19+ Viking Hairstyles for Women with Short Hair

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Are you looking for a bold new way to express your unique style and showcase your fearless personality?

If so, you’ve come to the right place. When it comes to hairstyles that exude power, individuality, and a hint of daring rebellion, Viking-inspired looks are second to none.

There’s just something about those fierce braids, undercuts, and ornamented accents that instantly transport you to an era of fearless shield-maidens and legendary sagas.

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You might assume that these hairstyles are best suited for those with long, flowing hair, but we’re here to show you that short-haired queens can rock the Viking vibe just as impressively.

In this article, you’ll discover a comprehensive list of 19+ Viking Hairstyles for Women with Short Hair, each carefully explained so you can pick the look that speaks to your inner warrior.

Whether you have a trendy pixie cut or a short bob, there is absolutely no reason you can’t channel your fierce, Nordic side.

Vikings were known for their resourcefulness, creativity, and boldness—traits you most certainly have within you.

You’ll explore everything from shaved sides and intricate braids to mini mohawks and half-up styles. Each hairstyle is designed to not only elevate your look but also give you that extra boost of confidence you crave.

Plus, you’ll learn helpful tips on how to style these cuts, including which products to use and the best accessories to pull everything together.

By the time you finish reading, you’ll be well-equipped to conquer any social gathering, cosplay event, or even your daily routine with an epic style that turns heads.

So get ready to embrace your inner shield-maiden and dive into the world of short Viking hairstyles!

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19+ Viking Hairstyles for Women with Short Hair

Below, you’ll find an extensive list of Viking-inspired hairstyles that work beautifully on short hair. Each entry provides a detailed look into what makes the style unique and how you can achieve it. Prepare to channel your fierce, unapologetic Viking spirit!

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1. The Undercut with Braided Top

For a bold, high-impact style, the undercut with a braided top is one of the most iconic Viking-inspired looks you can sport. Even if your hair is relatively short, you can still achieve a small braid at the crown, running from your hairline toward the back of your head.

• How to Style: Ask your stylist to shave or closely crop the sides and back of your head, leaving enough length on top for a small braid. You can create a thin Dutch or French braid, finishing it off with a small hair tie.
• Why It’s Viking: Vikings favored shaved or partially shaved hair for easier maintenance in battle, while braids served both practical and decorative purposes. This style merges functionality with a warrior-like appearance.
• Styling Tip: Use a lightweight pomade or hair wax on the top section to give your braid hold and definition. Add small Viking-themed beads or cuffs to the braid for extra flair.

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2. The Side-Swept Braid

If you want a more feminine vibe but still want to channel your inner warrior, the side-swept braid is perfect. The hair is kept short around the sides, and one section is braided and pinned to the side, giving an edgy yet delicate look.

• How to Style: Part your hair on one side. If you have an undercut on one side, even better. Take a small section of hair near the larger part of your hairline, then braid it back along your scalp and pin it behind your ear.
• Why It’s Viking: Braids were a defining feature in Viking aesthetics. This hairstyle adds that element of tradition but maintains a soft, modern twist.
• Styling Tip: Spritz texturizing spray before braiding to ensure your hair has grip. Top it off with a light hairspray to keep everything in place. You could even add a decorative bobby pin or two for added flair.

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3. Faux Hawk with Shaved Sides

When you think of Viking warriors, you might imagine a hawk-like crest of hair standing proud. You can adapt this idea for shorter hair with a faux hawk that features shaved or closely cropped sides. It’s both edgy and undeniably fierce.

• How to Style: Ask for a short, uniform length on the sides and keep more length down the middle. When styling, use a strong-hold gel or wax, pushing the center section upward to create that faux-hawk effect.
• Why It’s Viking: The structured crest mimics the battle-ready mohawks sometimes seen in modern representations of Vikings, capturing that commanding, no-nonsense vibe.
• Styling Tip: For added texture, work in a matte styling cream before shaping the hawk. You can also experiment with shaved designs on the sides for a modern twist.

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4. Short Bob with Side Cornrows

Yes, even a short bob can go full Viking with the addition of a few intricately placed cornrows on one or both sides. This style blends the elegance of a bob cut with the rugged flair of braided detailing.

• How to Style: Prep your hair by blow-drying straight or leaving it in its natural texture. On one side of your head, create two or three tight cornrows that run from your hairline toward the back of your head.
• Why It’s Viking: Braiding is deeply rooted in Norse culture, and even subtle braids can channel that historical vibe. Adding them to a sleek bob can feel simultaneously modern and ancient.
• Styling Tip: Use a fine-tooth comb and a little styling gel to keep cornrows neat. If your bob is especially short, go for smaller, thinner cornrows for better grip.

