35 Short Haircuts for Fine Hair That Are It-Girl Approved (2024)

Length is overrated. That's right, we said it. Short locks and edgy chops are all over the red carpet, and we welcome the fresh hair inspiration. But for those of us with fine hair, we can't help but wonder whether a big chop will finally exalt our limp strands or wipe out the little volume we have. However, according to stylists Corey Tuttle, Marcus Francis, and Laura Rugetti, a short cut has the ability to lift volume and make hair look fuller—regardless of your hair texture. (Plus, it's a great way to rehab damaged locks when a trim no longer cuts it.)

As for which 'dos help feign a thicker mane? Our experts gave us the lowdown. Needless to say, they had quite a few styles to recommend along with pro styling tips to match any and all occasions.

Meet the Expert

  • Corey Tuttle is a Honey Artists hairstylist. His celebrity clients include Isla Fisher, Diana Gordon, and Judith Light.
  • Laura Rugetti is a stylist and owner of The Beauty Can. She is based in Los Angeles.
  • Marcus Francis is a celebrity hairstylist. His clients include Julianne Moore, Emma Roberts, and Olivia Colman.

01of 35

Wavy Bob

35 Short Haircuts for Fine Hair That Are It-Girl Approved (1)

Hailey Bieber never fails to amaze us with her hairstyle hits. This one, in particular, is ideal for fine hair. The shorter length reduces volume-compromising weight while the subtle wave (concentrated at the ends) creates a full look that's still unquestionably sleek.

02of 35

Bouncy Lob

35 Short Haircuts for Fine Hair That Are It-Girl Approved (2)

Full-bodied fine hair may sound contradictory, but it's totally possible. Cate Blanchett's bouncy lob looks full-as-can-be thanks to an expert blow-out. With a sweeping side bang and curled-in ends, the style is the epitome of refined elegance.

03of 35

Soft Bixie

35 Short Haircuts for Fine Hair That Are It-Girl Approved (3)

If you're unfamiliar with the concept of a bixie, just let this photo of Demi Lovato do all the talking. Essentially the midpoint between a pixie and a bob, the style offers all the sophistication of a pixie with the soft fullness of a bob. Plus, the blended layers provide tons of styling options from sweet volume to lived-in grunge.

04of 35

Textured Shag

35 Short Haircuts for Fine Hair That Are It-Girl Approved (4)

Defined by choppy layers and a certain Rock'n'Roll vibe, shag haircuts are back in a big way—and that's especially great news for those with fine hair. The edgy layers create stacked movement that lends itself beautifully to teased-out volume. Miley Cyrus's covetable shag is texture-forward with dimensional coloring to create the appearance of greater density.

05of 35

Chic Crop

35 Short Haircuts for Fine Hair That Are It-Girl Approved (5)

Notshort enough to be a pixie but not long enough to be a bob (yet not exactly a bixie), Kiersey Clemons's sleek 'do is absolutely stunning. To get Clemons's high-shine hairstyle, use a shine spray to create a glossy effect. Pair with a bold red lip and you'll be red-carpet ready, too.

06of 35

Textured Lob

35 Short Haircuts for Fine Hair That Are It-Girl Approved (6)

Dakota Johnson shows us how to keep fine hair from falling flat. Try heavy bangs and long layers, as it gives the overall illusion of fuller hair, notes Tuttle. To keep bangs from looking piece-y, generously spray the roots with AmikaPerk Up Dry Shampoo($28).

07of 35

Retro Bob

35 Short Haircuts for Fine Hair That Are It-Girl Approved (7)

Soften a bob with retro curls like Lily Collins. The chin length perfectly complements her oval face shape. To keep large finger waves full andin place, use a strong-hold volumizing hairspray like OGX Bodifying + Bamboo FiberFull Big Hair Spray ($7).

08of 35

Wavy Lob

35 Short Haircuts for Fine Hair That Are It-Girl Approved (8)

Ready to make the cut but not ready for a drastic style change? Tuttle suggests adding face-framing layers with a structured blunt edge as it will bring out your facial features. To create a tousled model-off-duty style like Zoe Saldana's, spritzyour lockswith OuaiTexturizing Hair Spray($28).

