These Short Hairstyles for Thick Hair Are Just *Chef's Kiss*

As someone who grew up with thick, coarse, and by some standards long hair, I remember thinking my hair was unruly (my childhood hairstylists charged my parents extra) and could only be worn relaxed, straight, and down my back. So short hair for someone with hair like mine was a no-no because "my hair was my glory." I imagine that response was primarily due to the myths and untruths that orbit Black hair.

Now that I'm older and wiser, in the words of India.Arie, "I am not my hair." I took that song and made it my mantra when I cut my hair into a pixie. That was a time that proved difficult because I felt like I was constantly explaining why I cut my hair. The short answer was I was going through a difficult time and needed a change, and for some reason, the first thing that came to my mind was chopping off my hair (which I think everyone should do at least once in their life).

Whether you've had long hair all of your life or are currently rocking short hair and need some inspiration for a new cut, ahead are 31 styles that are ideal for thick hair that could give you your very own well-deserved, hair-changing moment.

1. Shoulder-Length Bob

A middle part and a blunt shoulder-length cut is a true classic that never goes out of style. Tuck your hair behind your ears or let it move about freely. Either way, it is a vibe.

2. Accessory-Adorned Bob

Opting for a bob doesn't mean you can't accessorize. In fact, we say, go for the gold, add pearls, and even sparkle—or all three—to bring this beloved shape into the current moment.

3. Fringe Pixie

We love a fringed pixie, and the great thing is they work on a variety of hair types and densities. Chat with your stylist about your lifestyle and daily routine to get a cut tailor-made for you.

4. '90s Pixie

We love this '90s shape on Ambrosia as the full bangs give length and body to this cropped cut.

5. Flipped Bob

Full bangs with flipped length are a perfect style if you're growing your hair out or want your hair just short enough to experiment. For thick hair, your stylist may take the weight out of the style by subtly layering the hair that frames the face.

6. The Pixie

Going full-on pixie is always stunning. To get the piecey look you see here, take a little pomade and move it through the hair.

7. Tapered Curls

For thick coils, a cropped, tapered fro gives the hair shape and height. Keep a spray leave-in conditioner and continuous water bottle close by to keep hair moist between wash days.

8. Wavy Lob

Here we see Erica's beautiful hair texture shine through. For a bit of help making those waves shine through, try a sea salt spray.

9. Side-Parted Fro

We love a good side part, especially paired with this beautiful fro.

10. Straight Lob

Lobs make an excellent shape and style for long hair, and this shoulder-length ginger style doesn't disappoint.

11. Ponytail

Short hairstyles are full of variety and can even make way for a simple, sleek ponytail.

12. Wavy Curls

With this cut, you can wear your hair straight or play up your natural texture.

13. Ombré Curly Bob

This ombré curly bob is both styled and lived in simultaneously, and we can't get enough.

14. Clipped Bob

Leaning into the accessory trends can take a bob to new heights. Grab your go-to claw hair clip, and you've got a new style.

15. Angled Bob

It's the angled bob and the white headband for us. Talk about understanding the assignment.

16. Locs

These short two-toned locs are an excellent option for naturals looking for a protective style without too much length.

17. Clip-Adorned Curls

The auburn curls with the pearl accessories are a perfect match.

18. Straight Banged Pixie

Thick hair, in my opinion, always looks great with a bang. In this case, my opinion still reigns true with this cropped silhouette.

19. French Bob

Kat Graham's French bob frames her face beautifully.

20. Curtain Bangs

The curtain bang is all over TikTok, and we see why. To get this look, start by round brushing the bangs forward, then follow up by curling the fringe away from the face, and lastly, set the hair with a touch of hair spray.

21. Curly Bang Bob

We are obsessed with Gabi Fresh's curly bob. This cut and shape works on various curl types, so don't be afraid to chat with your curly stylist if you're ready for a change.

22. Box Braid Bob

Box braided bobs were all the rage in the '90s, and we love that they've continued to make a statement long past their heyday.

23. Wet and Wavy

To achieve this look, working with your natural hair texture is the key. For thick hair, a cream and gel product combo (a small amount) will help pull this look off.

24. Voluminous Angled Bob

If you've ever wanted to try shorter hair but have been worried if your thick hair could carry it, Priyanka Chopra's voluminous, wavy lob proves thick hair looks great at any length.

25. Chin Length Bob

Cut and crafted to perfection, Kim Kardashian's chin-hugging bob is a stunner.

26. Headband Bob

Opting for short hair can seem one-dimensional, but hair accessories like headbands constantly change the game.

27. Topknot

Yes, you can get a topknot with short hair. Depending on your hair type, you'll need different stylers to achieve a tight topknot, but it'll be effortless once you have those down.

28. Layered Pixie

Layers are typically important for thick hair, especially when wearing shorter styles. If you're ready to trade in your medium to long hair for a pixie, we think Rowan Blanchard's layered look is a good choice.

29. Finger Coils

Willow Smith's finger coils offer up a multipurpose style. If you're looking to have a look that lasts you for a week or so, finger coils lock in moisture and keep coily hair hydrated. However, if you're looking to loc your hair, finger coils can create an optimal foundation.

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