Pixie cuts are bold, chic, and versatile. Whether you’re looking to keep it simple or add some flair, there are many ways to style this classic short haircut. From sleek and polished to tousled and edgy, pixie cuts can be customized to match any personality or occasion. Below are 12 different ways to style a pixie cut, each offering a unique look and feel.
12 Stunning Ways to Style a Pixie Cut
1. Sleek and Polished
For those who love a smooth, refined look, the sleek and polished pixie cut is ideal. This style exudes sophistication and is perfect for formal events or professional settings.
How to achieve the look:
Start with clean, damp hair.
Apply a small amount of smoothing serum or cream.
Use a fine-tooth comb to create a side part.
Blow-dry using a flat brush to straighten the hair.
Finish with a flat iron for a sleek finish.
Add a light mist of shine spray for an extra glossy effect.
This look works best for those with straight or slightly wavy hair, as it relies on creating a smooth surface.
2. Textured and Tousled
For a laid-back, effortless vibe, try a textured and tousled pixie. This look is all about embracing your natural hair texture and adding volume for a fun, carefree style.
How to achieve the look:
Apply a texturizing spray to damp hair.
Scrunch the hair as you blow-dry with a diffuser attachment.
Once dry, use a small amount of pomade or styling wax to define pieces of hair, focusing on the crown for extra volume.
Tease the roots slightly for added lift and texture.
This style is perfect for those with wavy or curly hair but can also be achieved with straight hair by adding extra texture.
3. Side-Swept Bangs
A pixie cut with side-swept bangs offers a feminine and soft look. This style brings attention to the eyes and cheekbones, creating a flattering silhouette.
How to achieve the look:
After washing your hair, apply a lightweight mousse to add volume.
Blow-dry the hair, directing it to one side with a round brush.
Use a flat iron to smooth the bangs and ensure they fall neatly to the side.
Finish with a light-hold hairspray to keep the style in place.
This look is versatile and can be styled with either a sleek or textured finish, depending on the occasion.
4. Curly Pixie Cut
For those with naturally curly hair, embracing your curls with a pixie cut can create a stunning and unique style. A curly pixie is both playful and elegant, allowing you to show off your curls while keeping them manageable.
How to achieve the look:
Apply a curl-enhancing mousse or cream to damp hair.
Diffuse your hair to dry it while maintaining the natural curl pattern.
Use a small amount of styling gel or pomade to define individual curls and control frizz.
Avoid overworking the hair to preserve the natural bounce and texture of the curls.
A curly pixie is a great option for those who want to keep their curls but desire a low-maintenance style.
5. Edgy Undercut Pixie
An undercut adds a bold, edgy twist to the classic pixie cut. This style features shaved or closely cropped sides with longer layers on top, creating a striking contrast.
How to achieve the look:
Request a professional undercut from your hairstylist, keeping the top longer for styling options.
Style the top with a strong-hold gel or pomade to create a voluminous, structured look.
Alternatively, you can smooth down the top for a sleek, minimalist style.
The undercut pixie is ideal for those who want a daring, high-fashion look.
6. Spiked Pixie
For a fun, punk-inspired look, a spiked pixie cut is the way to go. This style adds height and texture, giving you a bold, statement-making appearance.
How to achieve the look:
Apply a strong-hold gel or mousse to damp hair.
Blow-dry while lifting the hair upwards with your fingers.
Use a small amount of styling wax to define and separate the spikes.
Finish with a firm-hold hairspray to keep the spikes in place throughout the day.
This style works best for those with straight or slightly wavy hair, as it relies on sharp, defined spikes.
7. Retro Finger Waves
For a vintage-inspired look, finger waves add a touch of old Hollywood glamour to your pixie cut. This style is elegant and timeless, perfect for special occasions.
How to achieve the look:
Start with damp hair and apply a setting lotion or gel.
Use your fingers and a comb to create soft, S-shaped waves across the head.
Pin the waves in place with hairpins and allow the hair to air dry or set under a hooded dryer.
Once dry, remove the pins and gently comb through the waves for a smooth finish.
Finger waves work well for both straight and wavy hair types, offering a sleek, polished look.
8. Pixie with a Deep Side Part
A deep side part adds drama and sophistication to any pixie cut. This style creates an asymmetrical look, drawing attention to the face and adding volume to one side.
How to achieve the look:
Create a deep side part on damp hair using a comb.
Blow-dry the hair, directing it to one side with a round brush for added volume.
Smooth the hair with a flat iron, if needed, and finish with a light-hold hairspray.
This look can be worn sleek or tousled, depending on your preference and the occasion.
9. Layered Pixie
Adding layers to a pixie cut gives the hair more movement and dimension. This style works particularly well for those with thicker hair, as it helps remove bulk and create a more lightweight, airy feel.
How to achieve the look:
Ask your stylist to cut the hair in choppy, uneven layers for a modern, textured look.
Apply a lightweight styling cream or mousse to damp hair.
Blow-dry the hair using your fingers to encourage texture and separation.
Finish with a texturizing spray for added definition.
A layered pixie is ideal for those who want a dynamic, low-maintenance style that still feels fresh and trendy.
10. Pixie with Highlights or Balayage
Adding highlights or balayage to a pixie cut can enhance the overall shape and add depth to the style. Lighter strands around the face can brighten your complexion, while dimensional color throughout adds visual interest.
How to achieve the look:
Consult with a professional colorist to add subtle highlights or balayage to your pixie cut.
Style the hair as usual, using a lightweight product that won’t weigh down the color.
Finish with a shine spray to enhance the vibrancy of the color.
Highlights can make any pixie cut feel more dynamic and modern, offering a fresh take on a classic style.
11. Messy Bedhead Pixie
For a carefree, “I woke up like this” look, a messy bedhead pixie cut is perfect. This style embraces a tousled, undone texture that feels effortlessly chic.
How to achieve the look:
Apply a texturizing spray or dry shampoo to add volume and grit to the hair.
Use your fingers to tousle and scrunch the hair, creating an intentionally messy look.
For added texture, use a bit of styling wax to define certain pieces of hair.
This look is ideal for casual days or weekend outings when you want to keep things simple yet stylish.
SEE ALSO: What is a Pixie Bob Haircut?
12. Pixie with a Headband or Accessory
Adding a headband or accessory to your pixie cut can instantly elevate the look, making it more playful or polished, depending on the occasion.
How to achieve the look:
Choose a headband, scarf, or hair accessory that complements your outfit or the occasion.
Style the pixie cut as usual, either sleek or tousled.
Place the accessory just behind the hairline for a simple, elegant touch, or farther back for a more casual feel.
This style is perfect for adding variety to your pixie cut without needing a complete overhaul.
Conclusion
Pixie cuts offer endless styling possibilities, whether you’re aiming for a sleek and polished look, embracing your natural texture, or adding a bit of edge to your everyday style. With these 12 versatile ways to style a pixie cut, you’re sure to find the perfect look to suit your personality and occasion.