The transition from a short crop to a longer mane is often called the “awkward phase.” It requires patience and a bit of strategic styling.
Maintaining a polished look during this growth period is entirely possible. You just need the right techniques to bridge the gap between lengths.
The key is focusing on shape and texture. By embracing versatile styles, you can enjoy every stage of the journey without frustration.
Here are 19 stylish hairstyles for growing out short hair that will keep you looking chic.
1. The Deep Side Part
Creating a deep side part is one of the easiest ways to redirect focus during the growth process. It adds instant volume to the roots and masks uneven side lengths.
Use a fine-tooth comb to create a clean line starting from the arch of your eyebrow. This creates a sophisticated, asymmetrical silhouette that looks intentional rather than accidental.
To keep the part secure, apply a small amount of styling gel or wax. This prevents shorter layers from falling forward and maintains a sleek, professional appearance all day.
2. The Textured Bixie
The “bixie” is a hybrid between a pixie and a bob. It is the gold standard for anyone moving past the initial short-crop phase.
This style focuses on keeping the perimeter soft while allowing the top layers to catch up in length. It eliminates the harsh lines often found in traditional short cuts.
Use a salt spray or texturizing paste to define the ends. This “lived-in” look hides the fact that your hair is at a transitional, middle-of-the-road length.
3. Pinned-Back Sides
When the hair around your ears starts to get unruly, pinning the sides back is a lifesaver. This technique creates a faux-hawk effect or a sleek, pulled-back aesthetic.
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You can use decorative bobby pins to make the style feel like a deliberate fashion choice. Gold, silver, or pearl-encrusted pins add a touch of elegance to a simple fix.
This style works best on damp hair with a bit of mousse. It keeps the hair away from your face while the back continues to gain much-needed inches.
4. The Half-Up Top Knot
Once the top of your hair reaches a certain length, the half-up top knot becomes your best friend. It manages the longest sections while leaving the bottom free.
This look is perfect for disguising layers that aren’t quite long enough to fit into a full ponytail. It creates a playful, casual vibe that works for any daily activity.
Secure the knot with a small elastic and fluff the bun to add volume. If the back is still very short, let it hang naturally for a modern, edgy finish.
5. The Sleek Slick-Back
A slicked-back look is the ultimate solution for “bad hair days” during the growth process. It provides a high-fashion, editorial aesthetic that hides uneven textures.
Apply a high-shine pomade or a firm-hold gel to damp hair. Use a boar-bristle brush to smooth everything toward the back of your head for a uniform finish.
This style is particularly effective if you are dealing with cowlicks or stubborn growth patterns. It keeps everything contained and looking incredibly polished and intentional.
6. Decorative Headbands
Headbands are the ultimate “cheat code” for growing out a short cut. They instantly push back bangs and shorter front layers that might otherwise fall into your eyes.
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Choose a wide fabric headband for a casual look or a thin metal band for something more formal. The headband creates a barrier that keeps the growth out of sight.
This accessory also helps to compress any unwanted volume at the crown. It allows the back and sides to grow freely while maintaining a controlled shape in the front.
7. The Modern Shag
The shag is a perfect transitional cut because it thrives on multiple layers. Instead of fighting the layers, this style embraces them for a rock-and-roll vibe.
Ask your stylist to incorporate “curtain” elements that frame the face. This helps the front of the hair blend seamlessly into the sides as they get longer.
Use a lightweight volumizing mousse to enhance the “messy” look. The more movement and texture you have, the less noticeable the “in-between” length will be.
8. Micro-Braids
If your hair is long enough to pinch, it is long enough for micro-braids. Braiding the front sections along the hairline keeps them secure and stylish.
This technique is excellent for managing bangs that are in that awkward “too long to be fringe, too short to tuck” stage. It keeps your face clear and adds intricate detail.
You can finish the braids with small clear elastics or tuck them behind your ears with pins. It is a functional style that looks like a high-effort salon look.
9. Scarf Wraps
Silk or satin scarves offer a chic way to cover the entire head or just the hairline. They are perfect for hiding roots or uneven growth at the nape of the neck.
Tie the scarf in a knot at the top for a “turban” style or at the base of the neck for a classic look. This adds a pop of color to your outfit.
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Scarves also protect your hair from environmental damage while it grows. This ensures that when your hair finally reaches your desired length, it is healthy and strong.
10. The Tapered Nape
One of the biggest challenges of growing out hair is the “mullet” effect at the back. Keeping the nape of the neck tapered prevents this silhouette.
While you let the top and sides grow, have your stylist trim just the very bottom at the back. This maintains a clean bob or pixie shape as the length increases.
This small maintenance step makes the entire growth process feel faster. It keeps the weight of the hair distributed in a way that remains flattering to your head shape.
