African American women often encounter many surprises and troubles with their natural hair. It’s either difficult to style or lacks length for versatile impressive hairstyles you can see there on Internet. The other problem is when your hair is getting extremely dry and brittle due to experiments with styling products and styling procedures. Sometimes the only way out in such cases is to have a short haircut and wait for the new healthy growth. Meanwhile the other puzzle that emerges is how to style your short natural hair so that it looks decent. Don’t worry, there are many fantastic stylish hairstyles for your short hair. Here we have collected 75 pictures of the classiest ones.
Your Options in Natural Hairstyles for Short Hair
– Protective updos. They do not only look very stately, they also protect the delicate structure of your hair from the elements and loss of moisture.
– Twists. These take any extra volume under control and look fancy whether you wear them loose or in elegant updos.
– Puffs. A puff is a substitute for a common bun, so loved by African American ladies. When you also introduce twists or elements of braiding into your puff hairstyles, you have all chances to come up with something truly exquisite and eye-catching.
– Mohawks and Fauxhawks. Never going out of fashion, these hairstyles are perfect for black women who are open to bold solutions and extravagant haircuts.
– Finger coils. If you are searching for hairstyles which make a stake on outstanding textures, finger coils are an excellent idea.
The Most Inspiring Natural Short Hairstyles
Check out the ideas below.
#1: Flat-Twist with Twist Out
Instagram/ @sashabasha2
A twist-out is an easy natural hairstyle for short hair that African-American women can use to achieve full curls sans heat. It’s a popular protective style among the “naturalistas”. The style is easy to maintain, it can be slept on without messing up the curl pattern. This look combines a flat twist detail in the front to further protect the edges of the hair, which are the most prone to breakage.
#2: Natural Hairstyle with Closely Clipped Sides
This wild curly style oozes sex appeal and confidence. Tapering the curls in the back with them growing longer in the front creates a bang-like effect that adds mystery to your look. If you are feeling bold, complement this look with the classic red lipstick and winged liner makeup for a daring appearance.
#3: Two Tone Natural Hair
Growing out your natural hair is a lengthy process, that many are excited to begin but quickly lose interest in over time. One way to keep yourself content with your steadily growing hair is adding a splash of color. Keep yourself, and others, interested with a cute shade of blonde.
#4: Natural Updos
Don’t be fooled into thinking natural styles can’t be classy and professional. Toy with looks that are fun but also utilize the versatility of your hair. Naturally curly hair has so many possibilities. Braid it or twist it up into a sleek updo, with some soft waves for an evening or interview-ready hairstyle.
#5: Afro American Frohawk
If somebody is ever looking for a unique way to spruce up their natural hairstyles, the Mohawk is always the first place people turn. However, for those unwilling to make such a daring commitment, this chic alternative is perfect. It looks great with natural hair, and provides the edginess of a Mohawk while remaining fashionable.
#6: Sectioned Mohawk with Small Coils
If you can’t pull your hair into a ponytail, pinning it into a Mohawk in the middle of your head allows to get it out of your face without trying to force it into a tiny bun or ponytail. Add in a parted design for a unique natural hairstyle for short hair. Or you can try making it more spiky.
#7: Curly Afro Puff with Perfect Edges
Don’t have enough length for a curly ponytail? Try an afro puff. It’s a beautiful option when it comes to hairstyles for natural hair that’s rather short. Because this style is glossy and smooth, it can work well for a formal occasion or a date night.
#8: Natural Styles for Short Hair
Cute coils look great on every African American woman. Whether your texture is naturally tightly curled or not does matter when you know how to manipulate your hair effectively. Straw sets, flexi rods or a well-done twist out can allow anybody to achieve this perfect style for short hair.
#9: Short and Chic
Different red hues are great for natural hair, whether you prefer plum reds or copper reds. This style reverses the trendy ombre look by fading upward into bright burgundy coils up top. Add some color to your curls and give new life to your favorite short style.
#10: Short Twist Out
If you find yourself completely over your everyday afro, just know you aren’t alone. Many naturalistas get bored with their curly q’s and yearn for something new. A gorgeous twist out is an instant solution to this common issue. Pin up one side for an added bit of style.
