30 Curly Hairstyles to Inspire Your Next Look

Consider coiffed twists for your next shindig. Alexandra Shipp shows off her caramel curls in a sculptural updo complete with braids that run along either side of her head for extra detail.

Here’s Rihanna demonstrating the power of a well-placed pony. Simply gather your curls up high to let your hair (and cheekbones) shine bright like a…you know.

For those with a looser curl like Joey King here, a short cut is a style unto itself. Keep the sides closely cropped and lengthier on top for that effortless swoop over the forehead. (Tip: Scrunch some mousse on damp hair for added definition as it dries.)

Keke Palmer dazzled at the Met Gala with soft, brushed out curls that evoked Diana Ross comparisons—plus, her fanned out smokey eye added to the whole disco effect.

Garcia previously told us that goddess braids were a popular hairstyle to try out because they put less tension on the roots, and add more texture overall. They’re also a softer version of traditional box braids. He explained, the look is achieved by “braiding your natural hair at the scalp and feeding in curly/wavy hair extensions as you braid down the shaft of the individual braid and then leaving out a few loose strands of hair throughout the braid.”

Need a low-maintenance look? This tousled bun is super easy to do and very chic to pull off, as evidenced by Ciara above. Use a silk scrunchie to gather all your curls up into a loose bun on top of your head (and if a few tendrils spill out, even better). If you prefer a more dolled up approach, consider adding a bedazzled headband to complete the look. 

If you like a bit of volume, this hairstyle (rocked by the OG curl queen Tracee Ellis Ross) should be on your radar. Once third or fourth day hair rolls around, grab a hair pick to tease the roots. The more you tease, the fluffier it becomes. Just remember: Go big or go home. 

This edgy look will definitely switch things up in your catalog of curly hairstyles. If you have finer locks, use a banana clip to gather your hair towards the center before finger-coiling your curls for more definition like Tamera Mowry’s ‘do above. And if you have thicker locks, we suggest dividing your hair into three sections and wrapping them into small curly (or coily) puffs and fluffing them out for more volume. 

If you prefer a side part these days, adding a simple twist will elevate your look. To recreate Issa Rae’s hairstyle, apply styling gel (or cream) on a small section of hair before twisting it inwards and securing the ends with a bobby pin. The best part is it’s quick and easy to do and you can rock it with your hair down or in a ponytail. 

As Everett previously shared, braided styles are here to stay. Side braids add a nice touch to curly hair and show off your skills. He told us, “They offer so much versatility, and with the popularity of embracing natural hair textures, this allows those with medium or long, curly hair to recreate the shape of their hair.” 

This high bun is great for coarser and coilier locks as it brings all the attention to your wonderful pattern. To get Sanna Lathan’s look, brush and smooth out your hair on top and leave the ends out in defined coils.  

Want more defined swirls without using heat tools? Try flexi rods. This heatless tool can manipulate your pattern to create larger corkscrew curls. After washing your hair, apply mousse to damp strands for added hold and shine. Then, put the flexi rod close to the scalp before twisting a section of hair around the rod and locking it into place by bending the ends of the tool inwards. One more thing: The smaller the sections, the tighter and fuller the look. Need more help? Here’s a helpful tutorial to get you started. 

Take a page from Sandra Oh’s book and try out the trendy shag haircut. A stylist can determine what look works best for you based on your face shape, so your curls can really accentuate your dazzling features. 

This staple bedtime look can definitely be turned into a chic hairstyle for any occasion. Like Yara Shahidi, show off your defined ringlets by gathering your hair at the top of your head, letting it plop down naturally and giving it free reign to flow nicely around the hairline. 

If you’re rocking a short haircut, let Samira Wiley’s curly fade lead by example. The sides are completely tapered down, while the top has small intricate curls for a chic finish. 

Yara Shahidi gives so much inspo for curly hairstyles and this wash and go style is proof. Once you shampoo and condition, the styling portion is what brings your swirls to life. Whether you follow the traditional curly hair method (aka leave-in, hair oil and cream) or prefer a lighter hold with mousse and gel, find a regimen that works for your hair type. 

Getting a curly cut can provide shape and definition to your strands. This fro sported by Solange Knowles accentuates her jawline, while giving more volume and definition to her blonde curls. 

2024 calls for a short curly bob, according to Washington. In a previous trend story he told us, “This bob has a straight line and cut, which helps to create a more striking effect for individuals with fine or thin hair. It’ll give more volume because the ends are cut in a blunt style, as opposed to angled. The ends are cut sharp, which helps make your hair look fuller.” To recreate Rihanna’s look, the stylist recommended a hair serum or mousse for texture and shine. 

Gel is your friend if you want to mimic Tia Mowry’s look. Try this Old Hollywood style and smooth down your curls for a night out. 

This tousled updo won’t take too much time in the bathroom (which is a win-win for curly gals). Just make sure to leave two loose strands that frame the face in front to accentuate your features and showcase your natural pattern like Lori Harvey here.  

If you want more definition and have some time on your hands, try finger coiling your curls. This heatless technique is all about taking each curl—and, you guessed it—wrapping it around your finger in the direction of the curl before unraveling it to reveal a tighter pattern. Whether you have long locks or a shorter fro like Ice Spice, it’s going to take some time, so don’t say we didn’t warn ya. We recommend popping on your favorite TV show and going to work. 

As Venus Williams shows us, braids and curls are a match made in hair heaven. Leave the top in small micro braids, woven into a crown design before applying some styling cream to the rest of your hair for shiny, bouncy curls through the ends. 

This updo can keep curls away from your shoulders, especially for the hottest times of the year. As Raziuddin previous told us, a French twist is simple to put together. Once you twist your locks inwards, "The remaining hair is teased and placed into an elegant bun on the crown of the head. You can also choose to style this look in different variations. For example, you may want to leave a few side pieces out or slick everything back."

Keep curls away from your face and in a nice low ponytail for your next event. All you need to do is brush your hair back and wrap it at the nape of your neck. Then, finish the look off by applying mousse at the tail for more definition. 

Recreate Julia Garner's ringlets and let your loose pattern shine through. Grab some texturizing spray (or a lightweight mousse) and scrunch the ends before using your diffuser on the lowest setting for a soft, defined finish.

Can we all agree that Yara has the best curly hairstyles? This low pigtail has a youthful vibe to it that’s great for brunch or a night out with friends. P.S. Don’t forget to lay down those edges, folks. 

This ‘20s inspired cut adds some movement to short curly locks. For Halle Berry, it draws attention to her heart-shaped face and smokey eyes. In sum, it’s the perfect style for a red carpet moment. 

Tracee Ellis Ross is the OG curly gal and quite the fashionista. We love how this slicked back style is equal parts edgy and chic, while showing off her texture.