24 Stunning Short Hairstyles for Thick Hair: Trendy Cuts to Add Volume and Style
Short hairstyles for thick hair are a perfect choice for women who want to manage volume without losing style. When hair is thick, it can be hard to control, especially during warmer seasons.
The right haircut can reduce bulk, enhance your natural texture, and make daily styling a breeze. With the right shape, short cuts add movement, lift, and definition without feeling heavy.
From pixies to stacked bobs, short hairstyles for thick hair come with endless variations. You can go bold with choppy layers or stay soft with rounded shapes and fringe. No matter your age or face shape, a good short haircut will make thick hair look stylish, fresh, and healthy.
What Are the Best Short Cuts for Thick Hair?
A well-structured bob is one of the top choices for thick hair. It removes unnecessary weight while giving a balanced and flattering look. A stacked bob with slight layering helps distribute volume without creating puffiness.
For round faces, an angled bob can define the jawline and elongate your overall look.
Pixie cuts also work beautifully for thick hair. They offer a clean, easy-to-maintain style that highlights your features. Adding texture through razor-cut layers can soften the silhouette and bring out the natural wave in thick strands.
These cuts give your hair direction and style, even without heavy products or heat tools.
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24 Trendy Short Hairstyles For Thick Hair
1. Michelle Williams
Michelle Williams’ short hairstyle is a soft pixie with layers that flatter thick hair without adding bulk. It’s ideal for women who want a clean, easy-to-style look.
The texture works perfectly on thicker strands by removing weight and keeping shape. This cut allows natural volume to show without becoming puffy or heavy.
It’s low-maintenance and pairs beautifully with soft makeup and statement earrings, giving a fresh yet classy vibe.
2. Old Hollywood Curls
This vintage-inspired style brings out the natural glam of thick hair with its bold, defined waves. It adds elegance for parties, weddings, or special evenings.
Old Hollywood curls create a smooth wave pattern that looks polished. The thickness helps maintain structure without collapsing over time.
Use a large barrel curling iron and a soft brush to shape the waves. Add shine spray for a glossy, high-end finish.
3. Slick Back Bun
A slick back bun gives thick hair a clean, sharp look. It’s perfect for professional events or any day you need a quick yet refined hairstyle.
Short hair can still hold a bun at the nape when smoothed and pinned properly. The density of thick hair keeps it full and bold.
Use a smoothing cream to control flyaways and secure with pins. A middle part adds extra elegance.
4. Half-Up Waves
Half-up hairstyles are perfect for showcasing natural thickness without going full updo. This version with waves offers volume and control in one stylish look.
The top section lifts the hair away from the face while the bottom layers flow with gentle texture. It’s a balanced, romantic option.
To create this, curl lightly and secure the top with a clip or pin. It’s ideal for casual days and soft evening looks.
5. Elegant Middle-Part Updo
A middle-part updo works well with thick short hair because it evenly distributes volume on both sides. It frames the face softly and lifts the overall style.
This look offers a formal vibe without needing long hair. The natural fullness from thick strands makes the style feel luxe.
Use texture spray and pin sections back into a tucked bun or twist. It’s a graceful option for any age.
6. Loose Bun
A loose bun offers a relaxed, feminine style that works well with thick hair. It keeps volume while pulling strands back in a gentle, elegant way.
Shorter layers frame the face while the rest is secured loosely at the back. The thickness gives the bun shape and hold.
Use bobby pins and a light setting spray. It’s ideal for brunch, date nights, or easy-going occasions that still call for style.
7. Chic Accessories
Accessories like clips, bands, or pins enhance short thick hair by adding flair and keeping it in place. These tools work especially well with voluminous textures.
Thick hair supports heavier clips or bold pieces without slipping. You can mix metallic or pearl styles depending on the event.
Try tucking one side back with a jeweled clip or stacking pins for a playful touch. It’s stylish and very easy to personalize.
8. Teased Pompadour
A teased pompadour takes advantage of thick hair’s volume and turns it into a statement style. It’s bold, powerful, and edgy all in one look.
