14+ Stunning Short Starter Locs Hairstyles for an Effortless Look

Starting your loc journey is an exciting step, and the early stages, often called “starter locs,” are a beautiful part of the process. While your locs are still short, they offer a unique chance to experiment with fun, low-maintenance styles.

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Forget the myth that you can’t style short locs. These 14+ hairstyles are perfect for showing off your growing locs with confidence and a touch of effortless style.

1. The Classic Two-Strand Twist-Out

ST1

This style is a staple for a reason. Twist your starter locs in sections and unravel them after a few days for a full, wavy look that adds volume and movement.

  • Tips: Make sure your hair is fully dry before unraveling to get the best definition. A light hair oil can add shine and reduce frizz.
  • Best for: Creating a temporary wavy or curly texture on your starter locs.

2. The Spiked-Up Look

ST2

For a bold, edgy style, simply use a light gel or wax to pull your locs upward, creating a fun, spiky look. It’s quick, easy, and shows off the beginning of your locs.

  • Tips: Use a small amount of product to avoid buildup. This style works best on shorter locs.
  • Best for: Adding texture and height with minimal effort.

3. The Half-Up, Half-Down

ST3

This is a perfect go-to style. Simply gather the top half of your locs into a small bun or ponytail, leaving the rest to hang freely.

  • Tips: Use a small, stretchy hair tie to avoid putting too much tension on your baby’s locs.
  • Best for: A versatile, everyday look.

4. The Mohawk/Fauxhawk

ST4

Create a mohawk without the commitment. Braid or pin the sides of your locs and let the middle section stand up on its own. It’s a fierce, stylish look.

  • Tips: Use bobby pins to secure the sides. Don’t worry about being too perfect; a little messiness adds to the style.
  • Best for: Making a statement.

5. The Messy Bun

ST5

Even with short locs, you can create a simple, messy bun. Just gather your locs at the crown of your head and secure them into a loose, carefree bun.

  • Tips: This style is great for bad hair days or when you’re on the go.
  • Best for: A casual, effortless vibe.

6. The Side-Swept Locs

ST6

Simply part your locs on the side and let them fall naturally. It’s a simple change that can totally transform your look.

  • Tips: A little water or a spritz of leave-in conditioner can help your locs fall the way you want them.
  • Best for: A quick and easy style change.

7. The Cornrowed Top

ST7

For a look that’s clean and stylish, cornrow the top section of your locs, leaving the rest loose at the back. It adds a neat, structured element to your style.

  • Tips: This is a protective style that helps keep your locs in place. Just be sure not to braid too tightly.
  • Best for: Keeping your locs neat for a longer period.

8. The Headband Style

ST8

This is the ultimate quick fix. Put on a wide headband or bandana to keep your locs out of your face while adding a pop of color or pattern.

  • Tips: A silk headband is best to prevent friction and frizz.
  • Best for: A stylish and practical solution.

9. The Zig-Zag Part

ST9

Change up a simple, straight-down style by creating a zig-zag part. It’s a small detail that adds a lot of visual interest to your locs.

  • Tips: Use a rat-tail comb to get a clean, sharp part.
  • Best for: A creative way to style your parts.

10. The Barrel Roll

ST10

This is a beautiful, intricate-looking style that’s easier than it looks. Take sections of your locs and roll them around your finger, pinning them into a cool design.

  • Tips: This style is great for a special occasion. Use bobby pins that match your hair color to hide them.
  • Best for: A polished, elegant look.

11. The Freeform Locs

ST11

This is the most effortless style of all. You simply let your locs grow as they please without any twisting or styling. It’s a beautiful way to embrace your natural texture.

  • Tips: Keep your scalp clean and moisturized. Don’t manipulate the locs too much.
  • Best for: A truly natural, carefree look.

12. The Braid-Out

ST12

Braid your locs into larger sections and let them sit for a while before unraveling. This creates a wavy, crimped texture that’s fun and different.

  • Tips: This style is a great way to experiment with texture without heat.
  • Best for: Adding temporary waves to your locs.

13. The Two-Tone Look

ST13

If you’re feeling adventurous, add a touch of color to your starter locs. A two-tone look, with a different color on the ends, can make your style pop.

  • Tips: Go to a professional stylist for color services to protect your hair.
  • Best for: A bold, modern statement.

14. Pinned-Back Bangs

ST14

For a soft and elegant look, take the locs from the front of your head and pin them back to create the look of bangs.

  • Tips: This style is great for keeping hair out of your eyes while it grows.
  • Best for: A quick and elegant fix.

15. The Faux Bangs

ST15

If you don’t want to pin your locs back, you can style the front locs forward to create a faux bang. It’s a cute, playful look that changes up your style.

  • Tips: Use a bit of holding spray to keep them in place.
  • Best for: A cute, casual look.

Embracing the Journey

Your starter locs are a testament to patience and self-love. Don’t get discouraged if they don’t look perfect. It’s all part of the process! Keep your hair and scalp moisturized with a good-quality oil or spray, and make sure to cover your hair with a silk bonnet or scarf at night. Enjoy this unique stage of your loc journey, and know that every day, you’re one step closer to your dream locs.

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