Pinning up short hair offers a versatile way to achieve elegant and practical styles, whether for formal occasions or everyday looks. This guide explores 11 effective techniques to pin up short hair, including detailed descriptions and reasons for each method. With step-by-step instructions and tips, you’ll be able to master these styles and adapt them to your personal preference.
1. Classic French Twist
The classic French twist is a timeless hairstyle that exudes sophistication. It involves twisting the hair into a sleek, elegant updo.
How to Achieve the French Twist:
Start with Clean Hair: Begin with dry, brushed hair. Apply a volumizing mousse for added volume.
Create Volume: Tease the hair at the roots for extra lift.
Twist the Hair: Gather the hair at the nape of the neck and start twisting upwards.
Pin in Place: Secure the twist with bobby pins, making sure to tuck in any loose ends.
Finish with Hairspray: Use a strong-hold hairspray to keep the twist in place.
Why It Works:
The French twist is ideal for short hair as it creates a refined, polished look. It works well for both formal events and professional settings due to its clean lines and elegance.
2. Rolled Pin-Up
The rolled pin-up hairstyle brings vintage charm to short hair. It’s a great way to add a retro touch to your look.
How to Achieve the Rolled Pin-Up:
Prep the Hair: Apply a curl-enhancing product to damp hair and let it dry or use a curling iron for defined curls.
Create Rolls: Take sections of hair and roll them towards the back of the head.
Secure with Pins: Pin each roll in place, using bobby pins to ensure they stay secure.
Adjust and Smooth: Smooth any flyaways and adjust the rolls for a balanced look.
Why It Works:
The rolled pin-up style adds volume and shape to short hair, making it suitable for special occasions or themed parties. It also frames the face beautifully.
3. Low Chignon
The low chignon is a sophisticated and understated hairstyle that works well for short hair by creating a refined and classic look.
How to Achieve the Low Chignon:
Prepare Hair: Brush and detangle your hair, then apply a texturizing spray for better grip.
Form a Ponytail: Gather your hair at the nape of your neck and secure it into a low ponytail.
Create the Chignon: Twist the ponytail and wrap it around its base, forming a low bun.
Pin and Secure: Use bobby pins to secure the chignon, ensuring it is tight and smooth.
Finish with Hairspray: Apply hairspray to keep the style in place.
Why It Works:
The low chignon is a versatile style that complements short hair by creating a polished and elegant appearance. It’s perfect for formal events or professional settings.
4. Side Bun
The side bun is a chic and contemporary hairstyle that adds a modern twist to short hair.
How to Achieve the Side Bun:
Part Hair: Create a deep side part for an asymmetrical look.
Form a Loose Ponytail: Gather hair to one side and secure it into a loose ponytail.
Twist and Pin: Twist the ponytail into a bun and pin it to the side of your head.
Adjust and Secure: Adjust the bun for a balanced look and secure with bobby pins.
Why It Works:
The side bun adds an element of asymmetry, which can give short hair a more dynamic and stylish appearance. It’s ideal for casual or semi-formal occasions.
5. Half Up, Half Down
The half up, half down hairstyle allows you to enjoy the best of both worlds by combining an updo with flowing hair.
How to Achieve the Half Up, Half Down Style:
Section Hair: Divide your hair into two sections, with the top half being the portion you’ll pin up.
Create Volume: Use a volumizing spray or tease the top section for added height.
Pin Up the Top: Gather the top section and pin it at the back of your head.
Style the Bottom: Leave the bottom half down or style it with soft waves or curls.
Why It Works:
This style is versatile and can be dressed up or down depending on the occasion. It’s particularly flattering for short hair, adding both elegance and casual charm.
6. Twisted Crown
The twisted crown hairstyle gives the illusion of a crown-like effect, adding a touch of royalty to short hair.
How to Achieve the Twisted Crown:
Prepare Hair: Start with clean, dry hair. Apply a styling cream for better hold.
