Hairstyle Dictionary: Short Haircuts 101

Ready to dive into the chic world of short haircuts? We're talking about more than just a chop here—we're exploring a universe of style and sass. From the timeless elegance of a classic bob to the edgy flair of a modern pixie, each cut is a declaration of confidence and cool, mixed with a dash of comfort and ease.

In this blog, we're going to be your tour guides through the dazzling array of hairstyles for short haircuts. Get ready for the coolest short haircut references and top-notch styling tips. With Paul Mitchell's salon-quality products and tools, we'll show you how to nail each look. Whether you're in the mood to mix up your style or hunting for some fresh inspiration, we're here to help.

image of a woman with a bob hairstyle

The Classic Bob: A Versatile Favorite

Definition

The bob is a chic and versatile short haircut that typically falls around the jawline. It can vary from a blunt, sleek cut to a more layered, textured style, suitable for most hair types, including straight, wavy, or curly. Whether you rock it sleek and straight or with a bit of carefree wave, it's a face-framing game-changer.

Styling

To achieve a smooth, sleek hairstyle for a short bob haircut, you'll need a few Paul Mitchell hair styling products. Use our Super Skinny Serum before going in with a flat iron to achieve that pin-straight look. For a wavy bob, our Lavender Mint Curl Refresh Foam paired with a diffuser will enhance natural curls or waves. This style works beautifully on fine to medium hair, offering a voluminous appearance.

image of a bottle of Lavender Mint Curl Refresh Foam

Lavender Mint Curl Refresh Foam
$24.00

image of a woman with a pixie cut hairstyle

The Pixie Cut: Short and Sassy

Definition

The short pixie haircut is a sassy and short, layered hairstyle that offers texture and volume, particularly at the crown. This short haircut reference suits various hair types but is particularly flattering on those with fine to medium hair, as it can create an illusion of luscious thickness. This is a bold and low-maintenance cut perfect for those looking to add a bit of edge to their hairstyle game.

Styling

Use Paul Mitchell's Tea Tree Shaping Cream for a flexible, matte finish, perfect for piecing out layers. For hair tools, choose a round brush and blow dryer to help lift the roots, adding volume. Our Extra-Body Boost Volumizing Spray is excellent for finer hair, providing that extra pixie lift without weight.

image of a puck of Tea Tree Shaping Cream

Tea Tree Shaping Cream
$27.00

image of a woman with a shag hairstyle

The Shag: Edgy Layers

Definition

A shag haircut features choppy layers and often includes a fringe. It's perfect for those looking to add texture and volume to their strands, especially for those with wavy or curly hair. The shag can transform thin, limp hair into a voluminous and lively style—it's all about texture and an edgy, rockstar vibe.

Styling

Enhance the shag's texture with our Sculpting Foam. Then, use a blow dryer with a diffuser to amplify the layers and add body. For defining individual layers, use our Dry Paste which creates an edgy hairstyle for this short haircut.

image of a bottle of Sculpting Foam

Sculpting Foam
$9.50 - $29.50

The Undercut: The Trendsetters Choice

Definition

Meet the undercut, the trendsetting superstar of short haircut references! Hairstyles for this short haircut are all about keeping it short and sweet at the sides and back while letting the top go wild. Perfect for those with thicker hair who want to ditch the bulk but keep the party going on top. Have fun with it, make it your own, and let your hair do the talking!

Styling

A hair clipper or trimmer is essential for maintaining your undercut's short sides. For the top, our Tea Tree Styling Wax gives high-definition, shiny styling, perfect for those with thick or coarse hair.

The Buzz Cut: Chic Minimalism

Definition

The buzz cut is an ultra-short style achieved with clippers, offering a chic, minimalist look. It's incredibly easy to maintain and suits all hair types, especially thick hair, as it provides a neat, clean appearance. Rocking a bold buzz cut is a great option for those with severely damaged hair looking to start fresh. Shedding those damaged strands allows your hair to grow back healthier and stronger.

Styling

Maintain scalp health with our Tea Tree Special Shampoo. A small amount of our Gloss Drops Shine Serum can add luminous shine to your buzz-cut hairstyle, enhancing this short haircut's neat appearance. Clippers with various guard sizes are essential for maintaining this look.

image of a tube of Gloss Drops Shine Serum

Gloss Drops Shine Serum
$26.50

The Lob: The Long Bob

Definition

Oh, the lob—it's the bob's breezy, carefree sibling. Floating somewhere between your shoulder and collarbone, this popular short haircut reference is the epitome of playful elegance. Whether you've got straight, curly, or wavy hair, the lob is like your bestie who gets along with everyone. Hairstyles for this short haircut are all about having fun with your hair and flaunting its natural flow.

Styling

For a sleek lob, apply our Super Skinny Serum and use a flat iron for a smooth finish. For a more textured look, choose the Awapuhi Texturizing Sea Spray coupled with a curling iron to create soft waves, adding movement and body.

image of a bottle of Texturizing Sea Spray

Awapuhi Texturizing Sea Spray
$27.50

image of a woman with an asymmetrical cut hairstyle

The Asymmetrical Cut: Modern and Unique

Definition

Asymmetrical haircuts are where hair meets art. Shorter on one side, cascading longer on the other—it's the cut for those who love to stand out. Made for the bold, the brave, and the beautiful, the hairstyles for this short haircut scream, "I dare to be different." Ideal for straight or slightly wavy hair, it's the go-to for a look that's chic and unique.

Styling

Use our Fast Drying Sculpting Spray for flexible hold and added shine. A flat iron can be used to accentuate the sleekness on the longer side. For managing and smoothing hair, the Super Skinny Relaxing Balm is ideal, especially for those with frizz-prone hair.

image of a tube of Super Skinny Relaxing Balm

Super Skinny Relaxing Balm
$24.50

Embracing Short Hair with Style

Hairstyles for short haircuts are more than just a fashion statement; they are a reflection of your personality. With the right cut and Paul Mitchell's range of styling products, you can easily achieve the texture and body that each style demands.

Whether you're going for the classic elegance of a bob or the edgy boldness of an undercut, there's a Paul Mitchell product to bring your short haircut reference to life. Embrace the freedom and versatility of short hair and enjoy the endless styling possibilities it offers!