Lifted roots give height to the front while the sides are smoothed or slicked back. This shape flatters round or heart-shaped faces.
Use a round brush and light backcombing at the crown. Finish with hairspray to hold the height all day or night.
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9. Bouncy Bob with Blunt Ends
A blunt bob keeps thick hair structured while allowing the natural body to shine. It’s one of the cleanest and boldest styles for dense strands.
The even ends give a modern, confident finish that makes your hair look polished. The bounce adds movement without frizz.
Pair this cut with a side or middle part and some shine serum. It’s suitable for both sleek and voluminous styling.
10. Messy Updo
Messy updos offer a fun, effortless look that works beautifully on thick hair. Texture and volume make the style look intentional and full of personality.
Pull back sections loosely and pin in twists or knots at the crown or nape. Let shorter strands fall for a casual vibe.
Add texture spray before pinning and finish with a few soft accessories. It’s great for weekend outings or informal events.
11. Textured Platinum Lob
The platinum lob combines sharp color with layered texture to balance thick hair. It feels modern while keeping the hair light and airy.
This haircut includes layered edges and choppy movement, making it ideal for dense hair types. Platinum color adds a crisp finish.
Use a flat iron to create soft bends or waves. It frames the face and shows off the hair’s natural fullness.
12. Trendy Inverted Bob
The inverted bob features shorter layers in the back and longer ones near the front. This shape gives thick hair a sleek, forward movement.
It removes bulk while adding structure and lift. The clean neckline contrasts nicely with the longer front pieces.
Style it with a deep part and light waves or wear it straight for a sharp look. It’s trendy and flattering for all ages.
13. Shattered & Unstructured Wavy Bob
This messy bob is perfect for thick hair that needs texture and movement. The shattered ends keep it light without looking too polished.
Waves enhance the lived-in look, giving it a casual, modern edge. The choppy structure keeps your hair from feeling too heavy.
Use a sea salt spray or mousse to define the waves. It’s a great everyday style for someone who loves volume and texture.
14. Short Bob with Side-Swept Bangs
Side-swept bangs soften thick hair while keeping the look structured. This style works well for women who want face-framing detail.
The short bob keeps the bulk under control, and the bangs offer a playful touch. It’s chic but easy to style each day.
Blow dry the bangs across the forehead and use a round brush for the rest. A smoothing serum finishes the look.
15. Balayage Brunette Pixie Bob with Waves
Balayage color gives thick hair dimension, and a pixie bob adds structure. Together, they create a modern, head-turning look.
The subtle waves break up the density and give the cut a soft finish. It feels bold without being too edgy.
Style it with texturizing spray and a diffuser. This combo suits brunettes who want both volume and easy maintenance.
16. Pixie Undercut for Short Hair
A pixie undercut works great on thick hair by removing bulk from underneath. The top layers stay full and stylish.
This contrast between short sides and a longer crown adds depth. It’s edgy yet still wearable for everyday life.
Pair it with bold earrings or soft makeup. Use a matte styling paste to shape and define the top.
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17. Textured Italian Bob with Curtain Bangs
The Italian bob has a fuller, rounder shape that works well with thick strands. Curtain bangs balance the volume perfectly.
This cut frames the face while letting the rest of the hair fall naturally. It’s classic, with a hint of Parisian charm.
Use a large round brush to create soft bends. Finish with lightweight hairspray for hold without stiffness.
18. Side-Parted Thick Bubble Bob
The bubble bob has a rounded, voluminous shape that makes thick hair look even fuller in the best way. A side part gives it polish.
It keeps the length short enough to manage but long enough to style in various ways. The curved silhouette is flattering for most faces.
Blow dry with a round brush to shape the volume. Add a touch of shine spray for sleekness.
19. Messy Undercut Hairstyle
A messy undercut offers contrast and character to thick hair. The buzzed sides lighten the weight, while the top adds texture.
It’s a cool option for someone looking for a modern twist. The longer top layers can be tousled or waved for volume.
Apply mousse or texturizing spray and scrunch the hair for a lived-in finish. It’s bold, fun, and easy to manage.
