Think about the cool-girl short haircut you've always wanted. Maybe it's the polished jaw-length bob you've saved on Instagram, like, a hundred times, or the loose curly pixie that would finally allow you to quit your blowout habit. Whatever your dream chop looks like — now's the time to pull the trigger.
And if the only thing stopping you is that little voice inside your head whispering, You'll miss your ponytail — we have the fix. Ahead, we've compiled a comprehensive roundup of the cutest short updos that will ward off any and all post-cut regret.
From half-ups and barrette tucks to delicate French braids and baby topknots — all styled by the coolest girls on Instagram — scroll through to find the photo that will convince you to (finally) go above-the-shoulder short.
The ultimate cool-girl, Rowan Blanchard, proves that an elegant velvet headband is the perfect juxtaposition to an edgy and shaggy bob.
With a blunt bob that falls above the collarbone, a half-up feels so chic. Pin it back with a sleek barrette — like this gold rectangular one, which is only $12 at J.Crew. The Mejuri chunky hoops will cost you a little extra.
If you have styling mousse and a single bobby pin, you can get the easiest "updo" ever.
If your hair won't fit into one French braid, go for two. Secured at the nape of the neck, they'll show off that gorgeous neck (or, in this case, entire back).
Only have a handful of bobby pins in your dresser drawer? Slide them into your hair in a criss-cross shape for instant cool factor.
The Blair Waldorf padded headband trend is making a major comeback — this time on unfussy, cotton-candy bobs.
To add instant oomph to a short cut, pull your face-framing pieces back, backcomb them, and pin them at the crown, à la the gorgeous Margot Robbie.
Lucy Hale is constantly doling out short updo inspiration, but we're especially loving this French twist bun. It adds a heavy dose of glamour — you know, just in case you can't splurge for the diamond droplet earrings.
If you have naturally curly hair, take a style cue from model Melody Acevedo. Section off your hair from both temples and pull it tightly into a cute topknot at the crown.
You don't need to buy anything special — just two skinny hair ties — to pull off this unexpectedly chic, sectioned half-updo like Olivia Palermo.
If your hair hits at your jawline, you might think a low ponytail is out of the question. But there's something inherently cool about those loose pieces inevitably sneaking out and falling around your face.
If there was ever a case for hair jewelry, it's this shot of Yara Shahidi and her cropped glossy curls punctuated with delicate gold rings along the side of her head.
Do you see Minnie Mouse or Millie Bobby Brown? Either way, these half-up, half-down buns are unquestionably adorable.
A short curly cut is gorgeous on its own, the clementine-colored scarf is just the bow on top.
The ultimate cool-girl, Rowan Blanchard, proves that an elegant velvet headband is the perfect juxtaposition to an edgy and shaggy bob.
With a blunt bob that falls above the collarbone, a half-up feels so chic. Pin it back with a sleek barrette — like this gold rectangular one, which is only $12 at J.Crew. The Mejuri chunky hoops will cost you a little extra.
If you have styling mousse and a single bobby pin, you can get the easiest "updo" ever.
If your hair won't fit into one French braid, go for two. Secured at the nape of the neck, they'll show off that gorgeous neck (or, in this case, entire back).
Only have a handful of bobby pins in your dresser drawer? Slide them into your hair in a criss-cross shape for instant cool factor.
The Blair Waldorf padded headband trend is making a major comeback — this time on unfussy, cotton-candy bobs.
To add instant oomph to a short cut, pull your face-framing pieces back, backcomb them, and pin them at the crown, à la the gorgeous Margot Robbie.
Lucy Hale is constantly doling out short updo inspiration, but we're especially loving this French twist bun. It adds a heavy dose of glamour — you know, just in case you can't splurge for the diamond droplet earrings.
If you have naturally curly hair, take a style cue from model Melody Acevedo. Section off your hair from both temples and pull it tightly into a cute topknot at the crown.
You don't need to buy anything special — just two skinny hair ties — to pull off this unexpectedly chic, sectioned half-updo like Olivia Palermo.
If your hair hits at your jawline, you might think a low ponytail is out of the question. But there's something inherently cool about those loose pieces inevitably sneaking out and falling around your face.
If there was ever a case for hair jewelry, it's this shot of Yara Shahidi and her cropped glossy curls punctuated with delicate gold rings along the side of her head.
Do you see Minnie Mouse or Millie Bobby Brown? Either way, these half-up, half-down buns are unquestionably adorable.
A short curly cut is gorgeous on its own, the clementine-colored scarf is just the bow on top.
There's something about a pearl-lined barrette tucked into a wavy bob that feels polished and effortless at the same time.
