Celebrity Stories Behind Their Pixie Cuts
Timeless yet paradoxically modern, the pixie cut is a style that no matter the decade—or the season’s trending ’do—has such everlasting appeal, like the Classic Little Black Dress in all its glorious forms: The Pixie Cut reappears on the red carpet year after year. In addition to being a celebrity-approved favourite, it also has the power to both physically and mentally transform those who dare to dabble in a drastic chop.
Thankfully, it’s also a surprisingly versatile style, meaning almost anyone can pull off the look—no matter the shape of your face. All it takes is a quick glimpse at the likes of Zoë Kravitz, Halle Berry, Carey Mulligan and Jennifer Laurence to see just how effective the pixie cut is in changing your entire face.
Hee are some Pixie Heat Team favourites, with a dash of "WHY?!" added because, well why not?!
1. Audrey Hepburn
One of the earliest icons of the pixie, Audrey debuted it in Roman Holiday (1953). She cut her hair on-screen as a symbol of rebellion and freedom—mirroring her real-life desire to break from traditional Hollywood beauty standards.
2. Emma Watson
After finishing the Harry Potter series, Emma chopped her hair into a sleek pixie in 2010. She described it as "the most liberating thing ever" and said she finally felt like she had control over her own image after a decade in the franchise.
3. Halle Berry
Halle Berry's pixie cut became her signature look in the '90s. She revealed she did it because it felt more “authentically her,” saying long hair wasn’t necessary for beauty. It helped establish her as a confident, strong female lead in Hollywood.
4. Charlize Theron
Charlize shaved her head for Mad Max: Fury Road (2015), but the resulting ultra-short cut became a red carpet favorite. It highlighted her facial structure and added a bold edge to her appearance—one she embraced even beyond the role.
5. Zendaya
Zendaya has experimented with pixie wigs on red carpets, showing how the cut can exude vintage glam or modern minimalism. She uses hair as a form of storytelling and personal expression—demonstrating the pixie's adaptability.
6. Rihanna
Personal evolution and freedom have always been the stated reason for Rihanna and her pixie hair choices. Her hair is a reflection of her feelings and evolving identity as a woman and artist, and at one point, he new look coincided with the launch of her Fenty Hair line— a milestone moment for any trailblazing celebrity founder!