11. Soft Finger Waves
For formal events, soft finger waves provide a vintage-inspired look that works beautifully on shorter lengths. It utilizes the hair’s natural pliability.
Apply a setting lotion to wet hair and use your fingers and a comb to create “S” shapes. Pin the curves in place until the hair is completely dry.
This style compresses the hair against the head, making length irrelevant. It focuses on the artistry of the wave rather than the actual inches of the hair.
12. The “Tucked-Behind-Ear” Look
Sometimes the simplest solution is the most effective. Tucking the sides of your hair behind your ears can completely change your facial profile.
This works best when the top layers have enough length to sweep over the tucked sections. It creates a clean, minimalist look that emphasizes your bone structure.
If your hair is too slippery to stay tucked, use a hidden bobby pin behind the ear. This “secret” support keeps the style in place through movement and wind.
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13. Low Space Bun Puffs
If you have enough length at the bottom, two small “space buns” at the nape are incredibly trendy. This manages the back section while the top continues to grow.
Even if the buns are tiny, they add a sense of symmetry and purpose to your hair. It is a youthful, energetic style that works for casual outings.
Use colorful scrunchies or elastics to make the buns stand out. This draws the eye to the styling choice rather than the actual length of the strands.
14. Messy Bedhead Texture
Embracing a “messy” texture is the best way to hide the fact that your hair is at different lengths. Uniformity is the enemy of the awkward growth phase.
Use a flat iron to create random “bends” in the hair rather than perfect curls. This creates a disheveled but intentional look that is very popular in modern fashion.
Finish with a dry shampoo or texturizing powder at the roots. This adds “grit” to the hair, making it look thicker and more voluminous as it grows out.
15. The Faux-Bob
If your hair is growing out from a very short cut, you can use pins to create a “faux-bob.” This involves tucking the longer ends under and securing them.
This gives the illusion of a blunt, chin-length cut even if your layers are uneven. It is a great way to “test drive” a bob before you actually have the length.
This style is particularly useful for those who want a change of pace for a night out. It provides a temporary look that feels much longer and fuller.
16. French Braid Crown
A French braid that circles the head acts like a natural headband. It gathers all the short pieces and weaves them into a secure, elegant structure.
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Start the braid at one temple and work your way around the hairline. Even very short pieces can be incorporated if the braid is kept tight to the scalp.
This style is excellent for active days or workouts. It ensures that your hair stays out of your face regardless of how many different lengths you are managing.
17. Voluminous Blowout
Adding maximum volume to short hair makes it appear more substantial and styled. A round brush and a blow dryer are essential tools for this phase.
Focus on lifting the hair at the roots to create height. This prevents the hair from lying flat against the head, which often highlights uneven growth.
Use a volumizing spray before drying and a light hairspray to finish. The extra body gives the hair a “finished” look that disguises the transitional length.
18. Side-Swept Fringe
As your bangs grow out, they can become difficult to manage. Sweeping them to the side and blending them with the longer side sections is a classic fix.
Use a blow dryer and a flat brush to direct the bangs across the forehead. This creates a soft, romantic frame for the face that feels very deliberate.
If the fringe is still too short to stay to the side, use a tiny amount of hair wax on the ends. This gives the hair enough weight to stay in the desired direction.
19. Asymmetrical Curls
Adding curls to your hair during the growth phase adds “bounce,” which can help hide the transition between layers. It creates a playful, dynamic silhouette.
Focus the curls on the longer top sections while keeping the shorter sides more relaxed. This creates a trendy asymmetrical look that feels very modern.
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Use a small-barrel curling iron or heatless rollers for tighter definition. The more curl you have, the less obvious the specific length of each strand becomes.
How often should I trim my hair while growing it out?
You should aim for a “micro-trim” every 8 to 12 weeks. This involves removing just the damaged ends and keeping the nape clean to avoid a “mullet” shape while allowing the rest to grow.
How can I make my hair grow faster during this stage?
While genetics play a large role, maintaining a healthy scalp is key. Use scalp massages to stimulate blood flow and ensure you are eating a diet rich in biotin, protein, and healthy fats.
What are the best products for the awkward growth phase?
Texturizing sprays, light-hold waxes, and dry shampoos are essential. These products help add “grip” and volume, which makes it easier to style hair that is at a difficult-to-manage length.
Can I use hair extensions on short hair?
Yes, but you usually need at least 3 to 4 inches of hair to hide the attachment points. Tape-in or clip-in extensions can be great for adding temporary length while your natural hair catches up.
How do I stop my hair from looking flat as it grows?
Focus on root-lifting products and blow-drying your hair upside down. When hair grows longer, the weight can pull it down; adding volume at the crown keeps the style looking balanced.
Should I avoid heat styling while growing my hair?
Excessive heat can cause breakage, which slows down your progress. If you must use heat, always apply a high-quality heat protectant and try to use the lowest effective temperature setting.