Best Short Wavy Hairstyles

47+ Versatile Short Wavy Hair Ideas You Need to See

By: Avatar photo Andy Jones Updated: Mar 10, 2024

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If you’re looking for short wavy hair ideas, you’re not alone, everyone from Lily Collins to Halle Berry seems to have rocked the signature short and textured look at some point or another. It’s easy to see why. Choppy over-the-shoulder ‘dos look lovely with undone ringlets and wavy ends. Most of these looks are surprisingly low-maintenance despite being complete show-stoppers and they are perfect for changing up your tried and tested long layered hair and layered hair style.

47+ Trendy Short Wavy Haircut Ideas

From sweet and sophisticated to edgy and dramatic, short textured hairstyles really run the gamut. There’s a hairstyle out there for every face and style. We’ve just made finding the perfect hairstyle even easier. We’ve compiled 50 of our favorite short and wavy hairstyles into one super-sized style guide.

1. Not Your Mother’s Short Wavy Hairstyle

 Not Your Mother's Short Wavy Hairstyle

This sexy just-below-the-shoulder hair idea is a killer combination. You definitely can’t go wrong with curtain bangs. Though, there’s plenty of wiggle room when it comes to fringe lengths. Moreover, light brown hair with highlights give black hair ample dimension. Plus, we absolutely adore the way these waves play into this presentation without stealing all of the spotlights. Of course, shaggy layers are what really enable those tousled strands to cascade so freely.

2. Bleach Blonde Best Short Wavy Hair Ideas

Bleach Blonde Best Short Wavy Hair Ideas

These side-swept over-the-shoulder waves short blonde hair look fabulous in this ultra-bright shade of platinum blonde. If you’re on the fence about short hair, this might be the cut and color that persuades you to the other side. You can easily recreate these beautiful beachy waves with the help of a mid-sized ceramic styling brush, a spritz of styling product, and a bit of heat.

3. Classic Over-the-Shoulder Waves

 Classic Over-the-Shoulder Waves

These simple shoulder-length waves are perfect for work and play. You can easily recreate this look beardless of your natural hair texture. Keep things super simple with a center part, solid color, and some subtle ripples. Hit those face-framing strands with a big barrel iron to keep them up and out of your face. Pair this look with a set of extra-large hoop earrings.

4. Short Wavy Hair with an Asymmetrical Lob

 Short Wavy Hair with an Asymmetrical Lob

If you really want to make waves, consider an inverted bob like the one pictured above. Brown lowlights give those blonde billows loads of dimension. Add a nape undercut to make this already rockstar look even more badass. Just hit your tresses with the curling iron and lots of volumizing products. You can take this look to the bar, the boardroom, or brunch!

5. Best Short Wavy Hair Ideas Side Bangs

Best Short Wavy Hair Ideas Side-Swept Bangs

This chin-length asymmetrical bob is perfect for ladies with both short hairstyles for fine hair and naturally wavy locks. Strategic layering gives the hair maximum volume around the face. It shouldn’t take long for you to recreate these curly tendrils with a curling iron. If you’re in a rush, a spritz of saltwater and a quick scrunch should have you looking just right. If you’re looking for an edgy look that doesn’t require much effort, this might just be it.

6. Short Wavy Haircut Ideas with Lots of Volume

Short Wavy Haircut Ideas with Lots of Volume

Don’t let that extra length weigh down your naturally gorgeous and springy ringlets. This bombshell hair idea calls for sweet and subtle side-swept curls. We love this ‘do in black and dark brown hair. In this case, the dirty blonde dye job is quite lovely. Hit your root roots with a big barrel brush and some heat to recreate this gravity-defying front part.

As an added bonus, it should only take you a few minutes to pull this style together. Then again, only your stylist needs to know that!

7. Best Short Wavy Hair Ideas with Tousled Roots

Best Short Wavy Hair Ideas with Tousled Roots

Update those side-swept over-the-shoulder waves with a banging color concept. I mean, can you imagine a better hair pairing than red and ringlets? Sweep those chunky jaw-length layers away from your face to show off your sharp jawline and plump cheekbones. You can easily recreate this look from the comfort of your home bathroom. All you need is a heat defense product and a 1-inch curling iron. Picking orange nails for this look is a great idea to make it stand out.

8. Curly Hair with Over-the-Shoulder Lob in Red

Curly Over-the-Shoulder Lob in Red

Don’t let limp locks weigh you down. This rockstar hairdo consists of heaps of volume, texture, and color. The cut features chunky below-the-shoulder layers and side-swept bangs. Meanwhile, the color is something in between rust and copper. Ask your stylist to guide you through each step as they pull this stunning look together. Take notes if you must! You’re going to want to recreate this adorable wavy look every morning.

