5 best short haircuts that add volume to fine hair, from 'Italian' bobs to blunt chops

richards854
2 hours ago
3 min read

If you're in the mood for a hair refresh to carry you through spring and beyond, there is little more transformative than a short haircut such as a bob or a pixie cut.

But while seeking inspiration from street style stars and celebrities are always helpful, reputable hairstylists will always make sure to tailor your chop to not only your lifestyle and fashion aesthetic, but also to your individual hair type.

Those with fine hair might find their strands prone to frizziness, flyaways and a tendency to go 'flat', so the right short haircut is key to bringing out the best of your natural texture while adding much-needed volume.

The advantages of a short hairstyle for fine hair

One of the main benefits of shorter lengths for fine hair is that “when cut regularly, it makes the most of the strands so you don't get a natural tapering towards the ends. It's a great way of making sure the hair sits properly.”

Fine hair, especially when you don’t have a lot of it, tends to lack volume. “Shorter styles such as a pixie or a nineties, Christy Turlington bob, makes the most out of the strands you do have and adds an intentional elegance to the hair.”

Plus, shorter styles make a statement in and of itself, which can mean minimising your styling time in the morning. In the warmer months of spring and summer, shorter cuts also feel comfortable to wear, without sacrificing on elegance.

How to nail a short haircut for fine hair

As with all hair transformations, your hairstylist should have a thorough consultation beforehand, considering your aesthetic, lifestyle, and how much time you have to maintain the look.

In general, expert hairstylists recommend keeping it all one length instead of cutting in too many layers – which can take out more bulk and further thin out the hair. “Although some styles like pixie haircuts will be layered, I wouldn't cut lots of little layers within the shape, nor would I use thinning scissors,” they share.

Because curly hair will sit differently around the head, it is important to see the hair in its natural form, so you can see where the wave is and cut accordingly. Be mindful of where bulk of hair is.

On straighter lengths, she’s a fan of a jawline-grazing, boyfriend bob or a boxy bob to give the illusion of fullness.

How to style short, fine hair

Avoid textures and formulas that will weigh your hair down and opt for lightweight live-in conditioners and stylers instead.

Expert hairstylists say, "Spritz some conditioning mist into hands, rub palms together and twist sections into fine, curly hair,” “If it's straight, mist the brush and go through the hair. This will prevent overloading the hair with product.”

For any pesky flyaways, try misting a small amount of hairspray in your palms and pat over the frizz to smooth it out.