Curly hair is versatile, dynamic, and beautiful, but it can sometimes feel tricky to manage. The right hairstyle can make all the difference, enhancing your curls’ natural texture and shape while ensuring they look their best. Whether you have loose waves or tight coils, there are countless hairstyles that work perfectly for curly hair. From short, cropped looks to voluminous layers, we’ve compiled the best hairstyles for curls that will suit every personality and occasion. If you’re ready to embrace your curls and find the perfect style, keep reading for inspiration!
25 Ideas for Best Hairstyles for Curls
1. The Classic Curly Bob
The curly bob is a timeless style that never goes out of fashion. This cut sits just above the shoulders, framing the face beautifully while showcasing your curls in their natural form. The key to this look is to ensure your stylist uses layers to prevent your hair from appearing too heavy or flat. A curly bob works well with both loose curls and tighter ringlets, making it a versatile option. It’s a great hairstyle for those looking to maintain length while still enjoying a lightweight, bouncy cut.
2. Curly Pixie Cut
The curly pixie cut is a bold and chic choice that allows your curls to shine. This short hairstyle is perfect for those who want a low-maintenance look without sacrificing style. The pixie cut highlights your natural texture, bringing attention to your curls while keeping your hair manageable. To maintain the shape, regular trims are essential. Add some volume at the crown for a more dramatic effect, or keep it sleek and simple for a minimalist vibe.
3. Long Layered Curls
For those who love long hair, the long layered cut is ideal for showcasing curly locks. Layers help to reduce bulk, giving your curls definition and movement. This style is perfect for women with thick curls who want to keep their length without feeling weighed down. The layering technique ensures that your curls retain their natural bounce, with each layer adding volume and texture. This cut works beautifully with both loose and tight curls.
4. Curly Fringe with Layers
Adding a fringe to your curly hair can create a fresh and youthful look. When combined with layers, this style frames your face beautifully, softening your overall appearance. Curly bangs require a bit of maintenance, but they can add personality and dimension to your hairstyle. Make sure to ask your stylist for longer, feathered bangs to avoid them shrinking too much. A layered curly fringe is perfect for both short and long hairstyles.
5. Curly Shag Haircut
The shag haircut has made a major comeback, and it’s especially flattering on curly hair. This hairstyle is characterized by choppy layers and lots of volume, giving your curls an edgy, modern look. The curly shag is perfect for those who want to add texture and movement to their hair. It works well with medium to long hair, and the layers help to define your curls without making them too heavy. Pair this look with curtain bangs for a trendy finish.
6. The Asymmetrical Curly Bob
For a more unique twist on the classic bob, the asymmetrical bob is a great option. This cut features one side longer than the other, adding an interesting dimension to your curls. The asymmetrical bob is perfect for those who want a bold, modern look without sacrificing their natural curls. It’s a playful yet sophisticated style that works particularly well on tighter curl patterns, giving them shape and definition.
7. Curly Lob (Long Bob)
The curly lob is a slightly longer version of the classic bob, usually sitting just above the shoulders. This style is perfect for those who want a bit more length while still enjoying the benefits of a bob. The curly lob is flattering for almost every face shape and can be styled in a variety of ways. Whether you wear it with loose waves or tight curls, the lob is a great option for adding volume and movement to your hair.
8. Voluminous Curly Layers
If you love big, bold curls, the voluminous curly layered cut is the way to go. This style is all about maximizing volume while keeping your curls bouncy and defined. Layers are essential for achieving this look, as they help to distribute weight evenly and prevent your hair from becoming too heavy. This style works well on both medium and long hair, and it’s perfect for creating a dramatic, glamorous effect.
9. Curly Undercut
The curly undercut is an edgy, modern hairstyle that combines a short undercut with longer curls on top. This bold look is perfect for those who want to make a statement with their hair. The undercut allows you to keep your curls intact on the top while maintaining a sleek, low-maintenance style on the sides and back. It’s a great option for those who want a fun, stylish look that still highlights their natural curls.
10. Loose Curly Waves
For those with looser curl patterns, loose curly waves are a stunning option. This hairstyle is all about embracing your natural waves and adding some extra definition for a soft, romantic look. Loose curly waves work well on both short and long hair, and they can easily be dressed up or down depending on the occasion. To achieve this look, use a lightweight curl-enhancing product to define your waves without weighing them down.
11. Tapered Curly Cut
The tapered cut is a stylish and practical choice for curly hair, especially for those with tighter curls or coils. This haircut features shorter sides and back, with longer curls on top, creating a flattering shape that elongates the neck and face. The tapered cut is easy to maintain and perfect for those who want a clean, structured look without sacrificing volume. It’s a versatile option that works well for both casual and formal settings, giving your curls a refined yet playful appearance.
12. Curly Faux Hawk
For those looking to add some edge to their curly hairstyle, the curly faux hawk is a great option. This bold, daring look features longer curls at the center of the head, while the sides are kept short or slicked back. The faux hawk allows you to showcase your curls in a unique way, adding height and volume to the top while keeping the sides neat. It’s a fantastic hairstyle for those with tight curls who want to make a statement.
