Tapered Short Natural Haircuts
Tapered cuts offer the perfect balance of length on top with shorter sides and back, creating a striking silhouette that frames your face beautifully. These styles work particularly well for oval, heart, and diamond face shapes.
Classic Tapered Cut
1. Classic Tapered Cut
The timeless tapered cut features longer curls on top that gradually shorten toward the nape and sides. This versatile style works with all curl patterns and can be dressed up or down. It’s particularly flattering for oval and heart-shaped faces, as it creates height while maintaining a soft silhouette.
Tapered Fade with Defined Curls
2. Tapered Fade with Defined Curls
This style combines a sharp fade on the sides with well-defined curls on top. Use a curl-defining cream and finger-coil the top section for maximum definition. This cut works beautifully for those with 3C to 4C hair textures who want a polished yet easy-to-maintain look.
3. Asymmetrical Tapered Cut
For those who love a bit of edge, the asymmetrical tapered cut features longer curls on one side with a sharper fade on the other. This dynamic style works particularly well for square and round face shapes, as it creates angles that balance fuller features.
Ready to Transform Your Look?
Our natural hair specialists can help you find the perfect tapered cut for your face shape and lifestyle.
Pixie Short Natural Haircuts
Pixie cuts offer a bold, confident look that highlights your facial features while showcasing your natural texture. These ultra-short styles are perfect for those who want minimum maintenance with maximum impact.
4. Curly Pixie Cut
The curly pixie celebrates your natural texture with slightly longer curls on top and shorter sides. This style works beautifully for those with 3B to 4C hair types and is particularly flattering for oval and heart-shaped faces. Apply a lightweight curl cream to enhance definition without weighing down your curls.
Tapered Pixie with Shaved Sides
5. Tapered Pixie with Shaved Sides
For a more dramatic look, try a pixie with closely shaved sides and textured length on top. This bold style works well for those with defined facial features and can be customised with design elements on the shaved portions for added personality.
6. Textured Pixie with Finger Coils
This detailed style features finger-coiled curls on top for maximum definition. The technique creates a pattern of small, defined curls that add visual interest to the pixie shape. This works especially well for 4B and 4C textures and can be maintained with regular moisturising.
TWA (Teeny Weeny Afro) Styles
The TWA is the perfect canvas for showcasing your natural texture in its purest form. These ultra-short styles require minimal styling while making a maximum impact.
7. Classic TWA
The classic TWA features short, evenly cut curls all around, showcasing your natural curl pattern. This style works for all face shapes and is particularly flattering for those with strong facial features. It’s the ultimate wash-and-go style, requiring just a light moisturiser or curl cream.
TWA with Defined Part
8. TWA with Defined Part
Add visual interest to your TWA by incorporating a defined part. This simple addition creates structure and can be positioned to complement your face shape – side parts work well for round faces, while centre parts complement oval faces.
9. TWA with Tapered Nape and Temples
This variation features slightly longer curls on top with a tapered cut at the nape and temples. The subtle fade effect creates a polished silhouette that’s perfect for professional settings while maintaining the easy care of a TWA.
Natural Curly Bob Styles
For those who want a bit more length while keeping the convenience of a short cut, natural curly bobs offer the perfect middle ground. These styles frame the face beautifully while showcasing your curl pattern.
10. Classic Curly Bob
The timeless curly bob features an even length all around, typically falling at or above the chin. This versatile style works for all curl patterns and face shapes. Use a diffuser when drying to maintain volume and definition without disrupting your curl pattern.
Layered Curly Bob
11. Layered Curly Bob
Adding layers to a curly bob creates movement and volume, perfect for those with denser curl patterns. The layers help to shape the silhouette and prevent the dreaded “triangle” effect that can happen with one-length cuts on curly hair.
12. Asymmetrical Curly Bob
For a modern twist on the classic bob, try an asymmetrical cut with one side longer than the other. This dynamic style adds edge to your look while still maintaining the practicality of a shorter cut. It works particularly well for those with oval or heart-shaped faces.
Undercut Natural Styles
Undercuts combine the boldness of a partial shave with the versatility of leaving length on top. These styles offer the best of both worlds – edgy yet feminine.
13. Curly Top with Undercut
This bold style features defined curls on top with closely shaved sides and back. The contrast between the textured top and clean sides creates a striking silhouette that frames the face beautifully. This style works well for those with oval, heart, and diamond-shaped faces.
Undercut with Design
14. Undercut with Design
Take your undercut to the next level by adding a design element to
the shaved portion. From simple lines to intricate patterns, these
personalised touches make your style uniquely yours. This option works
well for those who like to express their creativity through their
appearance.
