The 35 Best Curly Hairstyles For Men

Curly hair is inherently attractive, offering men a naturally stylish look that stands out with bold textured charm and timeless men’s hairstyles. From voluminous fringes to messy medium looks, these modern cuts combine cool aesthetics, clean functionality, and versatile styling options for every occasion. Explore these popular and wearable choices to find the style that best complements your face shape, features and preferences. 

Textured Crew Cut 

The textured crew cut is a long curly hair variation that retains length and volume on top while incorporating tapering sides for a clean structured finish. This style offers impressive styling versatility, making it an excellent choice to showcase curls without sacrificing edge or definition, especially when paired with a fade that creates stronger visual contrast. 

From my own experience, I’ve found this cut incredibly practical because it balances professionalism with personality. Keeping the top defined while the sides tapered gave me confidence in both casual and formal settings, and learning how to maintain it with proper curl care truly elevated my overall style.

Messy Curly Hair Fade

A messy curly hair fade is a stylish short men’s haircut that uses sharp contrast by keeping the tight sides clean while letting an unruly, longer top create more structure and a stronger overall look. This cut feels bold, full of character, and the best part is how the style naturally thrives on real texture and movement instead of looking overly controlled. 

It’s typically features a short to medium-length top with a trendy low, mid or skin fade and all of them work depending on how sharp you want the finish around the edges. For styling, apply curl cream on damp curls, then let them dry naturally or use a diffuser to boost volume while you reduce stiffness and keep the shape soft. 

From my experience, a mid fade is the easiest option because it stays clean for longer but still looks relaxed. It also makes the top feel lighter, so curls bounce better and don’t collapse during the day. If you keep the top slightly longer, the cut looks more natural and the messy finish feels intentional instead of random.

Modern Curly Mullet

A tapered modern curly mullet keeps volume focused around the crown with longer curls, while the short sides and back stay neat, giving a retro but intentional look that still feels current. The best part is how it holds its shape and natural movement without sacrificing structure, making it a strong option for guys who want something expressive yet wearable for professional settings. 

For styling, run curl cream through damp hair, then diffuse to enhance texture and maintain a clean, balanced finish that doesn’t look overdone.

From my experience, the taper is what makes this mullet easy to pull off because it keeps the sides controlled. It looks sharp even after a long day, especially when the curls sit naturally on top. If you diffuse lightly, you get definition without turning the style stiff or heavy.

Brushed Back Curls

Brushed-back curls are a classy hairstyle for guys who want to create a more sleek, natural look by styling the hair away from the face while keeping controlled volume. This versatile, iconic style strikes the perfect balance between a sophisticated shape and real curl texture, so you can achieve that polished aesthetic without losing the personality of your curls. 

To set it right, apply a strong-hold styling cream on damp hair, then use a wide-tooth comb or your fingers to gently brush it backward, and finish by diffusing on low heat to lock definition in place. 

From my experience, this is one of the cleanest curly looks for work because it instantly opens up the face. It also makes your curls look more intentional, especially when the back has enough length to sit smoothly. If you keep the diffuser on low heat, the definition stays sharp without frizz taking over.

Fluffy Curls

Fluffy curls are all about a soft, voluminous look that enhances your natural texture with a light, airy feel, giving a fluffier shape that emphasizes bounce and movement. This style keeps your locks looking fresh by creating a casual yet stylish appearance that’s perfect for everyday wear, especially if you want curls that look full without feeling heavy. 

To get it right, apply lightweight curl cream or mousse to damp hair, then gently scrunch to encourage lift, and allow the hair to air dry or diffuse on low heat for a cleaner setting that helps maintain softness without weighing down your curls. 

From my experience, the trick is keeping the product light so the curls stay touchable and not sticky. I usually scrunch in sections to build even lift, then stop touching it once it starts drying. If you diffuse on low heat, you get extra volume while still keeping that fluffy finish.

Textured Short Curls with Fade

Textured short curls with a fade give you a sharp, contemporary look that still feels natural and easy to wear. This style celebrates your hair’s attractive texture while maintaining a professional appearance, so it works for everyday life and formal settings too. A temp fade brings structure and definition to the sides, keeping everything clean and framing a flattering shape around the face. The cropped curly top adds volume and character without overwhelming your features, which is why it suits so many guys. 

To style it, apply curl cream on damp hair, then blow dry with a diffuser attachment to maximize lift and prevent frizz while locking in curl shape.

From my experience, this cut is the safest upgrade when someone wants a clean outline but doesn’t want to lose their curl personality. I’ve seen it look great even with minimal styling, as long as the fade stays fresh. When the top is cut right, it grows out smoothly and still holds that defined shape.

