Curly hair can be both a blessing and a challenge for men, especially when choosing a hairstyle that suits their natural texture. Curly hair has unique qualities that can be styled into a wide range of looks, from short and neat to long and wild. Over the years, curly men’s hairstyles have evolved, but many classic styles have remained timeless. In this article, we’ll explore some of the most popular and classic curly hairstyles for men. Whether you want to embrace your curls or tame them, there’s a style for everyone.
The Versatility of Curly Hair
Curly hair is often considered difficult to manage, but it’s also one of the most versatile hair textures. With the right cut and styling techniques, curly hair can look stylish, sharp, and effortless. For men, curly hair offers the opportunity to experiment with different lengths and shapes, creating a variety of classic hairstyles that never go out of style.
It’s essential to know the different styles that work with curly hair to get the most out of your curls. Whether you have tight, ringlet curls or looser waves, understanding how to enhance your natural hair can help you choose a look that complements your face shape and personal style. Below are some of the most popular and classic curly hairstyles for men.
1. The Curly Top Fade
The curly top fade is one of the most iconic and timeless curly hairstyles for men. This style features short sides and a longer top that is styled to showcase the natural curl pattern. The fade on the sides and back gradually shortens, giving the hairstyle a clean and polished look. This classic cut is perfect for men who want to maintain their curls without overwhelming their face with too much volume.
How to Style the Curly Top Fade:
- Ask your barber to leave the top longer while fading the sides and back.
- Use a lightweight curl cream or mousse to enhance the curls on the top.
- Keep the sides short and neat by using a trimmer or razor.
- For extra volume, you can lift the curls slightly at the roots using a blow-dryer and diffuser.
The curly top fade works best for men with medium to thick curls and is a great option for those who want a low-maintenance style that still highlights their curls.
2. The Curly Caesar Cut
The curly Caesar cut is another classic style that works well for curly hair. It features short, straight bangs at the front with the rest of the hair trimmed short and evenly around the sides. The Caesar cut is known for its neat appearance and easy-to-maintain nature. It’s a great option for men who prefer a sharp, structured look while still embracing their natural curls.
How to Style the Curly Caesar Cut:
- Ask your barber for a short, layered cut all around the head with a slightly longer fringe.
- Use a curl-enhancing gel or cream to define the curls at the front.
- Comb the bangs forward to create the signature look.
- Keep the rest of the hair neat by trimming it regularly.
This style works best for men with shorter, tighter curls. It offers a clean, professional look while still embracing the natural texture of the hair.
3. The Curly Pompadour
For those who want a more dramatic, high-volume look, the curly pompadour is an excellent choice. This style combines the classic pompadour’s voluminous top with the natural texture of curly hair. The pompadour creates height and structure on the top while keeping the sides short. It’s a bold, confident style that works well for men who like to stand out.
How to Style the Curly Pompadour:
- Ask your barber to keep the sides and back short while leaving the top long.
- Use a curl-enhancing mousse or cream to add texture and volume to the curls on top.
- Blow-dry the hair upward to create volume and lift, then comb it back for a sleek finish.
- For extra hold, use a styling gel or pomade to keep the hair in place.
The curly pompadour is perfect for men with medium to long curls who want a hairstyle that demands attention. It’s a great choice for formal events, evening outings, or just to add flair to your everyday look.
4. The Curly Undercut
The curly undercut is a modern take on the classic undercut, where the hair on the sides is clipped very short or shaved while the top is left longer to showcase the natural curls. This style provides a clean, edgy look while maintaining the beauty of curly hair. The undercut contrasts the top’s fullness with the sharpness of the sides, making it a popular choice for men who enjoy stylish and bold hairstyles.
How to Style the Curly Undercut:
- Ask your barber to create a sharp contrast between the short sides and the longer top.
- Use a curl-defining gel or mousse to enhance the curls on top.
- For a more defined look, apply a light styling cream to the curls, scrunching the hair as you go.
- The sides should be kept clean and trimmed regularly to maintain the undercut’s sharp look.
The curly undercut is a versatile style that works well with different curl types, from loose waves to tight ringlets. It’s perfect for men who want a low-maintenance yet fashionable style.
5. The Messy Curly Look
The messy curly look is all about embracing the natural volume and texture of curly hair without too much styling. This style is perfect for men who want a relaxed, carefree look. It works well for men with thicker curls who enjoy the freedom of letting their curls fall naturally.
How to Style the Messy Curly Look:
- Skip the comb and let your curls fall naturally.
- Apply a light curl cream or leave-in conditioner to keep the curls moisturized and frizz-free.
- Use your fingers to separate the curls, creating a slightly messy and voluminous appearance.
- Avoid heavy styling products, as this look is meant to appear effortless.
This style is ideal for men who prefer a relaxed and easy-to-maintain hairstyle. It works well for curly hair that is medium to long in length, as the natural texture can really shine through.
6. The Curly Quiff
The curly quiff is a modern twist on the traditional quiff, incorporating curly hair’s texture and volume into the style. The quiff adds height to the top of the head, giving it a classic, stylish appearance. With curly hair, this look can have an even more pronounced volume, making it perfect for those who want a bold, high-fashion hairstyle.
How to Style the Curly Quiff:
- Ask your barber to leave the top longer while keeping the sides shorter.
- Apply a curl-enhancing cream or mousse to the hair to bring out the curls.
- Use a blow-dryer to create volume at the front, lifting the curls and styling them backward.
- For a more polished look, use a small amount of pomade or gel to keep the quiff in place.
The curly quiff is a great option for men with medium to thick curls. It provides a balanced mix of structure and natural texture, making it perfect for both casual and formal occasions.
7. The Curly Afro
The curly afro is one of the most iconic curly hairstyles of all time. It celebrates the natural texture and volume of curly hair, creating a round, full shape that gives a bold and striking look. The afro works well for men who want to embrace their curls fully and showcase their hair’s natural beauty.
How to Style the Curly Afro:
- Keep your hair at a uniform length around your head, allowing it to grow out to create a rounded shape.
- Use a curl cream or leave-in conditioner to keep the curls soft and hydrated.
- Regularly trim the hair to maintain the round shape.
- Use a pick to separate the curls and add volume to the afro.
The curly afro is perfect for men with tight or medium curls. It’s a statement hairstyle that is perfect for men who want to make a bold impression and embrace their curly hair’s natural beauty.
Conclusion
Curly hair can offer endless possibilities for men who want to experiment with different styles. From the sharp and clean curly top fade to the bold and voluminous curly pompadour, there are countless ways to make your natural curls work for you. Classic styles such as the curly undercut, curly Caesar cut, and curly afro are timeless and continue to be popular choices for men today. Embrace your curls, experiment with different looks, and enjoy the versatility of this beautiful hair texture. No matter your style preference, there’s a curly hairstyle that can perfectly reflect your personality and flair.