Side Undercut
15. Side Undercut
For those who want the option to conceal their undercut, a
side-only version offers flexibility. Wear your curls down to cover the
shaved section for conservative settings, or tuck your hair behind your
ear to showcase your edgy side when desired.
Looking for a Bold New Style?
Our stylists specialise in creative undercuts that express your personality while complementing your natural texture.
Frohawk Variations
The frohawk combines the edginess of a mohawk with the beauty of natural texture. These styles feature height in the centre with shorter sides, creating a dramatic yet wearable look.
16. Classic Frohawk
The traditional frohawk features a centre strip of defined curls with tapered sides. This bold style works well for those with oval, heart, and diamond-shaped faces. Use a strong-hold gel or foam on the sides to create a clean contrast with the textured top.
Soft Frohawk
17. Soft Frohawk
For a more subtle interpretation, the soft frohawk features less dramatic tapering on the sides, creating a gentler transition to the fuller top. This wearable version works well in professional environments while still offering a fashion-forward edge.
18. Curly Frohawk with Shaved Sides
For maximum impact, pair a full curly top with closely shaved sides. This dramatic contrast creates a powerful silhouette that showcases your natural texture while adding edge to your look. This style works particularly well for those with defined facial features.
Finger Wave and Sculpted Styles
Finger waves and sculpted styles offer a sophisticated, vintage-inspired option for short natural hair. These techniques create defined patterns that add elegance to your look.
19. Classic Finger Waves
Traditional finger waves create S-shaped patterns close to the scalp, offering a sophisticated look that works beautifully for special occasions. This technique works best on hair that’s at least 1-2 inches long and can be adapted for all face shapes.
Modern Sculpted Curls
20. Modern Sculpted Curls
This contemporary take on finger waves combines sculpted sections with natural curl definition. The result is a structured yet organic look that offers the best of both worlds. This style works particularly well for those with 3C to 4B textures.
21. Sculpted TWA with Defined Parts
Add visual interest to a TWA by incorporating sculpted parts that create geometric patterns. This technique uses the contrast between defined lines and natural texture to create a unique, eye-catching style that works for all face shapes.
Styling Tips for Short Natural Haircuts
Maintaining and styling your short natural haircut doesn’t have to be complicated. These expert tips will help you make the most of your cut while keeping your routine simple.
Daily Maintenance Routine
- Start with a satin pillowcase or bonnet to preserve your style overnight and reduce frizz
- Refresh your curls in the morning with a light mist of water mixed with leave-in conditioner
- Use your fingers or a wide-tooth comb to gently reshape your style
- Apply a small amount of styling product—less is more with short styles
- For TWAs and very short cuts, a daily spritz of moisturising spray is usually sufficient
Product Recommendations
- Lightweight curl cream for definition without weighing down short curls
- Alcohol-free styling foam for volume and hold
- Edge control gel for sleek edges and defined parts
- Moisturising oil spray for shine and hydration
- Leave-in conditioner spray for daily refreshing
Heat-Free Styling Techniques
- Finger coiling for defined curls—twist small sections around your finger
- Two-strand twists for a textured look when unravelled
- Flat twists for a sleek style with texture when released
- Perm rods or flexi rods for defined curls without heat
- Banding technique to stretch curls without heat
Accessorising Short Natural Hair
- Bold earrings to complement and draw attention to your face-framing cut
- Decorative pins and clips to add visual interest
- Colourful headbands to switch up your look instantly
- Scarves and wraps for protection and style variation
- Hair cuffs for adorning twists and coils
More Short Natural Haircut Inspirations
22. Defined Side Part
A sharp side part adds structure to short natural styles, framing the face and creating asymmetry that flatters most face shapes.
23. Honey Blonde Highlights
Add dimension to your short cut with warm honey blonde highlights that catch the light and enhance your natural curl pattern.
24. Temple Fade
A clean temple fade creates a sharp silhouette while maintaining length and texture on top for a balanced, modern look.
25. Flat Twisted Crown
Incorporate flat twists across the crown area for a style that combines structure with natural texture for a sophisticated look.
26. Defined Curl Clusters
Create definition by styling your short natural hair into distinct curl clusters using finger coiling techniques and defining products.
27. Micro Bangs
Ultra-short bangs create a bold frame for your face, drawing attention to your eyes while maintaining the ease of a short natural cut.
Maintenance Guide for Short Natural Haircuts
Keeping your short natural haircut looking its best requires regular maintenance and proper care. Follow these guidelines to ensure your style stays fresh between salon visits.
