12 Loc Styles for Short Hair Ideas For Women: Chic and Versatile Looks

I’m excited to explore some stylish loc hairstyles for short-haired women. Locs offer a versatile canvas for creativity, even when they’re on the shorter side.

These 12 loc styles for short hair can help you switch up your look and express your personal style. From classic updos to trendy twists, there are plenty of options to try.

I’ll share some easy and elegant ideas that work well for short locs, whether you’re a loc newbie or a seasoned pro.

1: Twist-Out Style

I love the twist-out style for short locs. It’s a fun way to add texture and volume. I twist small sections of my locs while damp to achieve this look.

After the twists dry completely, I unravel them gently.

This creates a wavy, crimped effect throughout my short locs, resulting in a soft, bouncy style with lots of movement.

2: Bantu Knots

Bantu knots are a versatile style for short locs. I love how they create a unique, protective, stylish look.

I section my locs and twist each part into a small, tight coil to make Bantu knots. I secure them close to my scalp.

This style works well for all loc lengths, even very short ones. It’s a great way to change up my look while keeping my locs neat and tidy.

3: Short Faux Locs

I love short faux locs for their versatility and style. They’re a great protective option that’s easy to maintain.

Faux locs in a bob length look chic and sleek. They sit just below the chin for a polished look.

For added flair, I suggest trying colorful twine in a few sections. Blue or purple can create a fun pop of color.

A layered shape with different lengths adds nice volume and dimension to short faux locs. Flipping them to one side boosts the lift even more.

4: Side Swept Cornrows

Side-swept cornrows are a stylish option for short locs. I love how they add a touch of elegance to any look.

This style involves braiding the hair close to the scalp in a diagonal pattern.

It sweeps across one side of the head, creating a sleek and modern appearance.

Side-swept cornrows work well for both casual and formal occasions. They’re also great for keeping hair neat and tidy.

5: Goddess Locs with Shells

I love the look of goddess locs with shells.

This style adds a beachy, bohemian flair to short locs. I usually see small shells woven into the locs near the ends or roots.

The shells create a unique texture and sound when moving.

This style works great for summer or vacation vibes. It’s a fun way to personalize short goddess locs.

6: Curly End Locs

Curly-end locs are a fun way to add bounce to short locs.

I like to create this style using flexi-rods or perm rods. I wrap the ends of my locs around the rods and let them set overnight.

When I take out the rods in the morning, I’m left with cute, springy curls at the ends of my locs.

This style works great for special events or just to change up my everyday look.

7: Loc Bob with Colored Ends

I love the loc bob with colored ends. It’s a fun way to add some flair to short locs, and the bob shape frames the face nicely.

Dyeing just the ends creates a cool two-tone look.

Popular color choices are blonde, red, or blue. The contrast really makes the style pop.

This style works well for locs around shoulder length. It’s easy to maintain and style daily, and the colored ends add a unique touch to an already stylish cut.

8: Undercut Locs

I’ve seen undercut locs gain popularity lately.

This style combines short locs on top with shaved sides and back. It’s a bold look that stands out.

Undercut locs work well for women who want an edgy style.

The contrast between the locs and shaved sections creates visual interest. It’s also low-maintenance since there’s less hair to care for overall.

9: High Top Locs

High top locs are a fun and stylish way to wear short locs.

I love how they create a bold, eye-catching look. To achieve this style, gather your locs into a high ponytail on top of your head.

You can leave the sides shaved or faded for extra contrast. Some people like to add accessories like beads or wraps to jazz it up even more.

10: Braided Locs

Braided locs are a fun way to style short locs.

I like to part my locs into small sections and braid them together, creating a textured, intricate look.

I make one or two braids along the side of my head for a simple style. It adds interest without being too complex. Braided locs work well for both casual and dressy occasions.

11: Locs with Beads

I love how beads can add flair to short locs. They come in many colors and sizes to match any style.

Adding beads is simple. I slide them onto the ends of locs or place them along the length.

Beads work great for special occasions or everyday wear. They’re an easy way to dress up short locs and express personality.

12: Butterfly Locs

Butterfly locs are a cute short style for women.

They’re soft and fluffy, giving a light, airy look. I love how they frame the face nicely at shoulder length.

These locs come in fun colors like blonde, purple, or bronze.

You can add beads or charms for extra flair. They work well for all hair types, especially Afro-textured hair.

To achieve this style, I’d use 8-14-inch extensions. The result is comfy and chic.

The Benefits of Loc Styles for Short Hair

• Loc styles for short hair offer a unique and versatile way to wear natural hair, allowing for a wide range of creative and stylish options.
• Short locs are typically easier to maintain compared to longer locs, as they require less time and product to keep them looking neat.
• With short locs you can experiment with various styling options, such as updos, braids, twists, and accessorizing, without the added weight or bulk of longer locs.
• Short locs are often more comfortable to wear, especially during hot and humid weather, as they allow for better air circulation and less tension on the scalp.
• This hairstyle can be a great option for those transitioning from relaxed or damaged hair to natural hair, as short locs provide a manageable and protective style during growth.
• Short locs can be a low-maintenance alternative to other natural hairstyles. They require less frequent washing and styling, making them ideal for busy lifestyles.
• Starting short locs is generally quicker and less painful than starting longer locs, as the shorter length allows for easier and more precise parting and latching.
• Short locs can be a confidence-boosting hairstyle. They allow you to embrace your natural hair texture and showcase your unique style and personality.
• This hairstyle is suitable for various hair types and textures, including fine, thick, or coarse hair, making it a versatile choice for many individuals.
• Short locs can be a protective style that helps maintain the health and length of your natural hair, as they minimize daily manipulation and exposure to harsh elements.

How to Care for Short Locs

• Develop a regular washing routine, typically every 1-2 weeks, using a gentle, sulfate-free shampoo to cleanse your scalp and locs without stripping away natural oils.
• Moisturize your locs regularly using a lightweight, water-based moisturizer or oil, focusing on the ends and any dry or frizzy areas.
• Avoid using heavy, greasy products on your short locs, as they can lead to buildup, odor, and an untidy appearance.
• Gently separate your locs as needed to prevent them from combining or matting, using a loc tool or your fingers to pull apart any joined carefully locs.
• Regularly palm roll your short locs to maintain their shape and encourage smooth, even growth, using a small amount of loc gel or wax if desired.
• Protect your short locs while sleeping by wearing a satin or silk bonnet, scarf, or pillowcase to minimize friction and frizz.
• Be gentle when styling your short locs. Avoid tight or heavy styles that can cause tension or breakage, and use loc-friendly accessories like satin-covered rubber bands or hair ties.
• Trim your locs as needed to remove any damaged or thinning ends. This will help maintain the overall health and appearance of your short locs.
• Attend regular maintenance appointments with a loc specialist or loctician, typically every 4-6 weeks, to ensure your short locs stay neat, tidy, and healthy.
• Embrace the unique texture and pattern of your short locs, and experiment with different styling options to find what works best for you and your lifestyle.