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5. The Mini Top Knot

Sometimes simplicity is key. A mini top knot at the crown can look distinctly Viking if you pair it with close-cropped or shaved sides. Even on shorter hair lengths, you can gather the top portion into a small knot or “bun.”

• How to Style: Section off the top portion of your hair—basically the area above your temples—and gather it into a small ponytail or bun. Secure it with a hair tie. Keep the sides either undercut or cut short.
• Why It’s Viking: Vikings were known to tie back the top portion of their hair for practicality. This style is straightforward and effortlessly cool.
• Styling Tip: If you want extra volume in your mini top knot, tease the crown area slightly before tying. A bit of hairspray will hold everything in place throughout the day.

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6. Braided Headband

Short-haired folks sometimes struggle with braids, but a braided headband is a creative way to incorporate Viking flair. This look adds a princess-like aspect while still paying homage to your inner shield-maiden.

• How to Style: Take a small section from one side of your head and braid it across your hairline like a headband, securing it behind your ear on the opposite side. For very short hair, you might use hairpins to keep it in place.
• Why It’s Viking: The braided headband idea was a common way to keep hair off the face, reminiscent of early medieval or Viking-inspired styles, especially for women who needed practicality in day-to-day tasks.
• Styling Tip: Curl or wave the rest of your hair to add a romantic look. Enhance the Viking feel by weaving small metal cuffs or beads into the braid.

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7. Tapered Cut with Braided Detail

A tapered haircut transitions from slightly longer hair on top to shorter hair at the nape and around the sides. By adding a small accent braid, you instantly elevate this cut into Viking territory.

• How to Style: Keep the top a bit longer, maybe around three to four inches, while the back and sides gradually taper. Then, take a thin section from the front on one side and braid it backward. Pin it in place.
• Why It’s Viking: The bold silhouette mimics a militaristic style, perfect for those who want to look both polished and fearless. The braid ties it back to Norse influences.
• Styling Tip: Use a small amount of pomade to smooth down the sides. If you like a bit of a messy top, opt for a texturizing spray to keep that lived-in, adventurous feel.

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8. Viking Pixie with Shaved Line Designs

If you already rock a pixie cut, adding Viking-inspired elements can be as simple as shaving intricate line designs on the sides. Think bold geometric patterns or even runic symbols.

• How to Style: Ask your barber or stylist to incorporate a shaved design on one or both sides of your head, leaving the top slightly longer for styling. Spike or tousle the top for added texture.
• Why It’s Viking: Norse runes and geometric motifs were significant in Viking culture. Subtle shaved patterns can hint at that heritage without overwhelming your look.
• Styling Tip: Keep the line designs sharp by getting regular touch-ups. You can also experiment with hair color—like an icy blonde—to enhance the overall vibe.

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9. Half-Up Braided Crown

Short hair doesn’t have to limit you from creating half-up styles. By gathering the top half into a braided crown, you’ll add extra lift and a warrior-like feel.

• How to Style: Section off the top half of your hair, leaving the sides down. Create two small braids on each side of your head, then wrap them around the back and pin where they meet. This forms a “crown” across the back of your head.
• Why It’s Viking: Vikings often wore half-up styles to keep hair out of the face. The braided crown also resembles historical depictions of shield-maidens who wore decorative braids in their hair.
• Styling Tip: Use bobby pins that match your hair color to keep them inconspicuous. Finish with a mild hairspray. If your hair is too short to form long braids, you can do multiple small ones and secure them together for a similar effect.

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10. The Side Shave Pixie with Sweeping Fringe

This style focuses on creating contrast. One side is shaved or closely cropped, and the top flows over to the opposite side, forming a sweeping fringe. You can even tuck a small braid behind your ear on the shaved side for an extra Viking touch.

• How to Style: Part your hair deeply on one side so that most of the top hair falls to the other side. Keep the shaved side clean or incorporate lines or runic designs.
• Why It’s Viking: The asymmetry and partial shave exude that fearless energy. Adding a decorative braid or hair cuffs can intensify the look.
• Styling Tip: For extra volume in the fringe, blow-dry your hair upside down and finish with a volumizing mousse. Keep the shaved side well-trimmed for a crisp contrast.

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11. Messy Textured Crop with Small Accent Braids

This hairstyle plays up a laid-back, rugged texture—which is perfect if you want your hair to exude that “just came from a long voyage” vibe.

• How to Style: Keep your hair cropped close but leave enough length on top for messy waves. Run a texturizing product through damp hair, scrunching lightly. Add a small braid on one side to accentuate the Viking aesthetic.
• Why It’s Viking: The textured, messy vibe is reminiscent of a life at sea, with hair tousled by salty winds. The braid ties the look back to Norse roots.
• Styling Tip: Use a salt spray for authentic-looking texture. For added stability, lock in the style with a light-hold hairspray so it doesn’t lose its tousled charm.