09of 35

Sleek Pixie

35 Short Haircuts for Fine Hair That Are It-Girl Approved (9)

Is there anything quite as chic as a pixie? We think not. Charlize Theron certainly proves our point with her super blonde crop. The deep side part contributes volume and softness to the look without adding weight.

10of 35

Grown-Out Pixie

35 Short Haircuts for Fine Hair That Are It-Girl Approved (10)

Sometimes growing out your hair can be awkward, but Joey King proves that doesn't always have to be the case. "It's a flirty and youthful cut. The grown-out pixie cut allows for the curls to actually curl and be manageable to style. Long enough to frame the face, tuck behind the ear, and give volume," says Francis. He recommends styling with Better Natured Damage Repair Strengthening Leave-In Cream ($22).

Byrdie Tip

To allow for the natural curl to take shape, opt for air-drying. Just apply product to dampen hair and make your desired part before immediately styling with your fingers.

11of 35

Blunt Shoulder-Length

35 Short Haircuts for Fine Hair That Are It-Girl Approved (11)

Try a shoulder-length cut with blunt ends like Lucy Hale's. It's super stylish and makes hair look thicker and healthier, too, notes Tuttle. To modernize this classic cut, simply add some waves with Herbivore Sea Mist($20). Not only will it bring texture and volume to flat hair, but it'll leave strands smelling like you just left the beach—and who wouldn't want that?

12of 35

Asymmetric Pixie

35 Short Haircuts for Fine Hair That Are It-Girl Approved (12)

Give texture to fine tresses with a heavily layered asymmetrical pixie. A deep side part like Ruby Rose's will make hair appear fuller. Rubbing a bit of Bumble and BumbleThickening Full Form Mousse($32) into your roots won't hurt either. The lightweight formula will style hair without any heaviness, stiffness, or crunch.

13of 35

Bright Bob

35 Short Haircuts for Fine Hair That Are It-Girl Approved (13)

Katy Perry proves that a short cut can do wonders for volume. To get her hair's tantalizing texture and body, use a lifting mousse at the roots,likeL'Oréal ParisAdvanced Hairstyle Boost It High Lift Creation Spray($4). As for her purple color, it's optional—although highly encouraged.

14of 35

Blunt Bob With Wispy Bangs

35 Short Haircuts for Fine Hair That Are It-Girl Approved (14)

Embrace your fine, straight texture and rock a pair of wispy bangs with a bob àla Karlie Kloss. Ensure that the cut is blunt since a razor-sharp edge will make fine hair appear thicker. And if you're feeling daring, you could even try cutting your bangs yourself. For smooth locks like Kloss, use Living ProofNo Frizz Conditioner ($32).

The 24 Best Byrdie Tested and Approved Beauty Products on Sale for Cyber Week

15of 35

Undone Updo

35 Short Haircuts for Fine Hair That Are It-Girl Approved (15)

By tucking the ends of your short hair under, you can give the illusion of a glamorous updo. It's the perfect look to transition from day to night. Let a few strands hang loose because everything looks better a little undone.

16of 35

Retro Shoulder-Length

35 Short Haircuts for Fine Hair That Are It-Girl Approved (16)

Rita Ora evokes old Hollywood glam with her shoulder-length 'do. Teasing hair at the roots adds height to limp strands while a retro wave contributes to overall body. Va-va-voom.

17of 35

Tapered Bob

35 Short Haircuts for Fine Hair That Are It-Girl Approved (17)

Don't want a simple bob or bangs? Then look no further than Jourdan Dunn's slightly asymmetrical 'do. To get her sleek hairstyle,smooth out your tresseswith thisGHDClassic 1-Inch Styler($149).

18of 35

Wavy Shoulder-Length

35 Short Haircuts for Fine Hair That Are It-Girl Approved (18)

Margot Robbie proves that you can rock waves with a short hairdo. The combination of Robbie's long layers and dimensional highlights creates just the right amount of fullness. Want to get the look? Run a curling wand like the Beachwaver S1-Dual Voltage Rotating Curling Iron ($129) through your shoulder-length hair.

