Have you ever noticed how many popular hairstyles cater to straight or wavy hair? Styles like angled bobs, French girl bangs, and slicked-back buns often favor straight textures. But what about those with curls? To uncover the hottest hair trends for curly hair, we spoke with several expert hairstylists. Here are 17 curly hair trends you should consider trying.
1. Long, Loose, and Flowy Curls
Beyoncé stunned at the Atlantis The Royal Grand Reveal in January 2023, not only for her first full concert in four years but also for her luscious, hydrated curls. “This look emphasizes hydration, starting with nourishing products that enhance shine and movement,” says celebrity hairstylist Aviva Jansen Perea. Celebrity hairstylist Valery Joseph also loves this beachy, mermaid-like style, perfect for air-drying and finishing with hair oil.
2. Curly Top Knot
For a quick and stylish way to manage curls, try a top knot, as recommended by Valery Joseph. Inspired by Ciara’s chic look, simply gather your hair at the crown and secure it with an elastic, leaving some face-framing pieces loose.
3. Curly High Pony
Showcase your texture while keeping your hair out of your face with a high ponytail, à la Jennifer Lopez. “Curly high ponytails are chic and practical,” says Joseph. For added style, twist and pin a few strands around the base to hide the elastic.
4. Deep Side Part
The deep side part is making a comeback, says Joseph. Often seen on Rihanna, this style pairs well with old Hollywood curls, adding elegance and sophistication to natural or crimped textures.
5. Big Bouncy Curls
For those with tight coils, embrace big, bouncy curls inspired by Zendaya’s look at the Dune premiere. “The ‘70s was all about big hair and big personalities,” says Joseph. Achieve this with a diffuser and curl-enhancing products like mousse and shine serum.
6. The Elevated Shag
The modern shag, with its choppy layers and shorter bangs, is perfect for curly hair. Natasha Lyonne’s style is a prime example. “Curls add tons of body to this look,” says Joseph. Use a dry volumizing spray or powder for added texture.
7. Coiled Pixie
Short styles like the pixie cut are ideal for tighter curls, creating a flattering shape around the face. Julia Garner’s platinum pixie showcases this style. “Use a volumizing mousse or gel for styling,” suggests Joseph. Devin Graciano adds that curly pixies are low-maintenance and highlight natural curl patterns.
8. Curly Bangs
Curly bangs, popularized by stars like Zendaya and Rihanna, add personality to any style. “Cut around the eyebrow, curly bangs are especially flattering on longer face shapes,” says Joseph.
9. Curly Bob
Kerry Washington’s curly bob exemplifies timeless elegance. “Cut at an angle, this style accentuates facial features,” says Joseph.
10. Soft Curls
Soft, brushed-out curls, seen on Taylor Swift at the 2024 Golden Globes, are trending. “We’re seeing curls slightly brushed through for a touchable look,” says Graciano. Use a wide-tooth comb and a boar bristle brush to achieve this.
11. Blonde Curls
Blonde curls, as seen on Rihanna, create stunning dimension. “Blonde highlights or a full head of blonde showcase natural curls beautifully,” says Graciano.
12. Natural Curls
Embrace your natural texture with a tailored curl cut. “In heat and humidity, natural curls with a good cut and the right products can look amazing,” says celebrity hairstylist Jerome Lordet. Use curl cream, wave spray, and shine serum for best results.
13. Soft Ombre Balayage
Ombre balayage on curls, favored by Lordet, adds depth and texture. “It’s low-maintenance and perfect for summer,” he says.
14. Pinned-Back Curls
For a stylish way to keep curls out of your face, use unique hair accessories. “Try pearlescent, opalescent, or metallic clips or bands,” suggests Lordet.
15. Bouncy Blowout
For a dramatic change, consider a voluminous blowout, inspired by Sabrina Carpenter. “Use a volume spray and finish with lightweight hairspray for hold,” says Lordet.
16. Pineapple Pony
The pineapple pony, often used as a protective style, can be a fun, chic look. “Pull curls into a high ponytail and let them frame your face,” says Lordet. Use curl cream for definition.
17. French Bob
The French bob, combining elements of bobs, side parts, and brushed-out curls, is effortlessly chic. “Characterized by a chin-length cut with soft layers and often bangs, it suits all curl types,” says Perea. America Ferrera’s 2024 Oscars look is a perfect example. Use texturizing spray to balance blunt ends with mid-length movement.
These trends offer a variety of styles to enhance and celebrate curly hair, proving that curls are just as versatile and stylish as any other hair type.