23 Curly Hairstyles to Save to Your Mood Board (2024)

The good news about having curls is wearing your hair loose is a beautiful hairstyle in and of itself. Cristina B. King, a senior stylist at Rita Hazan salon, loves styling her and her client's hair naturally. The key to getting the most definition, though, is routine haircuts and moisturizing hair products. "Snipping off straight split ends and layering the hair gives a curly hair texture its most flattering shape," she says. "After a great haircut, I focus on moisture."

"I love seeing curly hair that's full of volume and texture," says Frédéric Fekkai, celebrity hairstylist and founder of Fekkai salons. Tying up all your curls into a high, loose bun is an easy way to enhance their lift. For a carefree, sexy vibe, let a few coils fall along the sides of your face.

When you want to make wearing your hair down feel more special, add a couple of small French braids on the side of your part for a cute, face-lifting style.

Similar to a tousled topknot, this style is great when you're in a rush because it's easy. Gather your hair at the top of your head into a high ponytail, and let your curls take center stage, coaxing some toward the front and sides of your head.

"If you want a polished look that tames your curly hair, a slicked-back low pony is stunning and takes minutes to do," says Fekkai. "This edgy look highlights your beautiful features while still spotlighting your natural curls."

"On the second or third day, I've been adding flexi rods throughout my hair to refresh my style," says King. Flexi rods give your curls a different style and shape without adding heat.

For those who want to get playful with their look, double buns are a great way to go. "This casual look is both stylish and fun to do," says Fekkai. "It can bring an element of youthfulness to your style and works with various hair lengths, whether you have a short curly bob or long layers of curls. Try this style as a half-up, half-down double bun if you have shorter hair."

If double topknots aren't your thing, rest assured you can do the same look with a single bun. Opting for this half-up, half-down version also lets you show off some length.

"A deconstructed bob looks so modern and fresh on curly hair," says Fekkai. "It plays with different lengths that create volume. Ask your stylist to cut your layers shorter at the crown, gradually increasing the length toward the base of your hair. "

"If you prefer longer hair, creating a cascade of long curly layers is so elegant," says Fekkai. "Ask your stylist to layer just the top of the hair. This is called a triangle layer cut because it’s shorter at the top and longer at the bottom."

Letting your curly hair loose is a hairstyle, and a great one for when your curls are defined, hydrated, and nourished. To get more body and volume for that Afro look, Anjolie Clark, a professional hairstylist at the Julien Farel Salon and Spa in New York, recommends using a diffuser when drying your hair.

With the return of all Y2K and '90s trends, claw clips have made their comeback and are an easy way to put up your hair while also accessorizing.

This traditional African hairstyle not only looks great, but it's also a protective style that hides the ends of your hair to reduce breakage and prevent moisture loss.

When you want to do that big chop but still want to show off your curls, opt for an asymmetrical pixie. It's a chic style that looks amazing on curly hair.

One of Clark's favorite curly hairstyles is a side ponytail because it shows off your curls in a way that's different than a traditional pony. Bonus points if you add accessories like a headband or hair pins.

Accessorize your curly hair with a headscarf for a pop of color that brings your whole outfit together.

For those days when you need your hair out of your face or your curls aren't as defined as you'd like, a slick bun is a great option.

"You may opt for a twist-out method for a few different reasons," says Monice Lopez, salon owner and Ouidad curl expert at MoHairGoals Salon. "I recommend this method to my clients going through a transition stage where they may see curl inconsistency. This style is also incredible for elongating and transforming your natural curl pattern." To recreate, section your hair depending on the number of twists you'd like. Then coat each section in a gel or cream, like Ouidad Moisture Lock Leave-In Conditioner, and twist one area at a time.

This look may not be for everyone, but it's edgy and cool. Pin up the sides of your hair to create a chic faux-mohawk look.

"A curly shag bob with soft bangs is all about celebrating your loose curls," says Fekkai. "It’s effortless and adds tons of movement, texture, and volume to your hair. It’s an ideal style if your hair feels too flat or heavy because it gives the illusion of voluminous hair."