I love a good hair refresh, and nobody does it better than Rihanna. She’s the master of the dramatic change, especially with her short hairstyles.
We’ve seen her try everything, and each look is better than the last. So, I put together a little guide to some of her most memorable short cuts that you’re going to love.
1. Angled Bob
You know how some trends just have a moment? The angled bob was definitely one of them, and Rihanna totally embraced it. She kept the look sleek and super straight, with that classic longer front.
But in true Rihanna fashion, she added her own spin by making one side just a little longer, all while sticking to her natural color.
2. Blonde Bowl
Okay, hear me out on this one. A bowl cut might not be on your bingo card, but Rihanna made it look so high-fashion back in the day. She went for a golden blonde color and had the back and sides shaved down super short.
The top was all about that symmetrical, straight line. It’s definitely a bold choice, but I think she pulled it off flawlessly.
3. Red Lob
For a more laid-back vibe, this simple red lob is such a winner. The style is a little wavy, and that deep burgundy color is absolutely stunning on her; it really makes her eyes pop.
With a simple side part to complete the look, this is one of those styles you could totally recreate for yourself.
4. Curly Mohawk
I am a big fan of this take on the mohawk. If you’ve ever thought about trying one, this is the perfect inspiration. The sides are shaved, but the top is kept a little shorter, curly, and perfectly messy.
A few curls fall onto her forehead, giving it this incredibly feminine feel that’s surprisingly easy to wear.
5. Straight Lob
Need an easy, everyday look? Look no further. This straight lob is the definition of effortlessly cool. She rocks it with her natural hair color, a center part, and keeps it super straight.
It’s a simple formula, but the result is so chic and put-together.
6. The Mohawk
It should come as no surprise that an icon like Rihanna has rocked a mohawk. The sides and back are shaved down, and she added blonde tips for that extra pop of personality.
I love how she styled it to one side with a feathery texture—it just takes the edgy vibe to the next level.
7. Boyish Pixie
This boyish pixie is one of my personal favorites. It’s so simple but looks so good on her. She keeps her natural color, which I love, and adds some bangs for a little extra oomph. The back and sides are completely shaved down, making it a super clean and confident cut.
8. Blunt Bob with Bangs
Seriously, Rihanna can pull off any hairstyle; she’s a total chameleon. This blunt bob with bangs is a perfect example. The cut hits just under her chin and is styled straight, with super full bangs that stop right above her eyes.
For anyone with a bob, adding a bang is such a fun way to switch things up.
9. Two-toned Pixie
Rihanna has never shied away from something unique, and her hair is no exception. This two-toned pixie is so good. It’s a classic pixie shape with long bangs, but she added these big, bold sections of blonde all through it. It creates so much dimension and is just so cool.
10. Red Mohawk
It’s not just about the cuts; Rihanna also kills it with color. Case in point: this red mohawk. The rest of her head is completely shaved, making the mohawk the total star.
And that firetruck red? It’s the perfect finishing touch and looks absolutely amazing on her.
11. Girl Next Door Lob
While she’s known for her pixie cuts, Rihanna proves she can do it all with this adorable lob. It’s such a cute, girl-next-door look. She’s got her natural color, some simple wispy bangs, and a few curls mixed in for texture. It’s a classic for a reason.
12. Curly Afro
I am so here for Rihanna embracing her natural curls in this gorgeous afro. Instead of brushing them out for massive volume, she kept the curls defined but a little messy. The result is this tamed, effortlessly chic look that’s just stunning.
13. Blonde Pixie
The pixie is definitely one of Rihanna’s signature looks, and this blonde version is a total knockout. She went with a beautiful blonde shade and styled it with so much volume.
If you’re trying to get this look, the key is to keep the top and bangs long. Using a round brush while drying is a must-have trick to get that amazing lift.