Most people think curly hair is harder to style than straight hair, but that’s a myth. Because of its texture, curly hair offers more versatility and can make even the simplest haircuts look more interesting.
Whether you have long or short curls, short hair can make your style pop.
The Curly Quiff
The Curly Quiff is a modern take on the classic quiff for curly or wavy hair. It’s got cropped sides and a big top, so it’s balanced and cool. Use a bit of dry shampoo at the roots for maximum volume and definition. This haircut is timeless with a modern twist, perfect for your natural curls.
High and Tight
The High and Tight is a sharp, military-style haircut that’s clean and rugged. It’s a variation of the crew cut, with the back and sides buzzed very short (or shaved) and the top a bit longer. The contrast between the short sides and the longer top creates a defined, masculine look that works well with curly hair.
The High and Tight is a minimal-maintenance style for men with curly hair that makes the most of your natural texture. The short sides keep things tidy, and the longer curls on top add some flair and dimension. No styling is required—you can wake up and go, with your curls adding a bit of effortless cool.
This haircut is for men who want a polished, professional look with minimal maintenance but not at the expense of personality. High and Tight is versatile and timeless with no effort, whether you’re at the gym, in the office, or out for a night in the town.
High Fade for Curly Hair
The High Fade is great for men with curly hair. It’s a modern look that shows off your natural texture. This haircut has a gradual fade, starting high on the sides and back and leaving the top longer to show off your curls. The contrast between the clean, faded sides and textured curls on top is striking and balanced.
A High Fade is for men who want a stylish and polished look that works in both casual and formal settings. The fade keeps things tidy and structured, and the curls on top add volume and personality. The high fade reduces bulk around the sides, making your hair manageable and easy to style.
Whether you like tight, defined curls or a more relaxed, undone look, the High Fade offers versatility and ensures your curls are the focus. It’s a smart, on-point option that lets you show off your curls without overwhelming your overall style.
Combed-Back Curls
The Combed-Back Curls haircut is a sleek and sophisticated option for men who want to keep their hair off their face but still show off their natural curls. This style has short sides and longer curls on top, which can be combed back for a smooth look. Use a styling cream to add definition and control and a strong-hold hairspray to keep your curls in place all day.
This style is elegant and easy, perfect for formal occasions and everyday wear. The combination of short sides and longer combed-back curls is sharp and neat while keeping the volume and texture of your curls on top. It’s an excellent option for men who want a professional yet stylish cut with minimal maintenance.
The Buzz Cut
The Buzz Cut is back, and both men and women are loving it. This super short style is for those who want a low-maintenance haircut that works for all hair types, including curly hair. The beauty of the buzz cut is its simplicity—there is no need for extensive styling or products—just wash and go.
For men with curly hair, the buzz cut eliminates the hassle of managing curls while still looking fresh and sharp. It’s perfect for those who want a clean, minimal look with minimal maintenance. Whether you want a statement look or just a practical cut, the buzz cut is a classic that never goes out of style.
Box Top
The Box Top is a statement look, perfect for Afro and curly hair textures. This style has a defined, squared-off top with a taper fade on the sides, which creates a sharp contrast that enhances your natural curls.
To get this style, use an Afro pick to lift and shape the curls on top into a clean box shape. For curl definition and hold, use products like Suave Professionals Captivating Curls Mousse Cream, which works well to enhance your hair’s natural pattern. Or use Emerge My Everything Hair Styling Butter Cream with pequi oil for anti-frizz and almond milk to strengthen your hair. Both products will keep your curls defined and frizz-free and maintain the structure of the box top.
This style is perfect for those who want a bold, structured look that celebrates natural texture and is modern and sleek. The Box Top adds height and personality to your appearance, and the taper fade gives you a clean finish.
Grown-Out Curls with Faded Undercut
The Grown-Out Curls with Faded Undercut is a stylish and versatile option for men who want to show off their natural curls. This haircut has longer curls on top that are left to grow out and a mid-fade or low fade on the sides and back. The contrast between the curls on top and the clean, faded sides is bold and modern.
This style is for those who want to show off their natural texture and look fresh and polished. The longer length on top gives you flexibility in styling – you can let your curls flow naturally, add some product for definition, or even slick them back for a more refined look.
