Grow Out Short Hair Styles

Back view of a short hairstyle
Photo: Hightower/Shutterstock
Q: I've had my hair short (though in different styles) for almost seven years now. Now that I’m almost 22, I’ve decided to let it grow out. The last haircut I had was similar to Winona Ryder’s hairstyle in Girl, Interrupted. It’s been about four or five months since I stopped cutting it, though I’ve trimmed it a little to keep it neat. Right now, my hair is in an awkward phase. It’s shapeless, uneven, and difficult to manage.
 
The hair at the back is longer than the bangs or the sides, and no matter what I do, the ends won’t stay straight. Even after using a flat iron, they flip upward, which is frustrating. On average, my hair is just a little below my earlobes in length. I’m torn between getting a cut to even everything out or just toughing it out and letting it grow, even though I dislike how unstylish it looks right now. What should I do?
 
A: First, let me reassure you, what you’re going through is completely normal. Almost every woman (and man) who has tried to grow out a short hairstyle encounters this exact challenge.
 
The transition from short to long hair inevitably involves going through awkward, shapeless, and sometimes unflattering stages. Unfortunately, there’s no way to skip these phases. They’re just part of the process. Many people get discouraged during this time and end up cutting their hair short again, abandoning their goal of longer locks. But with the right strategies, you can minimize frustration and keep your hair looking as good as possible while it grows.
 
Here’s what I recommend:
 
Start by researching hairstyles online that fit different lengths, from just slightly longer than your current length all the way to your ultimate goal. Look for three or four styles that complement your face shape and personal style. These will serve as “mile markers” to guide you through each stage of growth.
 
Next, schedule a consultation with a skilled stylist. They can show you professional hair books with a wider variety of styles than you might find on your own. A good stylist will also help you choose and customize “transition” haircuts that work with your growing hair, making adjustments as needed to keep your look intentional and flattering. This way, you can avoid prolonged periods where your hair feels messy and unstyled.
 
Another helpful tool is virtual hairstyle apps, which allow you to upload a photo of yourself and digitally try on different cuts, colors, and lengths. These apps can be a fun and practical way to experiment with looks before committing to them in real life.
 
Additionally, consider using lightweight styling products, like texturizing sprays or soft-hold mousses, to add shape and control to your hair as it grows. A few strategic layers or subtle texturizing cuts can also help blend uneven sections without sacrificing length.
 
Most importantly, be patient. Growing out hair takes time, but with the right approach, you can make the journey much more manageable, and even enjoy the process!
 
©Hairfinder.com
 
See also:
 
Growing your hair out
 
How to avoid the hassle when you grow your hair out
 
From short to shoulder-length in gradual steps