In the vibrant world of natural hair, embracing one’s curls is both a journey and an art. Changing trends mean some styles remain timeless while others fade away.
This guide explores ten hairstyles that celebrate curls beautifully and nine that might need to be retired. Each style is unique, offering its own personality and flair.
Whether you’re looking for a new way to express yourself or wanting to avoid outdated styles, this list promises to provide inspiration and guidance. With detailed descriptions and creative insights, you’ll discover the perfect match for your curls.
Twist Outs
Twist outs are a beloved style among curly-haired individuals for their ability to enhance natural curl patterns. Begin with damp hair and apply a moisturizing leave-in conditioner. Separate hair into sections and twist each part.
Once dry, unravel the twists to reveal bouncy, defined curls. This style not only protect your hair but also allow your curls to shine with minimal manipulation.
Great for all occasions, twist outs offer a versatile look that transitions smoothly from day to night. Enjoy this style’s effortless beauty and the compliments that follow.
Bantu Knots
Bantu knots combine tradition with modern flair, offering a striking way to showcase curls. They are created by sectioning the hair and twisting it into small knots.
This style serves as both a protective and a statement-making option. Once untied, bantu knots leave behind tight, springy curls that are perfect for any occasion.
Bantu knots are deeply rooted in African history, carrying cultural significance and style. Whether you wear them daily or for special occasions, they exude confidence and individuality.
Afro Puffs
Afro puffs are playful yet sophisticated, capturing the essence of fun while maintaining elegance. This style involves gathering the hair into multiple puffs on the head, showcasing the texture and volume of natural curls.
Ideal for both children and adults, Afro puffs work well for casual and formal settings. With roots in African American culture, they celebrate heritage and identity.
Easy to style and maintain, Afro puffs are a delightful choice for expressing natural beauty and confidence.
Wash and Go
Wash and go is a staple for many with curly hair, offering simplicity and style in one package. Start by washing and conditioning your hair, then apply a curl-defining product.
Allow your hair to air dry, revealing your natural curls in their truest form.
This style requires minimal effort, making it perfect for busy individuals who still want to look fabulous. Whether you’re heading to work or enjoying a day off, a wash and go is a versatile and chic choice.
Faux Locs
Faux locs offer the beauty of locs without the long-term commitment. They are created by wrapping synthetic or natural hair around small sections of your own hair.
This style provides a protective and versatile option, perfect for those wanting to experiment with the look of dreadlocks. Faux locs can be worn long or short, and adorned with beads and accessories for added flair.
While they require some maintenance, the striking appearance and cultural resonance make them a favorite among many.
Flat Twists
Flat twists are elegant and simple, offering a neat and polished look. This style involves twisting sections of hair flat against the scalp, similar to cornrows.
They can be styled into updos or left hanging for a more casual appearance. Flat twists are great for any occasion, from work to weekend outings, and they help in retaining moisture and promoting healthy hair growth.
This style’s versatility and ease make it a popular choice for those looking for a reliable yet stylish option.
Curly Fro
The curly fro is a celebration of volume and texture, allowing natural curls to stand out boldly. This style is achieved by picking the hair out into a round shape, emphasizing its natural fullness.
Perfect for those who adore big hair, the curly fro offers a retro yet contemporary look.
It’s a timeless style that embodies freedom and individuality, often associated with the cultural movements of the 1960s and 70s. Wear it with pride and enjoy the attention it commands.
Pineapple Updo
The pineapple updo is a favorite among curly-haired individuals for its simplicity and effectiveness. Gather your curls into a high ponytail on top of your head, allowing them to cascade down like a pineapple’s leaves.
This style is excellent for preserving curls overnight and can be worn casually or dressed up with accessories.
The pineapple updo keeps curls intact and reduces frizz, making it an ideal choice for maintaining curls between washes. It’s a playful and stylish way to show off your natural texture.
Protective Braids
Protective braids offer both style and functionality, safeguarding natural hair while providing an array of styling options. From box braids to cornrows, these braids can be worn for weeks, reducing daily styling stress.
They are perfect for travel or busy lifestyles, freeing you from frequent hair maintenance. Protective braids also allow for creative expression, with the option to add beads and color extensions.