Curly Buzz Cut

The curly buzz cut is the kind of timeless style that makes life simple without looking boring. It’s a low-maintenance haircut that keeps your coils tightly cropped, resulting in a clean and sharp appearance that flatters strong features right away. 

For guys with tight curls or coily hair who are seeking a no-fuss finish, this is a seriously practical choice because it stays neat with almost zero effort. Just keep up with regular trims to maintain the style’s shape, and use a light leave-in conditioner that retains hydration and prevents dryness without compromising the crisp look.

From my experience, this cut works best when the lineup is clean and the length is consistent all over. I’ve seen it look even sharper when someone treats it like a style, not just a shortcut. A little moisture goes a long way, and it keeps the finish looking smooth all day.

Loose, Flowing Parted Curls with Taper Fade

This style plays with loose, flowing parted curls and a taper fade to strike the right balance between a free-flowing expression of individuality and quiet refinement, creating a look that feels split into equal parts classy and laid-back at the same time; a gentle side part brings a clear sense of order without resorting to harsh lines, while the subtle taper fade flatters the face by emphasizing natural movement on the top without drawing attention to itself, allowing the curls to breathe and flow naturally. 

In my personal experience working with men who want definition without stiffness, this cut consistently delivers control and comfort. I have styled this on different curl patterns and it adapts well with minimal product. Personally, I find it ideal for men who want structure that still feels relaxed and authentic.

Thick Curls with Low Fade

Thick curls with low fade is a clean, modern choice that helps maximise volume and density while still maintaining a controlled silhouette. The fade usually starts just above ears and quickly tapers down, which keeps the sides sharp while preserving weight on top and subtly accentuating jawline and cheekbones. It works especially well for guys with thick coarse curls because the longer curls top naturally highlight hair’s natural texture without becoming unruly, giving you a strong shape that still feels effortless.

For styling, work strong curl cream evenly through damp curls, then scrunch gently to create definition, and stay light-handed to keep things fresh and avoid product buildup. 

From my experience, this cut looks best when the barber keeps the fade low and soft so the top stays full and natural. I also find that using a small amount of curl cream first gives better control than overloading it. Once the curls set, the style holds well and still looks touchable.

Curly Mullet Fade

Curly mullet fade is the kind of cut you pick when you want something a little rebellious but still current, a modern take on a traditional curl cut that doesn’t feel like a costume. The idea is simple: it balances shape and structure with your natural texture, so your curls stay the main feature instead of getting buried under heavy styling. 

This style combines tight faded sides with longer curly hair that cascades down neck, creating a strong front-to-back movement and that nostalgic edge, while still maintaining a contemporary lean shape. For finishing, a small amount of texturizing paste helps enhance separation and definition, so the overall look stays sharp and tidy without looking too structured. 

From my experience, the biggest difference between a great mullet fade and an awkward one is how the back is shaped, it should flow, not flare out. I also find curls sit better when you apply paste after the hair is mostly dry. That keeps the texture clean and stops the style from looking stiff.

Curly Mohawk Burst Fade

A curly mohawk burst fade is one of those cuts that instantly creates a striking contrast by combining tight curls on top with sharply faded burst work around the sides, giving you an edgy style that naturally emphasizes texture and volume without looking messy. The clean, defined look comes thanks to the rounded shaping around the ears, which keeps the cut structured even when your curls are doing their own thing. 

It’s ideal for short, tight, slightly unruly curls and even coarser texture, since the fade controls the bulk while the mohawk keeps the focus up top. It also requires minimal daily styling, especially if you’re using curl-enhancing products to maintain shape and definition. 

From my experience, this is the go-to option when a guy wants something bold but still wearable. I’ve seen it hold up really well through busy weeks because the fade stays crisp and the curls stay controlled. The key is keeping the top hydrated so the curl pattern stays defined instead of frizzy.

Heavy Wavy Fringe with Taper Fade

The heavy wavy fringe with a taper fade is a smart pick if you want a cut that accentuates your natural texture while working perfectly with thick hair, because it’s all about letting the waves cascade freely across the forehead for a relaxed, effortless vibe. The tapered fade keeps the sides clean and sharp, balancing extra lift and volume on top with a neat finish that still feels modern and wearable. 

To make it look its best, grow your hair to a medium length so you can give your true wave pattern enough room to take shape, then lightly finger-style with curl cream or mousse to control the top and front sections without making it stiff. 

From my experience, this style is ideal for guys who want movement in the front but don’t want their haircut to feel high-maintenance. I usually recommend a small amount of mousse first, then a touch of curl cream only where the fringe needs definition. Once it sets, the shape holds well all day while still looking natural.