9. Jaw-Length Bob with Messy Boxer Braids

Jaw-Length Bob with Messy Boxer Braids

Jaw-length waves are all the rage right now. Why not dress up those salt-kissed platinum blonde tresses with a pair of messy boxer braids? There’s no need for you to plait your whole head. Half-up braids look excellent when transitioned into top knots and ponies. Keep in mind that this bold hair color concept pairs nicely with dark brows and light skin tones.

10. Rich Copper Locks with Barely-There Waves

Rich Copper Locks with Barely-There Waves

Are you looking for the ultimate heat-free wavy hair idea? This blunt-over-the-shoulder cut looks popping with burnt orange barely-there waves. Highlight the natural angles of your neck and collar bones with this lovely face-framing hair concept. Be sure to hit those tresses with some moisturizing mouse. You want sky-high volume from sunup to sundown. Try this look with burgundy nails for a truly gorgeous outcome.

11. Short Wavy Haircut Ideas That Are Punk Rock

 Short Wavy Haircut Ideas That Are Punk Rock

This voluminous Mohawk hair idea is perfect for badass beauties like yourself. Pull your waves forward to give your head even more dimension. Be sure to invest in a product that will hold your hair in place while still maintaining its flexibility and shine. A splash of blue or lilac would make this hair idea look even edgier. However, we’re totally feeling this natural version.

12. Bangs and Waves for Days

 Bangs and Waves for Days

Are you looking for an edgy yet low-maintenance hair idea? Bobs take on many different shapes. This over-the-shoulder cut consists of bold pink highlights, soft brown roots, feathery bangs, and beachy waves. It’s an edgy take on an otherwise traditional short hairstyle. The style is easy to recreate at home. Plus, it looks great on all face shapes. Just be sure to seek professional assistance when it comes to the color part!

13. Asymmetrical Undercut Hairstyle Hairstyle for Women in Cherry Red

Asymmetrical Undercut in Cherry Red

The asymmetrical undercut oozes edge. We don’t know about you, but we’re more than ready to jump on the bandwagon. This cherry red color concept is perfect for cosplay, but you don’t have to be comic-obsessed to appreciate these red tresses. Sweep your hair to the side to show off those punk rock details. Let your wavy orange locks cascade down when you want your coolness in more conservative settings.

14. Flirty Over-the-Face Waves with Blonde Highlights

 Flirty Over-the-Face Waves with Blonde Highlights

Lots of ladies are rocking shoulder-length bobs. We are confident that this sleek look is going to stick around for a while. Grown-out roots and blonde highlights give this trendy cut a more youthful vibe. If you like to rock half-up topknots and ponies now and then, this may be the perfect ‘do for you. Here we have a short, wavy hairstyle that’s easy to recreate and perfect for women of all ages.

15. Classic Waves with Lots of Blonde

Classic Waves with Lots of Blonde

Take that modern bob to a new level with seemingly grown-out blonde highlights. This face-framing over-the-shoulder look is easy to recreate. However, it’s probably best that you pay your hairdresser a visit for the cut and color.

Sweep your locks to the side to recreate this deep side part. Pop on some matte lipstick if you really want to stay on-trend.

16. Curly Bob That’s Perfect for Brunettes

Curly Bob That's Perfect for Brunettes

Free the curls with an adorable above-the-shoulder lob. Give your natural texture depth and volume by embracing a full spectrum of bright highlights. Deep reds and blondes pair nicely with brown and black base notes. However, we always recommend that ladies work with their stylists to find the perfect color combo. Don’t forget the chunky front layers. They are the ones that give you those face-framing ringlets. Complement this look with gorgeous matte nails.

17. Heavily Highlighted Shoulder-Length Beach Waves

Heavily Highlighted Shoulder-Length Beach Waves

This shoulder-length lob is bound to make any transition from long to short hair, is less stressful. Beachy waves look best with sun-kissed highlights. Ask your stylist to toss in lots of peachy and blonde highlights. Simplify your morning routine with this low-maintenance hair concept. There’s just something about these just-woke-up waves that we can’t resist.

18. Jaw-Length Blonde Bob with Barely-There Waves

Jaw-Length Blonde Bob with Barely-There Waves

This Kristen Bell-inspired bob is ultra-chic and dreamy. The blunt cut amps up the fullness of otherwise thin hair. This bright blonde dye job keeps things looking fresh and spunky. Plus, exposed roots and brown lowlights load this hair up with lots of texture. Keep those ends fresh by scheduling regular touch-ups and trims.