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12. Short Mohawk Braid

Even if you have short hair, a single, centered French or Dutch braid from your hairline toward the crown can form a short mohawk-like appearance. This is ideal if you can’t commit to a full undercut but still crave a dramatic style.

• How to Style: Section out the middle portion of your hair in a rectangular panel. Braid it from front to back, and secure it with a clear elastic band. Let the rest of your hair lie close to the sides.
• Why It’s Viking: A mohawk braid channels the warrior spirit, giving a nod to the tough, battle-ready looks often associated with Vikings.
• Styling Tip: For a tight, crisp braid, apply a small amount of styling gel to minimize flyaways. You can also gently pull apart the braid loops after securing it to add more volume.

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13. Braided Bangs with Shaved Undercut

If you have short bangs in front, you can braid them or twist them away from your forehead for a distinctive Viking flair. Combine that with a hidden or partial undercut at the nape or sides, and you’ve got a style that’s both modern and historical.

• How to Style: Keep the top layer short enough to act as bangs, then decide whether to shave the nape or one side beneath longer layers. Braid or twist your bangs to one side, pinning them back.
• Why It’s Viking: The partial shave is reminiscent of traditional Viking hair, while braided bangs keep your face free for action—be it daily chores or an imaginary shield battle.
• Styling Tip: Use small, decorative Viking-inspired hair cuffs in the braided bangs for a subtle nod to Norse culture. You can also layer your hair to better hide the undercut when your hair is down.

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14. Half-Shaved Bob with Multiple Tiny Braids

This style marries the sophistication of a short bob with the raw edge of a shaved side. Add multiple tiny braids interspersed throughout the longer side for a truly eye-catching, warrior-ready aesthetic.

• How to Style: Ask your stylist to shave a portion of one side—high enough to be visible, yet balanced with the short bob length on the other side. Then scatter tiny braids throughout the remaining hair on top.
• Why It’s Viking: Multiple braids and shaved sections both draw inspiration from historical norse looks, modernized into a wearable everyday style.
• Styling Tip: Use a strong-hold styling cream or gel when braiding short hair, as it tends to slip out easily. Also consider hair rings or beads to accentuate each small braid.

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15. Low Braided Ponytail (Short Version)

If your hair is just long enough to gather at the back, a low braided ponytail can still look fantastic—and Viking-approved—especially when paired with shaved or closely cropped sides.

• How to Style: Gather the back section of your hair into a low ponytail. If possible, braid it from the base until you run out of length, and secure with an elastic.
• Why It’s Viking: Vikings were often depicted with low ponytails and braids. Even if you can’t achieve a full-length braid, the concept alone pays homage to that heritage.
• Styling Tip: Use hair accessories like metal rings or wooden beads for a bold statement. A small dab of styling cream will keep your braided ponytail neat.

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16. The Swept-Back Pompadour with Etched Sides

For those who want a more refined Viking look, consider a swept-back pompadour. You can still incorporate Viking elements by etching runic patterns or lines into the shaved sides.

• How to Style: Keep your hair about two to three inches on top and have the sides shaved or very close-cropped. Style the top back with a volumizing product or pomade to create a slight pompadour effect.
• Why It’s Viking: The shaved sides connect to the historically authentic partial shave, while the etchings and strong, structured top evoke a sense of regal power.
• Styling Tip: Use a blow dryer and a round brush to get extra lift at the roots. Finish with a strong-hold hairspray or pomade to maintain shape throughout the day.

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17. Textured Crop with Viking Beads

Sometimes, a straightforward short crop can become Viking-esque simply by incorporating beads or charms reminiscent of Norse symbols. Think ravens, runes, or Celtic knotwork.

• How to Style: Keep your hair cropped to a length that still allows for a small braid or twist on one side. Thread a bead or two onto that braid or twist.
• Why It’s Viking: Decorative beads were popular among Viking men and women for personal adornment. This modern adaptation focuses on minimal but impactful accessories.
• Styling Tip: To avoid losing the beads, loop a small elastic at the end of your braid or twist before sliding the bead on. That way, it has a stopping point.

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18. Edgy Side-Part with Viking Cornrow

Sometimes all you need is a single, bold Viking cornrow to transform a short hairstyle. By placing one substantial cornrow on one side of your head, you create a dramatic contrast with the rest of your hair.