19of 35

Blunt Fringe

35 Short Haircuts for Fine Hair That Are It-Girl Approved (19)

Similar to a blunt bob, a blunt fringe gives the illusion of fuller tresses. A lash-grazing length is super sultry as it highlights the eyes. To get Swift's perfectly blown-out 'do, dry your fine strandswitha volume-enhancing blow-dryer like DrybarButtercup Blow Dryer($199).

20of 35

Tousled Bob

35 Short Haircuts for Fine Hair That Are It-Girl Approved (20)

A tousled bob will give your hair the volume and body you're looking for. Not to mention, its off-duty appearance makes it effortlessly cool. Add some extra dimension like Cameron Diaz by sweeping your bangs over for a deep side part. Then give them a nice bend using a one-inch flat iron.

21of 35

Piecey Pixie

35 Short Haircuts for Fine Hair That Are It-Girl Approved (21)

In case you're looking for some pink hair inspo, here it is. Although Nicole Richie has pulled off many hair colors in her day, we're ranking this bubblegum pinkin her top five, hands down. This piecey cut frames her face so perfectly and can be easily styled with just a dab of product like Kenra Professional Platinum Texturizing Taffy 13 ($23).

22of 35

Inverted Bob

35 Short Haircuts for Fine Hair That Are It-Girl Approved (22)

Maggie Gyllenhaal's chin-length inverted bob is a versatile cut that can be worn sleek or tousled. "The barely-there layers give it movement while the length is easy to recreate looks at home yourself," says Francis. Start with either air-dried hair or diffused hair and use a small curling iron to accentuate any curls that need extra definition, he instructs. "Making a side part gives this look a natural lift in the front while giving it a graphic finish."

23of 35

Stacked Bob

35 Short Haircuts for Fine Hair That Are It-Girl Approved (23)

How effortless does Regina King look in this stacked style? A lob in the front and a bob in the back give her the best of both worlds. Did we mention it frames her face perfectly?

24of 35

Slicked-Back

35 Short Haircuts for Fine Hair That Are It-Girl Approved (24)

Slicked-back hair is trending, as seen here on Logan Browning. It's the it-girl hairstyle that's both glamorous and a cinch to pull off. Simply slick your short hair back with a gel or pomade like Aesop Sculpt Hair Polish ($35) and use some bobby pins if you need more hold. Leave as is or wrap your hair into a tight coil for the perfect bun.

25of 35

Lived-In Bob

35 Short Haircuts for Fine Hair That Are It-Girl Approved (25)

Want a chin-length look like Kristen Stewart? (Sidebar: Team Byrdie is always fawning over her ever-changing hairstyles—they get better and better every time). This bob, for example, became even more photogenic because of its slicked side paired with loads of texture in the front (FYI you'll need texturizing spray for that).

26of 35

Feathered Pixie

35 Short Haircuts for Fine Hair That Are It-Girl Approved (26)

Pixie poster girl Audrey Tautou is inspiring us to go full-on chop with her short, textured 'do. "A pixie is a timeless favorite that is super chic and feminine, a style that is easily achieved. The youthful twist on this look comes from the wispy texture that is playful and effortless," says Francis. To replicate her style, apply a small amount of product like Better Natured Leave-In Cream ($22) to damp hair and then simply let it air-dry.

Byrdie Tip

If you're in a hurry and don't have time for air-drying, blow-dry hair on low using your fingers to scrunch and style, instructs Francis.

27of 35

Flipped-Out Lob

35 Short Haircuts for Fine Hair That Are It-Girl Approved (27)

Rosie Huntington-Whitely's slightly flipped-out ends play homage to the '90s but keep it contemporary. While her straight strands create structure, her ends enhance fullness and length. For lustrous locks like RHW, shine spray is a must.

28of 35

Textured Pixie

35 Short Haircuts for Fine Hair That Are It-Girl Approved (28)

The pixie has become a celeb-favorite cut, and it's no wonder why. "It can be very cute and progressive if you are confident in your facial shape to pull it off," comments Tuttle.Dress up your new pixie like Meagan Good and rock a deep side part.

