Curly hair, from tight ringlets to soft waves, is endlessly versatile—and as seen with stars like Zendaya, Angelina Jolie, and Rihanna, it’s a style that works for everyone. Whether you’re rocking a fresh perm or embracing your natural curls, the right hairstyle can completely transform your look. But no matter the curl type or length, curly hair always requires the right maintenance and technique to truly shine. Below, experts share 20 curly hairstyles for every hair type and length to inspire your next hair makeover.
Meet the Experts
Irinel de Leon, celebrity hairstylist, works with Hailey Bieber and Kylie Jenner, while Madison Clifford, another sought-after stylist, has styled Dove Cameron and Kylie Cantrall.
For Fine Short Hair
1. Shag Cut
Celebrity stylist Irinel de Leon suggests a shag cut with fringe for fine curly hair, which can instantly boost volume. Not ready for bangs? Opt for a deep side part for a similar effect.
2. Tousled Pixie
Madison Clifford recommends a tousled pixie for fine, short curls. This cut not only enhances volume but also gives the illusion of thicker hair. A side part adds an extra dramatic flair, just like Julia Garner’s look.
For Thick Short Hair
3. Rounded Layers
For thick short curls, layers can create a rounded shape that frames the face beautifully. De Leon advises adding a side part for even more volume. To stretch curls, pull on the ends and use a diffuser in sections for the perfect finish.
4. ‘70s Afro
Clifford loves a ‘70s-inspired afro for thick, short hair, especially for those with coily textures like Ice Spice. Ask your stylist for tapering at the nape and volume on top for a flattering teardrop shape.
For Naturally Curly Short Hair
5. Face-Framing Pieces
Face-framing curls are a natural fit for short, curly hair. De Leon says this look works especially well for hair that falls just above the shoulders. For looser curls, add layered cuts and fringe bangs, à la Zendaya.
For Fine Medium Hair
6. Layered Fringe
De Leon recommends long layers paired with fringe bangs for fine medium hair. The addition of a diffuser will give curls extra body, as seen on Sandra Oh. Flip your hair upside down while drying for added volume at the crown.
7. Bouncy Curls
For fine-textured hair, Clifford suggests using a curling wand to create soft, rounded curls. This technique helps make hair look fuller. For extra definition, finish with a texture spray and paste for a polished, voluminous finish.
For Thick Medium Hair
8. Shag with Bangs
For a rocker-chic vibe, opt for a shag with bangs. This cut works especially well on thick, curly hair, especially if your curls hit just past the shoulders, like Rihanna’s. Clifford recommends cutting curly hair dry for the best results.
9. Face-Framing Layers
De Leon suggests face-framing pieces for thick medium curls, like Jennifer Lopez’s look. This cut is easy to maintain and highly versatile, framing your face while offering a soft, well-balanced shape.
10. Blunt Cut with a Center Part
For naturally curly medium hair, De Leon loves a blunt cut with a center part. The “cool girl” vibe is perfect for curls that hit at the shoulders, like Yara Shahidi’s effortless style.
11. Modern Shag
Ciara’s modern take on the shag features longer layers and added roundness around the face. This style maintains the shag’s volume while offering a more contemporary feel.
For Fine Long Hair
12. Long Layers
Long layers are ideal for fine curly hair, offering shape and body without weighing it down, as seen on Iman. If you want to incorporate fringe, keep it light to avoid overwhelming the hair’s natural texture.
13. Disco Curls
To achieve Beyoncé’s signature disco curls, Clifford recommends wrapping small sections of hair around a curling wand. After curling, brush through the hair and apply volumizing spray for added lift and shine.
For Thick Long Hair
14. Long Angled Cuts
De Leon suggests long, angled cuts for thick long curls, which open up the face without adding too much volume. For extra body, use a diffuser to enhance your natural texture, as seen on Camila Cabello.
15. Wet Hair Look
For a sleek, modern style, try the “wet hair” look, a red-carpet favorite sported by Megan Fox. Clifford recommends using a combination of gel, mousse, and oils to achieve a shiny, long-lasting effect that stays in place all day.
For Naturally Curly Long Hair
16. Effortless Waves
For those with naturally curly hair, Clifford recommends an air-dried look that highlights your natural texture. You can easily replicate this effortless style by using a waver or various-sized curling irons to enhance your waves, as seen on Fletcher.
17. Side Part
Another easy and flattering option for long, naturally curly hair is a simple side part, as demonstrated by Taylor Swift. De Leon praises this style for its simplicity and ability to add body with minimal effort.
For Naturally Curly Short Hair
18. Ringlet Bob
For a short, curly bob, Nicole Kidman’s ringlet look is a masterclass in curly hair perfection. Use a curling wand to define each curl, paired with a side part and sultry bangs for a classic, timeless style.
19. Pinup Curls
For a nod to the 1920s, try pinup curls. Ruth Negga’s glamorous curly style proves that the vintage look is still as chic as ever. Set your curls with a curler and heat-styling tools for that voluminous, retro vibe.
For Naturally Wavy Long Hair
20. ‘70s Shag
If you have naturally wavy or curly long hair, Vanessa Hudgens’ ‘70s-inspired shag is the way to go. With curly bangs and long layers, this look can be achieved with minimal heat—finger-curling is a great way to add texture and shape without the extra fuss.
Whether you’re seeking volume, definition, or a more effortless vibe, these expert-curated curly hairstyles offer something for every curl type and length. From bold afros to soft, bouncy curls, there’s no shortage of ways to express your curls in style this season.
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