• How to Style: Part your hair deeply to one side. On the smaller side, create a tight, pronounced cornrow that extends from your temple toward the back of your head. Keep the rest of your hair styled as you wish—straight, curly, or wavy.
• Why It’s Viking: This one-braid style references Norse braiding traditions in a modern, minimalist way.
• Styling Tip: If your hair is very short on the sides, ask a stylist experienced with braiding short hair for help. Use hair wax to tame flyaways and highlight the braid.

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19. Short Wavy Bob with Viking Head Chain

If braids or undercuts aren’t your style, you can still achieve a Viking aesthetic with accessories. A short wavy bob paired with a decorative Norse-inspired head chain offers a softer but still powerful look.

• How to Style: Curl or wave your short bob with a curling iron or wand. Place a Viking-themed head chain—one with runes, knotwork, or Celtic designs—across your forehead or hairline.
• Why It’s Viking: While the bob itself is modern, the head chain references ornamental pieces from Norse culture, bringing that historical flair.
• Styling Tip: Spritz your waves with a flexible-hold hairspray to maintain a casual, undone texture. Make sure the head chain fits snugly to avoid slipping.

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20. Braided Side Bun (Short Edition)

A side bun might sound impossible with short hair, but with a little creativity, you can still gather a small, messy bun at one side of your nape. Incorporating a small braid at the front or crown can complete the Viking vibe.

• How to Style: Braid a small front section, sweeping it toward one side. Gather whatever length you have into a small bun or twist at that side. Secure with bobby pins and an elastic band.
• Why It’s Viking: Vikings often favored side-set styles for practicality and a bold statement. The small braided accent ties it all together.
• Styling Tip: Embrace some looseness. This style looks best a bit undone, so don’t worry about getting every hair in place. Spritz lightly with a texture spray for a carefree finish.

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Conclusion

Congratulations! You’ve just journeyed through a world of fierce, Viking-inspired hairstyles tailored for women with short hair. Who says you need long, flowing locks to embrace your inner shield-maiden? By combining braids, shaved sections, intricate designs, and bold accessories, you can take even the shortest cut and transform it into a battle-ready style fit for a modern-day warrior. Whether you prefer something ultra-edgy like a faux hawk with shaved sides or a softer, more refined look with a braided crown, there’s an option here to satisfy every adventurous spirit.

As you explore these styles, remember that confidence is the final ingredient that truly makes a Viking hairstyle stand out. Experiment with different braiding techniques, accessories, and hair products until you discover a look that feels undeniably “you.” Don’t be afraid to consult a professional stylist if you’re unsure about cutting or shaving sections of your hair—precision is key to achieving that flawless finish. With creativity and a fearless approach, you’ll be conquering the modern world in no time, armed with a hairstyle that’s every bit as legendary as the Vikings themselves.

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FAQs

1. Can I achieve Viking braids if my hair is really short, like a pixie cut?

Absolutely. While you might not be able to create large or long braids, you can still incorporate small accent braids or twists in a pixie cut. Focus on using hair wax or gel to give each tiny braid more hold and definition. If your sides are shaved or very short, you can also add line designs or symbolic patterns to capture the Viking vibe even without traditional braids.

2. Are Viking hairstyles suitable for all hair types, including curly or coily hair?

Definitely. Viking hairstyles are incredibly versatile, and they can be adapted for any hair type—straight, wavy, curly, or coily. In fact, textured hair often holds braids more securely. If you have curly or coily hair, consider using moisturizing products to maintain curl definition, and you’ll find that braided styles can look even more pronounced and striking.

3. How can I incorporate Viking accessories if my hair is too short for elaborate braids?

Accessories are your secret weapon. Even with a super-short style, you can add Viking-themed hair cuffs, beads, or chains. These can be attached to small twists or even clipped onto the hair itself. Head chains with runic or Norse designs can also give you that instantly recognizable Viking feel without requiring long locks.

4. What products should I use to maintain a Viking-inspired short hairstyle?

This largely depends on your specific cut and hair type. Generally, a strong-hold gel or pomade is useful for defining braids or shaved designs. Texturizing sprays or salt sprays add the windswept, rugged effect often associated with Viking styles. For finishing, a flexible or medium-hold hairspray can keep everything in place without making your hair stiff.

5. How often should I get my hair trimmed or shaved to keep the look fresh?

If your style includes a shaved undercut or etched designs, plan on visiting your stylist or barber every two to four weeks to maintain sharp lines. For braids and overall shape, a trim every four to six weeks helps keep your style looking polished. Staying on top of regular maintenance ensures your Viking hairstyle retains its fierce edge rather than looking grown-out or unkempt.

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With these tips, ideas, and practical insights, you’re more than ready to rock Viking Hairstyles for Women with Short Hair. Embrace your inner warrior, experiment confidently, and watch as these fierce yet versatile styles elevate your presence wherever you go!