Curly hair is a statement all on its own—full of life, character, and endless styling options. Whether you love tight coils, loose waves, or a bouncy Afro, curls offer a chance to experiment without losing their natural charm. They can be styled for elegance, volume, or effortless everyday looks. Best of all, curls often hold shape beautifully with minimal effort compared to straight styles. Ahead, you’ll find 18 curly hairstyles that highlight just how versatile and gorgeous natural texture can be.
1. Tumbling, blonde textured waves
Beyoncé’s soft, shoulder-length curls are the definition of red-carpet glamour. By brushing through and adding a touch of mousse at the front, the curls gain shape while the rest stays light and airy. It’s a perfect balance of polish and natural texture.
2. A classic bouncy Afro
Viola Davis shows how timeless an Afro can be. With volume, shape, and a little styling cream to hold it in place, this look radiates confidence and celebrates natural texture beautifully.
3. High bun with face-framing wisps
Tracee Ellis Ross elevated her natural curls by sweeping them into a bun while leaving delicate baby hairs out front. It’s a chic way to frame the face while keeping the overall look sleek and stylish.
4. Super-short Afro
Rihanna showed off her honey-blonde textured hair at her Fenty Hair Launch Party in LA. A brilliant way to elevate a chic mini-fro is to dress it up with a bold new color.
5. Natural side-swept curls
Simone Ashley’s side-parted curls bring elegance with a carefree twist. Simply part slightly off-center and let the curls fall naturally for a soft, effortless vibe.
6. Super-short, tapered cut with voluminous curls at the top
Tyla wore her curls styled with height on top and a wet-look finish. Defining a few curls with your fingers adds shape, making this cut modern and flattering.
7. Bouncy shoulder-length curls
Ella Emhoff embraced her natural curls with subtle layers that add movement and texture. This length works perfectly if you want volume without too much weight.
8. Sleek Braided Ponytail
Kerry Washington opted for a braided ponytail that feels timeless and polished. Adding extensions can give extra length, while a backcombed base ensures volume at the crown.
9. Braids with Accessories
Chappell Roan gave her curls a creative twist by weaving in thin braids and threading jewelry pieces through them. It’s an edgy, statement-making style that blends fun with fashion.
10. Curly Bob with Side Part
Sandra Oh’s curly bob frames the face beautifully with tight curls and a deep side part. Pinning one side back makes it flattering and adds a touch of asymmetry.
11. Side-Fringe Curls
Taylor Swift turned curls into drama with a deep part and a pinned side-fringe. Teasing it for volume makes it bold yet wearable.
12. Slick Curly Ponytail
Charli XCX showed how curls can be sleek and textured at the same time. Smooth the roots back with gel, tie it up, and let the curls flow naturally at the ends.
13. Short Afro Glow
Lupita Nyong’o’s cropped Afro radiates charm. With a quick fluff from an Afro pick, it adds volume and looks effortlessly fresh.
14. Crimped Statement Curls
Lorde went bold at the Met Gala with long crimped curls and a crown accessory. You can recreate this with a crimping tool or overnight braids for a textured, dramatic effect.
15. Loc Bun Up-Do
Lisa Bonet’s loc bun is relaxed yet elegant. Pull locs into a bun, let a few strands frame the face, and you’ve got a look that feels both boho and chic.
16. Sleek Twisted Bun
Yara Shahidi wore her curls in a polished twisted bun with a soft undone edge. Smooth at the roots, playful at the ends—it’s modern perfection.
17. Curly Bangs
Natasha Lyonne’s tousled fringe blends seamlessly with her curls, creating a casual yet artsy effect. Bangs with curls are bold, fun, and unexpectedly flattering.
18. Beachy Curly Waves
Julia Roberts proves that loose waves never go out of style. Soft, beach-inspired curls give off a romantic and effortless feel perfect for any occasion.
