Styling short hair is a real conundrum. Do you take the time to blow dry and curl every section on a daily basis? For even the most aggressively Type A of us, all that time trapped in the bathroom can become exhausting.
What's the semi-regularly lazy girl to do? Answer: Learn a few go-to short styles to keep her hair looking good even when she's feeling relaxed, of course. Styles for short hair can be pretty and foolproof, too. We love how young and modern cropped cuts feel.
Stock up on medium hold hairspray (for those too-short strands) and hairpins. We're getting down to business. You can thank us later.
Punchy Half Bun
The most challenging aspect of styling short hair is usually the pieces along the neck that insist on slipping out of any band you put them in. Solution: Don't even try to contain them. Let them fly free in a half-up style. As a bonus, you'll spend even less time styling.
On textured hair (or hair that's been lightly spritzed with a texturizing spray), use a comb to create a top section from ear to ear. Pull the top half of your hair into a ponytail, using a comb to smooth out any bumps that might pop up. Using pins, twist and secure the tail into a mini top knot. Don't worry if a few pieces stick out—it's all part of the look. Pull out a few strands over your ears for a youthful, modern style that's just as appropriate at a concert as it is at your Monday morning meeting.
Baby Bun
Not to be mistaken for a bun actually designed for babies, this tiny knot can have a big impact on your overall look. Working with hair that’s been primed with shine spray, run a brush through your short strands and use a comb to create a sharp part. Bring your strands back into a sleek bun at the base of your neck, tying the style off with a band that’s the same color as your hair.
If you’re feeling like this style is closer to gym chic than fashionista, don’t be afraid to dress it up. Use a comb lightly coated with hairspray to wrangle any frizz or stray hairs. Use this opportunity to show off a pair of oversized earrings that you’ve been meaning to wear for weeks.
Boxer Braids
Our favorite thing about braids is how accessible they are to women of all hair textures and lengths. On second-day hair that has a little extra texture, part your mane in the center and French or Dutch braid each side until you’ve reached the nape of your neck.
If you’re feeling punchy or preparing for a festival, try the style with three braids instead of two. It’s a fresh take on a trendy look, one that will have your friends wondering why they’ve held onto their long hair for so long. In other words, triple boxer braids are a surefire win for short manes.