13. Half-Up Half-Down Curly Hairstyle
The half-up half-down look is a classic and effortless style for curly hair. This hairstyle allows you to show off your natural curls while keeping the top portion pulled back, creating a balanced and polished appearance. The half-up half-down style is perfect for any occasion, from casual outings to formal events. Add a twist or braid to the top section for a more intricate, bohemian vibe. This look works well for all curl types, giving you the best of both worlds.
14. High Curly Ponytail
A high ponytail is a go-to style for many, but it looks especially stunning on curly hair. Pulling your curls into a high ponytail not only keeps your hair out of your face but also creates a fun and youthful look. The height of the ponytail adds volume to your curls, making them the focal point of the hairstyle. Use a scrunchie or soft hair tie to avoid damaging your curls. This hairstyle is perfect for busy days or when you want to keep things simple but chic.
15. Curly Top Knot
The curly top knot is an easy and stylish way to manage curly hair. This updo gathers all your curls into a bun on the top of your head, creating a chic and sophisticated look. The top knot is perfect for days when you want to keep your curls out of your face while still showcasing their natural texture. It’s a versatile style that can be dressed up or down, making it ideal for both casual and formal occasions. To add extra flair, leave a few curls loose around your face.
16. Messy Curly Bun
The messy curly bun is the ultimate effortless hairstyle. This look embraces the natural volume and texture of curly hair, creating a relaxed yet stylish updo. Simply gather your curls into a loose bun, leaving some strands free for a more laid-back appearance. The messy curly bun is perfect for casual days when you want a quick and easy hairstyle that still looks put together. It’s a low-maintenance option that works well for all curl types, adding a touch of bohemian charm to your look.
17. Curly Bangs with Shoulder-Length Hair
Curly bangs paired with shoulder-length hair create a chic and modern look. The key to this style is maintaining the right balance between the bangs and the rest of your hair. Curly bangs should be cut slightly longer than straight bangs to account for shrinkage, ensuring they fall just above your eyebrows. This hairstyle is perfect for framing your face and highlighting your curls, while the shoulder-length cut adds volume and movement.
18. Braided Crown with Curls
For a romantic and whimsical look, the braided crown with curls is a beautiful option. This hairstyle involves braiding the front sections of your hair and wrapping them around your head like a crown, while the rest of your curls are left loose. The braided crown adds an elegant touch to your curls, making it perfect for special occasions such as weddings or parties. It’s a timeless style that works well with medium to long hair and adds a touch of fairy-tale charm.
19. Curly Side Part
A simple change in parting can have a big impact on how your curls look. The curly side part is an easy way to add volume and dimension to your hairstyle. By parting your hair to one side, you create a natural lift, which gives your curls more body. This look works especially well for those with medium to long curly hair, as it enhances the natural flow of the curls. The side part is a versatile style that can be worn both casually and formally.
20. Curly Mohawk
The curly mohawk is a bold, high-fashion hairstyle that allows you to showcase your curls in a dramatic way. This look involves shaving or closely cropping the sides of your head, leaving a strip of curls down the center. The result is a striking, edgy style that emphasizes your curls’ texture and volume. The curly mohawk is perfect for those who love to experiment with their look and aren’t afraid to stand out.
21. Curly Braided Ponytail
A curly braided ponytail is a stylish way to combine texture and elegance. This hairstyle starts with braiding a section of your hair, either down the center or on the sides, and then pulling the rest of your curls into a high ponytail. The braid adds an interesting detail, while the ponytail showcases the natural volume of your curls. It’s a chic and versatile look that works well for both casual and formal occasions.
22. Pineapple Updo for Curls
The pineapple updo is a popular go-to style for those with curls, especially when it comes to preserving your curls overnight. This hairstyle involves gathering your curls into a high, loose ponytail on the top of your head. The “pineapple” shape allows your curls to stay intact while giving you a stylish, carefree look. It’s perfect for keeping your curls defined and voluminous without any fuss.
23. Slicked-Back Curly Hairstyle
If you want a more polished and sleek look, the slicked-back curly hairstyle is a great option. This style involves using gel or a curl-defining product to smooth down the top of your hair while leaving the curls at the back loose. The result is a sleek, sophisticated front with a cascade of curls at the back, creating an elegant contrast. This look works well for formal events and adds a refined touch to your curls.
24. Curly Space Buns
For a playful and fun look, curly space buns are a fantastic option. This hairstyle involves parting your hair down the middle and creating two buns on either side of your head. Space buns are a trendy style that adds a youthful and carefree vibe to your look, while still allowing your curls to shine. It’s a great hairstyle for festivals, parties, or days when you want to add a little extra fun to your routine.
25. Curly Half-Up Bun
The curly half-up bun is a trendy and practical hairstyle that combines the best of both worlds. This look involves gathering the top half of your curls into a bun while leaving the rest of your curls loose. The half-up bun is perfect for showcasing your curls while keeping them out of your face. It’s a versatile style that can be worn casually or dressed up for special occasions. It’s an easy, stylish way to manage your curls without compromising on volume.