12 Short Pixie Haircuts To Inspire Your Next Hairstyle – And How To Make The Style Work for You

When it comes to hairstyles, nothing is more of a statement than a short pixie haircut. Sure, bob hairstyles have had a major moment over the past few seasons – from tousled French bob iterations to the sharp, structured power bob – but this summer, it’s all about going shorter, sharper and altogether cooler.

Next to the undercut pixie and the asymmetrical pixie, the short pixie is having a style resurgence, showing up on red carpets, fashion week front rows, and your Instagram feed alike. There's something effortlessly confident about it – all minimal fuss, maximum impact – making it the ultimate chic update for summer. 'A short pixie is the ultimate expression of confidence,' says celebrity hairstylist Jason Collier, who tends to the tresses of Victoria Beckham and Sienna Miller.

'It frames the face in a way that draws attention to the eyes, cheekbones and jawline. It’s strong but still feminine.'

Whether you’re toying with the idea of a drastic change or you’re a short-hair devotee looking to refine your current cut, this is your ultimate guide to short pixie hairstyles – including what to ask your stylist, how to style it at home, and the A-list names doing it best.

What is a short pixie haircut?

A short pixie is a cropped hairstyle that typically features super-short sides and back, with slightly longer layers through the top to add texture and shape. It’s a bold cut that manages to somehow look elegant and edgy in equal measure. Plus, it works on all hair textures – so whether you’ve got fine, straight hair or textured, coily or curly hair – there’s a cut that’ll suit you.

'The key to a great short pixie is balance,' explains Collier. 'It should enhance your bone structure and bring out your natural features. With the right cut, it can look completely modern, soft and wearable – not severe.'

What to ask your stylist before getting a short pixie cut

When booking in for the chop, be clear on what kind of short pixie you’re drawn to – whether it's ultra-cropped, slightly boyish, tousled and textured, or sleek and sculpted. 'Bring reference pictures to your appointment,’ advises Collier. ‘It’s one of the best ways for us to understand the look you’re going for, and to tailor it to your hair type and lifestyle.'

It’s also important to talk about length. Do you want a micro-fringe? A bit of softness around the ears? A side-swept top with volume and movement? A skilled stylist will take into account your face shape, hair density and natural growth patterns to find the most flattering variation of the pixie for you.

How to style a short pixie haircut

Styling a short pixie takes seconds – but can be endlessly tweaked depending on the finish you want. ‘For a lived-in, textured look, use a matte wax or dry paste through the top,’ says Collier. ‘Rub a tiny amount between your fingertips and rake it through the roots and ends for movement and definition.’

For something more polished, a light pomade or shine cream can help achieve a sleek, sculpted finish – ideal for evenings or when you want to feel a little more pulled-together. Pixies also look amazing when pushed back with a strong side-parting or accessorised with statement clips and headbands.

Just avoid overloading the hair with product, which can quickly make it look flat or greasy. ‘Less is definitely more with a pixie,’ says Collier.

Should you get a short pixie haircut?

‘Pixies have stood the test of time because they’re never one-note,’ says Collier. ‘Every few years they come back around – reinvented with a new energy and attitude.’ Even heritage icons like Mia Farrow and Twiggy prove that the pixie isn’t just a fleeting trend – it’s a hair statement with staying power.

12 short pixie haircuts to screenshot and send to your hairstylist