The 65 Best Short (and Sweet) Hairstyles for Women

Coiffed Pixie

Let's start things off strong, shall we? Megan Rapinoe's pixie has become her signature look on and off the field. For the 2021 Met Gala, the soccer star coiffed her then-purple locks into sleek, glossy curls. 

"It’s such a versatile haircut and can be styled multiple ways and works great on every type of hair: straight, fine, curly, coarse, thick," explains Phenix Salon Suites founder Gina Rivera of her favorite short hairstyle.

Half-Buzzcut

Not ready to go full buzzcut just yet? We have you covered. Actress Samira Wiley rocked a half-shaven head at the Emmy Awards in 2021. Our favorite part, though? How the chop perfectly contrasted her voluminous curls. 

Sequined Locks

Lupita Nyong'o is so good at accessorizing—her short hair especially. For this particular look, she weaved some suitcase into her black hair.

Flipped Bob

Honestly, even the more high-maintenance short hairstyles on this list are low-effort compared to long styles. Take this cute flipped out bob, which requires a little styling to get that flick just so, for example.

Nevertheless, Josh says that product will still be your best friend. His favorite for protecting those precious strands and keeping the ends happy and ready for flipping? Kerasilk's Liquid Cuticle Filler.

Natural Buzzcut

There are often two schools of thought when you go for buzz: dyeing it blonde or a fun color like some of the other celebrities on this list, or keeping its natural color. Willow Smith took the natural approach...but balanced things out with a very non-natural lip color.

'70s Inspired Cut

Hollywood loves a bang! Normally long-locked Kaia Gerber wore this shaggy, '70s-inspired cut to the 6th Annual InStyle Awards in 2021. A texturizing spray will help you achieve a similar look at home. 

Bleached Pixie

Iris Law showed off her feathery bleach blonde pixie cut at the 77th annual Cannes Film Festival in May 2024. "The day I shaved my head, I changed my life," she told Vogue in 2021. “I looked in the mirror and thought it was going to be emotional but it wasn’t. It felt so positive." See?

Curly Lob

"The perception of short hair is 'I feel like I am going to have to style it every day and there is only one way to style it for it to look good,'" shares Rivera. "This is not always the case; there are so many ways you can style your short cut! You can even leave it to air dry, especially if your hair is naturally curly."

(Case in point: We love this super voluminous cut that Ruth Negga pulled off to perfection in July 2024. Her natural ringlets are everything.)

Tendril-Bedecked Lob

Ciara's adorable crop is simple as can be, but a few key details make it one of the best red carpet hairstyles she's ever done (which is saying a lot). That tendril!! That gold eyeshadow!!

Shoulder-Length Bob

Maude Apatow traded in her Euphoria character Lexi's signature waves for a sleek chin-length bob circa 2022 and hasn't looked back since. A hair gloss will give you a similar shine. 

Angular Bob

Venus Williams can rock any look. Case in point: her blunt, angular bob hairstyle at The Batman premiere in New York City in March 2022. 

Face-Framing Short Cut

Phoebe Bridgers' cute silver 'do with ample face framing plays perfectly with her dark lipstick and simple earrings. If you want to go short but not too short, this cut is for you. 

Accessorized Shag

We're calling this Miley Cyrus special the 'Beanie Baby,' and it makes us want to grab the scissors and snip-snap ourselves a mullet. Added bonus: If you've run out of dry shampoo, no one has to see the grease.

Silky Pixie

If you have a silky straight hair texture like Maisie Williams, we promise all the extra trim appointments will be worth it for this cute pixie. And as far as time management goes, maybe this is your chance to air dry and run out the door, living your life unencumbered by the styling you used to do with long strands?!

Lived-In Lob

We are living for Katie Holmes' natural, lived-in texture. Her lob has been styled so many ways over the years, proving that it is the ultimate versatile haircut. 

Piece-y Bob

A piece-y bob is oh so French Girl-chic, and the subtle highlights Natalie Portman added throughout add dimension for some extra swishy movement.

Tight Shave

Is Joy Sunday's lovely head enough to convince you to pick up the clippers? If you've been considering a buzz, this fall might be the perfect time.

