The first time I got to work with proper curly shapes it was on a woman who had been straitening her hair everyday for eleven years! She sat in my chair and told me she didn’t even remember what her natural hair looked like. As we washed out all that heat damage and let her curls start to come out she got very quiet, and all of a sudden she burst into a surprising and happy laugh, like a kid seeing an old friend. This is always my first memory when I think about working with curly hair and why it will never get boring. It’s not the cut, or the technique, or the product, and those factors are important. It’s the feeling and connection with hair that you get once you stop fighting and start embracing it.
What I am presenting to you are looks that actually work *with* curls. They are looks that I liked on clients or looks I keep coming back to because they work for how curly hair wants to live. Some require more of a *give* but none require you to change everything in the morning. I spent a long time being honest about what each one asks of you, because I think that’s more important than just showing you something pretty.
#1: Tapered Shape with Those Bold, Short Bangs
Achieving both confidence and softness at once can be difficult, but this particular haircut does just that. The bangs are short and need a bit more commitment, but they tend to go well with the other facial features that are tapered enough to really draw focus to the bangs without looking too strict. Bangs can be incredibly liberating, especially if you are working with a lot of hair. For really thick hair, this style is the type of cut that redistributes that mass to something much more manageable. I would recommend having a moisturizing treatment nearby, as the shorter parts do tend to get dry quicker than you would expect, and this can help. My favorite thing about this cut is that it has a lot of versatility. With just a little pomade, you can completely transform the style to something else.
#2: A Bob That Feels Effortless Because of the Layers
The way the layers in this bob are done is great because it allows the curls to separate and each one is read individually and not just all as one big shape. On someone with thinner curls, this kind of layering is really the difference between hair that sits flat and hair that has some real presence. I also enjoy the softness that comes from the bangs or the front pieces being cut that way to frame the face. Hair with this much thought put into it to give it a more effortless look is awesome.
#3: A Pixie That Actually Lets Curls Be Curls
A lot of pixie slits on curly hair seem to just be straight hair pixies with some texture added, and that’s not the same thing. This one clearly was constructed with the curl pattern in mind. You can tell because the volume is centered at the crown instead of the sides mushrooming out. It may seem small, but it impacts the overall proportions drastically. For those with tighter curls thinking about going shorter, this is a great example of what’s achievable when the cut respects the natural growth patterns of the hair.
#4: That Shag with Just a Whisper of Highlights
The highlights are very understated. They may appear as glimmers of light, but in fact sit within the curls where there has been the most movement. This adds a great deal of dimension to the overall look, without the appearance of having spent hours in the salon. Undoubtedly, the shape of the shag cut is the most forgiving in that it offers a framework that doesn’t depend on particular sizes or patterns of curls for it to work. I tend to suggest haircuts of this nature to people, especially to those who want a sense of change without having to define what that change is.
#5: A Lob That Knows Where to Stop
There’s a lot going on with this length. Just above the shoulders means the curls aren’t going to be weighed down, so they’ll be able to maintain their shape throughout the day instead of stretching out. I also see the ends are tapered, which instead of a blunt cut gives the entire silhouette a softness that a straight-across cut can’t achieve on curly hair. It’s one of those styles that looks pretty much identical whether you took twenty minutes or two, which is exactly what most of my clients are asking for when they say they want something low-maintenance.
#6: Shoulder-Length Curls with That Warmth from Highlights
It’s like these highlights have been done to mimic that effortless look that would be achieved from having a long summer holiday, with just a warm glow where the sun catches the face. The soft, defined, non-crunchy curls suggest that some sort of miracle product is helping. With an average density hair, this sort of haircut is great because it leaves enough length to tie it up, but honestly, it’s best worn down. I’d recommend a non-residue curl cream for this.
#7: Short Ringlets, Kept Simple
Your haircut shows some real restraint, and for that, thank you. It’s super easy to go overboard with layers on a haircut like this and have it look more wispy than purposeful, but the layers are soft enough that the ringlets actually have some weight to them. They bounce instead of float, if that makes sense. Plus, you aren’t going to spend your mornings fighting your hair, which is honestly one of the best gifts a haircut can give you. I think the people who really love this cut the most are the people who have spent years thinking that their curls had to be longer to be considered good.
#8: Waves That Just Happen to Land Right
This is one of those styles that show off how nice the hair and cut are on their own, and that means the cut is good. The hair has a layered cut that has just the right amount of movement so that the hair shifts back and forth as you move your head. The hair is a collarbone’s length, which is that sweet spot for length and waves. On days with more humidity, this cut will look good, and that is more important than a lot of people think.
