Curly hair is endlessly versatile, offering countless ways to showcase its natural beauty. From retro-inspired pinup curls and 1970s shags to modern bobs and face-framing layers, there’s no shortage of inspiration for styling curls. Whether you have fine spirals, thick coils, or loose waves, there’s a curly hairstyle tailored to your texture and length.
We spoke with celebrity hairstylists Irinel de Leon and Madison Clifford to bring you expert-approved curly hairstyles that suit every hair type. From bold and edgy to soft and romantic, these styles will elevate your look effortlessly.
For Fine Short Hair
1. The Voluminous Shag
A shag haircut is perfect for fine, short curly hair, instantly adding volume and texture. Hairstylist Irinel de Leon loves the style on Alanna Arrington, particularly when paired with fringe for a retro edge. For a softer alternative, try a deep side part to create the illusion of fullness.
2. Tousled Pixie
Short on length but big on impact, Julia Garner’s tousled pixie cut is ideal for fine hair. Celebrity stylist Madison Clifford suggests parting it to the side for added drama and using a texturizing product to enhance the natural curl pattern.
For Thick Short Hair
3. Rounded Layers
For thick, short curly hair, layers create a flattering rounded shape that frames the face beautifully. Kerry Washington’s rounded bob is a perfect example. De Leon recommends stretching curls by pulling the ends while diffusing hair in sections to enhance the shape.
4. ‘70s Afro
If you have coily texture like Ice Spice, a 1970s-inspired Afro is a standout choice. Clifford suggests tapering the nape while keeping volume on top to create a teardrop silhouette for a bold, retro look.
For Naturally Curly Short Hair
5. Face-Framing Pieces
Face-framing layers are universally flattering for naturally curly hair. Zendaya’s layered cut with fringe showcases how curls can soften and accentuate facial features, especially when hair sits just above the shoulders.
For Fine Medium Hair
6. Layered Fringe
Sandra Oh’s long layers with fringe add body and movement to fine, medium-length curls. De Leon recommends flipping your hair upside down while diffusing for extra volume at the crown.
7. Bouncy Curls
Emmy Rossum’s rounded, bouncy curls bring fullness to fine-textured hair. Clifford advises wrapping small sections around a curling wand and finishing with a texture spray to achieve this playful, voluminous look.
For Thick Medium Hair
8. Shag With Bangs
Thick, medium-length curls pair perfectly with an edgy shag. Rihanna’s rocker-inspired shag, styled dry for precision, combines layers and bangs for a bold, face-framing effect.
9. Face-Framing Layers
Jennifer Lopez’s soft face-framing layers complement thick curls by defining the face shape. De Leon describes this haircut as low-maintenance and versatile, ideal for a busy lifestyle.
For Naturally Curly Medium Hair
10. Blunt Cut With a Center Part
Yara Shahidi’s blunt, shoulder-length curls are chic and effortless. De Leon calls this a “cool-girl” style that works beautifully with mid-length natural curls.
11. Modern Shag
Ciara’s updated shag blends longer layers with rounded edges, offering a modern twist on a classic look. This style adds fullness and softness around the face, enhancing natural curls.
For Fine Long Hair
12. Long Layers
Long layers, as seen on Iman, add dimension and shape to fine, long curly hair. De Leon recommends keeping fringe light to avoid overwhelming the delicate texture.
13. Disco Vibes
Beyoncé’s voluminous curls are all about ‘70s-inspired disco flair. Clifford advises wrapping small sections around a curling wand, brushing them out, and finishing with volumizing spray for dramatic, full-bodied curls.
For Thick Long Hair
14. Long Angles
Camila Cabello’s angled cut features long layers that open up the face without sacrificing volume. De Leon suggests using a diffuser to build body while maintaining the haircut’s shape.
15. Wet Look
The shiny, “just-out-of-the-shower” style, as seen on Megan Fox, is a red carpet favorite. Clifford recommends layering gel, mousse, cream, and oil to achieve this sleek and long-lasting look.
For Naturally Curly Long Hair
16. Effortless Waves
Fletcher’s air-dried waves demonstrate how minimal styling can showcase natural curls. Clifford suggests enhancing the look with a waver or curling irons of varying sizes for added texture.
17. Side Part
Taylor Swift’s simple side part is an easy way to add volume and frame the face. De Leon highlights its versatility, noting it works well with all face shapes.
For Naturally Curly Short Hair
18. Ringlet Bob
Nicole Kidman’s short, curly bob is the definition of timeless elegance. Achieve her ringlet look with a curling wand, a side part, and soft bangs for added sophistication.
For Thick Short Hair
19. Pinup Curls
For a touch of vintage glam, try Ruth Negga’s pinup curls. Clifford suggests using curlers or heat styling to achieve this 1920s-inspired look, which pairs perfectly with formal attire.
Final Thoughts
Curly hair is a canvas for endless creativity, offering styles that range from bold and edgy to soft and romantic. With the right cut, products, and expert tips, your curls can truly shine, no matter the occasion or hair type. Let these 19 hairstyles inspire your next curly hair moment!
