HAIRSTYLES FOR SHORT HAIR
From the pixie to the bob and natural hairstyles to side swept bangs and edgy styles, there are many great short hairstyles to choose from. Whether you’re looking to try something new or just want to keep your look fresh, these short haircuts are sure to inspire you.
What you'll need to style short hairstyles
Short hair opens you up to a world of fun and funky styles, but only if you have the right tools to maximise its possibilities. With less room to work with, bigger tools might be too tricky to work with. Here’s what we recommend you start with when styling your short hair:

GHD RISE® VOLUMISING HOT BRUSH

GHD THE MINI ALL-ROUNDER - MINI PADDLE BRUSH

GHD BODYGUARD - HEAT PROTECT SPRAY FOR ALL HAIR TYPES

GHD MINI SLIM PLATE HAIR STRAIGHTENER (15MM PLATE) BLACK

GHD CHRONOS PROFESSIONAL HAIR STRAIGHTENER (26MM PLATE) BLACK

NEW GHD CHRONOS CURVE CONICAL WAND (28-23MM BARREL) FOR BEACH CURLS

GHD RISE® VOLUMISING HOT BRUSH

GHD THE MINI ALL-ROUNDER - MINI PADDLE BRUSH

GHD BODYGUARD - HEAT PROTECT SPRAY FOR ALL HAIR TYPES

GHD MINI SLIM PLATE HAIR STRAIGHTENER (15MM PLATE) BLACK

GHD CHRONOS PROFESSIONAL HAIR STRAIGHTENER (26MM PLATE) BLACK

NEW GHD CHRONOS CURVE CONICAL WAND (28-23MM BARREL) FOR BEACH CURLS
Our how-to guides are here to help you achieve the iconic short hairstyles seen on cover girls everywhere. We have collected the most recent and greatest short hairstyles, which range from gentle waves to poker straight cuts to sophisticated updos.
WHAT SHORT HAIRSTYLES ARE TRENDING IN 2025?
Determining which short hairstyles are trending in 2025 can be tricky, as so many looks are popular at any given time. However, there are some clear favourites that stand out above the rest. So get ahead of the trends with our pick of the best short hairstyles and short haircut ideas for 2025.
Pixie cut
The pixie cut is a short hair style that is generally cut close to the head. They can be cropped or styled in a variety of ways, and they are often seen as being edgy and trendy. The Pixie cut first became popular in the 1950s, when actresses like Audrey Hepburn and Marilyn Monroe began sporting them. In recent years, the pixie haircut has been experiencing a resurgence in popularity, thanks in part to celebrities like Katy Perry and Charlize Theron. And it looks like the trend is here to stay, as more and more women are embracing their inner pixies.
Short Bob
The short bob remains one of the most popular short hairstyles for women and continues to dominate hair trends. This timeless look has been seen on everyone from celebrities to everyday women, and it’s easy to see why. The short bob is flattering for all face shapes and hair types, and it can be styled in a variety of ways. Whether you choose a classic chin-length bob or a trendy asymmetrical cut, this style is sure to turn heads.
Short hair with a fringe
A fringe is a great way to add style and personality to your short hair. There are many different types of fringes, from the classic side-swept fringe to the bold and edgy blunt fringe. And whether you choose to wear your fringe straight or wavy, it’s sure to add a touch of glamour to your look. With just a hot brush and a few minutes of your time, you can easily transform your short hair into a chic and stylish style.
Blunt cut
Blunt cut is a hair cutting technique where the hair is cut straight across the bottom, creating a clean, sharp look. It can be worn sleek and straight or tousled and beachy, making it perfect for any occasion. Blunt cut also provides great face-framing layers, accentuating the cheekbones and jawline. With its clean lines and effortless appeal, it's no wonder this style is one of the hottest trends of the year.
Baby bang
The "Baby Bang" hairstyle is a popular choice for women because of its low-maintenance and flattering style. This style features short, blunt bangs that are cut straight across the forehead. The result is a youthful and fresh look that is perfect for any occasion. Baby Bangs can be worn with any hair length and texture, making it a versatile style for everyone. The best part about this trend is that it is easy to maintain and can be styled in a variety of ways. So if you are looking for a new look for the New Year, consider trying out the Baby Bangs haircut!
Shag hair
In recent years, there has been a trend towards shorter hair and sleeker hairstyles. However, 2022 is shaping up to be the year of the shag. This 70s-inspired look is making a comeback, and it’s easy to see why. Although shaggy hair is easy to style, you can definitely make a statement with this look. Whether you’re looking for a casual, beachy look or something more polished, the shag is a versatile option. With the help of a hair dryer and a little bit of product, you can achieve this style even at home.
Wob hair
For decades, the "wob" or "wave-like bob" hairstyle has been a popular choice for women of all ages. This timeless style is characterised by its wavy, frizzy, and untamed look. It is often worn by celebrities and models who want to add a bit of edge to their look. The wob haircut can be styled in many ways, but the most popular way is to wear it loose and natural. The key to this style is to embrace your natural texture and not try to tame it.
Long bob cut
One of the hottest hair trends of 2024 is the long bob, or “lob.” This chic, sophisticated style can be worn straight or curly, and it looks great on all types of hair. The lob is also a versatile style that can be worn day or night. To get the look, simply ask your stylist at hair salon to cut your hair into a long, layered bob. Then, style as usual. For a sleek and polished look, straighten your hair with a hair straightener. Or, for a more casual look, add some waves with a curling iron. No matter how you wear it, the long bob is sure to turn heads. So, if you’re looking for a new hairstyle that is both stylish and easy to maintain, be sure to ask your stylist for a lob.
