21 Natural Curly Hairstyles You Need to Try
Natural curls are a crown of beauty, each coil and wave telling a unique story of texture and volume. Far from being a challenge, embracing your natural hair opens up a world of versatile and stunning styling options that highlight your individuality. From bouncy afros to elegant updos, the possibilities are endless for showcasing the gorgeous texture you were born with, radiating confidence and natural charm wherever you go. Your curls are a powerful statement of self-love and authentic beauty that deserves to be celebrated every single day.
If you’re looking to refresh your look, find inspiration for a special occasion, or simply want to explore new ways to rock your magnificent mane, you’ve come to the right place. We’ve curated a list of the top 21 natural curly hairstyles that celebrate every curl pattern, length, and personal style. Get ready to dive into a world of gorgeous, natural looks that are both achievable and absolutely show-stopping, making you feel incredible with every twist and turn. This guide is your ultimate inspiration for embracing and enhancing your natural curl journey.
2. High Puff Perfection
The high puff is a timeless and universally flattering style that gathers your natural curls into a voluminous, elevated cloud of texture at the crown of your head. It’s an excellent protective style that keeps your ends tucked away, minimizing manipulation while creating a striking silhouette. This look exudes sophistication and playfulness simultaneously, making it suitable for both casual outings and more formal events. It’s incredibly versatile and can be customized with various headbands or scarves to match your outfit or mood, adding a personal touch.
Achieving the perfect high puff often involves using a strong elastic or hair tie and carefully smoothing down the sides and back with a gel or edge control. The key is to gather your hair without pulling too tightly, preserving the natural volume and shape of your curls in the puff itself. This style beautifully elongates the neck and highlights facial features, making it a go-to for many curly-haired individuals seeking an elegant yet simple updo. It’s a statement of natural grace and poise, perfect for any occasion.
Crown your curls! The high puff is pure elegance and volume.
3. The Elegant Pineapple Updo
The pineapple updo is not just a beloved sleeping technique for preserving curls; it’s also a wonderfully elegant and chic daytime style that showcases your hair’s natural texture. This style involves gathering all your curls loosely at the very top of your head, allowing them to spill forward and create a beautiful, cascading effect. It offers a sophisticated yet relaxed vibe, making it ideal for a variety of occasions, from a casual brunch to a fancy dinner. The beauty lies in its understated glamour and effortless appeal, perfect for highlighting your length.
To create a pineapple updo, use a loose hair tie or scarf to secure your hair at the highest point of your head, ensuring not to flatten your curls at the base. You can then gently arrange the cascade of curls to frame your face or achieve your desired volume. This style works exceptionally well for longer curls, emphasizing their length and bounce while keeping them off your neck during warmer weather. It’s a testament to how simple techniques can yield stunning, polished results, making it a go-to for quick elegance.
Pineapple perfection! An elegant updo for natural curl beauty.
4. Playful Space Buns
Space buns are a fun, youthful, and incredibly stylish way to wear your natural curls, offering a dual-bun look that’s both trendy and practical. This playful style involves parting your hair down the middle and forming two separate, voluminous buns on either side of your head, usually placed high. It’s a fantastic option for showcasing your curl pattern in a unique and symmetrical way, adding a touch of whimsy to any outfit. Space buns are also great for managing hair on second or third-day curls, giving them new life.
Whether you prefer them neat and tight or loose and messy, space buns allow for plenty of personalization to match your aesthetic. You can leave out a few face-framing curls for a softer look or add braids to the base of each bun for extra detail and texture. This versatile style is perfect for festivals, casual outings, or just when you want to infuse some playful energy into your appearance. They truly capture a spirit of youthful exuberance and creative self-expression, making you stand out.
Double the fun! Playful space buns showcasing natural texture.
5. Chic Half-Up, Half-Down
The half-up, half-down style is a classic for a reason, offering the best of both worlds: keeping some hair off your face while letting the majority of your beautiful curls flow freely. This look perfectly balances sophistication with natural volume, making it incredibly versatile for almost any occasion. It’s a fantastic way to highlight your facial features while still flaunting the length and texture of your natural hair. The beauty of this style lies in its simplicity and timeless appeal, working well for all curl patterns.