"Transitioning to short hair can be a thrilling experience, but there are a few things to consider before taking the plunge," says Matrix celebrity hairstylist Castillo Bataille. "First, think about your face shape and hair texture, as these will influence the style of bob that suits you best. Maintenance is another crucial factor; while a bob can be less time-consuming than long hair, it still requires regular trims to keep its shape. Additionally, styling shorter hair can be different—embrace the change and experiment with new techniques and products to find what works best for you."

Short Mullet

A classic bob is always chic, but have you considered combining elements of that with...the mullet? The shaggy hairstyle is the perfect look to match a fierce personality—add some choppy bangs like Kristen Stewart to really make it shine.

Choppy Pixie

Chances are, your eyes are fixated on the allure of Kravitz's ravishing red lipstick. (Can't blame you there.) But her face-framing pixie cut also plays its part with choppy layers subdued with an inky-black hair color for peak chicness.

Flippy Bob With Bangs

Tessa Thompson's classic chop is perfect for both fine and thick hair. Clip some sections back with barrettes or add a headband for a face-focused style that doesn't sacrifice the wonders of your fringe.

Mia Farrow Pixie

Ruth Bell, who formerly rocked an amazing buzzcut, grew out her strands to this lovely Mia Farrow-esque look. A little pomade helps keep strands in place for an effortlessly chic style.

Inverse Angled Cut

Allow Jodie Turner-Smith to take your breath away, because the queen of a fun makeup look can slay a structural haircut, too. In case you needed further confirmation, this constructive cut shows that natural curls can be worn in endless ways.

Curled Lob

A clavicle-brushing lob is an unbeatable classic. A sharp middle part (like Emilia Clarke is rocking here) helps you achieve the clean girl look, but switch it up with a side part for an edgier style.

Super-Sharp Lob

Try cutting your classic lob into a super-sharp, asymmetrical, angular shape like Kendall Jenner for added dimension. Playing up the style with barrettes makes this look even more your own.

Vintage Bob

Ryan Destiny looks incredible no matter the style, but this vintage bob is one our favorites. The major side part makes the volume all the better.

Extra-Long Lob

Long-haired queen Sophie Turner looked nearly unrecognizable to Team MC's eyes at the 2019 Billboards Awards when she premiered a bright blonde lob. And after once again growing her hair out, she took us by surprise again when she chopped it in 2024. Take a hair straightener and add soft bends wherever you want more body to lift an otherwise flat lob.

Slicked-Back Bob

Zoey Deutch once told Marie Claire in an interview that this slicked-back, flipped bob was her favorite red carpet beauty look. We were in full agreement...until she showed up with a pixie cut. (More on that later.)

Spiky Crop

This is a hard ask, but we never want Rowan Blanchard to grow out her hair again. If you have a fancy event coming up and don't feel like fussing with your strands, try this back-swept style to let your makeup steal the show.

"If you’re a person that likes to put in product on dry hair, I recommend pomades and pastes," says Josh. "Put it on the ends of your hair to piece it out. If you’re looking for kind of the demi-glossed wet look, you can use a fusion of a gel and a balm, so it has a little bit of hold but softens up so it’s not as crunchy."

Tousled Bob

Bright, blonde, and blunt, Cate Blanchett's tousled bob accentuates her neckline so beautifully. To get the windblown look, grab one of your favorite sea salt sprays and start spritzing.

Flipped-In Bob

Fall 2022 called for a bobbed-up Bella Hadid, and the sultry dark chocolate shade and chin-grazing cut looked incredible on the supermodel. Another takeaway: your part doesn't have to be perfect. You look much cooler when things are a little messy.

Slicked-Back Poof

Amandla Stenberg pulled her short hair on top of her head for a major ponytail moment. The slicked back scalp, the natural texture, the structural hairpiece—it's all so good.

Baby Beehive

Behold: The babiest of beehives by short-haired star Cailee Spaeny. A tribute to Priscilla Presley, perhaps?

Graduated Bob

The warm shades of caramel peeking through are the reason Gomez's graduated bob doesn't look juvenile curled under. You can revive and modernize this '90s style with color.

Wet Look Pixie

Halsey's hair is definitely giving Beetlejuice here. And that's not necessarily a bad thing. Even if you have short hair, you can costume it up or jump on current trends like the wet look that's swept red carpets for the last few years.