20. Short Layered Hair Style
Layers help thick hair sit better and reduce heaviness. This short cut adds shape without making the hair bulky or wide.
The layers are blended to create a soft, flowing texture. This makes it easier to style and move naturally.
Use a lightweight cream or mousse for hold. Blow-dry with your fingers to keep it tousled and fresh.
21. Short Feathered Haircut with Highlights
Feathered ends give thick hair movement, and highlights add depth. This combination creates a stylish, modern look.
The shape lifts the face and avoids a boxy feel. It looks light, even on dense strands.
You can curl the ends slightly or wear them natural. The highlights shimmer through the layers and show off the cut.
22. Big Bouncy Curls with Deep Side Part
Big curls make thick short hair look luxurious and full of energy. A deep side part adds drama and shape.
This style works well for events or days you want something with flair. The curls hold well in thick hair.
Use a curling wand and lift from the roots. Finish with flexible hold hairspray so the curls stay bouncy.
23. Choppy Bob with Curtain Bangs
A choppy bob keeps things edgy and fun, while curtain bangs soften the look. It’s perfect for thick hair needing shape.
The choppy texture helps remove weight. Curtain bangs bring attention to your eyes and cheekbones.
Style with a texturizing spray and let the ends flip naturally. It works for casual days and more dressed-up moments too.
24. Retro Bob with Voluminous Curls
This bob channels old-school glamour with full curls and rich volume. It suits thick hair because it can hold the shape all day.
The retro vibe makes it feel classic yet bold. You’ll get instant lift and movement with the right styling.
Use hot rollers or a wide-barrel iron to build the shape. Pair it with a red lip for a full vintage look.
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How to Maintain Volume Without the Bulk
Choosing the right type of layering is key when managing thick hair. Long, blended layers help thin out the density without causing frizz. Avoid heavy, blunt lines as they can make thick hair appear even bulkier. Instead, go for soft internal layering that lies within the cut and allows your hair to move freely.
Styling matters too. Use lightweight styling products like mousse or a light hold cream. These help tame thick hair without weighing it down.
You can also use a diffuser when blow-drying to enhance natural texture and avoid flat roots. Trim every 6–8 weeks to keep the shape fresh and manageable.
Which Short Hairstyles Work for All Ages?
Thick hair gives versatility no matter your age. For younger women, trendy styles like the undercut pixie or shaggy bob give edge and character. These modern shapes offer volume control with just the right touch of flair. A bit of curl or wave can add texture and life to shorter cuts.
For mature women, classic bobs, layered lobs, or tapered cuts provide both ease and sophistication. These styles create fullness at the right places without being too wild.
Adding soft bangs or side-swept fringe helps frame the face and smooths out thick edges. These cuts are polished, professional, and age-friendly.
FAQs
What is the best haircut to reduce bulk in thick hair?
A stacked or layered bob helps reduce bulk by removing weight and creating structure at the ends.
Can I go super short with thick hair?
Yes, pixie cuts with texture work great for thick hair and are easy to style and maintain.
How do I keep my thick short hair from puffing out?
Use a lightweight styling cream and ask for internal layering to help hair lay flat and naturally.
Do bangs work with thick short hair?
Yes, curtain bangs or side bangs balance the volume and give shape to your cut.
How often should I trim thick short hair?
Every 6–8 weeks keeps the shape neat and prevents your style from getting too heavy.
Conclusion
Short hairstyles for thick hair are more than a style choice. They help bring balance, ease, and definition to heavy strands. The right haircut can refresh your look and cut down styling time. From bobs to pixies, there’s a short style that suits your hair’s texture and your lifestyle.
By choosing smart layers and simple styling routines, thick hair can become a blessing, not a burden. Use these ideas to find your perfect short haircut and enjoy the confidence that comes with looking and feeling great every day.
I’m Jennifer, the author of Glamour Corner. I love sharing hairstyle inspiration, hair color ideas, nail trends, and outfit tips that help women feel confident and stylish every day. Beauty should be fun, simple, and something every woman can enjoy — that’s what I write about here.