To achieve this chic look, gather the top section of your hair, usually from your temples to the crown, and secure it with a hair tie, clip, or even a decorative scrunchie. You can smooth down the sides for a polished finish or leave it a bit looser for a more bohemian vibe. The remaining curls tumble down your back, creating a stunning visual contrast between the secured top and the free-flowing bottom. This style truly celebrates the natural bounce and beauty of your curls, offering elegance with ease.
Effortlessly chic! The half-up, half-down look for stunning curls.
6. Regal Braided Crown
A braided crown is an exquisite and regal style that weaves elegance into your natural curls, creating a halo effect around your head. This protective and beautiful updo involves braiding sections of hair along your hairline and wrapping them around to form a crown-like structure. It’s a sophisticated choice for special occasions like weddings or proms, but can also be adapted for a more casual, bohemian feel. The intricate details of the braid highlight the artistry of natural hair styling, making it a true showstopper.
There are various ways to create a braided crown, from simple three-strand braids to more complex cornrows or Dutch braids that lie flat against the scalp. You can incorporate all your hair into the crown or leave some curls free in the back for a softer finish. This style not only looks stunning but also helps to keep your hair neatly tucked away and protected throughout the day, ensuring longevity and minimal frizz. It truly makes you feel like royalty, perfect for making a grand entrance.
A crown of curls! Embrace regal elegance with this braided style.
7. Defined Twist-Out
The twist-out is a holy grail style for many naturalistas, renowned for creating incredibly defined, elongated, and voluminous curls or waves. This technique involves twisting sections of damp, product-laden hair and allowing them to dry completely before unraveling, revealing beautifully uniform patterns. It’s a fantastic way to stretch your natural curl pattern without heat, offering a distinct and polished look that lasts for days. The defined coils it produces are simply breathtaking, showcasing your natural texture.
To achieve the best twist-out, start with freshly washed and conditioned hair, applying a leave-in conditioner, styling cream, and a gel for hold. The size of your twists will determine the size of your resulting curls – smaller twists yield tighter curls, while larger twists create looser waves. Once fully dry, gently unravel each twist, separating curls carefully with oil-coated fingers to minimize frizz and maximize volume. This method consistently delivers stunning, well-formed curls, making it a go-to for maximum definition.
Hello definition! Achieve stunning, elongated curls with a perfect twist-out.
8. Bouncy Braid-Out
Similar to a twist-out, the braid-out also creates beautiful definition and stretched curls, but often results in a slightly different texture – usually more wavy or crimped, with a bit more volume at the roots. This technique involves braiding sections of damp hair and letting them dry before unraveling, making it another excellent heat-free styling option. It’s a fantastic choice for those seeking a voluminous, bouncy look with a touch of playful texture. The resulting curls are consistently soft and well-formed, perfect for a natural aesthetic.
For a successful braid-out, ensure your hair is moisturized and thoroughly detangled before braiding, using a good styling cream and gel to enhance definition and hold. The size and tightness of your braids will influence the final look, with tighter braids giving more definition and smaller braids leading to a more textured result. Once completely dry, carefully unravel the braids and gently separate your curls with oiled hands to reduce frizz and maximize bounce. It’s a versatile style for gorgeous texture, offering a soft yet defined appearance.
Bouncy & beautiful! Unlock soft waves and volume with a stunning braid-out.
9. Trendy Bantu Knots
Bantu knots are a culturally rich and visually striking style that involves sectioning hair and twisting it into small, compact knots resembling coiled shells. While often used as a setting technique to create heatless curls or waves (bantu knot-outs), they are also a bold and fashionable style in themselves. Worn as knots, they make a powerful statement, showcasing intricate detail and celebrating natural texture in a uniquely sculptural way. They are a true art form, perfect for making a stylish impact.