29of 35

French Bob

35 Short Haircuts for Fine Hair That Are It-Girl Approved (29)

Those with fine locks can sport Olga Kurylenko's super-short bob easy-peasy. It's sophistication meets low maintenance. When blow-drying, use a round brush to twist hair underneath. This slightly tucked-under style will lend extra body to limp hair.

30of 35

Blunt Lob

35 Short Haircuts for Fine Hair That Are It-Girl Approved (30)

For fine hair, it's always blunt ends over feathery ones. Jamie Chung nails this blunt lob with a length and cut that is oh-so flattering. While any texture can wear this style, those with straight strands should proceed with caution: "Straight hair shows scissor marks, so look for a good hairstylist with talent in precision cutting," advises Tuttle.

31of 35

Textured Bob

35 Short Haircuts for Fine Hair That Are It-Girl Approved (31)

Hailey Bieber does it again with the covetable fine hair inspo. "Side bang layers and long layers will make a great cut for volume," explains Rugetti. "The one product I love for volume is Puff.ME Volumizing Powder ($27)," she recommends."It’s a volume powder that keeps hair volumized and works as a root plumper."

32of 35

Tousled Shoulder-Length

35 Short Haircuts for Fine Hair That Are It-Girl Approved (32)

Rashida Jones is known to sport bangs, and who could blame her? She looks amazing in them. The length and wispy nature of this fringe are not only flattering but also a great option for those that don't want to invest in a thicker style. Meanwhile, adding a wave to her lob creates body.

33of 35

Wet-Look Bob

35 Short Haircuts for Fine Hair That Are It-Girl Approved (33)

Did you think we would include a hair inspo roundup without Alexa Chung? Her lived-in wet look shows us how not trying too hard is not only convenient and easy to pull off but also strikingly cool. Try this style with second-day hair.

34of 35

Tousled Lob

35 Short Haircuts for Fine Hair That Are It-Girl Approved (34)

Even if your hair is stick-straight, you can still get the perfect waves. Naomi Scott rocks this deep-parted, long-layered textured lob to a T. Finish with a hair flip to build volume and to add a flirtatious vibe.

35of 35

Blunt Bob

35 Short Haircuts for Fine Hair That Are It-Girl Approved (35)

Naomi Campbell looks gorgeous with her straight, sleek bob. This blunt cut is fierce, formal, and dare we say, extremely flattering. Its cheekbone-skimming length highlights bone structure that is just begging for attention.

FAQ

  • Is short hair better for fine, thin hair?

    Shorter hair is typically more flattering for fine, thin hair. A shorter haircut can help to feign fullness. Meanwhile, longer hair can exacerbate thin strands.

  • Should thin, fine hair be layered?

    In general, no. Layers can remove weight and volume from hair, which is not what you really want if your hair is fine or thin. No layers (aka a blunt cut) will give hair the appearance of being thicker than it really is.

  • How should I style short fine hair?

    Wavy and curly hairstyles can lend body and fullness to your mane, however, if you want to wear your hair straight, it can still work. The important thing is to opt for volume-inducing hair products like root-lifting powders and mousses that are specific to your hair texture.

How to Style Fine Hair: 17 Tips to Add Volume

35 Short Haircuts for Fine Hair That Are It-Girl Approved (2024)

References

Top Articles
Latest Posts
Article information

Author: Corie Satterfield

Last Updated:

Views: 6253

Rating: 4.1 / 5 (42 voted)

Reviews: 81% of readers found this page helpful

Author information

Name: Corie Satterfield

Birthday: 1992-08-19

Address: 850 Benjamin Bridge, Dickinsonchester, CO 68572-0542

Phone: +26813599986666

Job: Sales Manager

Hobby: Table tennis, Soapmaking, Flower arranging, amateur radio, Rock climbing, scrapbook, Horseback riding

Introduction: My name is Corie Satterfield, I am a fancy, perfect, spotless, quaint, fantastic, funny, lucky person who loves writing and wants to share my knowledge and understanding with you.