Natural curls are a gift that becomes even more beautiful with age, and women over 70 have the confidence to wear them with pride.
The 25 Best Short Hairstyles for Women Over 70 With Beautiful Natural Curls celebrate the texture, volume, and character that curly hair brings to any look.
Short hairstyles are particularly flattering for mature women because they’re easy to maintain, frame the face beautifully, and highlight your best features.
This article explores a comprehensive range of curly short hairstyles specifically designed for women over 70, from classic pixie cuts to textured bobs and layered styles.
Whether you prefer a sophisticated look for special occasions or a carefree style for everyday wear, you’ll discover options that work with your natural curl pattern while providing the elegance and practicality you deserve.
Each hairstyle in this guide has been selected for its ability to enhance natural curls, complement mature facial features, and offer styling versatility that fits an active lifestyle.
Contents
- 1 1. Classic Curly Pixie Cut
- 2 2. Textured Curly Bob
- 3 3. Short Layered Curly Shag
- 4 4. Curly Asymmetrical Cut
- 5 5. Tapered Curly Afro
- 6 6. Curly French Crop
- 7 7. Voluminous Curly Crown
- 8 8. Curly Side-Swept Pixie
- 9 9. Short Curly Mohawk
- 10 10. Curly Graduated Bob
- 11 11. Tight Curly Crop
- 12 12. Curly Layered Pixie Bob
- 13 13. Curly Undercut
- 14 14. Soft Curly Layers
- 15 15. Curly Pompadour
- 16 16. Natural Curly Afro Puff
- 17 17. Curly Pixie with Long Bangs
- 18 18. Stacked Curly Bob
- 19 19. Curly Temple Fade
- 20 20. Wash-and-Go Curly Cut
- 21 21. Curly Buzz Cut
- 22 22. Defined Curly Ringlets
- 23 23. Curly Fringe Cut
- 24 24. Tousled Curly Pixie
- 25 25. Curly Crown with Tapered Nape
- 26 Choosing the Right Curly Style for Your Face Shape
- 27 Maintenance and Care for Natural Curls
- 28 Conclusion
1. Classic Curly Pixie Cut

The classic curly pixie cut stands as one of the most liberating and youthful hairstyles for women over 70 with natural curls.
This style works beautifully with the natural texture of curly hair while keeping maintenance minimal and style maximum.
- The curly pixie features short sides and back with slightly longer curls on top that create natural volume and movement
- This cut requires minimal styling products and can be refreshed with just water and a light curl cream in the morning
- The pixie cut draws attention to your eyes and cheekbones, creating a face-framing effect that’s both sophisticated and playful
- Hairstylists recommend leaving at least two to three inches of length on top to allow curls to form their natural pattern
- This style is particularly beneficial for women with fine to medium curl density as it prevents hair from looking weighed down
- Regular trims every four to six weeks help maintain the shape and keep curls looking fresh and defined
- The classic curly pixie can be personalized with different lengths on top depending on how much volume you prefer
2. Textured Curly Bob

The textured curly bob offers the perfect balance between length and manageability for women over 70 who want to showcase their natural curls without committing to very short hair.
- This chin-length to shoulder-length style allows curls to bounce freely while maintaining a polished appearance
- The bob can be customized with layers throughout to reduce bulk and enhance curl definition
- Women with tighter curl patterns find this length particularly flattering as it prevents the pyramidal shape that sometimes occurs with longer curly hair
- The textured approach means the stylist cuts into the curls at different angles to create movement and prevent a blocky appearance
- This style works exceptionally well for both casual outings and more formal occasions with minimal styling adjustments
- A side part or deep side part adds asymmetry that’s visually interesting and modern
- The bob length is ideal for women who want the option to occasionally straighten their hair for a different look
3. Short Layered Curly Shag