Chanel cut
The chanel cut is a classic style that has been around for decades. It is named after the iconic fashion house, and it is characterised by a sharp, angular shape. In recent years, the chanel cut has seen a resurgence in popularity, thanks in part to its timeless appeal. The clean lines of the chanel cut are flattering on any face shape, and it can be styled in a variety of ways. Whether you wear it sleek and straight or tousled and messy, the chanel cut is always chic. With its growing popularity, it's no wonder that the chanel cut is one of the hottest trends for 2025.
Short hairstyle styling tips
When making the effort to style your short hair, the last thing you need is whatever style you’ve chosen dropping or waving within a few hours. To prevent your perfect results from being ruined by humidity and the environment, here are a few of our tips for getting it to last all day:
For short, fine hair
To give short, fine hair some much-needed body, start with a volumising shampoo and conditioner to lift from the roots. Blow-dry with a premium hair dryer using the ghd Ceramic Vented Radial Brush Size 2 - its small barrel is perfect for adding bounce and shape to finer, shorter lengths. When styling, opt for loose waves to add the illusion of fullness without weighing hair down. Use a curling wand to create soft, natural-looking bends, and finish with a light mist of ghd Perfect Ending - Final Fix Hairspray for flexible hold that won’t make hair feel stiff.
For short, thick hair
Short, thick hair will benefit from products that add texture and help control weight to avoid the style falling too early. Start with a moisturising shampoo and conditioner to soften strands, then work in Curls Gone Wild to enhance natural texture and give a bit of grit. Style your hair in undone, effortless waves - a curling iron works well here for creating loose, relaxed curls that show off your hair’s natural volume. Finish with a lightweight mousse or ghd Perfect Ending hairspray for soft, lasting hold that keeps the style in place without making thick hair feel heavy.
For short, naturally curly hair
To care for short, naturally curly hair, begin with a gentle, curl-friendly shampoo and conditioner to cleanse without stripping moisture. Follow up with a nourishing leave-in conditioner to keep curls hydrated and defined. Embrace your natural texture by styling curls as they are, and dry using a diffuser attachment on your hair dryer to preserve the curl pattern while minimising frizz. A light gel or curl spray like ghd Curly Ever After will help lock in definition and hold without crunch, leaving curls soft, bouncy, and perfectly shaped.
For short, damaged hair
Short, damaged hair needs extra TLC to restore strength and moisture. Use a reparative shampoo and conditioner to gently cleanse while repairing breakage, followed by a rich, deep conditioning treatment to boost hydration and elasticity. ghd Rebab - Advanced Split End Therapy nourishes and fortifies damaged ends and protects the hair from heat damage with ghd’s heat protectant system. Avoid heavy heat styling and instead embrace your natural texture whenever possible. If using heat, dry hair with a diffuser on a low setting to prevent further damage.
For short, frizzy hair
Short hair with a tendency to frizz up in humid conditions is tricky, but it can be managed with the correct products. Start off with a smoothing shampoo and conditioner to lock as much moisture into your hair as possible, giving it a good starting base. Dry hair will seek out moisture from the environment, causing it to frizz, so add moisture to your hair with a leave-in conditioner. Style your hair in loose waves, either using a curling wand or a hair straightener, or straighten with a smoothing straightener and ghd Straight On - Straight & Smooth Spray. Apply a light serum to hold the hair and prevent it from frizzing up.
Common short hair styling mistakes (and how to fix them)
Common short hair styling mistakes (and how to fix them)
Even the best of us make mistakes, leading to limp, lifeless curls or straight hair that curls within an hour of leaving the house. Messy hair can ruin your day, so make sure you’re not making these mistakes during your morning routine:
Overloading your hair with product
One of the biggest mistakes you can make with short hair is using too much product. Shorter styles have less hair to work with, so heavy creams, oils or sprays can quickly build up and weigh the hair down, leaving it flat, greasy, or stiff. This can also make it tricky to create texture or volume, especially if you’re aiming for soft waves or a messy, undone finish.
To fix this, choose a lightweight product that won’t overload your hair, but can help in a number of different ways. A fine mist heat protectant like ghd Bodyguard is perfect for protecting and priming your hair without heaviness. When styling, layer products gradually - start with a small amount, then add more if needed. Finishing with a light mist of ghd Perfect Ending will hold your look in place without weighing it down or causing it to frizz.
Skipping heat protection
With short hair, it’s easy to assume you can get away with a quick pass of the flat iron or curler without prepping your hair first. But short lengths are often more exposed to heat damage since you’re styling closer to the scalp and often using tools daily. Over time, this can lead to dryness, frizz, and breakage.
Always apply a heat protectant before using any hot tool. Bodyguard is a great option, offering lightweight, invisible protection that won’t weigh down short hair. Its two-fold action of protecting polymers and conditioning agents helps to prevent cuticles lifting by improving the smoothness of the hair surface, ensuring sleek and smooth locks every time.
