15 Trendy Short Curly Hairstyles for School: Easy & Stylish Looks

Introduction

Are you tired of struggling with your curly locks every morning before school? You’re not alone! Many students with curly hair face the daily challenge of taming their tresses while trying to look stylish and put-together. The good news is that short curly hairstyles can be both manageable and fashionable for school. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore 15 trendy short curly hairstyles that are perfect for the classroom, along with expert tips and product recommendations to help you rock your natural texture with confidence.

1. The Benefits of Short Curly Hairstyles for School

Short curly hairstyles offer numerous advantages for students, making them an excellent choice for the school environment. Here are some key benefits:

Low Maintenance

One of the biggest advantages of short curly hairstyles is their low maintenance nature. With less hair to manage, you’ll spend less time styling and more time focusing on your studies. Short curly cuts are often wash-and-go styles, perfect for busy students who need to get ready quickly in the morning.

Versatility

Short curly hair can be surprisingly versatile. You can easily switch up your look with accessories, different parting styles, or simple styling techniques. This versatility allows you to express your personality while still adhering to school dress codes.

Heat Damage Prevention

Longer curly hair often requires more heat styling to manage, which can lead to damage over time. Short curly hairstyles typically require less heat styling, helping to keep your curls healthy and vibrant.

Comfort

In hot weather or during physical activities, short curly hair keeps you cooler and more comfortable. It’s less likely to get in your face during sports or lab work, making it a practical choice for active students.

Curl Definition

Shorter curly hair often appears more defined and bouncy. The reduced weight allows your natural curl pattern to spring up, creating a lively and energetic look that’s perfect for school.

2. 15 Trendy Short Curly Hairstyles to Try

Now that we’ve covered the benefits, let’s dive into 15 stylish short curly hairstyles that are perfect for school:

1. The Classic Curly Bob

A timeless choice, the curly bob sits just above or at the shoulders. It frames the face beautifully and works well with various curl types. To style:

Apply a leave-in conditioner to damp hair
Scrunch in a curl-defining cream
Air dry or diffuse on low heat

Finish with a light-hold hairspray

2. Pixie Cut with Curly Bangs

This edgy yet feminine style is perfect for those who want a bold look. The short back and sides are easy to maintain, while the curly bangs add a playful touch. Styling tips:

Use a small amount of pomade to define curls and add texture
Experiment with different bang lengths to find your perfect look

3. Layered Curly Lob

The long bob, or “lob,” is a versatile option that works well with curly hair. Layers help to remove bulk and enhance your natural curl pattern. To achieve this look:

Ask your stylist for long layers that start at chin level
Use a diffuser to dry your hair, scrunching upwards to enhance volume
Finish with a curl-enhancing spray for definition and hold

4. Curly Shag with Bangs

The shag haircut is making a comeback, and it’s perfect for curly hair. This style features lots of layers and texture, often paired with curtain bangs. To style:

Apply a volumizing mousse to damp hair
Use a diffuser to dry, focusing on the roots for extra lift
Separate curls with your fingers for a tousled, effortless look

5. Tapered Curly Cut

This style features longer curls on top with gradually shorter sides and back. It’s a great low-maintenance option that still looks polished. Styling tips:

Use a curl-defining cream on the longer top section
Apply a styling gel to the shorter sides for a sleek look
Refresh between washes with a curl-reviving spray

6. Curly Faux Hawk

For a bold and edgy look, try a curly faux hawk. This style features shorter sides with a longer strip of curls down the center of the head. To achieve this look:

Ask your stylist for a cut with tapered sides and longer hair on top
Apply a strong-hold gel to damp hair
Use clips to hold the sides down while drying
Style the top section upwards for the faux hawk effect

7. Side-Parted Curly Crop

This sophisticated style works well for those with looser curl patterns. The side part adds a touch of elegance, while the short length keeps it manageable. Styling tips:

