The types of girls' haircuts are usually categorized by length — short, medium, and long — with each having particular defining elements. Short hair usually has a sporty or edgy look, for instance, though bang length and style can vary this. Medium styles provide a bit more versatility, and hair texture plays an important role in determining the cut's silhouette. Long styles require more maintenance than the other two lengths, but also provide a classic and versatile option for updo's and home styling.
Short girls' haircuts are considered to be those that hit at or above the jaw line. These looks may be specified as having a sporty or edgy look, though effects can be very different depending on hair texture and color. For instance, a short pixie cut looks very different from an asymmetrical bob. Bangs may be short, side swept, or layered for a softer look, or, in some cases, significantly longer than the hair, for a young, contemporary style. Short hair cannot typically be put into a pony tail and must be pinned or secured with a headband instead.
Girls' haircuts in a medium length provide for more versatility than short hair. They typically make the face appear a bit longer, depending on its shape. Hair texture also effects this. A medium cut on curly hair will typically have more body than the same style with straight hair, especially since the locks will have less weight pulling them down at this length.
Layered medium cuts are common, as they frame the face well if done properly. Bangs may be longer and side-swept or cut short to add width to the face. Many medium styles are worn with no bangs. Shag cuts and longer bobs are popular medium styles. Cuts in this length are usually long enough to be worn back in a ponytail, though pinning shorter layers back may be necessary.
Long girls' haircuts are perhaps the most traditional and classic styles. Once considered the ideal feminine look, long hair frames and can noticeably lengthen a face. The hair requires plenty of care, however, including frequent combing and conditioning.
Especially thick hair may need to be thinned to avoid headaches caused by the weight of the locks. These girls' haircuts, however, allow for the most versatility for DIY styling and updo's. Classic beehives, longer and softer curls, and intricately-braided or curled updo's have the most volume when created with longer hair.