Create Twists: Take sections of hair from the front and twist them towards the back.
Pin Twists in Place: Secure the twisted sections with bobby pins, creating a crown-like effect around your head.
Adjust and Smooth: Make any necessary adjustments and smooth down any stray hairs.
Why It Works:
The twisted crown adds a regal touch to short hair and is perfect for formal events or occasions where you want to make a statement.
7. Faux Bob
The faux bob is a clever way to create the illusion of a bob cut with short hair, giving it a sophisticated and stylish appearance.
How to Achieve the Faux Bob:
Prep Hair: Apply a texturizing spray to add volume and hold.
Create Soft Waves: Use a curling iron or wand to create soft waves in your hair.
Pin Up the Ends: Tuck the ends of your hair under and pin them at the nape of your neck.
Adjust and Smooth: Ensure the faux bob looks natural by adjusting the waves and smoothing any flyaways.
Why It Works:
The faux bob allows you to experiment with a new length without cutting your hair. It’s perfect for a dramatic change in look without a permanent commitment.
8. Braided Updo
The braided updo combines braiding with an updo for a stylish and intricate hairstyle that’s perfect for special occasions.
How to Achieve the Braided Updo:
Prepare Hair: Apply a texturizing spray to add grip to your hair.
Create Braids: Braid small sections of your hair and secure them with elastics.
Form the Updo: Gather the braids and pin them into an updo at the back of your head.
Adjust and Secure: Make any necessary adjustments and use bobby pins to secure the style.
Why It Works:
The braided updo adds texture and interest to short hair, making it a great option for formal events or occasions where you want a unique and eye-catching look.
See Also: 9 Ways To Style Short Afro Hair
9. Victory Rolls
Victory rolls are a vintage hairstyle that adds volume and glamour to short hair, reminiscent of the 1940s.
How to Achieve Victory Rolls:
Start with Styled Hair: Use a curling iron to create curls or waves in your hair.
Form Rolls: Take sections of hair and roll them towards your scalp, securing with bobby pins.
Pin and Adjust: Ensure each roll is secure and adjust for a symmetrical look.
Finish with Hairspray: Apply a strong-hold hairspray to keep the rolls in place.
Why It Works:
Victory rolls add a classic, glamorous touch to short hair, making them ideal for retro-themed events or any occasion where you want to make a bold statement.
10. Messy Top Knot
The messy top knot is a casual and stylish option that works well with short hair, offering a relaxed and modern look.
How to Achieve the Messy Top Knot:
Create Volume: Apply a volumizing product to your hair for added texture.
Form a High Ponytail: Gather hair into a high ponytail and secure with an elastic.
Twist and Pin: Twist the ponytail into a knot and pin it in place, allowing some pieces to fall naturally.
Adjust and Secure: Make any necessary adjustments for a balanced, messy look.
Why It Works:
The messy top knot is easy to create and adds a relaxed, effortless vibe to short hair. It’s perfect for everyday wear or casual outings.
11. Pinned Back with Accessories
Using accessories to pin back short hair can add a decorative touch and enhance the overall style.
How to Achieve Pinned Back with Accessories:
Choose Accessories: Select hairpins, clips, or barrettes that complement your outfit.
Section Hair: Part your hair as desired and create sections to pin back.
Pin Hair: Use the chosen accessories to pin back sections of hair, securing with bobby pins if needed.
Adjust and Style: Ensure the accessories are placed neatly and adjust the overall style as necessary.
Why It Works:
Adding accessories to pinned hair provides an opportunity to personalize your look and add a touch of glamour or fun. It’s ideal for both casual and formal occasions.
Conclusion
Pinning up short hair opens up a world of creative styling options. Each of the 11 methods discussed here offers unique benefits and can be tailored to suit various occasions and personal preferences. By experimenting with these techniques, you can discover new ways to showcase your short hair and enhance your overall look. Whether you prefer classic elegance, vintage charm, or modern flair, there’s a pin-up style to match every occasion.