The short layered curly shag brings a contemporary edge to traditional curly hairstyles while providing incredible volume and dimension for women over 70.
- This style features multiple layers cut throughout the hair to create a deliberately tousled and effortlessly chic appearance
- The shag cut works with your natural curl pattern to produce a fuller look that’s particularly beneficial for women experiencing age-related hair thinning
- Layers are strategically placed to remove weight from the bottom while adding volume at the crown where it’s most flattering
- This versatile cut can be styled with fingers alone for a casual look or with a diffuser for more defined curls
- The shag is forgiving of different curl types and can accommodate everything from loose waves to tight spirals
- Face-framing layers around the cheeks and jawline soften facial features and provide a youthful lift
- This style requires texturizing products like mousse or sea salt spray to enhance the piece-y, lived-in texture
4. Curly Asymmetrical Cut

The curly asymmetrical cut offers a bold and modern statement for women over 70 who want to embrace their natural curls with an artistic edge.
- This style features intentionally uneven lengths with one side typically cut shorter than the other for dramatic visual interest
- The asymmetry draws the eye across the face in a flattering diagonal line that can minimize facial asymmetries
- Women who want to make a confident style statement find this cut particularly empowering and age-defying
- The longer side can be styled forward or tucked behind the ear for different looks throughout the day
- This cut requires a skilled stylist who understands how to work with curl patterns to achieve balanced asymmetry
- Despite its edgy appearance, the asymmetrical cut remains easy to maintain with regular refreshing of curls using curl cream
- The style works best on women with medium to thick curl density who can support the structural differences in length
5. Tapered Curly Afro

The tapered curly afro celebrates natural texture in its fullest form while incorporating strategic shaping that’s particularly flattering for women over 70.
- This style features shorter hair at the nape and sides that gradually increases in length toward the crown for a rounded silhouette
- The tapered afro works beautifully with coily and kinky curl patterns, allowing natural texture to shine
- This cut provides excellent volume and creates a halo effect that’s both regal and contemporary
- Maintenance involves regular moisturizing with leave-in conditioners and oils to keep curls soft and defined
- The style can be picked out with an afro pick for maximum volume or left more compressed for a sleeker appearance
- Women with naturally coarse or thick curly hair find this style particularly liberating as it embraces their authentic texture
- The tapered sides prevent the style from becoming too overwhelming while maintaining the fullness on top
6. Curly French Crop

The curly French crop brings European sophistication to natural curls with a short, textured cut that’s both practical and stylish for women over 70.
- This style features a short fringe area with curls brushed slightly forward, creating a youthful and fresh appearance
- The sides and back are kept neat and short while the top maintains enough length for curls to form naturally
- The French crop works particularly well for women with round or oval face shapes as it adds length and dimension
- This low-maintenance style requires minimal daily styling, making it ideal for active women who want to look polished effortlessly
- The forward movement of the curls draws attention away from forehead lines and focuses on the eyes
- Hair products like curl creams and light gels help define the forward texture without creating stiffness
- This cut can be adapted to different curl tightness levels from wavy to tightly coiled
7. Voluminous Curly Crown

The voluminous curly crown focuses height and fullness at the top of the head while keeping sides manageable, creating a regal appearance perfect for women over 70.
- This style strategically places the longest curls at the crown area to create lift and volume where it’s most flattering
- The increased height at the crown elongates the face and draws the eye upward in a youthful direction
- Sides are typically cut shorter or tapered to prevent the style from looking disproportionate
- Women experiencing thinning at the temples particularly benefit from this strategic volume placement
- The style can be enhanced with root-lifting products applied to damp hair before air-drying or diffusing
- This cut works with various curl types but is especially stunning on women with medium to tight curl patterns
- The voluminous crown requires curls to be properly hydrated and defined to maintain its lifted appearance throughout the day
8. Curly Side-Swept Pixie