#11: Knotted Headscarf
Some cute and simple natural hairstyles for black women rely on accessories – headscarves, bandanas, headbands, etc. This look is timeless, it’s versatile, and it’s vital for protecting natural hair. It’s also the perfect ‘do for those days when you simply don’t want to show off your hair.
#12: Inverted Cornrows
Inverted cornrows, also known as Didi braids, are magical. Cornrows are ideal for natural hair anyway, especially for women who need a style that protects their hair. The inverse of this popular style looks as a fresh take on traditional cornrows. It showcases a similar sleekness, but the braids seem to be pressed into the hair.
#13: Short Natural Sass
Short natural curls don’t need much to look gorgeous, other than some hold and definition easily achieved with styling products. With this short length you probably won’t use some large accessories, but a couple of hair clips complimenting the texture of your hair will definitely add a lot.
#14: Braided Mohawk for Short Hair
This look has enough eye-catching elements, but they all come together to create one of the classiest natural hairstyles. The twisted curls with flawless form spring out over the tightly braided cornrows on the sides, which create a kind of faux undercut. The two-tone hair color is also worth attention.
#15: Fierce Natural Curls
Faking an undercut is simplicity itself – do it with a few side braids. The braids and twists in this hairstyle definitely stand out, but the tawny, gorgeous profusion of curls is the real statement. This woman is fierce, and she knows it.
#16: The Tightest Tiny Curls
This stunning afro is all tight curls and high shine. At the time when women are embracing their natural hair more than ever, afros are absolutely in vogue, and with good reason. Embrace those curls!
#17: Curls and Crochet Braids
These thick, lush, corkscrew curls are everything – they will give energy to any woman who wears them and every woman who sees them. The curls top off the braids hidden underneath, making this an ideal style for protecting short natural hair while still looking fierce to death.
#18: Natural Twisted Spirals
This curly style is the living end. We love the way the curls fall softly forward, creating a bit of an androgynous vibe. Use product to give curls enough shape and definition to make them shiny and bouncy.
#19: Natural Faux Hawk
This natural faux hawk is a work of art. It’s a perfect example of an intricate braided pattern composed of simple twists and zigzag parts. Look at those clear zigzags, the flawless lines, and the twisted curls. This ‘do has everything, and it’s quite short and comfortable to wear.
#20: Short Red Curls
It’s hard to pick out the most gorgeous aspect of this style. Like many short natural hairstyles, it highlights those stunning, all-natural curls, which are twisted and formed into flawless spirals. The color is on-point, too.
#21: Pixie with Curls
This is a pixie taken all the way to the next level. Those curls are flawlessly formed – neither too tight, nor too loose, soft, manageable, and shiny. The details, such as the baby hairs and the curled sideburns, are particularly gorgeous.
#22: Short Natural Faux Hawk
The faux hawk is a popular style among women with natural hair because it’s showy, flattering and quite easy to style. Slick the sides, fluff the curls, and that’s basically all it takes. Of course, the color also means a lot if you want to enhance the feel of Mohawk with hair this short.
#23: That’s a Wrap
Who knew that a simple headwrap was so eye-catching? This is an excellent way to create a statement hairstyle without spending a lot of time, money, or energy. Headwraps and scarves are ideal accessories for protecting natural black hair, styling with them is pretty and easy!
#24: Top Knot Meets Afro
When you want to sleek hair back but don’t have enough length, you can either go the popular afro puff route or make a curly half up top knot. The back is left on its own, a full, lush ‘fro. Together, the two create a dynamic ‘do that will make strangers do a double take – so simple and so cute!
#25: Short Natural 4C Hairstyle
This twisted out ‘fro is fierce, fabulous, and fantastically easy to steal. A twist out lasts for days and every new day it looks a bit different, making everyone think you are making something new with your hair every day.
#26: Side-Parted Afro
The obsession with side parts hasn’t passed by natural hairstyles for short hair, and you see, the good old afro is getting a cool update. The edges may need some pomade or coconut oil.
#27: Afro Puff with a Headband
This hairdo is nothing less than spectacular. From the cute baby hairs to the pops of color and vivid orange scarf, it’s simplicity, convenience and beauty, 3 in 1. Afros are not protective, as you don’t wear your ends tucked away, but there are clip in afro puffs you can use for this purpose.
