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How do I Choose the Best Short Hairstyle?

Bobbie Fredericks
Bobbie Fredericks

It can be difficult to choose a short hairstyle. You should find one that complements the shape of your face as well as the type and texture of your hair. A style that is easy for you to manage will be the best for a long-term change.

The first step to finding the perfect short hairstyle is to determine the shape of your face. One way to do this is with a mirror and a bar of soap. With your hair pulled back, face the mirror. Close one eye and trace the outline of your face with the soap. The shape that the outline most closely resembles is the shape of your face. Round, oblong, oval, square, and heart are the different shapes.

Oval faces are considered ideal for short hairstyles. Choose a cut to flatter a feature you love. Curly hair, however, may not look good cut short.

Round faces need a cut that makes the face appear leaner. Cuts that hit just below the chin work best for round faces. Short hair that is curly will not suit a round face. Bangs should be kept long.

Those with square faces should opt for cuts with texture, such as curls or layers. The goal is to make the jaw appear smaller and less angular. Blunt bobs may not work for this face shape.

If you have an oblong face, your goal will be to add width. Bangs are helpful and should fall to the brow line. A longer bob is great for an oblong face. Curls also help to add fullness, as long as hair is at least shoulder length.

Heart-shaped faces look best with cuts that draw attention away from their small chins. One way this can be done is with bangs that are long and swept to the side. Another way to add width is with layers near the jawline.

Woman with short hair.
Woman with short hair.

Another consideration that should go into your short hairstyle is the type of hair you have. Curly hair does not work well with many short styles. Cuts that come to the shoulders and short cuts closer to the scalp may work better. Fine hair looks best with a short hairstyle. Choppy layers help add an illusion of volume, and a simple, short bob is also nice for fine hair.

Wavy hair looks good with most short hairstyles. A wavy cut requires little maintenance apart form regular trimming. Wavy hair that is frizzy requires products to combat the frizz.

A hairstylist cutting a short bob.
A hairstylist cutting a short bob.

Maintenance is also an important consideration when picking a short hairstyle. They require regular trims, normally every four to six weeks. Some hair styles must be kept up with special drying and brushing techniques, and others require certain products to achieve the proper look. The time you have to get ready every morning should be considered when choosing a short hairstyle.

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    • Woman with short hair.
      Woman with short hair.
    • A hairstylist cutting a short bob.
      By: Rido
      A hairstylist cutting a short bob.
    • The shape of a person's face can help decide which short hairstyle is the best.
      By: Monkey Business
      The shape of a person's face can help decide which short hairstyle is the best.
    • A pixie cut is a short haircut for women.
      By: Lisa F. Young
      A pixie cut is a short haircut for women.