#9: Shoulder-Length Curls Woven with Braids
I first noticed the braids, and the way they are mixed with the curls, rather than sitting on top, is awesome. They actually look like the stylist put some time into them and so did the client who chose to get this done, and that really is a compliment. Everybody wants a style that is not a wash and go, and this is definetly not an easy style, it is really personalised. The loose curls are amazing and really go with the braids, and that is perfect. Perfectly defined curls like this have a lot of ideal balance!
#10: Ringlets with Real Bounce
It is impossible to recreate the fullness that these curls have with any curling iron. The hair shows its great texture and is cut to do its thing. The happy, bouncy curls are amazing. The length is just perfect for the curls to spring up without getting tangled. If you live in a humid area, make sure to get a good anti-frizz product for this style.
#11: Short Curls in That Deep Burgundy
Texture aids in making the curl burgundy shade feel more rich and layered rather than flat and one-dimensional like other surfaces. Each curl reflects light differently, adding further depth and interest. Here, the cut is short enough that the color does most of the talking. Not only does this specific length help with defining the curls, but this also suggests that they probably won’t require as much shaping definitional and light addition. However, they may want a little something to keep the shape during the days you want to maintain the look, especially after 2 or 3 days between washes.
#12: A Bob That Celebrates What You Already Have
I like this one too because it has that honest look. It is what it is, which is cute curly hair shaped in a way that works. The curls look defined enough to have some structure but not so defined that they look overdone which is a really nice balance to have. This is the type of cut where a good curl cream will make a huge difference so I would spend my money there instead of on a bunch of tools you probably will never use.
#13: Ringlets with Some Real Character
Each of the ringlets in this bob has its own personality, with some going one direction and some the other, with varying sizes. I think some people expect uniformity, so they end up with curls that look stiff and boxy, but this cut exemplifies the opposite. My only suggestion is to use a leave-in conditioner. That way the curls will stay hydrated, and the curls will still look effortless for all-day wear.
#14. Close-Cropped Curls, Beautifully Defined
This haircut is all about confidence, and this cut lives up to it. The ringlets are out without being over done, and the cut is long enough so you can see the ringlet pattern without saying anything. My eyes go towards the crown area which has a lot of great texture. The crown area adds a ton of fullness and height to the haircut and keeps the rest of the cut from looking flat. This is definitely the sort of haircut that allows you to walk out of the salon feeling like yourself, but more polished.
#15: Textured Ringlets, Kept Close and Tidy
This is a style for people who want to keep it short, and let the ringlets do the work. They are quite defined, and with the length which sits just above the nape, the shape will stay clean without too much styling attention. The volume works well here, because it is controlled but not flattened, there’s still a lot of life in it. If your curls are denser, this is one to take to your stylist as a reference.
#16: Mid-Length Ringlets with Some Movement
I appreciate how the layers do the job of removing bulk in the areas that heavy curly hair forms while still allowing enough length for the ringlets to form correctly. You don’t get a cut that just sits there; you get a shape that moves with you. Here, good moisturizer is essential because the layered ends may dry out, but the nice thing is you end up with a cut that looks intentional without being stiff.
#17: Round and Full, Without Being Too Much
You can tell just by looking at it how balanced it is. It’s spherical, so the roundness is just right – not too full or too heavy. The defined curls suggest a refined, almost sculptural touch ( other than a box). The length is medium, which means it is very adaptable. (a) You could clip the sides back and it would look right; (b) You could leave it all down, and it would look right too. The one thing I would stress is regular moisture because cuts like this only look good when the curls are soft and hydrated. If the curls look dry, that is the first thing that gets sacrificed.
#18: Bright Orange Curls That Own the Room
It’s the commitment from both sides that makes the cut and color work so well here. The shade is a bright orange that definitely grabs your attention. The curls are tight and uniform, which makes the color almost read as a texture. Each bump reflects the light in a different way, so it’s not a subtle option, and I mean that as a compliment. With the boldness of the color on curly hair, going for a short style is smart as it means that maintenance on the color and curl definition doesn’t become a second job.
#19: Tapered Sides, Volume Where It Counts
The taper on this cut is what makes it. It is shorter on the sides and fuller on the crown giving the curls room to live and breathe. That won’t cause the curls to spread out and frizz everywhere. This is a flattering proportion on a lot of people because it creates height and elongates the face in a way that feels natural and not obvious. If your curls are tighter, using a defining product means you are going to see a difference in how long you can keep this shape between wash days.