#28: Wet Look
Embrace those kinky curls and coils. Let them stand out and shine. Add some product for sheen and structure, but for the most part, this ‘do is low-maintenance and high glamour.
#29: Short and Shaved
Love androgynous looks? Adore super short black natural hairstyles? Pick this one next time. Shaven in the back and on the sides, this style also embraces textured curls, resulting in a cute super short Mohawk. The curls are tight, flawlessly formed, and add just enough feminine edge to balance out the entire style.
#30: Sky-High Curls
Take a moment to observe this beauty. Somehow the curls are both loose and soft as well as tight and structured. This style is effortlessly glamorous and fabulously casual. It’s the best of all worlds, indeed, and the silhouette is modern.
#31: Short Sunset Curls
Adding some bright, vibrant colors can take your natural hair to a whole other level. These pretty sunset shades graze only the ends on your curls on top, so they won’t be as damaging as a solid blonde.
#32: Pretty Burgundy Ringlets
Natural hair styles are all about moisture. To master this look, you need to find the right balance of moisture for your hair. The trick is to use some water- and some oil-based products. If you put on water based products first, the oil based products will help seal in moisture.
#33: Pinned Back Short Natural Hair
This look is super cute. Keep your style simple and fuss-free trying this version of an afro puff. Push it more back and add some sort of pompadour bangs. It’s actually a small roll above your forehead for an added height.
#34: Beautiful Kinky Curls
For an easy style that you can dress up or dress down, short hair is where it’s at. All-one-length curls make for a classy, chic look that can go with just about anything. To make the style extra special, brush and pin hair back at the temples.
#35: Tri-Color Curls
Natural short hairstyles don’t have to be completely natural. It’s more about natural texture—the color is totally up to you. This style is fun and bright. Plus the color blocking is a creative way to transition from black to blonde.
#36: Natural Ombre Bun
With natural hair, it’s easy to create a bun that’s full of volume, but this bun really stands out from its counterparts thanks to the beautiful ombre that looks as if it was painted after you’ve pulled your hair into the bun.
#37: Mohawk Updo for Short Natural Hair
For unique styling options, try playing with texture combinations like waves and flat twists, for instance. This look is a great way to fake a mohawk. You’ll have a height on top without having to shave the sides. The dusty rose color really elevates the whole look.
#38: Cute Finger Curls
Finger coils are one of the most popular short natural hairstyles for black women. You get the best of everything: a short, easy style with femininity and volume. To make the look more unique, ask your stylist for barely there highlights in gold, red, or cinnamon.
#39: Short Protective Hairstyle
This is a perfect protective style! It will be worn with pleasure during the day, being also easy to sleep on at night. Plus, this style can be your favorite DIY, since it’s quite simple, yet pretty and special. Be sure to treat your hair to some extra moisture before getting started.
#40: Perfectly Curled Natural Hair
The best natural curls are ultra-moisturized. Curly hair should get regular doses of natural creams, butters, and oils. These products will not only have a positive impact on your hair health, but also help in styling.
#41: Short Tapered Cut
The best hairstyles for short natural hair are molded to flatter your face shape – giving you a nice height or, on the contrary, volume on the sides of your face. Take a tip from bold women who choose mens inspired haircuts. This look tapers gradually towards the nape and the temples. On top, the curls are styled full and smooth to give it an overall feminine vibe.
#42: Short Puffy Curls
She is killing it with that kinky hair. When you’re on the hunt for natural hair ideas, it can be easy to forget the classics in the search of something new. But the best idea might just be the classic, side-parted afro.
#43: Easy Curly Updo
So, here’s the thing about going natural: it’s not meant to be perfect. A day or two after washing and styling, your curls might be still nice and smooth, but despite your commitment to sleeping with silk scarves, some slight separation and frizz will occur, and it’s not a bad thing at all!
#44: Mini Curls with Silver Highlights
Short natural haircuts are often super simple. For a modern, fuss-free style, ask for an inch of curls on the back and sides and a few inches on top. While a simple style can be sophisticated, it can also look boring. To play up to your short hair, add in a bit of a modern cool-toned color like gray, pastel, or platinum.