Curly Perm with Fade

A curly perm with a fade gives you a defined, relatively uniform style that still feels fresh, because the curls stay controlled while the cut stays clean. The sharp, modern look is characterized by tapering around the back and sides, with soft curls sitting on top that can blend with your natural curls or be fully permed for a more consistent finish. Since a perm requires maintenance, you’ll want to preserve the shape and prevent damage with regular moisturizing treatments and sulfate-free shampoos to keep the perm healthy. 

For styling, stick to lightweight curl-enhancing products so you keep bouncy curls without buildup, and book regular trims to maintain the fade’s blend plus those meticulous edges that make the haircut look expensive. 

From my experience, the biggest difference-maker is hydration, not more product. When clients stay consistent with moisture, the curl pattern stays tight and predictable. And with trims on time, the fade always looks fresh even weeks later.

Sponged Curls

Sponged curls are a trendy hairstyle for Black men, offering defined, textured, and natural looks that truly flatter Black hair. This style creates a uniform pattern that enhances sharp features, and when paired with a precise lineup around the hairline, it keeps edges clean and visually striking.

Many men pair their sponged curls with a connected beard, allowing the style to seamlessly blend into a fade and enhancing overall sharpness and cohesion. Maintaining this look requires a regular moisturizing routine and lightweight styling products to preserve curl definition intact without buildup.

As a stylist, I recently designed sponged curls on a client, carefully creating uniform, textured curls while keeping his edges sharp and clean; I paired the curls with a fade and connected beard, using lightweight styling products to preserve definition, and the final look highlighted his features perfectly while maintaining natural movement and cohesion throughout.

Textured Surfer Curls with Messy Bangs

Textured surfer curls with messy bangs create a casual look that exudes laid-back confidence and natural charm. The floppy, tousled fringe frames the face perfectly, showcasing the hair’s natural texture while capturing an effortless, beachy aesthetic.

By keeping the top slightly longer and curled while letting the bangs fall casually, the style achieves an intentionally undone yet styled vibe, with the line between controlled and carefree creating a unique visual appeal.

As a stylist, I designed textured surfer curls with messy bangs on a client, allowing the fringe to frame his face naturally while enhancing his hair’s texture; I left the top longer and slightly curled, tousling it intentionally to create an effortless, beachy look that perfectly captured his laid-back confidence.

Curly Blowout Fade

The curly blowout fade offers volume and lift without abandoning structure, creating a high-impact hairstyle that commands attention while maintaining a sense of respectability. The tall, voluminous curls on top elongate the face, contrasting sharply with tightly cut sides.

By applying volumizing mousse to damp hair and using a diffuser, the blowout’s signature height and definition are achieved, emphasizing the hair’s tight, coiled texture for a bold yet refined finish.

I recently gave a client a curly blowout fade, applying mousse and diffusing his hair to lift the curls at the root while keeping the sides sharply cropped; the style emphasized his hair’s natural texture and created a striking, voluminous silhouette that made him feel confident and bold.

Tousled Short Curls

Tousled short curls strike a balance between natural flow and ordered restraint, delivering a cool, laid-back look that feels equally preppy and relaxed. The hair is cut to a respectable length all over, with slightly longer, textured layers on top for movement.

This cut prevents curls from overwhelming the face, maintaining the hair’s inherent character while keeping the overall style sharp and professional, ideal for daily wear or casual settings.

On a client, I cut tousled short curls with slightly longer textured layers on top to create an undone yet controlled feel; the balance between relaxed movement and sharp edges gave him a professional yet approachable appearance that highlighted his natural curl pattern.

Thick, Black Curls with Mid Fade

Thick, black curls with a mid fade create striking contrast and definition, highlighting the hair’s depth and richness. The voluminous, springy curls on top are paired with closely cropped sides, enhancing the cheekbones and producing a sharp silhouette.

The mid-level fade provides a gentler transition than a high fade, allowing the lengthier top curls to shine while the shaved sides complete the hairstyle, celebrating coarse curls while maintaining a masculine, clean-cut edge.

I styled a client’s thick black curls with a mid fade, shaping the top into voluminous, springy coils while trimming the sides closely to emphasize his facial features; the result was a sharp, masculine look that celebrated his natural hair texture while keeping a clean, modern edge.

Classy Off-Center Curls with Tapered Sides

Classy off-center curls with tapered sides create a refined, individual look that balances professionalism and character. The deliberately asymmetrical cut, featuring an off-center part, allows natural flow and adds a sophisticated, stylish flair.

Lightweight styling cream is applied to work the curls gently to one side, finishing with a tousled yet debonair aesthetic that makes the style both polished and effortless.

I recently designed off-center curls with tapered sides on a client, applying a lightweight cream to shape the curls gently while highlighting the asymmetrical part; the finished style looked polished yet relaxed, perfectly blending professionalism with a touch of character.