To create Bantu knots, start with damp, moisturized hair and section it evenly. Twist each section tightly from the root to the tip, coiling it around itself to form a compact knot against the scalp, then secure the end with a small elastic or pin. The size and number of knots can vary, allowing for a wide range of creative expressions, from small, numerous knots to larger, statement pieces. This style is not only chic but also an excellent protective option, keeping hair tucked away and promoting healthy growth.
Bold and beautiful! Trendy Bantu knots making a powerful style statement.
10. Sculpted Finger Coils
Finger coils are an amazing technique for creating perfectly defined, uniform curls that truly pop, especially on shorter to medium-length natural hair. This method involves applying a curl-defining product to small sections of damp hair and then meticulously coiling each section around your finger from root to tip. The result is a head full of luscious, springy, and incredibly well-formed curls that boast incredible definition and bounce. It’s a patient process, but the outcome is always worth it for the stunning result.
While finger coiling can be time-consuming, the stunning definition and long-lasting results make it a favorite for those seeking maximum curl perfection. Ensure your hair is thoroughly detangled and saturated with product to encourage the coils to form smoothly and hold their shape. Once dry, you can gently separate a few coils for added volume, but often the beauty lies in the individual, sculpted ringlets. This style is a testament to the versatility and beauty of natural hair, offering a uniquely precise and beautiful look.
Curl perfection! Achieve stunning, sculpted definition with finger coils.
11. Edgy Frohawk
The frohawk is a bold, edgy, and undeniably stylish way to wear your natural curls, offering a fierce silhouette that commands attention. This style mimics a traditional mohawk but utilizes the natural volume and texture of your afro for the central ‘hawk’ section. It’s a fantastic option for those who want to showcase their personality and embrace a daring, fashion-forward look. The frohawk beautifully highlights the versatility of natural hair, proving it can be both soft and strong simultaneously.
To create a frohawk, the sides of your hair are typically smoothed down, pinned, or braided flat against the scalp, allowing the central section of your hair to stand up in a voluminous, defined peak. You can use gel or edge control to lay the sides flat and then fluff and shape the top section for maximum impact. This style works wonderfully for all lengths, from short to long, and is perfect for making a statement at any event. It’s truly a head-turner that expresses individuality.
Fierce & fabulous! Rock an edgy frohawk for a statement look.
12. Sleek Slicked Back
For a sophisticated and polished natural curly look, the sleek slicked-back style offers an elegant contrast to the usual volume. This style involves meticulously smoothing all your curls back from your face, creating a clean, refined silhouette that highlights your features. It’s a powerful choice for professional settings, formal events, or simply when you want a more understated yet impactful appearance. The beauty lies in its simplicity and sharp lines, exuding confidence and grace.
To achieve this sleek look, start with damp or dry hair and apply a strong-hold gel or pomade generously, brushing your hair back until it lies completely flat against your head. You can then gather the length into a low bun, ponytail, or let it flow freely down your back if it’s long enough to maintain the sleekness. This style is an excellent way to showcase facial structure and can be paired with bold makeup or accessories to complete a truly striking ensemble. It’s elegance redefined, offering a sharp, modern edge.
Sleek sophistication! Embrace a polished, slicked-back look for natural curls.
13. Voluminous Side Part
A simple yet incredibly effective way to transform your natural curly look is by embracing a voluminous side part. This styling trick instantly adds drama, height, and body to your curls, creating an asymmetrical cascade of texture that frames your face beautifully. It’s an easy change that can elevate a casual wash-and-go or add a touch of glamour to a more styled look, making it incredibly versatile for everyday wear or special occasions. The side part truly enhances natural volume, giving an illusion of greater density.
To achieve a voluminous side part, simply create a deep part on one side of your head while your hair is still damp or after it’s been fluffed. Use your fingers or a pick to gently lift the roots on the side with more hair, encouraging maximum height and bounce. You can then let your curls fall naturally or gently define them further with a lightweight mousse or spray. This style beautifully highlights the natural shape and movement of your curls, giving an air of effortless chic and a captivating silhouette.