The curly side-swept pixie combines the convenience of a pixie cut with the softness of a side-swept style, offering a feminine and romantic option for women over 70.
- This variation features curls deliberately styled to sweep across the forehead and to one side, creating asymmetrical interest
- The side-swept element softens the face and can camouflage forehead lines while highlighting the eyes
- Length is maintained on top and at the front to allow for the sweeping motion while sides and back remain short
- This style offers versatility as you can change which side you sweep the curls to for different looks
- The romantic quality of the side-swept pixie makes it appropriate for both everyday wear and special occasions
- Styling involves applying curl cream to damp hair and directing curls to the desired side while drying
- This cut is particularly flattering for women with heart-shaped or oval faces as it balances facial proportions
9. Short Curly Mohawk

The short curly mohawk offers an adventurous and contemporary option for women over 70 who want to make a bold style statement with their natural curls.
- This edgy cut features very short or even shaved sides with a strip of longer curls running from forehead to nape
- The mohawk doesn’t have to be extreme; a subtle version with tapered sides and slightly longer center curls offers sophistication with edge
- This style works particularly well for women with confident personalities who enjoy standing out in a crowd
- The central strip of curls can be styled upward for maximum drama or allowed to fall naturally for a softer interpretation
- Women with naturally thick, coarse curly hair find this style particularly striking as it showcases their texture beautifully
- Maintenance involves keeping the sides trimmed regularly while caring for the central curls with moisturizing products
- This cut can be customized with varying degrees of length difference between the sides and center strip
10. Curly Graduated Bob

The curly graduated bob features shorter layers at the back that gradually lengthen toward the front, creating a modern and flattering silhouette for women over 70.
- This style provides automatic volume at the back of the head while offering face-framing length at the front
- The graduation creates a stacked effect that’s particularly beneficial for women with fine to medium curl density
- Front lengths typically end anywhere from mid-ear to chin level depending on personal preference
- The angled nature of the cut draws attention forward toward the face rather than the back of the head
- This style can be worn with curls tightly defined or with a more relaxed, tousled texture
- The graduated bob requires precise cutting technique to ensure the angle complements your curl pattern
- Regular maintenance every six to eight weeks keeps the graduation crisp and prevents the back from losing its shape
11. Tight Curly Crop

The tight curly crop celebrates close-cut curls that hug the head, offering maximum ease and minimum maintenance for women over 70 with naturally tight curl patterns.
- This ultra-short style typically measures one to two inches in length, allowing tight curls or coils to form close to the scalp
- The crop is incredibly liberating and emphasizes facial features, particularly the eyes and bone structure
- Women with naturally kinky or coily hair find this style particularly low-maintenance and comfortable
- The short length prevents heat damage as it requires no hot styling tools and minimal manipulation
- This cut is ideal for active women who swim, exercise, or simply want a wash-and-go lifestyle
- Moisturizing the scalp and hair regularly with natural oils keeps the close curls healthy and lustrous
- The tight curly crop can be personalized with subtle fades or line-ups at the hairline for added definition
12. Curly Layered Pixie Bob

The curly layered pixie bob bridges the gap between a pixie cut and a bob, offering the best of both styles for women over 70 who can’t decide between the two.
- This hybrid style features the short back and sides of a pixie with the slightly longer front and top of a bob
- Layers throughout create movement and prevent the style from looking too heavy or triangular
- The length variation provides styling versatility, allowing you to tuck hair behind ears or let it frame the face
- This cut works across various curl types from loose waves to tight spirals with appropriate layer placement
- The pixie bob requires less frequent trims than a traditional pixie while still maintaining a short, manageable length
- Face-framing pieces can be left slightly longer to soften the jawline and neck area
- This style offers a youthful, contemporary appearance that’s neither too edgy nor too conservative
13. Curly Undercut