Neglecting volume at the roots
Many people with short hair focus their styling efforts on the mid-lengths and ends, forgetting about the roots. But without lift at the crown, short hair can fall flat and lose its shape throughout the day, especially if it’s fine or naturally straight. In fact, many of our professionals advise that short hair needs more volume at the roots to keep styles perfect throughout the day.
Luckily, the fix for this common mistake is rather easy. Start with a volumising blow-dry using a round brush like the ghd Ceramic Vented Radial Brush Size 2. Focus on lifting hair at the roots as you dry, directing airflow upward for maximum body. A quick mist of dry shampoo or volumising spray at the roots can also refresh volume and texture between washes. Here are our favourite volumising products:
Using the wrong styling tools
Not all styling tools are made equal, and using the wrong one for your hair type or desired look can leave you with limp, uneven, or overly tight curls. For example, thick, coarse short hair may need more heat and control, while fine hair responds better to tools with predictive, even heat.
Investing in a tool like the ghd Chronos makes sure your hair is styled at the optimum 185°C, preventing heat damage while delivering long-lasting, polished results. Its contoured, rounded edges make it perfect for creating everything from sleek finishes to soft waves on short hair.
Forgetting to set the style
Many short hairstyles rely on texture and structure to hold their shape throughout the day. But a common mistake is skipping the setting spray at the end of your styling routine, which can cause your look to fall apart by lunchtime.
Once you’ve finished styling, use a lightweight, flexible hold spray like ghd Perfect Ending to lock in your style without stiffness or crunch. It keeps your hair looking fresh, polished, and in place while allowing natural movement - exactly what you want from a modern short hairstyle.
Expert tips from our stylists
Styling short hair can appear a lot easier than it looks, which is why many people find themselves making mistakes. Whether you’re a pro or just starting out, we’ve asked our experts for their tips on styling straight hair to help you never have a bad hair day again:
Use size-appropriate styling tools: Short styles often need thinner curling wands and flat irons to reach the roots, so don’t assume medium or large stylers will suit your hair.
Always prep with heat protection: Even short hair needs a barrier against heat damage, so using a lightweight mist can shield your hair from styling tools while adding light hold to help set your look.
Work in small sections: When curling or straightening short hair, dividing it into small, manageable pieces gives you better control and makes sure you’re left with even results.
Use the right brush for your hair type: A round brush is perfect for adding volume to short hair, while a paddle brush can help smooth and shape thicker styles.
Change your part for an instant lift: Flipping your part to the opposite side adds an instant boost of volume and a more styled finish without adding extra product.
Use the right temperature: Stick to 185°C for best results without compromising hair health - ghd tools naturally regulate at this temperature.
Becky F, one of ghd's senior stylists, says: “Short hair gives you so much versatility - but the secret is all in the prep and finish. Good products and small, intentional styling tweaks make all the difference when you don’t have extra length to work with.”
Short hair FAQs
Q: How often should I wash short hair?
A: Short hair typically gets oily quicker because the natural oils from your scalp make their way to your ends faster. Depending on your hair type, you might need to wash it every one to two days. If your hair is fine or prone to looking flat, daily washing with a lightweight volumising shampoo can keep it fresh and bouncy. However, as washing your hair every day can strip it of your natural oils, we don’t recommend this when you can help it. Instead, dry shampoo is your best friend. It absorbs excess oil, adds texture and revives volume in seconds.
Q: Can I curl short hair with a straightener?
A: Yes, you can curl short hair with a straightener if you don’t have access to a curling wand. In fact, many stylists prefer using a straightener on short hair for waves and curls because it offers more control and versatility. Tools like the ghd Chronos are especially good for this, thanks to their contoured, rounded plates and consistent 185°C heat setting.
To curl, clamp a small section of hair at the root, rotate the styler away from your face, and slowly pull the iron down the length of your hair. Hold the curl for a few seconds to let it cool and set before moving on to the next section. Curl in alternating directions for beachy, effortless waves, or in the same direction and brush out for gorgeous Hollywood glam.
Q: How long do curls typically last on short hair?
A: How long your hair holds a curl really depends on its properties and texture. Someone with fine hair might find their curls last longer than someone with thick, heavy hair. Likewise, if your hair is naturally curly, it might hold the curl pattern more easily than someone with naturally straight hair. To keep your curls lasting for as long as possible, use a dependable finishing spray like Perfect Ending, prep your hair with a good heat protectant, and try to touch them up between washes instead of curling your entire hair again. This will protect from damage, making it easier for your hair to hold a curl in the future.