Bleached Buzzcut

Jada Pinkett-Smith showcases the most tried-and-true way to jazz up a buzzcut: color (but make it fun). This white shade is simple in the least boring way.

Tight Curls

Rihanna's decision to step out with super short curls was a major treat after months of honey blonde locks (not that seeing Rihanna isn't always a treat, no matter her hairstyle). 

Long Pixie

As promised, super-short haired Zoey Deutch. This pixie is almost veering into bob territory—proof that there's nothing to be scared about when it comes to grow-out haircuts.

Middle-Parted Bob

There's nothing much more minimalist than a sleek, middle-parted blunt bob. Can you even tell what year this picture was taken? Saiorse Ronan is proof that this classic cut never goes out of style.

Pixie With Side Bangs

Yes, the side bang is back. And it's oh so good at any length.

Before taking the scissors out, Rivera recommends a proper consultation with your stylist.

"You may feel you can’t pull of short hair, but in actuality yes you can," she says. "There are so many variations to a short haircut and your stylist will recommend a good length and cut that will compliment your facial features, hair type, and lifestyle."

Layered Lob

Lovato's layered all the way up, breathing life into what could be an otherwise shapeless lob. The motto: the piece-ier, the messier, the better.

"For a flawless bob, I love using products that enhance texture and volume," adds Bataille. "A Curl Can Dream Scrunch N' Go Defining Spray is a lightweight spray that can help define waves and curls for up to 48 hours this Wave Definition is fantastic for creating soft, natural waves that add movement to your hair. It's perfect for giving your bob that effortless, lived-in look."

Sleek Asymmetrical Bob

A slightly asymmetrical bob like Dua Lipa's will accentuate your gorgeous jawline...and give you more room to dress up your bare neckline with whatever you see fit.

Defined Curls

These defined curls look so gorgeous on Margaret Qualley, and will look so goregous on you. You can always depend on tight ringlets for added dimension.

And what should you do about hair that's exposed to heat tools or time in the South of France sun?

"If your hair needs a bit of extra strength and protection, Matrix's new Build-a-Bond is my go-to," says Bataille. "It helps to fortify and repair your hair, making it healthier and more resilient. Remember, the right styling tools and products can make a world of difference in achieving that perfect bob.

Spiky Pixie Cut

You can't talk about short hair without paying homage to Berry's iconic pixie cut. There's a reason this style goes down in beauty's history books.

Blonde Pixie

Meagan Good's skin looks so flawless...and there's no doubt that her bright blonde pixie cut is adding to that glow. 

Swooped Pixie

Tilda Swinton is the epitome of très chic with her signature structural cut. There are three words to describe this cut: cooler than cool.

As far as styling products go, all you need is a texturizer to create the look. Bennet recommends Texture AIIR Spray.

"It’s a texturizing spray that’s used in dry hair. It’s the perfect finishing product that adds just enough grit to hold your style but not feel dirty," she says. "It’s also infused with mica minerals so it adds shine instead of giving a matte finish."

Asymmetrical Bob With Highlights

Taraji P. Henson dressed up her bob with an asymmetrical cut, which adds fullness and volume to the sleek style. Even more exciting: her shining highlights that compliment her golden gown.

Buzzed Afro

Again, it's impossible to pick just one of the "best" short styles on Lupita Nyong'o—she's worn so many so well throughout the years. Can't choose between an afro and a buzzcut? Do both!

Short Hair Chignon

Here, Charlize Theron proves that you can create a perfect updo while rocking a short haircut. That loose strand up front adds a touch of elegance, while her expert highlights contain enough intrigue to make the simple style something to behold.

Flippy Retro Bob

In the last few years, we've seen Florence Pugh go from a buzzcut to this cute flippy bob. In between, there were a large variety of grow-out hairstyles; she's had fun with the process!

"If you’re new to short hair, it may take a little adjustment. Maybe you’re using different products for your new style. Maybe you’re spending less time getting ready in the morning and get to stay in bed for an extra 15 minutes!" says Bennet. "The best treatment is patience to learn something new and an open mind to be creative with your new style."

Braided Lob

Danai Gurira's braided lob stole the show at the 2019 Vanity Fair Oscars Party. Trying different textured styles, like braids, passion twists, bantu knots, and more looks so good with a bob.

