24 Curly Hairstyles Ideas
So, you’ve got curls and you’re on the hunt for fresh ways to style them? Trust me, I get it.
But here’s the good news: curls are versatile, gorgeous, and ridiculously fun to style when you know what to do.
I’ve rounded up 24 curly hairstyles ideas that’ll keep your locks looking their best, whether you’re aiming for casual vibes, red-carpet glam, or something in between.
1. The Classic Curly Ponytail
You can never go wrong with a ponytail. The trick with curly hair? Volume is your bestie.
Gather your curls high on your head, let the spirals cascade, and boom—instant chic. Add a scrunchie if you’re feeling nostalgic.
2. Half-Up, Half-Down
It’s the “I made an effort, but not too much” hairstyle. Pin the top section back, let the rest flow, and enjoy that effortless vibe.
Perfect for Zoom calls when you only need the top half to impress.
3. Space Buns with Curls
Want to look playful? Two buns on top, curls spilling everywhere else. It screams, “Yes, I’m fun, but I’m also stylish.” Bonus: works for festivals, parties, or random Tuesdays.
4. The Curly Bob
Short hair + curls = magic. A curly bob gives you structure while letting your texture shine. Trust me, it’s way less maintenance than you think.
5. Messy Curly Bun
Some people call it messy. I call it “strategically undone.” Toss your curls into a bun, pull out a few face-framing spirals, and you’re golden.
6. Curly Bangs
Yes, bangs with curls are a thing—and they look incredible. They frame your face beautifully, plus they add instant personality. Just don’t let anyone convince you bangs are “only for straight hair.” Lies. All lies.
7. Side-Swept Curls
Shift your part to the side and let your curls fall dramatically over one shoulder. This style says: “Yes, I woke up like this, and no, you can’t have my secret.”
8. The Pineapple
This one’s not just a style; it’s a curl-saver. Gather your hair high on top of your head (like a pineapple 🍍) before bed or when you want casual cute. It keeps curls intact and looks surprisingly chic.
9. Braided Crown with Curls
Add a braid across the front, let the curls flow behind it, and boom—fairytale vibes. It’s like saying, “Yes, I could totally be in a period drama, thanks for asking.”
10. Slicked-Back Curly Ponytail
Gel + brush + curls = instant power move. Slick the front back, keep the curls bouncy at the end, and you’ve got a style that works for work meetings and night outs.
11. Curly Updo
Think weddings, fancy dinners, or when you just want to feel a little extra. Pile your curls into a soft updo. Messy? Even better—it adds character.
12. Curly Afro
Bold, beautiful, and timeless. Let your natural curls shine in a full, round shape. The curlier, the better. Honestly, it never goes out of style.
13. Twist-Out Curls
If you like defined curls, twist-outs are your new BFF. Twist damp hair, let it set, unravel, and enjoy those perfectly sculpted spirals.
14. Braids with Curly Ends
Braid your hair halfway, leave the ends curly, and enjoy the best of both worlds. It’s practical yet playful. IMO, this style deserves more hype.
15. High Puff
Gather your curls into a puff at the crown of your head. It’s like a curly halo, and honestly, it makes you look like a goddess.
16. Loose Beachy Curls
Soft, relaxed curls that look like you just came back from the beach—even if you didn’t. Pro tip: a diffuser helps big time with this look.
17. Curly Mohawk
Shave or braid the sides, let your curls run wild in the middle. It’s bold, edgy, and seriously unforgettable. Not for the faint of heart—but if you pull it off, wow.
18. Curly Shag Cut
The shag cut is back, baby. Think layers, bangs, and all the ’70s rock star vibes, but with curly texture. Low effort, high impact.
19. Curly Ponytail with a Twist
Wrap a section of hair around your ponytail holder to hide it. It’s such a small detail, but it makes your style look way more polished.
20. Curly Pixie Cut
Yes, pixies work on curls! They’re fresh, modern, and a little rebellious. Plus, way less styling time in the morning. Who doesn’t want that?
21. Curly Lob (Long Bob)
Somewhere between short and long, the curly lob is the sweet spot. Long enough for variety, short enough to feel light and trendy.
22. Defined Ringlets
Sometimes you just let the curls do their thing. With a little gel and patience, you can rock super defined ringlets that bounce with every step.
23. Headband Curls
Pop on a wide headband and let your curls puff around it. It gives off retro vibes, and it’s a lifesaver on bad hair days.
24. Curly Faux Hawk
Want drama without commitment? Pin the sides of your curls up and let the middle stand tall. Instant faux hawk. People will assume you’re way cooler than you actually are (don’t worry, your secret’s safe with me).
Extra Tips for Styling Curly Hair
Because let’s be real, curls aren’t always cooperative. Here are a few must-know hacks:
- Hydration is everything. Dry curls = cranky curls.
- Diffusers are your curl’s best friend. No diffuser? T-shirt dry instead of towel-drying.
- Don’t over-brush. Unless you’re going for full-on lion mane, keep the brushing minimal.
- Product layering matters. Leave-in conditioner, curl cream, gel. In that order.
Why Curly Hairstyles Rock
Here’s the deal: curls give you personality before you even say a word. They’re playful, bold, and versatile. Straight hair is cool, sure—but curls? They tell a story. They move with you, they have moods (trust me), and they can transform with just a little tweak.
And honestly? Curly hairstyles aren’t just about looking good. They’re about embracing what you’ve got and working with it, not against it. Once you stop trying to “tame” them and start celebrating them, life gets way easier—and way prettier.
Final Thoughts
So, there you have it—24 curly hairstyles ideas that prove curls are anything but boring. From classic ponytails to daring mohawks, your curls can do it all.
At the end of the day, the best curly hairstyle is the one that makes you feel confident, comfortable, and maybe just a little unstoppable. Experiment, have fun, and remember: your curls are your superpower.