A cultural staple with a modern twist, they remain a timeless choice for embracing one’s natural beauty.
Halo Braid
The halo braid is an ethereal and romantic hairstyle that encircles the head like a crown. Ideal for special occasions, it exudes grace and elegance.
This style involves braiding the hair around the head, creating a seamless circular effect. The halo braid is not only beautiful but also practical, keeping hair away from the face.
With its versatility, it can be adorned with flowers or jewels to enhance its charm. Whether for a wedding or a day out, this style never fails to impress.
Finger Waves
Finger waves are a classic hairstyle that adds sophistication and glamour to any look. Popular in the 1920s, this style involves creating ‘S’ shaped waves close to the scalp using a comb and gel.
Finger waves offer a polished appearance, perfect for formal events and themed parties. Though they require some skill to master, the effort is well worth the glamorous outcome.
With their vintage appeal and timeless elegance, finger waves remain a cherished choice for those seeking a refined look.
Jheri Curls
Jheri curls were popularized in the 1980s, known for their glossy, defined curls. This style requires chemical treatments to achieve the signature look, which includes loose, shiny curls.
Though iconic in its era, the upkeep and chemical process can be damaging to hair. Today, many prefer natural curls or less damaging alternatives.
However, Jheri curls hold a nostalgic charm and are sometimes recreated for themed events. Their lasting impact on pop culture is undeniable, remembered as a symbol of 80s style and flair.
Cornrows
Cornrows are a traditional African hairstyle that involves braiding the hair close to the scalp in straight lines or intricate patterns.
They are practical and stylish, offering a neat appearance that can last for weeks. Cornrows are deeply embedded in cultural history, symbolizing community and identity.
While still popular, some find the style limiting compared to more voluminous options. Despite this, cornrows remain a practical and culturally significant choice for many looking to maintain their natural hair.
Pixie Cut
The curly pixie cut offers a fresh and modern look, perfect for those wanting to embrace their curls with a shorter style.
This cut frames the face beautifully while allowing curls to maintain their natural texture. Ideal for those seeking a low-maintenance option, the pixie cut exudes confidence and chicness.
While it may not suit everyone, those who can pull it off find it to be a liberating and stylish choice. Whether bold or subtle, the curly pixie cut is a timeless option for expressing individuality.
Pompadour
The pompadour is an iconic hairstyle characterized by voluminous hair swept upwards and back. Originally popularized in the 1950s, it has been adapted for curly hair, offering a retro yet contemporary look.
Although eye-catching, the pompadour requires regular styling and maintenance, making it less practical for everyday wear.
However, its bold appearance and classic charm continue to attract those looking to make a statement. For those willing to invest the time, the pompadour remains a striking choice.
High Top Fade
The high top fade is a quintessential 90s style that features a flat top with short sides, perfect for showcasing natural curls and texture.
Known for its bold and edgy appearance, this style was a hallmark of hip-hop culture. Though less common today, it remains a favorite for themed events or those wanting to pay homage to the past.
While it may require regular trims to maintain its shape, the high top fade’s unique silhouette is both nostalgic and fashionable.
Shaggy Layers
Shaggy layers add movement and dimension to curly hair, making it a versatile choice for those who love a relaxed yet stylish look.
This cut involves layering the hair to enhance its natural volume and texture, creating a carefree and youthful appearance.
While shaggy layers can be flattering, some may find it challenging to maintain, especially with curls that need regular care.
For those who embrace the undone look, this style offers a fun and playful option that suits various occasions.
Mohawk
The curly mohawk is a daring and edgy style, perfect for those looking to break the mold.
It involves shaving the sides of the head while leaving a strip of longer, curly hair down the center.
This bold choice is ideal for making a statement and can be customized with various lengths and curl patterns.
While it may not be for the faint-hearted, the curly mohawk offers a unique way to embrace natural curls with attitude and flair.
Mullets
Mullets, once a popular style, combine short hair at the front with long flowing curls at the back.
Known for its business-in-the-front, party-in-the-back appeal, the mullet has seen a resurgence among those who appreciate its quirky charm.
While not everyone’s cup of tea, this style celebrates individuality and a carefree spirit.
Although it may require skilled cutting to achieve the right balance, the mullet remains a nostalgic nod to past decades for those who dare to be different.