Slicked-Back Curls
The Slicked-Back Curls look is sleek and effortless for men with cropped curls who want definition without sacrificing style. Although it looks easy, it takes some work.
Start by washing your hair and towel-drying it until damp. Apply a moisturizing leave-in conditioner to keep your curls hydrated, then follow up with a styling cream or gel with a light hold. A good option is the TRESemmé One Step Styler Curls Crème-Gel, which has control and definition.
Use a wide-tooth comb to gently brush your hair back, making sure each curl is sleek and defined. After combing, let your hair dry naturally, or use a diffuser to dry faster. Finally, finish with a light mist of hairspray to set everything in place and keep your curls looking slick and shiny all day.
Curly Pompadour
The curly pompadour is a bold and stylish option for men with curly hair who want to show off their natural volume. This look has a lot of height and fullness on top and shorter tapered sides for a sharp contrast. Unlike the airy texture of a quiff, the pompadour is brushed back, which creates a denser and sleeker look while still retaining the natural curl pattern.
To get the curly pompadour, add volume to your curls with a mousse or styling cream. Then brush the hair on top, back, and away from your face to get that sleek look. A light gel or pomade will help keep the style in place while still allowing your curls to shine.
Close Cut
The Close Cut is a classic and practical option for men with curly hair. It is a clean and low-maintenance style. This haircut is short and close to the scalp, making it easy to manage and perfect for busy men. Although it’s simple, it still allows you to show off your natural curls subtly and neatly.
Minimal styling is required, making it perfect for men who want to look polished without spending too much time on maintenance. A quick trim every few weeks, and you’re good to go, making it a great option for men on the go.
French Crop
The French Crop is a short hairstyle that works well with curly hair. This cut has cropped sides—often with a fade—and a longer top with a fringe. For curly hair, the longer fringe on top allows your natural curls to show through and adds texture and definition to the overall look.
To get the best results with a French crop, ask your barber for a slightly longer fringe so that your curls have room to breathe and show off their natural shape. The fade on the sides keeps it clean and modern, and the longer top gives you enough length to style and define your curls.
Short Bleached Curls
Short Bleached Curls are a statement look if you want to make a bold move. This style combines the texture of cropped curls with the drama of platinum blonde. Bleaching your curls lightens them and adds a fresh and edgy twist to a classic cut.
Short Bleached Curls are perfect for those who want to stand out and add something new to their style. The lightened curls will bring a new dimension to your look and a striking contrast to your natural hair color. This is for those who dare to be different and fashionable.
High Top, Low Sides
The High-Top, Low-Sides haircut is a classic and stylish option for men with curly hair. This haircut has a big top and shorter tapered sides, which creates a clean contrast that shows off your natural curls. The high top gives your curls room to breathe, and the low sides keep it neat and structured.
The High Top, Low Sides is a timeless and polished look that works for both casual and formal occasions. This makes it a versatile and long-lasting option for curly men.
Curly Fringe
The curly fringe is a versatile and stylish addition to any hairstyle, whether long or short. This look has a fringe of curls that falls across the forehead, a playful and dynamic element that adds to the overall look.
For men, the curly fringe can be incorporated into many hairstyles, such as longer flowing curls or shorter, more structured cuts. The fringe frames the face, adds a youthful and trendy vibe, and shows off the natural texture of your curls.
Finger Waves
Finger Waves is a sophisticated vintage hairstyle that’s elegant and gentle on your curls. Instead of using combs or brushes, this technique uses your fingers to create smooth, sculpted waves in your hair. This method is not only great for a polished look but also minimizes the risk of breakage and split ends.
Finger Waves are versatile, work for casual and formal occasions, and are perfect for those who want to go classic and chic with their natural curls.
Heavy Top
The Heavy Top is a bold hairstyle that lets your thick curls shine. By giving your curls the space to be themselves with a fuller, longer top, you’re embracing their natural shape and getting a statement look.
To get the Heavy Top, apply SheaMoisture Men Argan Oil & Shea Butter Defining Cream. This product adds moisture to your curls, defines and enhances their natural pattern, reduces frizz, and gives a smooth finish.