#20: Shoulder-Length Curls with Easy Layers
It’s hard to tell it’s a layered cut because the softest layers are so subtle. What is apparent is that the curls are bouncier and more fluid than they would be in a one-length cut. That is the sign of a decent curly haircut compared to an average one. The practical energy and length of the cut is really fun and I think it’s because the curl pattern is respected rather than reshaped. The truth is this type of cut tends to get even better on day two, and that’s always a sign the shape was done right.
#21: Curls and Bangs, Done Gently
I get a lot of questions about bangs on curly hair, and my answer is always about how the bangs are cut. These are cut properly. They are so soft and they blend into the rest of the curl pattern instead of just sitting on the forehead and looking like a separate piece. The bangs do shorten the length of the cut, but give the bangs context. They feel like part of a complete idea rather than an afterthought. If you are considering this, know that curly bangs shrink a lot, so have that discussion with your stylist before they pull out the scissors.
#22: A Warm Crop with Curls That Glow
The light catches the highlights and gives them a glowing effect similar to honey. There is a unique contrast with defined curls and highlights, as every single curl creates a shadow and bright spot of its own. Therefore, even a subtle change in color really stands out. The length of the crop keeps everything in check, and the style is one that will beautifully fade out which is good to think of when proposing a short cut. The curls will need to be hydrated to ensure they remain as warm and alive as they look now.
#23: Soft Bangs and Layers That Just Work
I love how light and (for lack of a better term) “floaty” this cut feels, and the bangs don’t feel too dense. The bangs feel nice and soft and the layers give some good shape and bounce without feeling too overdone. It’s one of those cuts where the cut does 90% of the work, and the styling is more of an afterthought. I think they look great when air-dried, and I think that’s a good attribute.
#24: A Crop That’s Quiet and Cool
Short curly cuts don’t always need to be overly dramatic, and this one shows that. It’s clean and has nice definition, and just enough texture to keep things interesting without being too loud. With finer curls, this shape can help to make the hair appear fuller since the curl pattern will be more concentrated as opposed to being spread out. If you have hair that is on the thicker side, some extra layering would be helpful to prevent things from getting too bulky. Regardless, it’s a cut that does not demand attention but still gets it.
#25: Mid-Length Curls with a Natural Swing
I see that the curls in this haircut seem like they’re moving even though the photo is stationary. That is the layering doing it’s job and giving each curl enough freedom so the whole shape looks animated. This length will be flattering to most people to the point where it feels like a lot of hair, but not enough for the curls to become self heavy. I would consider this an exceptional haircut to have on a daily basis. This is a type of haircut that would be appropriate for going out to run errands and dinner since you wouldn’t have to change anything about it.
#26: Short Ringlets That Feel Alive
I don’t say this often, but I love the short defined ringlet curls. They show off the curl pattern nicely and create the illusion that each ringlet is placed there on purpose. Of course, this isn’t true, but it’s a good cut and great curl pattern. I like the subtle highlights as they give the hair some depth without changing the overall tone. Keeping the color consistent is great when the curl pattern is doing a lot.
#27: Warm-Toned Curls at Shoulder Length
One of the first things to catch my attention was the warmth of the hair. The rich quality of the hair gives the impression of fullness and health. The curls are of shoulder length, and the weight of the hair is just right to prevent the curls from frizzing but still allows for bounce. This balance is what I look for in curly hair. A lightweight curl cream is exactly what you need, just enough to keep everything smooth without weighing the hair down.
#28: Bangs and Texture in Conversation
I really like the bangs and the texture. The bangs are soft and a bit airy. Sheer straight hair might look messy, while loose curls look completely casual. With the shoulder-length cut and a good amount of volume, the bangs are nicely proportioned, and everything has a good flow to it. I feel like this haircut is for someone who wants to have a bit of personal style, but to not make it too obvious.
#29: Mid-Length Volume That Knows Its Place
In this haircut, the volume is built up in the right spots, around the face and through the mid-lengths and won’t be puffing out at the bottom. This is often the case with curly hair when the cut is done with little consideration to where the weight falls. The fine layering is the secret here. In this style, humidity may need a little help from a good curl cream, but even then, it won’t be as aggressive as some other styles.
