How to Style Short Soft Locs

Are you tired of your long hair and looking for a way to switch things up? Consider styling your short soft locs!

Soft locs styles ideas can be an exciting and creative process, offering versatility while celebrating your natural beauty. Soft locs, known for their lightweight and flexible texture, allow you to experiment with a variety of looks, ranging from casual to elegant. Whether you’re aiming for a simple everyday style or a bold statement, short soft locs provide an excellent foundation to showcase your flair. Additionally, by styling your locs, you can protect them from damage and maintain their health.

In this guide on how to style short soft locs, we’ll explore different techniques and ideas to elevate your loc game.

What Will You Need?

Before starting your short soft loc journey, you will need to gather a few essential items. These include:

• Soft Locs Hair: You can purchase pre-made soft locs hair or create them yourself with synthetic hair. The recommended length is 12-14 inches for shorter styles.
• Crochet Needle: A crochet needle will be used to install the soft locs onto your natural hair.
• Hair Clips and Ties: These will help section off and hold your hair in place while installing the soft locs.
• Scissors: Sharp scissors will be needed to trim any stray hairs or adjust the length of the locs as needed.
• Moisturizing Products: Soft locs require regular moisture to keep them looking and feeling healthy. Be sure to have a moisturizing product on hand, such as oils or leave-in conditioners.
• Maintenance Products: To maintain your soft locs, you will need products specifically designed for loc maintenance, such as locking gels or sprays.

10 Easy Steps on How to Style Short Soft Locs

1. Prepare Your Locs 

Before styling your soft locs, it’s important to start with clean and moisturized hair. Gently wash your locs with a residue-free shampoo to ensure that there is no buildup, which can make the styling process more difficult. After washing, pat your locs dry with a microfiber towel or soft T-shirt to prevent unnecessary frizz.

Once dried, apply a moisturizing product, such as a lightweight oil or leave-in conditioner, to hydrate your locs and make them more manageable. If needed, use a soft bristle brush or your fingers to neaten up the roots and ensure your locs are smooth and ready for styling. Preparing your locs in this way will help ensure long-lasting and polished results for any style.

2. Create a Simple Part 

To create a simple part in your locs, start by deciding where you want your part to be—whether it’s in the center, on the side, or in a unique asymmetrical position. Use a rat-tail comb to carefully section your locs, ensuring the part is straight and clean. Gently separate the locs on either side of the part, using your fingers to smooth them into place. Take your time during this step to achieve a neat and defined part that complements your face shape and desired style. Once satisfied with the part, you can proceed with additional styling or leave your locs as they are for a clean and natural look.

3. Half-Up, Half-Down Style 

This classic style is versatile and easy to create, making it a favorite for any occasion. Start by sectioning off the top half of your locs, from ear to ear, using your fingers or a comb for precision. Gather the top section of locs and secure them with a hair tie, creating a ponytail or bun depending on your preference. For a sleeker look, you can wrap the base of the ponytail with a few locs to conceal the hair tie.

Leave the bottom half of your locs hanging freely for a beautiful contrast between structured and loose styling. This timeless half-up, half-down look works wonderfully for casual outings or more formal events.

4. Space Buns

Space buns are a playful and trendy style that works perfectly for any occasion where you want to stand out. To achieve this look, start by parting your locs down the middle to create two even sections. Gather each section into a high ponytail on either side of your head and secure them with hair ties.

Twist each ponytail tightly and wrap it around the base to form a bun, securing the ends with bobby pins or small elastic bands. For added flair, leave a few locs loose to frame your face or accessorize the buns with decorative clips or hair cuffs. This bold and fun style is ideal for festivals, parties, or days when you want to express your unique personality.

5. Low Ponytail 

The low ponytail is a sleek and versatile style that works for both casual and formal occasions. Start by gathering your locs at the nape of your neck, ensuring they are smooth and neatly arranged. Secure the ponytail with a strong hair tie, and for a polished look, take a few locs and wrap them around the hair tie to conceal it, securing the ends with a pin. You can leave the ponytail simple and natural, or enhance it with accessories like beads, ribbons, or metallic cuffs for added elegance. This timeless hairstyle is effortless yet chic, making it a go-to choice for any event.

6. Side-Swept Look 

To achieve the side-swept look, begin by parting your locs to one side, either deeply for a dramatic effect or slightly for a more subtle style. Gather the majority of your locs over to the chosen side, allowing them to fall naturally or arranging them in a way that best suits your face shape. For added hold, you can pin some of the locs at the back of your head, ensuring they stay in place throughout the day.

This style works beautifully with locs of all lengths and can be accessorized with barrettes, clips, or decorative pins for an extra touch of flair. The side-swept look exudes sophistication and charm, making it a versatile choice for both casual outings and formal occasions.

7. Top Knot 

The top knot is a timeless and chic style that works perfectly with locs. To create this look, gather all your locs at the crown of your head and secure them with a hair tie. Then, twist the locs around the base to form a knot and tuck the ends neatly beneath or secure them with another tie. This style is not only sleek and polished but also keeps your locs away from your face and neck, making it an ideal choice for hot days or intense workouts. For a more dramatic effect, you can leave a few locs loose at the front to frame your face, or add embellishments like cuffs or fabric wraps to elevate the look.

8. Scarf or Headwrap Style 

Using a scarf or headwrap is a versatile and stylish way to protect and decorate your locs. Begin by selecting a scarf or headwrap with a fabric and color that complements your outfit or mood. Fold the scarf to your desired width, then position it at the back of your head, just above the nape of your neck. Wrap the ends around to the front, either crossing them over or twisting them, and tie firmly.

You can leave the knot centered for a bold statement or shift it to the side for an asymmetrical look. This style not only adds flair to your ensemble but also serves as a protective measure, shielding your locs from environmental elements and reducing frizz.

9. Twisted Loc Bangs

To achieve the twisted loc bangs style, begin by sectioning off a portion of locs at the front of your head to create the bang area. Divide this section into smaller parts and twist each part tightly using two or three locs at a time, depending on the thickness you prefer. Once twisted, you can either allow the bangs to fall naturally or pin them to the side for a neatly tucked look.

This versatile style frames the face beautifully, adding a playful yet sophisticated touch to your overall appearance. Perfect for both casual and formal settings, twisted loc bangs are an effortless way to refresh your look while showcasing the texture and uniqueness of your locs.

10. Accessorized Look 

Accessories can transform your locs and elevate your overall hairstyle effortlessly. From colorful beads and cuffs to decorative pins and headwraps, the options are endless. Adding accessories not only reflects your personality but also highlights the intricate details of your locs.

For a bold statement, consider metallic cuffs or vibrant fabric wraps, perfect for special occasions or festivals. On the other hand, subtle embellishments like wooden beads or delicate pins can blend seamlessly for a more understated look.

By experimenting with these simple styles, you can keep your short soft locs looking fresh and exciting every day!

Conclusion

How to style short soft locs allows for limitless creativity while maintaining a practical and manageable hairstyle.

Whether you prefer elegant updos, playful half-up styles, or decorative embellishments, there’s something for everyone to explore. The key is to find styles that align with your taste and suit different occasions, from casual outings to formal events.

With the right techniques and accessories, you can confidently express your individuality and keep your short soft locs looking both stylish and fresh.