Apply the cream to damp hair and make sure it’s evenly distributed throughout your curls. Use your fingers to scrunch and shape your curls. Let them form naturally without disturbing their pattern. Air dry or use a diffuser to add volume and definition.
Loose Waves
Loose Waves are a great way to embrace and enhance your hair’s natural texture, even if it isn’t fully curly. This relaxed and effortless style shows off subtle waves and adds texture to your overall look.
To get Loose Waves, apply a styling product like AXE Natural Look: Softening Cream. This cream adds definition and manageability to your waves and keeps them natural and soft.
Hat Styled
The Hat Style is a practical and stylish way to manage your curls on the go. Tucking your curls under a hat gives you a neat, polished look that works with many outfits and occasions.
The hat style is perfect when you want to keep your curls under control or need a quick, classic style. It’s ideal for both casual and more formal occasions, a simple and effective way to manage your hair and put your look together.
Chestnut Bangs
Chestnut bangs are a stylish way to add some flair and color to your curly hairstyle. This look has a bit of length on top so your curls can breathe and roam free, while the chestnut color adds to the overall look.
The Chestnut Bangs style is perfect for those who want to show off their curls and add some sophistication and color. It’s a versatile look that can be dressed up or down, modern and fresh.
Mop Top
The Mop Top is a relaxed and carefree hairstyle in which the top of your hair hangs free. It gives you a fun and voluminous look. It’s great if you’re growing out an undercut or just want to go laid-back and cool.
The Mop Top is perfect for low-maintenance, stylish looks. It’s great for showing off natural texture and is generally laid-back and easygoing.
Short Curly Haircuts
Short, curly haircuts are great for those with naturally curly or wavy hair. They take the weight off your curls and let them spring to life with more volume and movement. Not only are short haircuts low maintenance, but they also look timeless and never go out of style. Perfect for warmer seasons, these haircuts are chic for any age. Whether you want a fresh, youthful look or a sophisticated style, short, curly haircuts have endless options to enhance your natural texture.
Classic Short Curly Haircuts
Classic short, curly haircuts are perfect for those who want a simple and stylish look. These haircuts have short lengths, with added texture and layering to enhance your natural curls. A short curly pixie is a great example of this style, you can wear it with or without bangs. For a modern twist, try a short curly lob with a center part and subtle layers. These classic styles show off your natural curls and are a versatile and fashionable option for any occasion.
Fade Haircuts for Curly Hair
Fade haircuts are great for men with curly hair. They give a sharp and modern look that shows off your natural texture. A high fade is very striking, and it gives a clean and sleek look by gradually shortening the hair from the top down. For a more subtle look, a medium fade gives a smoother transition from the curly hair on top to the shorter sides. These faded haircuts show off your curls and are a polished and stylish option for both casual and formal occasions.
Styling Tips for Curly or Wavy Hair
Styling curly or wavy hair is easy with the right techniques and products. Here are some tips to help you get a flattering, short, curly hairstyle:
Use a sulfate-free shampoo and conditioner: These products will keep your curls moisturized and defined without stripping away natural oils.
Apply a styling cream or curl-defining cream: Enhance your natural texture and reduce frizz with products for curly hair.
Use a leave-in conditioner or hair serum: Add moisture and shine to your curls and keep them healthy and vibrant.
Blow dry with a diffuser: This will distribute heat evenly and enhance curl definition, making you look more polished.
Avoid heavy products: These will weigh your curls down and make them look greasy. Go for light products that give hold without sacrificing volume.
By following these tips, you can manage and style your curly or wavy hair and look great every day.
Haircare for Short, Curly Hair
Short, curly hair requires a haircare routine. Here are the must-haves:
Use a wide-tooth comb or detangling brush: Detangle your curls gently from the ends up to avoid breakage.
Limit heat styling: Too much heat can damage your curls. Air dry or use a diffuser on low heat.
Deep condition: Use a hair mask once a week to add moisture and nourishment to your curls.
Trim: Trim regularly to prevent split ends and breakage and keep your curls fresh and healthy.
Dry with care: To dry your curls, use a microfiber towel or an old T-shirt. Regular towels can cause friction and breakage.
Following these haircare tips will keep your short, curly hair healthy and beautiful.