The curly undercut features shaved or very short sides and back with longer curls on top, creating dramatic contrast and showcasing natural curl texture for adventurous women over 70.
- This bold style involves clippers to create a close cut underneath while preserving substantial length on top
- The undercut reduces overall bulk and weight, making thick curly hair more manageable while looking intentionally styled
- Top curls can be worn forward, swept to the side, or pulled back to reveal the undercut for different effects
- This cut provides cooling relief during warm weather as the shaved sections allow air circulation
- Women who have always wanted to try something daring find the undercut empowering and confidence-boosting
- The stark contrast between the undercut and curly top creates a striking visual that’s undeniably modern
- Maintenance involves keeping the undercut trimmed every few weeks while allowing top curls to grow or maintain their length
14. Soft Curly Layers

Soft curly layers provide a romantic and gentle approach to short curly hair, perfect for women over 70 who prefer a more traditional and feminine aesthetic.
- This style features multiple subtle layers that blend seamlessly to create softness rather than dramatic texture
- The layers are designed to enhance natural curl pattern without creating excessive volume or poofiness
- Face-framing pieces are carefully graduated to gently contour the cheeks and jawline
- This cut is ideal for women with naturally wavy to medium curls who want a polished, classic appearance
- The soft layering technique prevents harsh lines and creates a flowing, continuous movement throughout the hair
- This style can be dressed up for formal events or worn casually with equal success
- Maintenance focuses on keeping curls moisturized and defined with creams and serums rather than heavy gels
15. Curly Pompadour

The curly pompadour brings vintage glamour into the modern age, featuring height and volume at the front that’s both stylish and age-appropriate for women over 70.
- This style involves sweeping front curls upward and backward to create impressive height and drama
- The sides are typically kept shorter to emphasize the voluminous front section
- The pompadour elongates the face and draws attention upward, creating a lifted, youthful appearance
- This cut requires curls to have enough length at the front to style upward, typically three to four inches
- Styling involves applying volumizing mousse and using fingers or a pick to lift curls at the roots
- The curly pompadour works beautifully for special occasions but can also be adapted for everyday wear
- This style celebrates confidence and personality, making it perfect for women who enjoy theatrical, eye-catching looks
16. Natural Curly Afro Puff

The natural curly afro puff for short hair creates a rounded, cloud-like silhouette that’s both playful and dignified for women over 70 with natural texture.
- This style works with hair length of three to five inches, allowing curls to expand outward naturally
- The afro puff celebrates natural texture without manipulation or excessive styling products
- This cut features even length all around or slightly shorter sides with a fuller top for shape variation
- Women with coily, kinky, or very tight curl patterns find this style particularly authentic and beautiful
- The rounded shape is universally flattering and draws attention to facial features rather than away from them
- Maintenance involves moisturizing regularly with water-based sprays and natural oils to keep curls hydrated
- This style can be picked out for maximum volume or left more compressed depending on preference and occasion
17. Curly Pixie with Long Bangs

The curly pixie with long bangs adds a touch of mystery and sophistication by incorporating longer front curls that can be styled multiple ways.
- This variation maintains classic pixie proportions with the addition of longer curls at the front extending to eyebrow level or beyond
- The long bangs can be swept to the side, parted in the middle, or worn forward for different looks
- This style provides face-framing softness while maintaining the ease of a short cut
- The longer front section draws attention to the eyes and can strategically minimize forehead concerns
- Women who worry about committing to very short hair appreciate the softness the longer bangs provide
- Styling involves defining the bangs with curl cream while keeping the rest of the hair simple and textured
- The bangs can be gradually trimmed shorter if you decide to transition to a traditional pixie later
18. Stacked Curly Bob

The stacked curly bob features dramatic graduation with shorter layers in back building to longer pieces in front, creating architectural interest for women over 70.
- This style provides significant volume at the crown and back of head through strategic stacking of layers
- The stacked nature creates a rounded silhouette when viewed from the side that’s both modern and flattering
- Front lengths can vary from ear-length to chin-length depending on face shape and personal preference
- This cut is particularly beneficial for women with fine curly hair who need help creating the illusion of fullness
- The dramatic angle from back to front draws the eye forward in a youthful direction
- Styling is simplified by the cut itself, which naturally falls into place with minimal product
- Regular maintenance every six to eight weeks prevents the stack from growing out into an unflattering shape
19. Curly Temple Fade