Use a wide-tooth comb to create a deep side part on damp hair
Apply a curl-enhancing cream and scrunch gently
Air dry or diffuse on low heat
Finish with a light-hold hairspray to maintain the part

8. Curly Undercut

The curly undercut features shaved or very short sides with longer curls on top. It’s a bold style that’s still appropriate for many school settings. To style:

Apply a curl-defining cream to the longer top section
Use a small amount of pomade or wax on the shorter sides for a sleek look
Style the top curls forward or to the side for a modern finish

9. Curly Asymmetrical Bob

This trendy style features one side slightly longer than the other, adding an interesting visual element to your curly hair. Styling tips:

Part your hair on the side with the longer length
Use a curl-enhancing cream to define your curls
Tuck the shorter side behind your ear for a polished look

10. Curly Pixie with Long Top

This style combines the ease of a pixie cut with the versatility of longer curls on top. It’s perfect for those who want a low-maintenance style with some styling options. To achieve this look:

Ask your stylist for a pixie cut with longer layers on top
Apply a volumizing mousse to damp hair
Use a diffuser to dry, focusing on creating volume at the roots
Style the longer top section in different directions for various looks

11. Curly Fringe with Short Sides

This playful style features a curly fringe (or bangs) with shorter sides and back. It’s a great option for those who want to highlight their facial features. Styling tips:

Use a curl-defining cream on the fringe area
Apply a styling gel to the shorter sides for a sleek look
Refresh the fringe between washes with a curl-reviving spray

12. Curly Top Knot with Undercut

For a style that transitions easily from classroom to after-school activities, try a curly top knot with an undercut. This look keeps hair off your face while still showcasing your curls. To style:

Apply a leave-in conditioner and curl cream to damp hair
Gather the longer top section into a high ponytail
Twist the ponytail and wrap it around itself to form a bun
Secure with bobby pins and a light-hold hairspray

13. Curly Bob with Side-Swept Bangs

This feminine style combines the classic bob with side-swept bangs, perfect for framing the face. It works well with various curl types and face shapes. Styling tips:

Use a wide-tooth comb to create a deep side part
Apply a curl-enhancing cream, focusing on the bangs and ends
Air dry or diffuse on low heat
Gently separate curls with your fingers for a soft, natural look

14. Curly Mohawk

For those who want to make a statement, a curly mohawk is a bold choice that can still be school-appropriate when styled conservatively. To achieve this look:

Ask your stylist for a cut with shorter sides and a longer strip of hair down the center
Apply a strong-hold gel to damp hair
Use clips to hold the sides down while drying

Style the center section upwards for the mohawk effect
For a more subdued look, style the center section to one side

15. Curly Angled Bob

This chic style features a bob that’s slightly shorter in the back and gradually gets longer towards the front. It’s a great option for those who want a polished look that’s still easy to maintain. Styling tips:

Apply a leave-in conditioner and curl-defining cream to damp hair
Use a diffuser to dry, focusing on creating volume at the roots
Gently separate curls with your fingers for a tousled look

Finish with a light-hold hairspray to maintain the shape

3. Essential Hair Care Tips for Curly Hair

Maintaining healthy curly hair is crucial for achieving great-looking styles. Here are some essential tips:

Gentle Cleansing

Use a sulfate-free shampoo to avoid stripping your hair of its natural oils. Consider co-washing (washing with conditioner) between shampoo days to keep your curls hydrated.

Deep Conditioning

Regular deep conditioning treatments are essential for curly hair. Aim to deep condition once a week to keep your curls moisturized and defined.

Avoid Heat Damage

Limit the use of heat styling tools. When you do use heat, always apply a heat protectant product and use the lowest effective temperature setting.

Nighttime Protection

Sleep on a satin or silk pillowcase to reduce friction and prevent frizz. Alternatively, wrap your hair in a satin or silk scarf before bed.

Regular Trims

Get your hair trimmed every 6-8 weeks to prevent split ends and maintain the shape of your cut.

