straight, wavy, curly, or coily hair will achieve the style with a blowout and curling iron.”
The lob’s perimeter is above the shoulders, and the medium length layers add lift and movement, she says. “Use a heat-protecting spray and a round brush with a blow-dryer, then style the hair upwards with a curling iron to lock in the flip for the finishing touch.”
According to Raven Hurtado, a hairstylist at Chicago’s Maxine Salon, the mid-length bob is one of the best short hairstyles. “It gives natural movement and appears fuller and thicker-looking, and looks great on fine hair, whether worn straight or wavy, because it gives the illusion of fullness,” she says.
To achieve this look, “have it cut sitting just above the shoulders so that it swings when you move,” she says. “I recommend this haircut for people who have a conservative lifestyle. It’s a very classy look, yet you can also style by adding waves.”
Some bright blonde highlights and long, shaggy curtain bangs make for a very modern twist on the classic bob.
Want something even shorter? Maybe it’s time for a pixie. “The pixie cut is versatile and can give a bold, youthful look while still being low-maintenance, making it ideal for those who prefer a quick styling routine,” says hairstylist Adam Federico, vice president of technical education for hair care brand R+Co. “It also works well with various hair textures and can frame the face beautifully.” The pixie cut is short, edgy, and incredibly easy to style, thanks to its barely-there length that air-dries in record time.
When asking for a pixie cut at the salon, specify that you want short sides and back with slightly longer layers on top. “Mention whether you prefer a more classic or a modern pixie, as styles can vary from more dramatic, spiky looks to softer, tousled finishes,” Federico says. “When styling at home, towel dry just out of the shower and add R+Co Hyperlink Fiber Stretch Pomade through the hair, which will add definition, texture, and a satin shine, and style as desired.”
Zoë Kravitz’s cropped pixie looks classic and cool at the same time thanks to the hint of bangs.
If you have curly or textured hair, Federico suggests trying a curly cropped cut combined with curly fringe. “The curly cropped cut features short layers that enhance the natural curl pattern and create a voluminous, playful look,” he says. “It’s ideal for those with naturally curly hair, as it embraces and enhances the curl pattern rather than trying to control it, and it’s a low-maintenance style that requires minimal daily styling.”
To get the look, ask for a short cut with layers that highlight your natural curl pattern, and let your stylist know if you want a more defined shape or if you prefer a more relaxed, tousled look. You’ll also want to style this look with R+Co Bleu Super Style Crème, Federico says. “Work through the crop and fringe with the fingertips, carefully creating separation and movement in your natural curls. Diffuse to dry and set into place, then set with R+Co Bleu Featherlight Hairspray.”
The trick for nailing this cut with curls is making sure your stylist specializes in curly hair. A cute pair of bangs also help.
The right haircut can emphasize your natural texture, like this classic lob and face-framing combo.
“I’m seeing a lot of celebrities opting for shorter, piecey layered and textured shapes,” celebrity hairstylist Kieron Justin tells Glamour. “We’ve seen it happening a lot on the runway, and then it filtered into the mainstream with the return of the iconic pixie and the bixie, which is a combination of the bob and pixie.” The bixie cut falls somewhere between a pixie cut and a bob (hence the name). This low-maintenance short haircut is flattering on a wide range of hair types and textures, and can be easily customized to complement your face shape.
For an edgier take on the classic bixie, consider opting for a choppy, layered bixie. The layers add pieciness and definition without tacking any time onto your styling routine. That being said, if you can spare a minute (or two) for products, reach for the L’Oréal Paris Studio Line Overworked Hair Putty.
For the shortest cut of all, go for a full buzz cut. The buzz cut is as close to effortless as you can get without completely shaving your head, and even maintenance is easy, provided you have a pair of electric clippers on hand.
“I’m seeing a lot of celebrities opting for shorter, piecey layered and textured shapes,” celebrity hairstylist Kieron Justin tells Glamour. “We’ve seen it happening a lot on the runway, and then it filtered into the mainstream with the return of the iconic pixie and the bixie, which is a combination of the bob and pixie.”
If Spencer had you thinking about a Diana-inspired chop, you’re not alone. Ryan Trygstad, celebrity hairstylist and cofounder of New York’s Mark Ryan Salon, says he’s been giving his clients a modern take on the princess’s iconic haircut. “It’s such a fresh look, and exudes confidence and style,” he says. “Curtain bangs are the gateway to bangs, because they’re super versatile,” says Emily Heser, stylist at Cutler Salon in New York City. “They’re long enough to grow out or pin back if you want, but they can also be cut into a shorter look.” If you’re on the noncommittal side when it comes to your cuts, consider this your match.
If a mullet and a shag had a baby, it would be the wolf cut. It takes some confidence to rock this trendy look, but when cut right, it’s super stylish thanks to its choppy layers. An important thing to keep in mind for cuts like this is that they require maintenance. Pauline Chalamet would look totally different with sleek, shiny strands instead of these soft, easy waves.
We love how effortless Taylor Russell’s cut looks when it’s slicked back behind her ears. She pulls it off, but Izquierdo points out that cuts like this can be difficult. “Find photos of others with similar face shapes and hair texture to yours to find what shapes and lengths look best,” he says.
Emma Chamberlain’s icy blonde bob was given some major volume by styling the ends to flip out. Polko says deciding which way to style the ends-curling them under or out-is a major element to a short cut. The use of bobby pins really levels up this look too.
“Considering the current climate, a lot of women are doing their hair at home, therefore easy, effortless looks will be the go-to,” says Naeemah LaFond, Amika’s global artistic director. “Women may take the opportunity to embrace their natural texture more than ever.” A short, cropped cut like Lupita Nyong’o’s is a beautiful way to embrace your texture.
A super-cropped bob-we’re talking earlobe length, at most-has a cool 1920s feel. Wet-slicked texture like Zazie Beetz’s makes it feel even more special.
You’re likely already familiar with the classic mullet, and the short mullet is one of the easiest low-maintenance short haircuts to add to your list. The sides are very short like a pixie, while the top is lightly trimmed for neatness. As it grows out, the short style takes on a wolf cut-like shape, giving your hair body and texture without the need for repeat salon visits.
If you have thick hair and want to remove some bulk, consider an easy short haircut with lots of choppy layers. The layers will help create movement and remove weight, allowing your hair to dry naturally without becoming puffy or dense-looking.
Take this photo as a promise that blunt doesn’t have to mean stiff, especially if you have thick hair. Ask your stylist for straight-across bangs with a bit of feathering and movement for a retro vibe. Add a little salt spray and you’re good to go. “This cut is a statement,” says Jon Reyman, owner of Spoke & Weal salons. “Cool is more important than sexy right now. Or rather, cool is the new sexy.” The strong bob works for any hair texture, but if yours is dense, ask your stylist to thin it out first.
Chin bangs are a low-maintenance (and grown-out) version of curtain bangs. While the latter requires frequent trims and styling to maintain their iconic look, chin bangs are a longer, more manageable variation that rivals the face-framing layers.
tags: #low #haircut #styles #for #women