Instagram/ @itstoian
#45: Short Platinum Crop
Many hairstylists believe that every woman should go platinum at least once in their life. And here’s why: it will always be the classiest, chicest way to stand out. Platinum color looks gorgeous on natural hair because it’s even more unexpected.
#46: Short Natural Wash-and-Go Style
This style is the result of an easy wash-and-go routine. Of course, you don’t actually leave the house after washing, but first apply the right moisturizing and styling products.
#47: Pretty Cinnamon Curls
For a quick African American natural hairstyle, try a half-up top knot, which is very on trend. What really makes this look special is how beautifully that cinnamon shade looks against her warm-toned skin. Ask your stylist what shade would help bring out your inner glow.
#48: Creatively Colored Short Hair
For well-defined heatless curls that work with your hair texture and not against it, the trick is to blow dry your hair quickly, add a little bit of mousse and then rod set your curls. The result will be ringlets that appear polished and natural all at the same time.
Instagram/ @embracenaturalbeauty_
#49: Braided Undercut with Spiral Curls
Need an update to your usual look? Add some spunky cornrows for a faux shaved-side look. When you have short hair, it can be hard to find ideas to switch things up. Some simple braiding on one or both sides will give you a brand new style that’s ready to turn heads every day.
#50: Natural Twisted Up Style
Sick of your normal wash and go? Throw a few twists along your hairline. It’s super easy and incredibly cute for any length or texture of hair. For those still skeptical about wearing natural black hairstyles, this is a quick way to add some pizazz to a simple afro.
#51: Pinup for Natural Hair
Who says pinup styles are a thing of the past? Natural hair with a 50’s twist is both classic and modern, depending on how you do it. This style incorporates a pastel bandana, and the ever-favorite front bump. The contrast between the natural curls atop and the smoothed sides is deliberately stylish.
#52: Funky Natural Fohawk
Getting over the hump of The Big Chop? Start fresh along the sides of your head with a fresh cut. Keep your curly fro trendy with a natural Mohawk. While some are scared to take the plunge, this is one of the hairstyles for short natural hair that is both bold and versatile. Ask your stylist to add some parts and color to your new ‘do.
#53: Short and Steady
The best way to keep your natural style up to par is with simple maintenance. Keeping your hair moisturized and trimmed is the most stylish thing you can do. Healthy hair looks best, and your curls look the nicest when they’re taken care of. This is one of the cutest short natural hairstyles for black women that showcases the importance of healthy hair.
#54: Straw Set for Natural Girls
This twisted look may seem impossible to achieve at first glance, but it’s actually much easier than you may think. Wrap your hair tightly around some straws or small flexirods, and sit under a dryer or let it air dry overnight; these tiny spirals are an excellent protective style for naturally curly hair. Pull them out and voila! Separate the curls for even more curls and body or let wear them tight and compact.
#55: Curly Hair
This hairstyle is short, cute and super easy, and it works best with naturally curly hair. Wash-and-go is great for your hair when done right, and it looks great on most hair textures. Find the routine that has proved to be the most effective for your hair with the products that are specific for your hair type and curl pattern. Once you get the hang of your routine, it’ll be a cinch to rock this style.
Instagram/ @embracenaturalbeauty_
#56: Natural Bob
Crochet styles are the newest trend in the natural community; they’re great for your hair and take no time to install. This style features jumbo twists cut into a chic bob, a universally flattering short natural hairstyle. It’s a great protective style to keep your hair healthy and save time on daily maintenance and styling.
#57: Short and Signature
Short on the sides, length up top, honestly, this is one of the simplest short natural haircuts. This style is a common favorite amongst the natural community. It’s easy to maintain and incredibly fun to experiment with. Try a variety of lengths and colors to enhance the creativity of the cut.
#58: Natural Waves
Soft waves may have peaked in the twenties, but they have their place in the modern day fashion for African American women as well. Brush out your curls for extra body and length. This natural look is perfect for a night out, it definitely oozes class and good taste.
#59: Brown and Caramel Short Hair
Embrace your texture and short length with this classy fauxhawk style. Adding color to natural hairstyles for short hair is an update that makes a big difference. Shorter styles for African American women are varied and easy to maintain. Experiment with colors and find what looks best on you.
