Short hair is both bold and low-maintenance, making it ideal for those who want a striking look without the hassle. When it comes to styling, though, short hair presents unique challenges. A great way to elevate your style and add volume is by creating soft, modern curls with a center part. In this guide, we’ll walk you through every step, from prep to finish, so you can achieve that chic, contemporary look.
Why Curls?
Having short hair might seem like an easy choice for you but when it comes to styling short hair, it becomes quite a task. Keeping your hair straight all the time can be a little boring so why not add some volume to your short hair by giving them a curly look. Curls are the best option if you want a drastic change in your personality as it will make you stand out from the crowd. To curl your hair, you must know what options do you have and how to get a perfect curl hair girl look without putting in too much effort.
In this guide, we will break it down all the tips and tricks for you to ace the modern curls with your short, center-parter hair.
Step 1: Prep Your Hair
Get Your Hair Ready
Start with a strong foundation. Before reaching for fancy hair tools, make sure your hair is in great condition. Curls hold best on clean, dry hair, so skip the conditioner (it can make hair too soft to hold curls) and shampoo your hair. Let it air-dry completely for the best results. Well-prepped hair ensures your curls last longer and look healthier.
Apply a Heat Protectant
Protecting your hair from heat damage is essential. Apply a high-quality heat protectant, focusing on the ends where hair is most delicate. This will help keep your hair healthy while giving your curls a polished, damage-free finish.
Invest in a Quality Curling Tool
For the best curls, it’s worth investing in a high-quality curling iron. For short hair, a smaller barrel (0.5 to 1 inch) works best, allowing you to create firm curls that last. A reliable curling tool can make a big difference in the longevity and quality of your style.
Part Your Hair Correctly
Achieving a balanced look starts with a precise center part. Use a comb’s tail end to part your hair evenly. This helps manage each section as you curl. Start on one side, working from top to bottom, and clip each completed section to keep it separate from uncurled hair. This approach makes the process easier and ensures no strand is missed.
Explore Different Curling Styles
There are multiple ways to style curls, even with short hair. Here are a few popular looks to try:
1. Soft Wavy Look
Loose waves offer a relaxed, chic vibe. Start with the shorter hair at the back, using a curling iron to create soft bends. Work your way to the front, aiming for a subtle outward curve. This technique results in soft, effortless waves.
2. Messy Curl Look
For a casual, beachy vibe, curl each section away from your face. Start with vertical sections, curling them loosely. When finished, gently separate the curls with your fingers to enhance the messy, natural look. This style gives you that carefree, tousled aesthetic.
3. Sleek Glam Look
For a more polished, glamorous effect, begin with loose waves curled away from the face. Lightly brush the curls to soften them, and part your hair deeply to one side. Smooth down the curls with a light-hold hairspray to keep the style in place. This look is perfect for more formal occasions.
4. Voluminous Hairdo
This is ideal for adding fullness to fine hair. Begin at the front, taking small sections and curling them with a 1-inch barrel, rolling each curl up like a roller and securing with a clip. Once your hair is completely curled, set with hairspray and let it cool. Release the curls carefully, back-combing the roots for added volume.
5. Straight and Curl Combo
For a chic, everyday look, keep the roots straight and curl just the ends. Run the iron from the roots to mid-length, then rotate to curl the ends. This look is perfect for a quick style that’s polished yet relaxed—great for busy mornings or casual outings.
Extra Tips for Long-Lasting Curls
Achieving curls is one thing—keeping them intact all day is another! Here are some final tips to lock in your style:
- Add Texture Before Curling: For extra hold, try a flexible-hold mousse or texturizing spray before you start curling. This builds structure in your hair, helping curls hold longer.
- Pin Curls for Longevity: If you want curls to last for hours, clip each curl as it cools. Use bobby pins or clips to secure each curl right after releasing it from the iron. Once cooled, your curls will be bouncier and hold their shape longer.
- Adjust the Heat Setting: Different hair types require different heat levels:
- Fine hair generally does best at around 300°F (148°C).
- Thicker hair can handle up to 350°F (177°C), but always start on a lower setting and increase as needed.
Consider Heatless Curling Options: For a break from hot tools, try heatless methods like foam rollers or braiding damp hair overnight for natural waves. These options reduce heat exposure and still create beautiful curls.
Final Steps: Lock It In
After curling, finish with these simple steps to keep your look in place:
- Hairspray for Hold: Use a light mist of hairspray to set curls without adding weight. Flexible hold is great for maintaining movement while keeping frizz at bay.
- Avoid Touching: Excessive touching can loosen curls and cause frizz, so try to keep hands off as much as possible.
- Comb Lightly: Use a wide-tooth comb or a round brush to separate curls without losing volume. This will give you a softer, more polished look.
FAQs
A: Start by clamping a section of hair near the root between the plates, then twist the straightener 180 degrees away from your face and slowly glide it down the length of the hair. The key is maintaining a steady speed to achieve even curls or waves. Wide plates create looser, voluminous curls, perfect for a softer, casual style rather than tight ringlets. If you’re aiming for big, soft curls, a wide straightener is excellent, but for precision curls or defined waves, narrower plates (about 1 inch) work better.
A: Wide plates work well if you want loose, large curls or a wavy, beachy look on medium to long hair. They can add volume quickly and are ideal if you have thicker hair. For more defined or tighter curls, though, a curling iron or narrower straightener offers more control and flexibility, especially on short hair or fine hair that doesn’t need the extra volume.
A: To create waves, clamp a section of hair and move the straightener down while twisting it back and forth (half-turns) to alternate the wave pattern. The slight rotation of the plates as you move down the hair strand creates a soft, tousled wave that gives a beachy texture.
A: For curls, a 1-inch flat iron is generally ideal, as it allows you to create tighter curls or loose waves with control. Wider plates (like 2 inches) are better for volume and larger, softer curls but can be tricky on shorter hair. If you want a versatile tool, a 1-inch straightener works well across most hair lengths and curl types.
A: Both tools have unique benefits! A curling iron is best for beginners because it’s designed specifically for curls and lets you control the curl type. A straightener, however, can create versatile looks from beachy waves to smooth curls, making it a great multi-use tool. Straighteners work best if you like softer waves or more natural textures.
A: Small barrel sizes, lower temperature settings, and working with small sections make curls bouncier and tighter. Using a texturizing spray or salt spray before curling also helps hold the curl better, giving it more definition. Avoiding conditioner before styling also keeps hair from being too soft, which can help curls hold longer.
A: For beachy waves, wrap sections around the curling iron but leave the ends out for a more natural look. Alternating the direction of each curl also adds to that tousled effect, creating a casual, undone texture. Adding a sea salt spray before curling and gently brushing through the waves afterward gives a loose, beach-inspired finish that lasts.
Final Tips
Remember, practice makes perfect! It may take a few tries to get the hang of curling short hair, but with the right tools and techniques, you’ll be a pro in no time. Invest in quality tools, keep your hair protected, and experiment to find the style that suits you best.