Volume power! A deep side part instantly amplifies natural curls.
14. Messy Top Knot
The messy top knot is the epitome of effortless cool, offering a casual yet chic way to wear your natural curls in a relaxed updo. This style gathers all your hair loosely at the top of your head, allowing curls to spill out playfully, creating a perfectly imperfect bun. It’s an ideal choice for busy days, workouts, or when you want a stylish way to keep your hair off your neck while still showcasing your beautiful texture. The messy aesthetic adds to its undeniable charm and relaxed appeal.
To create a messy top knot, gather your curls high on your head as if making a ponytail, but instead of pulling through completely, wrap your hair around itself loosely, securing with a hair tie. Don’t be afraid to let a few tendrils escape or pull out some curls around your face to enhance the ‘messy’ vibe. This style works wonderfully with second or third-day hair, adding character and dimension. It’s comfortable, stylish, and incredibly easy to achieve, making it a go-to for relaxed elegance.
Effortlessly cool! The messy top knot is your go-to for relaxed curls.
15. Sophisticated Low Bun
For a look that exudes understated elegance and sophistication, the low bun is an impeccable choice for natural curls. This refined style gathers all your hair into a neat or slightly textured bun positioned at the nape of your neck, offering a timeless and polished appearance. It’s perfect for professional environments, formal events, or simply when you desire a sleek and sophisticated aesthetic. The low bun beautifully frames the face and highlights the neck and décolletage, adding a touch of classic charm.
To create a sophisticated low bun, start by smoothing down your hair, either parting it in the middle or on the side, or slicking it back completely. Gather your hair into a low ponytail, then twist and wrap it into a bun, securing it with pins. You can leave a few loose curls or wisps for a softer feel, or keep it perfectly neat for a more classic look. This style is not only elegant but also protective, keeping your ends tucked away and minimizing manipulation, ensuring your hair stays healthy and chic.
Sophistication in curls! A low bun for timeless elegance.
16. Accessorized Afro
The afro is the ultimate declaration of natural beauty, volume, and freedom, a truly iconic hairstyle that celebrates the power of natural texture. Elevate this magnificent look even further by incorporating a stylish accessory that complements your personal style and adds a touch of flair. From colorful headbands to intricate hairpins or elegant scarves, accessories can transform a classic afro into a personalized statement piece, making it suitable for any occasion. It’s a celebration of self-expression and cultural pride.
Adding an accessory to your afro is a simple yet impactful way to refresh your look, draw attention to your beautiful curls, and infuse personality. A vibrant headwrap can protect your edges and add a pop of color, while delicate hair clips can add sparkle for a formal event. Experiment with different textures, patterns, and placements to find what resonates most with you. This style truly embraces the natural glory of your hair while allowing for endless creative customization, making every day an opportunity for new style.
Afro majesty! Elevate your natural volume with a stunning accessory.
17. Double Puff Power
For a fun, symmetrical, and incredibly charming look, double puffs are an excellent choice for showcasing your natural curls. This style involves parting your hair down the middle and creating two distinct, voluminous puffs on either side of your head, typically at a medium height. It offers a playful yet chic aesthetic, perfect for casual outings, festivals, or adding a touch of youthful exuberance to your everyday style. Double puffs are visually striking and full of personality, guaranteeing a head-turning look.
To achieve double puff power, ensure your hair is moisturized and detangled, then create a clean part down the center. Gather each section into a puff, securing it with an elastic or hair tie, and fluff out the curls for maximum volume and shape. You can lay your edges with gel for a polished finish or leave them natural for a softer look. This style is fantastic for showing off your curl pattern while keeping your hair neatly managed and off your neck, offering both practicality and undeniable style.
Double the volume, double the fun! Adorable and chic double puffs.
18. The Shag Cut with Curls
The shag cut, a retro-inspired style, is making a huge comeback and is absolutely stunning on natural curly hair, enhancing its natural texture and movement. This layered haircut is characterized by choppy, varied lengths, with shorter layers at the crown and progressively longer layers towards the ends, often accompanied by bangs. It creates incredible volume, body, and an effortless rock-and-roll vibe that perfectly complements the wild beauty of curls. The shag celebrates natural texture, giving it a playful edge.
