Cutting curly hair short can feel like a bold leap—especially if you’ve spent years growing it out, layering in hydration masks and coaxing definition from every coil. The wrong cut can shrink your shape, puff out in unpredictable ways or leave you with that dreaded triangle silhouette. So it’s no surprise that many people with curly hair hesitate when the scissors come out. But the truth is, short hair doesn’t have to mean sacrificing shape, bounce or personality—in fact, it can provide the exact opposite.
Short hair is having a moment right now, that’s no secret. Everywhere you look, from street style to the red carpet, you’ll see some sort of crop or bob. And celebs like Quinta Brunson, Natasha Lyonne and Tracee Ellis Ross are proof it’s not just for those with straight hair, serving up jaw-dropping short looks that prove curls and crops are a perfect match. From sculpted pixies to rounded bobs, the key is in the cut—and a stylist who understands how to work with your natural texture, not against it. This is especially important as we age, too.
Related: 7 Best Short Haircuts for Women Over 60, According to a Celebrity Stylist
So if you’ve been thinking about embracing the big chop but are worried it won’t work with your curls, consider this your permission slip. Read on below for the best short hairstyles for curly hair, according to stylists, proving that with the right shape and a little styling know-how, short hair can bring out the very best in your curls.
7 Best Short Hairstyles for Naturally Curly Hair, According to Celebrity Stylists
1. Cropped Up-Do
There’s something striking about a cropped, curly updo—it’s sculptural, elevated and puts natural texture on full display. It’s not a short cut in the traditional sense, but it uses shorter lengths to create height and volume at the crown, while the sides and back are slicked up for a clean, refined finish. Sherri Ann Cole, celebrity stylist and got2b Curled Brand Ambassador, says it’s an especially smart choice for mature women thanks to how “it showcases the curl pattern beautifully and elongates and lifts the face and neck.”
As hair texture shifts with age—becoming looser, drier or more fragile—lighter styles like this help reduce stress on the strands and allow the curls to shine. Alicia Keys rocked the look with a soft, voluminous shape that felt modern and regal all at once. It’s a style that screams confidence and that just works.
2. Voluminous Bob
Tracee Ellis Ross’ voluminous bob is the definition of curl power. The shape is a rounded, cloud-like halo that floats around the face, thanks to long layers that sculpt rather than stack. It’s not too blunt, not too shaggy—just that perfect sweet spot of fullness that shows off natural texture without letting it take over. “This cut enhances the curl pattern, keeps volume but controls bulk, and gives grown woman confidence,” says Cole. “It’s not blunt, and it’s not too layered, it’s just right to keep the shape soft and full without looking boxy or triangular.”
Related: 7 Best Short Hairstyles for Thick Hair, According to a Celebrity Stylist
3. Precision Pixie
Few cuts feel as refined and intentional as a precision pixie, especially on natural curls. With its clean silhouette and sculpted shape, it frames the face while letting texture take center stage. This cropped style, as seen on the incomparable Winnie Harlow, sits close to the scalp with a soft taper through the back and sides, while subtle finger-wave detailing near the front adds movement without bulk. “It defines texture while keeping it polished,” says Cole. The result is effortlessly elevated—modern yet timeless. It’s a standout choice for mature women, thanks to its ease of styling, face-framing lift, and ability to enhance your curl pattern without the weight.
4. Teeny Weeny Afro
Viola Davis proves the power of the Teeny Weeny Afro (TWA), a bold, natural look that is both effortless and empowering. This cut is soft and even, with just enough length to showcase her rich 4C curls, creating a velvety crown that frames the face beautifully.
The TWA is cut close to the scalp, allowing the texture to take center stage, making it a perfect style for those embracing their natural curls, says Cole, who recommends the style for “transitioning or big chop queens.” The shape is flattering for mature women, offering a soft, rounded silhouette that highlights the facial features. Not to mention, styling is easy – just keep it moisturized and define the curls with a gentle curl cream or styling gel to enhance that velvety, voluminous finish.
5. Rounded Bob
A rounded curly bob is a flattering and timeless short cut for those with natural texture, and Yara Shahidi shows just how gorgeous it can be. This style is sculpted to follow the natural curl pattern, with soft curly bangs that frame the face beautifully. And the light layering ensures the bob stays balanced, with enough volume to highlight the face without overwhelming it.
It’s a versatile cut that works for all ages and is especially flattering for those embracing their curls later in life. “The beauty that comes with embracing your texture at 50+? Whew. That’s seasoned, soulful, and unapologetic,” says Cole. The length provides the perfect balance of control and volume, and the bangs soften the overall look, giving a timeless, face-framing shape. Transitioning to your natural curl pattern may take time, but once you embrace it, this rounded bob will work wonders in giving you both style and confidence.
6. Tapered Curls
For curly-haired women craving a short, low-maintenance ‘do with major attitude, the tapered curl is a game-changer. Just look at Nathalie Emmanuel’s sculpted taper—long, bouncy curls on top styled with volume and flair, paired with tight, faded sides for that sleek contrast. It’s edgy, it’s fresh and totally manageable.
This cut highlights your natural curl pattern while keeping things polished and punchy, plus “it’s ultra flattering for all face shapes,” says Cole, “and it’s a perfect example of a curly high-top fade or sculpted taper.” The look strikes the perfect balance of precision and laid-back ease, offering bold structure with a whole lot of personality—ideal for those who want a statement-making cut that’s still a breeze to wear every day.
7. Eye-Grazing Fringe
An eye-grazing fringe brings instant attitude to curly hair. Think cool, confident and just the right amount of drama. Paired with soft, cheekbone-skimming curls, it creates a fresh, sculpted silhouette that feels both timeless and on trend. Case in point? Jane Fonda’s layered curly crop, which proves short hair and curls are a forever power duo, says Seamus McKernan, a Chicago-based hair stylist and Nioxin Top Artist who is responsible for the Chicago Bulls and Luvabull cheerleaders’ stunning cuts.
The secret all lies in that airy curtain fringe, which hits just at the eyes, adding movement and softness while highlighting the face. To style, reach for a weightless volumizer that’ll give your curls body and bounce without stiffness. McKernan recommends Nioxin Diamax Advanced Hair Thickening Serum for plumping curls and lifting roots—he advises applying generously at the base and diffusing to bring your shape to life. It’s sophisticated, spunky, and a chic way to refresh your curls while keeping the styling fuss to a minimum.
Related: 7 Best ‘Wash and Wear’ Haircuts for Women Over 60, According to a Professional Stylist
7 Best Short Hairstyles for Naturally Curly Hair, According to Celebrity Stylists first appeared on Parade on May 23, 2025