Shoulder-Length Curls

Curls can do anything, at any length. Isn't Yara Shahidi's shoulder-length curly style so pretty? And simple, too.

Classic Pixie

Long live the pixie cut Cardi B debuted at the 2018 MTV Video Music Awards. Celeb stylist Tokyo Styles is responsible for this wig, which paid homage to Halle Berry's famous '90s 'do in the best way.

Pink Lob

Over the years, retro style icon Lucy Boynton has experimented with several hair colors. This pink—the color of Summer 2024—is exceptionally cute with her classic lob. With that being said, if you're headed to the bleach bowl it's important to take proper care of your short strands. Even though they'll "grow out," they'll still be hurt in the process.

"People tend to color short hair much more extreme, so they tend to have much more damage," notes Josh. "Putting Kerasilk Strengthening Bond Builder in every day would be a nice hug around the strands. ‘I’ve got you.’"

Soft Updo

According to Bennet, the way to know you're ready for a chop is if you’re in a long-term rut with your hair. "Maybe your density or texture has changed over time and your long locks aren’t vibing anymore. Or maybe you’re just wanting a big change," she explains.

And if you're someone who's used to throwing their hair up (this messy updo on Leighton Meester is my personal favorite night-out look), make sure your stylist knows so they can cut accordingly. You do not want to miss out on those precious ponytails.

Platinum Short Curls

While Solange Knowles has been wearing her hair long and dark, we'll never forget the time she dipped her natural curls in platinum. Can you tell that her mom, Ms. Tina Knowles, is a hairstylist?

Romantic Waves

Major heart eyes for Hailey Bieber and this gorgeous chin-grazing cut we'll never get over. Romantic waves dress up this bob beautifully.

Voluminous Vintage Curls

Ayo Edibiri went with a deep side-part and voluminous curls for the 2024 BAFTA Awards. But is it a bob or a lob?

"The primary difference between a bob and a lob lies in the length," explains Bataille. "A bob typically falls around the jawline or slightly above, creating a chic, classic look. On the other hand, a lob, or long bob, extends to the shoulders or just below, offering a bit more versatility while still maintaining the stylish appeal of a bob. Both styles can be tailored to suit different face shapes and hair textures, so it ultimately comes down to your personal preference and how much length you want to keep."

Face-Framed Updo

For this look, Lucy Hale pulled her short dark locks back and let the front of her hair—complete with two face-framing strands—shine. It's a simple, beautiful look that is just as welcome on the red carpet as it is your Wednesday night dinner reservation.

Old Hollywood Bob

While Ice Spice's signature orange curls are always a styling option, you could also give this major vintage moment a try. With a matching vintage Versace dress, perhaps?

Side-Swept Pixie

Can you believe that you made it this far down the list without seeing Janelle Monáe? (Don't worry, she'll be back.) For this particular look, she swept her black hair to one side and accessorized with some giant sequins...as one does.

Short, Graduated Layers

Let us all bow down to these insanely gorgeous curls that manage to stay voluminous on top thanks to a smattering of short, graduated layers. For even more of a heart-shaped look, create a deep side-part over the arch of one eyebrow, like Samile Bermannelli's.

Classic Bob

There's a reason the blunt bob has shown up over and over again here: it's a favorite.

"I really love a no-elevation, structured bob," explains Bennet. "I like going in with a razor and creating some internal texture to remove weight without adding layers. This keeps the perimeter tight and creates a really strong foundation for styling. It’s versatile and low maintenance! You can wear it pin straight for a bold look or you can let it air dry and throw a few 'bends' in with an iron to accentuate your natural texture and movement for more of an 'undone' look."

Messy Curls

Curly haired gals, we've got you: use a diffuser when you're drying hair to boost volume at the roots. Or, look for a half-inch curler if you want to create your own corkscrew curls a la Julia Garner.

Soft Updo

Emma Stone wore her medium-length hair in an elegant updo, letting just one soft tendril fall forward in the front. And that, my darlings, is why you have those layers.

Puffy Curls

Janelle Monáe has experimented with all kinds of beauty looks over the years. But for the everyday, we're all about the sophisticated puffy curls that give this blunt look so much more character.