#60: Twisted Roll and Side Bang
For a style that will last for weeks and still look appropriate try this twisted short natural hairstyle for black women. The side bang creates some versatility: you can pin it back or wear it down for a funky casual look.
#61: Braids And Double Bun
For a quick natural updo hairstyle, pair chunky cornrows with two adjacent front buns and get a lovely look that will last all day long. This creative-yet-simple style can transition from day-to-night with ease.
#62: Individual Braided Natural Hair Style
Individual braids are a go-to protective hairstyle for African American women, as they provide more versatility than flat cornrows and twists. For shorter styles with braids use a hair accessory like a thick headband. Is it winter or summer outdoors, you will always look great.
#63: Twisted Back with Curly Top and Highlights
For the lady that loves a good time, this look is just the right option for the weekend or a vacation. It’s easy to maintain – simply re-wet the curls whenever they get flat and carry on with the fun and ease!
#64: Funky Mohawk with Blue Grey Ends
Grey is no longer a color for the aging. The silvery hue adds an instant dose of coolness to warm complexions for a look that is anything but regular. When you pair this popular color with a rocker-chic sassy Mohawk, you get the perfect edgy and trendy natural hair style.
#65: Two-Tone Haircut with Design
Just because you have a closely-cropped cut does not mean that you cannot experiment with your look as this natural hair style shows. The blonde color on top makes the style pop and the parted design adds a bit of interest on the sides. If you want to maintain the cut, simply change the color and designs to keep the look fresh.
#66: Layered and Curly Natural Short Hairstyle
Short curls are more springy and lively when layered throughout. The jet-black hair color adds definition to the luscious coils for an easy style that can last throughout the day and work for a variety of occasions. Natural hairstyles like this one always attract attention, be ready to be given compliments!
#67: Rolled Bun with A Side-Part
Execute a cute and classic hairstyle for short natural hair in no time with a low bun that features a side-part. The timeless style works effortlessly for any occasion you may find yourself at throughout the day.
#68: Braided Mohawk For Naturalistas
If you want to add some spice to your braided style, try a fun roll with a regal bouffant. This appealing short afro hairstyle can carry you easily from work to play.
#69: Natural African American Hairstyle With Braided Crown
Here is a stylish look to execute on any texture of African-American hair. A braided crown looks appealing on most women. Plus, this look can usually last for a couple of days for those who would rather not worry about their hairstyles on a regular basis.
#70: Thick Short Curls Into High Bun
Never underestimate the power of a bold bun for a trendy everyday look. This high natural black hairstyle works best with thick curly hair. Create a full style with a few messy pieces for added sass.
#71: Afro-tastic for Short Hair
Being a naturalista is no easy task. Styling and creating innovative styles for your individual hair type while maintaining healthy locks is an unexpectedly difficult process to keep up with on a daily basis. The easiest way to maintain your hair strong and stylish is by simply wearing it as natural as possible.
#72: Curly Puff for Short Hair
Besides a good wash-and-go version, tying your hair up into a nice ball of curls is the easiest way to rock your short natural hair. Find a large elastic or a bunch of pins and create a cornucopia of curly q’s for all to admire. This is something quick and simple that can be done even the night before. If you’re looking for a mixture of convenience and style, this is the way to go.
#73: Short and Sweet Finger/Comb Coils
Soft curls create an ideal look for any length. Depending on your hair texture, this will vary on everybody. Like always, keep your hair moisturized in order for any of your short looks to come out stylish.
Instagram/ @embracenaturalbeauty_
#74: Quick and Easy Afro-American Hairstyle
For those days where you find yourself in a mad dash out of the house, with little to no time for hairstyling, a little creativity may be necessary. Invest in a few scarves and wraps for quick and easy fashion-forward looks. YouTube is home to a plethora of tutorials for trendy ways to wrap up your natural hair.
#75: Short Natural Haircut Styled As Fauxhawk
If your length is not sufficient to make even an afro puff, there are still creative ways to style your coils in a beautiful way. Pinning the sides with delicate combs adds visual interest; also try metal combs for a look that pops a little more.
As you see short natural hair doesn’t set you any particular limitations. You can go sleek or frizzy, choose braiding or twists, make an updo or wear your cute coils loose. Experiment and find your most flattering styles!