The curly temple fade incorporates barbershop techniques with natural curls, featuring gradual fading at the temples for a clean, contemporary look for women over 70.
- This style uses clippers to create a gradual fade from very short hair at the temples up to longer curls on top
- The temple fade provides a crisp, defined look that’s particularly popular in modern hair styling
- Top curls can range from two to five inches depending on desired volume and curl definition
- This cut is ideal for women who appreciate clean lines and architectural precision in their hairstyle
- The faded temples create a slimming effect on the face and highlight cheekbones beautifully
- Maintenance requires regular touch-ups every two to three weeks to keep the fade looking sharp
- This style works across various curl types but is especially striking on women with tight to medium curls
20. Wash-and-Go Curly Cut

The wash-and-go curly cut is designed specifically for minimal styling effort while maximizing the natural beauty of curls for busy women over 70.
- This cut is strategically shaped so curls fall into an attractive formation naturally without extensive styling
- The stylist considers your unique curl pattern, density, and growth patterns when creating this effortless cut
- Length typically ranges from two to four inches, long enough for curl definition but short enough for quick drying
- This style is perfect for women who want to literally wash their hair and go about their day
- The cut incorporates slight layering to prevent bulk while maintaining natural volume and bounce
- Minimal products are needed, usually just a leave-in conditioner or light curl cream applied to wet hair
- This approach celebrates natural texture and eliminates the stress of daily styling routines
21. Curly Buzz Cut

The curly buzz cut represents ultimate freedom and boldness, featuring very short length that allows the curl pattern to just barely emerge for fearless women over 70.
- This extremely short cut typically measures one-quarter to one-half inch in length across the entire head
- The curl pattern is visible but not fully formed, creating interesting texture rather than defined spirals
- This style is liberating for women who want to experience life without hair maintenance or who are embracing new chapters
- The buzz cut showcases facial features dramatically and requires confidence to wear beautifully
- Maintenance is minimal, with hair growing out slowly and evenly requiring cuts every four to six weeks
- This cut can be a powerful statement about aging gracefully and releasing societal expectations about women’s hair
- The very short length feels cool and comfortable while requiring almost no daily attention
22. Defined Curly Ringlets

Defined curly ringlets focus on enhancing and showcasing individual spiral curls in a short cut that’s both playful and sophisticated for women over 70.
- This style requires hair length of three to five inches to allow full spiral formation
- The cut incorporates careful layering that allows each ringlet to form without interference from surrounding curls
- Styling involves using curl-enhancing products and finger-coiling techniques to define each spiral individually
- This look is particularly stunning for women with naturally tight spiral curl patterns
- The defined ringlets create a youthful, bouncy appearance that defies age expectations
- This style requires more daily maintenance than wash-and-go options but creates a polished, intentional look
- Diffusing on low heat or air-drying preserves the ringlet definition without causing frizz
23. Curly Fringe Cut

The curly fringe cut features a horizontal section of curls across the forehead, providing coverage and style while maintaining short length everywhere else for women over 70.
- This style includes a defined fringe area with curls cut to eyebrow length or slightly above
- The fringe can be worn forward to cover the forehead or swept to the side for variation
- Sides and back are kept shorter to emphasize the fringe as the focal point of the style
- This cut is ideal for women who want to minimize forehead lines or create facial balance
- The curly fringe adds a youthful, playful element while maintaining sophistication through the overall short length
- Styling requires defining the fringe curls with cream or gel while keeping other areas more textured
- This style works best with medium to tight curl patterns that hold shape in the fringe area
24. Tousled Curly Pixie