19. Undercut Mohawk with Natural Waves

 Undercut Mohawk with Natural Waves

Embrace your natural color and texture with this super cute and Mohawk hairstyle. Ask your stylist to give you a faded undercut with lots of length up top. Add product to keep those ringlets tight and bouncy. It takes just seconds to recreate this versatile hair concept. Dress it up or dress it down. Toss those nuanced styling tools in the garbage. You don’t need them anymore.

Keep your hairdresser’s card on hand. Your friends are going to want to know who helped you achieve this stunning style transformation.

20. Blunt Jaw-Length Lob in Cotton Candy Pink

Blunt Jaw-Length Lob in Cotton Candy Pink

What more dramatic than cotton candy pink, short bangs, and asymmetrical chops? The answer is nothing! Soft pastel pink may be the sweetest, most flattering color concept. We love this popping shade with barely-there waves and chunky layers. This look is sweet and spicy all that the same time. It is perfect for teens and young adults with punk rock fashion tendencies.

21. Hip Burgundy Waves and Bangs

 Hip Burgundy Waves and Bangs

Wine-colored hair is a real vibe. These glossy shoulder-length waves boast wispy curtain bangs and a well-defined center part. This on-trend color concept even produces a faint shimmer in direct sunlight. However, it pairs best with matte makeup and light skin tones. Be sure to schedule regular color touch-ups, as burgundy tends to fade quickly. This look is far from low-maintenance, but we swear that it’s worth every second of your effort!

22. Modern Above-the-Should Lob with Combed-Out Waves

Modern Above-the-Should Lob with Combed-Out Waves

Are you looking for a protective hairstyle that doesn’t consist of heavy extensions or braids? This relaxed over-the-shoulder bob will enable you to embrace your natural texture. Use a jumbo barrel brush to curve the ends of your hair toward your face. This wavy jaw-length look is just about as sweet, simple, and sophisticated as it can get. In fact, it doesn’t even need a dash of color.

23. Jaw-Length Short Wavy Haircut Ideas

Jaw-Length Short Wavy Haircut Ideas

Score some compliments with this slightly inverted bob. Strawberry blonde highlights look glamorous against a brunette backdrop. Use a mid-sized barrel brush or curling iron to add a few multi-directional waves. Use a little salt spray to loosen up those chunky ends. If you need a change, shake things up with a barrette or headband.

24. Short Wavy Hair with Bangs

Short Wavy Hair with Bangs

This jaw-length bob looks stunning with bangs and red highlights. The layered look piles texture upon texture. Tousle those waves with a bit of product before scrunching. You’ll get that perfect just-got-out-of-bed look with very minimal effort.

25. Short Wavy Haircut with Brown Balayage

Short Wavy Haircut with Brown Balayage

This sophisticated shoulder-length cut looks super cute with a subtle dark brown balayage. The choppy cut will lift your lived-in waves right off your shoulders, giving them ample volume. This look gets better with age. So, invest in a high-quality dry shampoo and embrace your natural oils. Need a style reference? Check out Natalie Portman.

26. Dramatically Angled Cut and Color

 Dramatically Angled Cut and Color

This choppy over-the-shoulder lob is like the Rachel on steroids. Ask your stylist to give you lots of face-framing platinum blonde highlights. Much like the trendy reverse-mullet, this look is a party in the front and business in the back. Best of all, this look will actually shave minutes off your morning routine.

27. Platinum Blonde Short Wavy Hair

 Platinum Blonde Short Wavy Hair

If you’re all about a no-regrets attitude, you’re going to love this edgy chin-length chop. Platinum blonde waves soften the otherwise blunt cut. Meanwhile, exposed roots keep the look extra low-maintenance. We’re obsessed with this chunky inverted bob for naturally thin-haired ladies. The angled style manages to pull volume out of thin air.

28. Short Wavy Haircut Ideas with Lots of Sass

Short Wavy Haircut Ideas with Lots of Sass

Here is a chunky chin-length bob for ladies who already have natural volume. This shaggy cut consists of lots of long layers. Pillowing waves give this look major Hollywood vibes. You can easily take this look from the boardroom to the ballroom. Just be sure to tame your frizz and flyaways with a bit of hydrating serum.

