Short hairstyles for thick hair 2017 brought bold, structured cuts that embraced volume while keeping lines clean. That year, women with dense hair turned to precise angles and soft textures that highlighted natural fullness without overwhelming the face.
Below is a quick guide to the year's most relevant shapes, how to wear them, and what to ask your stylist to achieve a flattering finish.
| Style | Face Shape Best For | Volume Level | Maintenance |
|---|---|---|---|
| Blunt Bob | Oval, Square | Medium | Low to Medium |
| Textured Layer Cut | Round, Heart | High | Medium |
| Asymmetrical Pixie | Oval, Diamond | High | High |
| Side-Swept Fringe | Square, Heart | Medium | Low |
Elevated Blunt Bob for Thick Hair
The blunt bob sat at the center of 2017 short hairstyles for thick hair, offering a sleek frame that emphasized natural density. Sharp perimeter lines paired with slight jawline graduation created a sturdy shape that still felt modern and wearable.
To prevent the look from appearing too heavy, stylists kept the back slightly shorter than the sides and added minimal internal layering. This subtle thinning preserved movement while controlling bulk, especially around the nape.
Textured Layered Cuts for Volume Control
For women who wanted to celebrate thick hair rather than tame it, textured layered cuts delivered bounce and movement without collapsing at the roots. In 2017, these styles often featured longer pieces in front with choppy ends toward the back to enhance natural wave patterns.
Strategic graduation near the crown allowed for lift while maintaining overall density, so the hair supported accessories like headbands and barrettes without losing shape.
Asymmetrical Pixie Styles in 2017
Asymmetrical pixie styles gained momentum among women with thick hair who sought a low-maintenance yet fashion-forward option. Strong side parts, cropped lengths, and intentional fringe created a graphic silhouette that highlighted facial features.
Because thick hair can react differently to razor cutting, stylists typically used shears over clippers to preserve weight at the perimeter while keeping the interior airy and soft.
Side-Swept Fringe and Face-Framing Shapes
Side-swept fringe remained a popular way to soften sharper bobs and pixies while still showcasing contemporary structure. The fringe added a polished touch, especially when paired with longer temples and nape graduation.
Face-framing layers were cut slightly longer than the main body to create separation and movement, allowing the dense hair to frame the cheeks without weighing down the overall style.
Styling and Care Recommendations
- Schedule trims every 6–8 weeks to preserve precise lines and prevent split ends from traveling through dense hair.
- Apply products on soaking wet hair to distribute weight evenly and enhance natural wave without crunch.
- Choose ceramic or tourmaline tools for smoother airflow and less friction, reducing frizz in thick textures.
- Sleep on a silk pillowcase to minimize friction, preserve style, and reduce morning puffiness in the roots.
- Use a cool shot on your blow dryer to set shapes and enhance shine on blunt or cropped finishes.
FAQ
Reader questions
Will a very short pixie make my thick hair look bulky on top?
No, a textured pixie can be designed with internal layers and graduated sides to keep volume balanced and prevent a top-heavy appearance.
How do I maintain a blunt bob at home with thick hair?
Use a lightweight smoothing serum, a boar bristle brush for even distribution, and flat-iron touch-ups only on the mid-lengths to ends to maintain sleekness without overloading roots.
Can I wear a side-swept fringe with fine bangs if my hair is very thick?
Yes, keeping the fringe longer and slightly tapered, plus using a soft side part, helps avoid a triangular silhouette and maintains proportion with the rest of the cut.
What is the best way to add waves to a short, thick hairstyle without losing definition?
Apply a mousse to damp hair, scrunch gently, and use a diffuser on low heat to enhance natural curl pattern while preserving the shape of the cut.