For curly hair, a shag cut works wonders by distributing volume, preventing the dreaded ‘triangle head’ shape, and allowing your curls to spring up individually. It adds definition and bounce, making styling a breeze as the cut does most of the work for you. Pair it with curly bangs for an even more authentic and stylish look that frames your face beautifully. This cut is all about embracing natural chaos and making it look incredibly chic and fashion-forward, offering a liberating and stylish option.
Retro chic! The shag cut enhances natural curly volume and movement.
19. Layered Curl Cascade
A well-executed layered haircut can dramatically enhance the beauty of natural curls, allowing them to fall in a gorgeous cascade of volume and definition. Layers remove bulk, prevent your hair from looking too heavy, and encourage individual curls to spring up and form beautiful clusters. This style adds movement, shape, and dimension to your hair, making your curls appear lighter, bouncier, and more vibrant. It’s about letting each curl pattern have its moment, showcasing its unique shape and texture.
When getting layers for curly hair, it’s crucial to find a stylist experienced with natural textures, preferably one who cuts curls dry to see how they naturally fall. Strategic layering can prevent frizz, reduce styling time, and give your hair an overall healthier, more voluminous appearance. The result is a stunning, natural flow of curls that frame your face and highlight your unique texture with effortless grace and bounce. It’s a game-changer for curly girls seeking enhanced definition and movement.
Cascading beauty! Layers enhance natural curls with movement and volume.
20. Bold Tapered Cut
The tapered cut is a bold and stylish choice for natural curls, characterized by hair that gradually shortens from the top of the head down to the nape and sides. This cut creates a stunning silhouette, emphasizing the natural texture at the crown while offering a sleek, clean finish around the ears and neck. It’s a powerful statement of confidence and modern style, perfect for those who want to stand out and embrace a chic, short-to-medium length. The tapered look is sharp and sophisticated, highlighting your facial features.
This versatile cut allows for endless styling possibilities on the longer top section, from defined finger coils to a mini afro or a slicked-back look. The tapered sides not only look fashionable but also make daily styling and maintenance much easier, especially for managing thicker hair. It’s a cut that brings structure and elegance to natural curls, highlighting facial features and creating a truly memorable and empowering aesthetic. Embrace the bold lines and soft texture for a truly unique and striking appearance.
Sharp and stylish! Embrace a bold tapered cut for natural curls.
21. Headband Hair Bliss
Sometimes the simplest accessories can make the biggest impact, and a stylish headband is a prime example for natural curly hair. Headband hair bliss is all about effortlessly elevating your look, whether you’re dealing with a bad hair day or simply want to add a touch of charm and color. A well-chosen headband can draw attention to your beautiful curls, keep flyaways at bay, and instantly transform your style from casual to chic. It’s the ultimate quick style refresh that offers endless possibilities.
From wide fabric headbands that offer a bohemian vibe to slim, jeweled bands for a touch of glamour, there’s a headband for every mood and occasion. They are perfect for pushing back your curls and highlighting your face, or for securing a puff or bun with added decorative flair. This easy-to-implement style allows you to embrace your natural texture while adding a pop of personality and polish with minimal effort. It’s truly a secret weapon for curly girls on the go, offering instant style and versatility.
Headband magic! Elevate your natural curls with a chic accessory.
Conclusion
There you have it – 21 magnificent ways to celebrate and style your natural curly hair, each one highlighting the unique beauty and versatility of your texture. From the effortless elegance of a Wash & Go to the bold statement of a Frohawk, these styles offer endless opportunities for self-expression and confidence. Embrace the journey of discovering what works best for your coils, curls, and waves, and remember that your natural hair is a masterpiece waiting to be adorned. Don’t be afraid to experiment, accessorize, and most importantly, love the hair you’re in. Your unique texture is a gift, so wear it proudly and let your curls tell your incredible story to the world!