29. Short Wavy Hair with Lots of Blonde Highlights

Short Wavy Hair with Lots of Blonde Highlights

This low-key cut and color are perfect for laid-back ladies that are looking to make a change. You can easily shave off those extra inches without harboring any regrets. This inverted below-the-shoulder lob gives you colossal volume in the back and subtle face-framing details in the front. We love the dimension you get when you place frosty blonde highlights against dark brown roots and lowlights. If the inverted bob is a bit too dramatic for you, consider leaving things all one length.

30. Big Ringlets, Tiaras, and Highlights

 Big Ringlets, Tiaras, and Highlights

Why not top off your short wavy hairstyle with a tiara? This dark brown and burnt orange balayage looks fabulous with waves. We love how the hair is pulled up and away from the face. It just goes to show how a few subtle embellishments can totally change your look for the better.

31. Waves and Bangs for Any Age

 Waves and Bangs for Any Age

With 2000’s styles making a big comeback, we aren’t surprised to see ladies rocking over-the-shoulder bobs and barrel bangs. It is the perfect hairdo for ladies that can’t be bothered with heat and product. Just hit your natural waves with a brush to smooth out any uneven pieces. Be sure to hit those cheekbones with a bit of rouge.

32. Gravity-Defying Lob in Blonde

 Gravity-Defying Lob in Blonde

This sophisticated over-the-shoulder bob is perfect for professionals. Short layers will boost your natural volume, creating tons of movement where you want it most. Just brush your locks to the back and hit them with a bit of voluminous product. This look should easily carry you from nine to five. You can easily change things up just in time for happy hour.

33. Big Blonde Barrel Curls

 Big Blonde Barrel Curls

Score these big and bouncy tresses with a little help from your favorite hairdresser. Use some heat or your grandma’s overnight curlers to produce these rocking ringlets. We adore the bright, white tones of this platinum blonde dye job. This look is all about the waves. Due to the style’s springy nature, you’re going to want to let your tresses hang below your shoulders.

34. Short Wavy Style with Purple Hair Highlights

Short Wavy Hair with Lilac Highlights

Lilac is one of those surprisingly gorgeous hair colors. These pastel purple tresses fall just above the shoulders. Feathered fringe is a welcome addition to this sweet look. This hair concept is perfect for the ladies who crave a total transformation.

35. Barely There Waves or Natural Brunettes

 Barely There Waves or Natural Brunettes

It’s no secret that the asymmetrical bob looks great on just about everyone. This slimming hairstyle compliments just about every face shape. This version of this trendy haircut consists of subtle layers and lots of blonde highlights. The best part is that you don’t even need natural curls to pull off this wondrously rippling hairdo.

36. Short Wavy Hair with Feathered Fringe

Short Wavy Hair with Feathered Fringe

Achieve fashion excellence with this chin-length chop. Feathery fringe and one-length hair give naturally thin-haired ladies the volume they crave. This haircut looks great on ladies with thin, narrow faces.

37. Sweet and Sassy Shoulder Length Waves

Sweet and Sassy Shoulder Length Waves

These windswept waves look charming on brunettes, and blondes, redheads. We love that this shoulder-length shag gives hardworking ladies a break from strenuous style routines. There’s no need for you to achieve perfect ripples with your curling iron. This look embraces natural chaos.

38. Yummy High Volume Shoulder-Length Waves

Yummy High Volume Shoulder-Length Waves

Do you have naturally high-volume hair? Have you been using heat and product to conceal your natural texture? It’s time that you give your tresses a break and embrace your natural beauty. This blunt below-the-shoulder cut is perfect for ladies with lots of natural volume. Wear it high or low! You can’t go wrong!

39. Sideswept Over-the-Shoulder Movie Star Waves

 Sideswept Over-the-Shoulder Movie Star Waves

This simple over-the-shoulder bob will give you a touch of classic Hollywood vibes. Sweep those tresses to one side to achieve a deep part. Then, run your locks through a curling iron. Add product and give your hair a thorough sweep with a brush. This look places a lot of emphasis on the neck and collar bones. Don’t be afraid to pair it with an elegant choker.

40. Short Natural Hair with Lots of Ringlets

 Short Natural Hair with Lots of Ringlets

This jaw-length look is all about soft, healthy texture. Skip the damaging relaxers, dyes, braids, and extensions. This over-the-shoulder cut lets you show off your natural texture while preserving the health of your hair.

41. Auburn Pixie Cut with Extra Volume

Auburn Pixie with Extra Volume

Redheads, you’re going to love this curly pixie! It is the perfect low-maintenance look for ladies that love bold color and big curls. The cut is just a few inches longer in the front. That bold copper color is just screaming for attention. Plus, we love the way those long front strands cascade down the face. Talk about a flirty hair idea.

