Viking hairstyles are known for their bold, intricate, and warrior-like aesthetic, often featuring braids, shaved designs, and textured styles. While long hair is commonly associated with Viking warriors and shieldmaidens, short hair can be just as fierce and stylish when styled with the right techniques.
This guide explores the best Viking-inspired hairstyles for women with short hair, expert styling tips, and accessories to help you achieve an authentic, warrior-worthy look.
Why Viking Hairstyles Work for Short Hair
Viking hairstyles emphasize strength, individuality, and functionality. Even with short hair, you can create a bold and powerful aesthetic using braids, textures, and accessories.
✔ Braided details add an authentic warrior touch.
✔ Undercuts and shaved designs enhance the edgy, battle-ready look.
✔ Textured waves and messy styling create a rugged, natural aesthetic.
✔ Leather wraps, metal rings, and beads help accentuate the Viking theme.
Whether you’re preparing for a Renaissance fair, cosplay, or simply embracing the Viking spirit, these hairstyles will make you look and feel like a true warrior.
Best Viking Hairstyles for Short Hair
1. Side Braided Undercut – The Shieldmaiden Look
A single or double side braid with an undercut creates an authentic Viking warrior vibe. This style is perfect for those who want a bold, fierce look without needing long hair.
How to Achieve It:
- Create a tight Dutch or French braid on one side of your head.
- If you have an undercut, let the braid transition into the shaved area.
- Secure the braid with a small leather band or metal hair cuff.
Best for: Women who want a bold, high-contrast warrior style.
2. Double Braided Faux Hawk – Fierce and Edgy
A braided faux hawk is a Viking-inspired hairstyle that adds height and drama. Even with short hair, you can achieve this look with small, tight braids running along the sides.
How to Achieve It:
- Section the top of your hair and create a loose, voluminous braid or twist.
- Braid or twist the side sections tightly toward the scalp.
- Use small Viking beads or metal cuffs to decorate the braids.
Best for: Women who love a bold, mohawk-inspired Viking aesthetic.
3. Messy Textured Waves with Braids – A Wild, Natural Look
For a more natural, untamed Viking appearance, adding textured waves with small accent braids creates a fierce but effortless warrior style.
How to Achieve It:
- Use a texturizing spray or sea salt spray to create a messy, rugged wave pattern.
- Braid small sections of hair randomly and secure them with leather wraps or tiny bands.
- Leave some pieces loose for an unstructured, battle-ready effect.
Best for: Women who prefer a natural yet fierce Viking look.
4. Shaved Side with Tribal Patterns – The Ultimate Warrior Cut
A shaved side with Nordic-inspired tribal designs adds a modern yet historically rooted Viking warrior style. This look is edgy, powerful, and striking.
How to Achieve It:
- Have one side of your hair shaved into a bold design or simple undercut.
- Add small accent braids on the opposite side for a battle-ready look.
- Use hair rings, beads, or runic symbols for a warrior touch.
Best for: Women looking for a bold and fearless Viking warrior cut.
5. Crown Braid with Viking Accessories – The Regal Shieldmaiden
A crown braid or halo braid wrapped around the head adds elegance to the warrior aesthetic, making it perfect for Viking queens and shieldmaidens alike.
How to Achieve It:
- If your hair is too short for a full crown braid, create two tight braids along the sides and pin them across the back.
- Use metal beads, leather wraps, or small Viking-inspired clips to decorate the braids.
- Add light waves or textured curls for a softer look.
Best for: Women who want a regal yet fierce Viking hairstyle.
How to Maintain and Style Viking Haircuts for Short Hair
1. Use Strong-Hold Products for Lasting Styles
✔ Apply a texturizing spray or mousse before braiding to add grip.
✔ Use a matte-finish pomade or styling wax for defined edges and waves.
✔ Secure braids with small clear elastics or leather wraps for a Viking aesthetic.
2. Embrace Hair Accessories for Authenticity
✔ Add metal Viking beads, leather cords, or wooden clips to braids for a warrior look.
✔ Experiment with bone or runic hairpins for a historically inspired finish.
3. Consider Temporary Hair Color for a Fierce Effect
✔ Use wash-out dyes or chalk for silver, deep red, or dark blue Viking tones.
✔ Try scalp braids or temporary undercut stencils for a more dramatic warrior vibe.
Final Thoughts
Short hair doesn’t limit Viking hairstyles—it enhances them! Whether you opt for side braids, textured waves, shaved details, or an edgy faux hawk, these styles bring out the strength, confidence, and bold warrior spirit of Viking women.
Which Viking hairstyle will you try next? Let us know how you plan to style your warrior look!