Short hair styles 2017 brought bold texture, sharp lines, and playful asymmetry to the forefront of mainstream fashion. This year emphasized structured shapes with relaxed, lived-in finishes that worked for both office-ready polish and weekend edge.
Designers and salons focused on precision cuts, soft fringe, and versatile styling options that transitioned easily from day to night. The following guide highlights the defining trends, maintenance expectations, and styling techniques that defined short hair in 2017.
| Style | Description | Best Face Shape | Maintenance Level |
|---|---|---|---|
| Blunt Bob | Hair cut straight across at jawline or slightly below with sharp ends. | Round, Oval, Square | Low to Medium |
| Textured Crop | Short layers with choppy ends and side-swept fringe. | Oval, Heart, Diamond | Medium |
| Asymmetrical Pixie | One side shorter than the other, often with angular shape. | Oval, Round, Heart | Low |
| Side-Swept Bangs | Longer fringe brushed to one side, complementing a longer or squared forehead. | Round, Oval, Heart | Low to Medium |
Cutting Techniques That Defined Short Hair 2017
Precision Layering and Point Cutting
Stylists used precise layering to remove weight while keeping movement, often pairing point cutting at the ends for a softer, feathered look. These techniques helped create structure without sacrificing comfort or natural flow.
Face-Framing Pieces
Face-framing layers around the cheekbones and jawline highlighted facial features and balanced sharper silhouettes. Subtle graduation near the ears and neckline added polish to everyday looks.
Popular Styles and Trend Drivers
The Revival of the 90s-Inspired Bob
Clean lines, subtle graduation, and moderate length made the bob a go-to choice in 2017. Variations included low bobs, chin-length trims, and softly angled cuts that sat just above the collarbone.
Edgy Pixie and Undercut Variations
For those seeking drama, edgy pixies featured shaved sides, textured tops, and bold part lines. Undercut styles grew in popularity among trend-focused clients, offering contrast while remaining wearable in professional environments.
Styling Products and Routine Tips
Essential Products for Hold and Texture
Lightweight pastes, sea salt sprays, and matte pomades dominated routines, providing hold without a heavy residue. Air-drying and diffusing were common methods to enhance natural wave and body.
Daily Maintenance Strategies
Quick blowouts with a round brush created volume at the crown, while a small amount of cream or oil controlled flyaways. Styling in the direction of growth helped maintain shape between trims.
Hair Health and Salon Expectations
Color Protection and Heat Management
Clients who colored short hair benefited from gloss treatments and bond-building products that preserved vibrancy and minimized damage. Heat protectant sprays were recommended for frequent styling tool users.
Regular Trims and At-Home Care
Salon visits every four to six weeks preserved the integrity of the cut and prevented split ends from traveling up the strand. At-home care focused on gentle brushing, towel drying, and avoiding harsh sulfates.
Key Takeaways for Short Hair in 2017
- Structured cuts with clean lines defined the year’s signature looks.
- Layering and point cutting created movement without sacrificing shape.
- Face-framing layers balanced features for a wide range of face shapes.
- Low-maintenance products and routines supported everyday wear.
- Regular salon visits preserved both style integrity and hair health.
FAQ
Reader questions
How can I maintain textured crop short hair styles 2017 at home?
Refresh your style with a texturizing spray, use a narrow comb to tidy flyaways, and schedule trims every four to five weeks to keep layers precise.
Will a blunt bob suit a round face if I opt for short hair styles 2017?
Yes, a blunt bob can flatter a round face when worn at chin length with sharp, clean lines that create the illusion of length and structure.
Can short hair with side-swept bangs work in a professional workplace?
Absolutely, as long as the bangs are neatly brushed to the side and the overall cut looks polished; a soft fringe adds style while remaining office-appropriate.
What is the best way to style asymmetrical pixie hair on busy mornings?
Apply a light mousse to damp hair, blow dry using a round brush for lift at the crown, and finish with a small amount of pomade to shape the asymmetrical sections quickly.