#30: A Curly Pixie with Quiet Confidence
Pixie cuts work best when it looks like it comes naturally to you, and this one checks that box. The length is kept short which diverts attention to the face, which is ideal for a cut like this. There is versatility here which might not be obvious at first. Leaving it completely natural and free like this looks good, but with a bit of product to add some refinement will elevate it a bit. This shape requires regular trims to stay honest, so expect to plan visits with your stylist every few weeks.
#31: Layers That Give Curls Room to Breathe
The layers are the unsung heroes of this cut. They may not be as apparent as layers in the way you think of them with straight hair, but take notice with the effect of how each curl sits at a different length, which creates that cascading effect. A mid-length option will work well for this type of layering because there’s enough hair to show the shape with the layers not looking choppy. For curls that tend to stray toward the frizzy side, to keep the definition you will find that moisture is the more important element than product.
#32: Chin-Length Curls with Clear Definition
A curly haircut at chin length is always nice. The length is ideal because it achieves a short haircut while still keeping plenty of styling options open. This haircut also excels in showcasing the curls. Each curl is large enough to properly form while keeping the overall shape well defined and deliberate. If your hair is fine, I would personally expect that this shape may not give the same amount of fullness as shown in the images, so that is something you would want to talk to your stylist about prior to getting it.
#33: A Bob for the Curls You Already Have
I love the easy, effortless chic vibes this bob gives. It doesn’t look like it tries too hard — just curly hair cut into a style that works. With the shoulder length, practical style and face framing layers that curls really finish the look. I’d recommend a moisturizing curl cream for that look, because curls this length need that extra support to keep their shape all day.
#34: A Lob with Ringlets That Tell You Something
The defined ringlets will move naturally as they are not too long, such that they would stretch down under their own weight, but are long enough to provide real movement. The shape of the cut going through the entire structure is supported by the volume at the roots, as it provides lift all the way through. If your hair is on the thicker side, this is a style that will take in a lot of that thickness and will give a look that is intentional. A very moisturizing product will help keep the definition at the ends, where curly hair tends to get the driest and frizziest, especially if they have a lot of moisture.
#35: Natural Gradient on a Curly Lob
The hair color seamlessly transitions from dark to light. This creates a color gradient that makes the curls look three dimensional. This may look like effortless color work, but it’s actually very difficult and requires a lot of light work on a curly texture. The hair length that is just above the shoulders and allows the curls to spring up without collapsing which is very flattering. I think this really speaks to people who want something that looks more natural when in fact it has a lot of thought put into it.
#36: A Curly Bob That’s Shaped with Intention
The back of this bob is shorter than the front, which gives it a nice shape with curly hair. It gives the cut movement instead of just being flat. It is strong enough to keep the style, yet soft enough to look like you want to touch it. A curl enhancing cream would be perfect, especially towards the end of the week, to keep those curls looking great.
#37: A Wash-and-Go That Actually Works
Some people say they have perfected the technique of wash-and-go styling, but for many, completing this look becomes more time-consuming than completing a full hair style. This style requires you to have a cut that does the work to make your look come together. A distinctive characteristic of this look is curl placement. For this style, the curlers used should be large to really fill up and give volume to the hair. This gives the style the weight so that it requires very little adjustment. This cut might require a moisture treatment to keep the hair looking the same, but it requires little daily upkeep.
#38: A Tousled Pixie That’s Playing a Little
This look has a little asymmetry at the front which adds character to the pixie just enough to grab attention but not too much to overpower. For tight curls, a pixie like this can feel like a lot of bulk has been removed as it transforms into something that is more mobile. Overall, the look is done in a tousled way which I recommend using a curl booster to keep the definition and tame the frizz. This style will require consistent maintenance to keep the shape so regular trims in the range of four to five weeks will be necessary.
#39: Medium-Length Spirals That Really Hold
It’s not common for every curl pattern to show definition from root to tip like these spirals. That indicates these curls have been shaped, and the length is just above the shoulders. This is ideal because the length is just enough so gravity won’t pull the curls open, and provides enough length to show off the full spirals. For coarse, thicker hair, this shape will control frizz because the curls are dense enough to offer protection. The cut itself will do the majority of the work, but a moisturizing curl cream or gel would also work nicely here.
#40: A Lob with Highlights That Feel Like Sunlight
The end of this lob has sun-kissed highlights. It is like summer hair when the sun changes the color of your hair. It is a great effect with curled textures because each curl will capture a different color which will create a shifting dimension. The cut goes well with the curl pattern and does not try to impose a design. The moisture treatments are very important because dry curly hair of this length can look very tired.