We suggest that you toss in some moisturizing products. Let a few longer pieces fall over your face for a flirty finish. Pair this look with a bold red lipstick and a smokey eye to nail your next date night. Be sure to schedule regular color touch-ups. There’s really no room for regrowth!

42. Short Wavy Hair with Rad Details

 Short Wavy Hair with Rad Details

If there’s a look that lets you have it all, this is it. This inverted above-the-chin lob is just a few inches longer in the front. Still, it’s just long enough to give you drama-craving ladies that extra edge you desire.

Plus, this hairstyle consists of a super cool yet easy to conceal undercut. Accentuate your asymmetrical lob with a few shaved lines or cornrow braids. Be sure to scrunch your short tresses up each morning.

43. Barely There Waves with Blonde Highlights

Barely There Waves with Blonde Highlights

Take your long, straight locks to new heights with this charming just-below-the-shoulder haircut idea. Short, choppy layers will give your hair depth and dimension. Part your hair in the middle. Then, run the top layer of your hair through a curling iron. Brush out the waves to get Alexa Chung’s signature lived-in waves.

44. Effortless Waves in a Sharp Lob

 Effortless Waves in a Sharp Lob

Here’s a wavy hair idea that you can pull of with a rudimentary barrel brush and blow dryer. Red tresses look super punk rock with exposed roots. You’d never guess how easy it is to maintain this asymmetrical above-the-shoulder lob.

45. Shoulder-Length Cherry Red Victory Curls

 Shoulder-Length Cherry Red Victory Curls

Who knew that Victorian-era curls would look so good on a modern lob? This bright red cut and color lots super fresh and sophisticated. Cherry red hair is shaking up the fashion industry. You can easily toss this ‘do into a high pony. We don’t think you’ll miss the inches!

46. Short Wavy Hair with Braided Tiara

 Short Wavy Hair with Braided Tiara

This short wavy hairstyle is perfect for prom or Friday night football games. The strawberry blonde hair is cut just below the shoulders. A crown braid pulls the hair away from the face while adding extra texture.

47. No Pressure Short Wavy Hair

No Pressure Short Wavy Hair

This look is perfect for the ladies that want to rise and shine. This lob is cut about half an inch above the shoulders. A quick round with the curling iron gives this blunt style some highly desirable texture. The subtle yet stylish blonde highlights really pop against the model’s chestnut brown hair. There’s not much length here, but there’s plenty of ways to experiment. We suggest a deep side part or a sleek accessory.

48. Short Wavy Haircut in Platinum Blonde

Short Wavy Haircut in Platinum Blonde

This chin-length platinum blonde haircut is as good as it gets. It’s a long bob with lots of waves. The springy ripples soften up the look. Plus, the bright layers really pop against dark skin tones. This bubbly style will brighten your days. The color and cut are both beautiful and fashion-forward.

49. Easy and Carefree Short Wavy Hair

 Easy and Carefree Short Wavy Hair

Are you looking to achieve girl-next-door vibes with your next haircut? This simple above-the-shoulder ‘do will help you show off your natural hair texture. It’s not hard to recreate these soft chocolate-colored ringlets. We suggest you brush your waves to the side to create a little bit of drama.

50. Super Short Wavy Haircut Ideas

Super Short Wavy Haircut Ideas

Last but certainly not least, here’s one of our favorite short hair ideas for ladies with lots of natural (or seemingly natural. texture. This hair is proof that waves look good at every length. Naturally, copper and blonde highlights make this hair appear even more vibrant. Ask your hairdresser to give you a short bob with lots of layers. Use a mid-sized curling iron to bulk up those ringlets.

47+ Sexy Short Wavy Hair Ideas for All You Fashionistas

There are so many fun and glamorous ways to show off your hair texture. Why not opt for one of the looks mentioned above? These memorable cuts don’t require much styling. If you lack the waves that are needed to pull off these short and wavy hair concepts, you’ve always got curling irons and styling products. Do you have a favorite short and wavy hairstyle? If so, share it in the comment section below.

Best Short Wavy Hair Ideas

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About the AuthorAvatar photo
Andy Jones

Andy focuses on getting readers familiar with the latest and trendiest hairstyles. There’s pretty much no style she has yet to try, and her mission is to help everyone find the perfect look they seek. When Andy is not gushing about hairstyles, she spends most of her time reading through her giant collection of sci-fi books or watching old Star Trek shows. See all articles from Andy.