Salon Visit Frequency
- Tapered cuts and fades: Every 2-3 weeks to maintain the shape
- TWAs: Every 4-6 weeks for an even cut
- Curly bobs: Every 6-8 weeks to prevent split ends
- Pixie cuts: Every 4 weeks to maintain the silhouette
- Undercuts: Every 2-3 weeks to keep the shaved portions clean
Home Care Checklist
- Weekly deep conditioning treatment to maintain moisture
- Monthly protein treatment for strength (adjust based on your hair’s needs)
- Daily moisturising with water-based leave-in products
- Gentle detangling with fingers or wide-tooth comb
- Protective covering at night with a satin bonnet or pillowcase
Seasonal Adaptation Tips
- Summer: Lighter products and more frequent washing to manage sweat
- Winter: Heavier moisturisers and protective styles to combat dryness
- Spring/Autumn: Transitional products that adjust to changing humidity levels
- Rainy seasons: Anti-humidity products and compact styles that won’t frizz
- Vacation prep: Low-maintenance styles that can withstand different climates
Keep Your Cut Looking Fresh
Regular maintenance is key to keeping your short natural haircut looking its best. Our specialists can help you establish the perfect care routine.
Final Short Natural Haircut Inspirations
28. Geometric Undercut
A hidden geometric pattern undercut at the nape adds an unexpected element of surprise to an otherwise classic short cut.
29. High Definition Curls
Maximise curl definition with specific techniques and products that separate and enhance each curl for a polished, structured look.
30. Side-Swept Bangs
Incorporate longer side-swept bangs into your short cut to create movement and softly frame your face.
31. Coloured Tips
Add a pop of colour to your short natural cut with vibrant tips that create dimension and personality without full colour commitment.
32. Mohawk Inspiration
Channel the spirit of a mohawk with height in the centre and tapered sides for a bold yet wearable everyday style.
33. Twist-Out Texture
Create unique texture by setting your short natural hair in two-strand twists overnight and unravelling for a defined, crimped pattern.
34. Flat Top Shape
A structured flat top creates a bold, geometric silhouette that makes a statement while showcasing your natural texture.
35. Artful Baby Hair
Elevate your short natural cut with artfully styled baby hairs that create decorative edges and frame your face beautifully.
36. Voluminous Crown
Create height and drama by focusing volume at the crown while keeping the sides sleek for a balanced, flattering silhouette.
Embrace Your Natural Texture with the Perfect Short Cut
Short natural haircuts offer the perfect combination of style, versatility, and easy maintenance. By choosing a cut that complements your face shape and natural texture, you can enjoy a look that’s both flattering and simple to manage. Remember that the key to a successful short natural haircut is regular maintenance and proper care—invest in quality products designed for your specific texture and schedule regular trims to keep your shape looking fresh.
Whether you opt for a bold undercut, a classic tapered cut, or a chic curly bob, your short natural haircut is an opportunity to showcase your personality and embrace your natural beauty. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different styles, accessories, and techniques to make your look uniquely yours.
Ready to Transform Your Look?
Our natural hair specialists can help you find and maintain the perfect short natural haircut for your texture, face shape, and lifestyle.
Frequently Asked Questions About Short Natural Haircuts
How often should I trim my short natural haircut?
The frequency depends on your specific style. Tapered cuts and fades typically need maintenance every 2-3 weeks, while curly bobs can go 6-8 weeks between trims. TWAs and pixie cuts generally need reshaping every 4-6 weeks to maintain their shape.
What are the best products for short natural hair?
Lightweight products work best for short natural styles. Look for water-based leave-in conditioners, curl creams that won’t weigh hair down, alcohol-free foams for hold, and light oils for shine. Avoid heavy butters and creams that can overwhelm short styles.
How can I add volume to my short natural haircut?
To add volume, try picking your roots with a wide-tooth comb or pick, use volumising mousse on damp hair, diffuse upside down if using a dryer, or create height with strategic two-strand twists or finger coils that lift from the root.
What short natural haircuts work best for round faces?
Styles with height on top and closer sides create length for round faces. Try asymmetrical cuts, tapered styles with volume on top, side-swept bangs, or pixie cuts with longer top sections. Avoid cuts that are uniformly round all over.
How do I maintain moisture in my short natural haircut?
Daily moisture is key for short natural styles. Use a water-based leave-in conditioner spray daily, deep condition weekly, seal with lightweight oils, sleep with a satin bonnet or pillowcase, and drink plenty of water for hydration from within.
