10 short messy hairstyle ideas for men and women [Styling guides included]

Short messy hairstyles are super trendy and perfect if you want a low-maintenance, chic, and cool look. Think tousled pixies, shaggy bobs, and choppy layers—they add so much volume and texture.

It's so easy to style! Just mess it up with your fingers, maybe add a bit of product, and you're good to go. If you're looking for a hairstyle that screams effortless and chic, short and messy is the way to go. Get ready to rock that laid-back, stylish look!

1. Tousled pixie

The tousled pixie is all about a carefree, edgy look. Just add some texture spray and mess it up with your hands for that effortlessly cool vibe.

2. Shaggy bob

A shaggy bob gives you loads of volume and texture. The layered cut keeps it playful and slightly messy, perfect for a laid-back style.

3. Choppy layers

Short hair with choppy layers looks dynamic and full of life. It's easy to style and gives a fun, messy appearance that's always on point.

4. Bedhead waves

Get the ultimate bedhead look with short, wavy hair. Spritz some sea salt spray and scrunch it up to enhance those natural waves for a relaxed, beachy feel.

5. Messy pixie with fringe

A messy pixie with a fringe is both cute and edgy. The fringe adds softness, while the tousled pixie cut keeps it modern and stylish.

6. Disconnected undercut

For a bold statement, try a disconnected undercut. The contrast between the longer top and shaved sides creates a striking, messy look that's full of attitude.

7. Textured crop

The textured crop is perfect for those who want a bit of edge. You're able to use a little styling cream to define the layers and give it a messy, lived-in look.

8. Wavy lob

A wavy lob (long bob) is great for a messy hairstyle. The waves add volume and texture to your head. So it is so cool.

9. Spiky pixie

Go for a spiky pixie if you love a bold, messy style. You can use some gel or wax to create spikes and add texture for a daring, playful look.

10. Messy mohawk

A messy mohawk is perfect for those who want to stand out. To achieve it, you should keep the sides short and the top long, then use some styling product to mess it up and add volume.

How to style short messy hair?

1. You can start with clean hair by using a volumizing shampoo and conditioner to add body and texture. After washing, towel dry your hair to remove excess water without causing frizz.

2. You can apply a texturizing product like mousse, sea salt spray, or texturizing cream while your hair is still damp.

3. Next, use a hair dryer with a diffuser attachment to enhance your natural texture and add volume.

4. Blow dry your hair in different directions, lifting the roots with your fingers for added volume, or flip your head upside down for even more lift.

Pro tips:

• Once your hair is dry, use a curling wand or flat iron to create loose waves if needed. Wrap random sections of hair around the barrel for a natural, undone look.

• Use your fingers to tousle and scrunch your hair, enhancing the messy effect. For added definition, apply a small amount of hair wax or pomade to the ends and layers.

• On second-day hair, use dry shampoo to add texture and absorb excess oil.

Styling tools and goals:

• Hair dryer with diffuser: Adds volume and enhances natural texture.

• Curling wand or flat iron: Creates loose waves and adds texture.

• Texturizing spray or mousse: Builds volume and achieves a messy look.

• Hair wax or pomade: Defines layers and ends.

• Light hold hairspray: Keeps your style in place without stiffness.

Conclusion

These short messy haircuts for men bring out your edge, your spontaneity, and that confidence that doesn’t try too hard. Whether it’s the texture of a shaggy crop or the playful layers of a messy bob, there’s a certain freedom in not needing every strand in place. It’s low-maintenance, sure, but it’s also full of life and character.

FAQs

Q1: How to get my short hair to look messy?

Start with dry hair—bedhead works great! After that, you can add a touch of texturizing spray, then use your fingers to twist, scrunch, or fluff your hair in different directions. Just play it up until you hit that cool, lived-in vibe. The goal is “I woke up like this,” but better.

Q2: How to blowout short messy bob haircuts?

For a voluminous, messy bob blowout, go in with a lightweight mousse while your hair’s damp. Flip your head upside down and rough dry using your fingers to add natural movement. Once it’s about 80% dry, use a round brush to lift the roots and twist sections randomly.

Q3: Who is suitable for a messy short haircut?

Almost everyone. Messy short hair works on all face shapes and hair types. Got fine hair? Choppy layers give it volume. Thick or wavy? A shaggy cut tames bulk with a cool twist. And if you’re all about low effort and high style, this looks practically made for you.

Q4: Which hairstyle is best for messy hair?

Messy hair thrives in styles that embrace texture and movement. Think tousled pixies, layered shags, or the ever-popular messy bob. Add in curtain bangs or asymmetrical layers for extra flair. A cut that lets your hair fall naturally but still has that unpolished finish.

Q5: What is the most low maintenance short haircut?

If you want a style that basically takes care of itself, go for a textured pixie or a layered crop. These cuts are all about wash-and-go ease. A quick finger style, maybe a dab of product. You’ll look styled without even trying. It’s the kind of haircut that keeps its shape as it grows, so you don’t have to run to the salon every few weeks.

Isla Raynor

Isla writes like a breeze on a Sunday morning: gentle, clear, and full of heart. With a background in wellness and natural living, she specializes in clean beauty, DIY hair treatments, and scalp health. Isla’s voice resonates with those looking for simplicity, balance, and better beauty habits that don’t sacrifice self-care.