The tousled curly pixie embraces a deliberately messy, lived-in aesthetic that’s effortlessly chic and perfect for women over 70 who prefer a casual style.
- This variation of the pixie features curls that are intentionally styled to look unstyled with piece-y, separated texture
- The tousled approach works with your natural curl pattern rather than fighting it for a relaxed appearance
- This style is ideal for women with naturally wavy to loose curly hair that tends toward a more relaxed curl pattern
- Products like texturizing sprays, sea salt sprays, or light mousses enhance the tousled effect
- The deliberately casual look is surprisingly versatile and works for both everyday activities and casual social events
- This cut requires minimal daily effort as the tousled look is enhanced by natural movement and finger styling
- The messy-on-purpose aesthetic conveys confidence and a youthful, carefree attitude
25. Curly Crown with Tapered Nape

The curly crown with tapered nape combines feminine fullness on top with clean, tailored detailing at the neck for a sophisticated finish perfect for women over 70.
- This style maintains longer curls at the crown and top for volume while tapering progressively shorter down the nape
- The tapered nape creates a clean, finished appearance that’s particularly professional and polished
- This cut provides the best of both worlds: soft, feminine curls with precise, modern barbering technique
- The contrast between the full crown and neat nape is visually striking and architecturally interesting
- Women who want a style that’s both business-appropriate and stylish find this combination ideal
- The tapered nape feels comfortable against the neck and looks crisp from every angle
- Maintenance involves regular nape touch-ups every three to four weeks while allowing crown curls to maintain their length
Choosing the Right Curly Style for Your Face Shape
- Oval face shapes can wear virtually any of these curly short styles as the balanced proportions work with most cuts
- Round face shapes benefit from styles with height on top like the voluminous crown or curly pompadour to elongate the face
- Square face shapes look beautiful in softer styles like the textured bob or soft curly layers that minimize angular jawlines
- Heart-shaped faces are flattered by styles with width at the jawline like the curly bob or side-swept pixie to balance narrow chins
- Long face shapes should consider fuller styles like the curly afro puff or wide curly shag that add width rather than height
- Diamond face shapes benefit from styles that add width at the forehead and chin like the curly fringe cut or textured bob
- Consider consulting with a stylist experienced in curly hair who can assess your unique combination of face shape, curl pattern, and lifestyle needs
Maintenance and Care for Natural Curls
- Establish a consistent hair care routine that includes gentle cleansing, deep conditioning, and moisture retention
- Invest in quality curl-specific products formulated for mature hair that address both curl needs and age-related changes
- Avoid excessive manipulation which can cause breakage and frizz in mature curly hair
- Embrace your natural gray or white curls as they often have beautiful texture and don’t require harsh coloring chemicals
- Stay hydrated and maintain good nutrition as healthy hair starts from within, particularly important as we age
- Schedule regular trims with a stylist who specializes in cutting curly hair using dry cutting techniques
- Protect your curls from environmental damage including sun exposure, chlorine, and harsh weather conditions
- Learn your unique curl pattern and what products and techniques work best for your specific texture
- Be patient with your curls as they may change texture with age, requiring adjustments to your routine
- Consider using silk or satin accessories for sleeping and styling to minimize friction and breakage
Conclusion
The 25 Best Short Hairstyles for Women Over 70 With Beautiful Natural Curls prove that age is no barrier to having gorgeous, stylish hair that celebrates your natural texture.
Each of these styles has been carefully selected to honor the beauty of curly hair while addressing the practical needs and lifestyle preferences of women in their seventies and beyond.
From the bold statement of a curly mohawk to the classic elegance of a textured bob, these options demonstrate that curly hair can be both manageable and magnificent.
The key to finding your perfect style lies in understanding your unique curl pattern, considering your face shape, and choosing a cut that aligns with your personal style and maintenance preferences.
Remember that your natural curls are a beautiful asset that becomes even more distinguished with the silver and gray tones that come with age.
Whether you prefer a wash-and-go style or something more defined and polished, there’s a short curly hairstyle in this collection that will make you feel confident, beautiful, and authentically yourself.
Embrace your curls, consult with a skilled stylist, and enjoy the freedom and beauty that comes with the perfect short curly hairstyle designed specifically for the vibrant woman you are today.