4. Product Recommendations for Short Curly Hair

Choosing the right products can make a significant difference in managing your curly hair. Here are some top recommendations:

Leave-In Conditioners

DevaCurl One Condition Decadence Ultra-Moisturizing Leave-In Conditioner

Cantu Shea Butter Leave-In Conditioning Repair Cream

Curl-Defining Creams

Moroccanoil Curl Defining Cream
Ouidad Advanced Climate Control Heat & Humidity Gel

Styling Gels

Eco Styler Olive Oil Styling Gel
Kinky-Curly Curling Custard

Curl Refreshing Sprays

DevaCurl Mist-er Right Dream Curl Refresher
Carol’s Daughter Black Vanilla Moisture & Shine Leave-In Conditioner

5. Styling Tools and Techniques for Curly Hair

The right tools and techniques can help you achieve the perfect short curly hairstyle for school. Here are some essentials:

Diffuser

A diffuser attachment for your hair dryer helps to dry your curls without causing frizz. Use on low heat and low speed for best results.

Wide-Tooth Comb

Use a wide-tooth comb to detangle your hair when it’s wet and saturated with conditioner. Avoid brushing dry curly hair, as this can cause frizz and breakage.

Microfiber Towel or T-Shirt

Replace your regular towel with a microfiber towel or old t-shirt to dry your hair. These materials are gentler on your curls and help reduce frizz.

Styling Techniques

Scrunching: Gently squeeze your curls upwards towards your scalp to enhance their natural pattern.

Plopping: Wrap your wet hair in a t-shirt or microfiber towel to help define curls and reduce frizz.
Finger coiling: Twist small sections of hair around your finger to create more defined curls.

6. Maintaining Your Short Curly Hairstyle at School

Keeping your curly hairstyle looking great throughout the school day can be challenging. Here are some tips to help:

Carry a Small Spray Bottle

Fill a travel-sized spray bottle with water and a small amount of leave-in conditioner. Use this to refresh your curls between classes if needed.

Use Bobby Pins and Hair Ties

Keep a few bobby pins and hair ties in your bag for quick touch-ups or to pull your hair back for gym class or lab work.

Avoid Touching Your Hair

Try to resist the urge to run your fingers through your hair during the day, as this can cause frizz and disrupt your curl pattern.

Protect Your Hair During Sports

If you participate in sports, consider using a sweatband or sports headband to keep your hair out of your face and protect your style.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: How often should I wash my short curly hair?

A: Most curly hair types benefit from less frequent washing, typically 2-3 times per week. However, this can vary depending on your hair type, lifestyle, and personal preference. Many people with curly hair find that co-washing (washing with conditioner) between shampoo days helps maintain moisture.

Q2: Can I straighten my short curly hair for special occasions?

A: Yes, you can straighten your short curly hair for special occasions, but it’s important to use heat protectant products and limit heat styling to prevent damage. Consider using heatless straightening methods, like roller setting or braid-outs, as alternatives.

Q3: How can I reduce frizz in my short curly hair?

A: To reduce frizz, try the following:

Use a microfiber towel or t-shirt to dry your hair instead of a regular towel
Apply styling products to soaking wet hair

Avoid touching your hair once it’s dry
Use a satin or silk pillowcase
Deep condition regularly

Q4: What’s the best way to sleep with short curly hair to maintain the style?

A: To maintain your short curly hairstyle overnight:

Use a satin or silk pillowcase
Pineapple your hair (gather it loosely at the top of your head)

Use a satin or silk bonnet or scarf to cover your hair
For very short styles, use a satin or silk cap

Q5: How can I add volume to my short curly hair?

A: To add volume to short curly hair:

Use a volumizing mousse on damp hair
Dry your hair with a diffuser, flipping your head upside down
Try root clipping while your hair dries

Use a pick or wide-tooth comb to gently lift roots when hair is dry