Best Short Hair Specialists in NYC

By The Kiri Editors | NYC Salons

Making the decision to go short is bold and exciting—but finding the right stylist to execute your vision is crucial. Short haircuts leave little room for error and require precision and expertise. New York City is home to some of the world's most talented short hair specialists who can create everything from classic pixies to edgy undercuts. We've rounded up the best salons across the city where you can trust your short hair transformation to true experts.

What Makes a Great Short Hair Stylist?

The best short hair specialists have mastered precision cutting techniques and understand how to work with different hair textures and face shapes. They take the time to consult with clients, considering lifestyle, maintenance preferences, and personal style. Expert short hair stylists can envision how hair will look when shorter and know how to create cuts that grow out beautifully, extending the time between appointments.

Pastel Rainbow Short Hair at Salon87 in Williamsburg

Williamsburg: Vibrant Pixie Cut

This striking pixie cut showcases a vibrant mix of pastel and neon colors including blonde, lavender, mint green, peach, and yellow. Created by Hiro and Mari at Salon87 in Williamsburg, this avant-garde style features tapered lengths at the nape with a bold fringe for a distinctive look. Brooklyn stylists are known for these creative, boundary-pushing styles that combine technical precision with artistic color work—perfect for clients looking to make a bold statement with their short hair.

Lower East Side: Copper Micro Bangs

This chic, straight shoulder-length bob in a rich copper hue features striking micro bangs that create a bold, fashion-forward look. Created at harestudionyc on the Lower East Side, this style combines precision cutting with vibrant color for a head-turning effect. The blunt cut and ultra-short fringe showcase the stylist's technical expertise while the vibrant red color adds warmth and dimension. This style exemplifies how downtown stylists excel at creating edgy, statement-making looks that blend classic techniques with contemporary edge.

Copper Micro Bangs at harestudionyc on the Lower East Side

Fun Spikey Hair at Salon87 in Williamsburg

Brooklyn: Edgy Modern Mullet

This bold, dynamic short hairstyle features a choppy mullet with a striking contrast of blonde and dark brown colors. Created at Salon87, this edgy look includes an undercut, textured top, and ear-length fringe with straight, layered strands for a spiky appearance. Brooklyn stylists are known for these avant-garde, punk-inspired cuts that push creative boundaries while maintaining a wearable, personalized feel. The asymmetrical layers add visual interest and movement to this fashion-forward short style.

Midtown: Bold Asymmetrical Undercut

This striking, edgy hairstyle features a sharp undercut with closely cropped sides and a longer, voluminous top. Created by Master Stylist Y.C HIRO at Nonstop Style, this predominantly black style with vivid crimson red streaks offers a sleek, modern look with an asymmetrical design. Midtown K-Town salons often showcase these bold, high-contrast styles that combine technical precision with fearless color work, perfect for clients looking to make a strong fashion statement with their short cut.

Red Highlight Undercut at Nonstop Style in K-Town

Tips for Your Short Hair Appointment

Bring Visual References: Photos of styles you like (and don't like) help communicate your vision.

Consider Your Hair Texture: Short styles look different on various hair types, so discuss this with your stylist.

Think About Maintenance: Be honest about how much styling time you're willing to commit to daily.

Book a Consultation: For dramatic changes, consider a separate consultation appointment first.

Ready for a short hair transformation? Find your perfect NYC short hair specialist today!