The teeny weeny afro (TWA) hairstyle is big in the natural hair community, but many of us associate it as the “big chop.” This is the cut you would usually get only when transitioning from relaxed to natural hair. We don’t think that this cut should only be recognized as a style for transitioners, but as a way to wear your hair simply because you’re into short cuts, or want to show off your face shape and favorite features. Below we’re rounding up some of our favorite short natural hairstyles to inspire you to make the chop this season.
1. Close Shave
This short natural haircut is super low maintenance in the styling depart, but high maintenance when it comes to keeping it in shape. Ask your barber or hairstylist for a high fade cut if you’re going for this look. Consider slightly shaping up the hairline so it doesn’t feel too masculine if you’re after a close cut with a feminine-feel.
2. The Natural Cut
Show off your gorgeous 4a, b, or c texture with this natural cut. No specific shape or cut is needed for this short natural haircut, just let your hair do its own thing. To style, you barely need styling products, but be sure to keep the hair well moisturized. Simply wash hair with Dove Absolute Curls Ultra Nourishing Shampoo and Dove Absolute Curls Ultra Nourishing Conditioner, then air-dry. Once your hair is about 80% dry, begin to lift at the roots all around using an afro pick.
3. The High Top
There’s nothing wrong with turning up your look a notch with a funky twist. To get the look, provide your stylist with pictures of the shape you’re after, or simply ask for clean skin fade sides and leave the hair on top. When you don’t want to wear your hair straight with a high ’fro, you can opt for styles like twist outs or braidouts to try a curlier look.
4. Short Layered Wash and Go
Short defined curls are easy to achieve once you’ve got the right tools on hand, and the right shape. Ask your stylist to cut your hair in layers. For obtaining coils with frizz-free definition, evenly rake Dove Absolute Curls Supreme Creme Serum through your clean damp hair then dry with a diffuser. Once dry, you can go back in and separate your curls to cover any sparse areas and to create volume.
5. Round Soft Twist Out
This pillow soft curls look is definitely a favorite. Consider getting a round cut like a bowl cut look for shape. After washing your hair, use a gel like TRESemmé Flawless Curls Defining Gel to create two-strand twists all over your hair. Allow the curls to dry using a hair dryer, or air-dry overnight. Remove the twist then fluff hair to your liking. Keep your curls in place with a hairspray like Dove Style + Care Extra Hold Hairspray.