#41: Cascading Layers That Let Each Curl Speak
What really stands out to me with this cut is the attention that has been put into the layering. It is easy to go overboard on layering a cut and end up with something stringy, but in this case the layers are cut so that every curl falls at a different length, creating a natural flowing effect. I also appreciate the face framing selective layering as it allows the volume to really work with the features. Overall, it looks like a cut that has taken a lot of thought and skill from the stylist, especially in understanding that with curly hair, layering isn’t about removing weight, but the placement of the layers.
#42: A Short Taper That Feels Like Coming Home
Haircuts like this are evidence that those who are naturally curly and unsure about cutting their hair should definitely try it. The tapers and shorter sides are great frames and the curls get lots of room to work. It is young without being childish and fun without being boring. For those with thick hair and high hair struggle levels, if you are wondering what to do with thick curly hair then I promise that this haircut will change your life, especially when it comes to time spent on your hair in the morning. A haircut like this combined with regular upkeep will keep the shape looking neat and deliberate.
#43: Chestnut Curls with Just a Touch of Light
Chestnut with soft red and blonde ribbons are so nice! I love warm face framing highlights. Bobs are both pretty and practical. It is the best length for medium dense hair that wants to look fuller without the weight of longer hair. The color could use some upkeep though to prevent fading. When curly hair is colored it tends to get dry so a good solid moisturizer is essential.
#44: Soft Volume with a Tapered Nape
The nape taper is clever as it takes away weight from the back of the head so curl volume is maximized at the front and through the crown. The darker root color gives some depth to the curls, making them look a bit more dimensional, and the look is streamlined but not stiff. Not every curly style can blend seamlessly into a professional and casual setting, but this is one of them. The only investment I’d recommend is a non-crunch defining product, if you want to get the most out of this cut then softness is key.
#45: Short and Natural, Without Apology
This haircut is for people who love their natural hair texture and want a look that showcases it. The main feature is the spirals, and the cut is designed to \”face frame\” so it doesn’t cover it up. I think it’s worth mentioning that this length does provide a lot of versatility for when you want to pull the hair back to simplify your day, so if that matters to you, it’s worth considering. A light mousse will define the curls without weighing them down, which is the goal of a cut this short.
#46: Deep Black Curls with an Edge
The depth of black as a color makes the curls do something really interesting. Each curl stands out as they cast individual shadows creating a texture that is almost touchable. The detail of the cropped sides gives the face extra sharpness and definition, which the curls on top then soften. I really like that balance. If you have grays or lighter hairs starting to come through, you’ll need to keep up with the color to keep that depth consistent because it’s really doing a lot for the overall effect.
#47: An Asymmetrical Updo with Texture to Spare
I am fascinated by the asymmetrical style and design of updos, as they provide a unique potential to demonstrate movement without any physical movement of the hair. Volume and taper are used in this design in a modern, but not overly trendy way. When the hair is arranged in a curly texture, it brings a certain presence to the design. If it had been styled straight, this design would simply be an off-center updo. The initial cut on the hair needs to be done very painstakingly and accurately, but once that is done, the following days will be a lot easier.
#48: Bouncy Curls with Quiet Lowlights
Lowlights won’t probably come to your mind if someone was to ask you what you think about the colour. Most likely you’d just say the hair looks rich and that is the aim of good lowlights! With thick curly hair like this, lowlights really add to the already naturally created three dimensionality the curls give off. The just-above-shoulder length is a great choice for controlling the volume, it’s long enough to have some presence without having to do a full negotiation every morning.
#49: A Deep Brown Updo for When It Matters
I love how this updo adds a little sophistication and keeps my personality intact. The brown hue of the curls is beautiful and adds an extra touch of elegance and luxury to the entire look. And the volume is sophisticated rather than haphazard and messy. I won’t lie and say this is a quick style to do, but it is fairly simple to do. This look gives off a more serious vibe which is great for fancy events but it is also great for more casual and normal events like going out for dinner. Just be sure to plan for humidity as this look does require some anti-frizz strategies.
#50: A Tapered Pixie That Springs to Life
The main focus of this cut is about the great spring it has. The taper helps remove bulk from the sides and back and gives the most room for the hair on top to spring up and out. It can be ideal for thick curly hair and can make you feel lighter with the maintenance. The cut does need regular shaping to maintain the aesthetics of the cut. It grows out really well before your next appointment, and that’s a good sign of a good short cut.
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