Long Curly Hair Fade

Long curly hair with a fade retains length and volume on top while tapering around the sides for a clean, structured finish. This hairstyle offers styling versatility, allowing clients to showcase impressive volume without sacrificing sharpness or curl definition.

Using lightweight curl cream to hydrate and define coils, the top curls are kept lively and defined while regular touch-ups maintain a sharp fade; high fades create strong visual contrast, while low fades allow a subtler look for long curly hair to shine.

On a client, I combined long curls on top with a fade on the sides, applying curl cream to define each coil and keep the hair hydrated; the contrast of the fade with the natural volume created a versatile and striking look that maintained sharp edges while celebrating the hair’s full texture.

Curly Hair Undercut

The curly hair undercut is a modern men’s haircut featuring thick curls on top with closely shaved sides, creating a striking contrast. This style accentuates volume, narrows the face, and adds a fluffy texture, especially when paired with a sculpted beard. To keep it sharp and fresh, regular touch-ups are recommended.

From my own experience, the curly undercut gave me a bold edge without losing the natural appeal of curls. The contrast between the top and sides instantly made my style stand out, and pairing it with a trimmed beard made my facial structure look sharper and more defined.

Long Curly Fringe with Short Sides

The long curly fringe with short sides highlights texture and movement, giving a youthful look as curls fall naturally on the forehead while keeping the sides neat. Ideal for thicker hair and tighter curls, applying curl cream or mousse on damp hair and diffusing lifts and defines the pattern. Finish with light-hold hairspray to control frizz and maintain shape.

From my own experience, this curly fringe style completely changed how I carried my curls, as the short sides made everything easier to manage while the long fringe gave me a relaxed yet stylish edge

Medium Messy Curls 

The medium messy curls accentuate the hair’s natural volume with a loose, unstructured shape, creating a playful energy that works well with waves or tight coils. This hairstyle is best left to move freely, offering an easygoing finish that doesn’t feel overstyled when you apply curl cream on damp hair and air dry to enhance the pattern. Try this cut to enjoy locks that retain the style’s unkempt charm while staying soft and defined.

From my own experience, medium messy curls gave me a relaxed yet stylish edge, and keeping them natural made maintenance effortless. Air drying with the right curl cream always kept the texture fresh without extra styling.

Fluffy and Casual

The fluffy and casual look emphasizes natural volume and softness, with a loose, relaxed texture that feels effortless yet deliberate. Best on medium-length hair, gently scrunched air-dried curls with lightweight mousse enhance bounce and the hair’s inherent lightness. This style radiates confidence while keeping your curls effortlessly manageable.

From my own experience, wearing my curls in a fluffy casual style made me feel both comfortable and stylish at the same time. It gave my hair more life, and the natural bounce always drew compliments, proving that simplicity can be just as impactful as detailed styling.

Broccoli Cut

The broccoli cut is a bold youthful hairstyle that combines short fade or taper sides with a thick voluminous top full of curls, creating a rounded, textured shape of hair resembling florets. This viral favorite with its playful high-energy vibe has become popular among younger guys, making it an attention-grabbing choice to show natural texture while adding contrast and personality.

From my own experience, the broccoli cut gave me a standout look that felt fresh and confident. The full curls on top with sharp sides made my style unique and helped me embrace my natural texture boldly.

Messy Curly Mohawk with Temp Taper and Fringe 

The messy curly mohawk with a temp taper and fringe delivers a bold, rebellious attitude while keeping stylistic precision. Gently faded skin temples frame the face and create a clean, soft shape that highlights your features. This style balances edge and flow, making it both striking and wearable

From my own expertise, I’ve styled this cut many times and found it instantly boosts confidence by blending control with creativity. Using the right product and technique, I could easily shift between casual and standout looks, proving how versatile this style truly is 

Tousled Medium Curls with Full Beard 

The tousled medium curls with a full beard create a striking, laid-back look that balances softness and structure. Curls move naturally while remaining easy to manage with minimal styling. Using texturising cream or salt spray on damp hair and a lightweight oil or balm keeps both hair and beard well-groomed.

From my expertise, I’ve worn this style and found it truly versatile, as it needs little effort but still leaves a bold impression. If you want a look that feels both confident and natural, this is the style you should try.

Fluffy Medium Curls 

Fluffy medium curls strike the perfect balance of volume and manageability, allowing your hair’s inherent texture to shine while keeping it from looking unruly. With a versatile length, you get full curl formation that stays manageable and practical for daily wear, especially when paired with curl-enhancing cream on towel-dry hair. Using a gentle blow-dry diffuser attachment can further encourage natural curl definition without losing shape.

From my own styling experience, this look has been my go-to for both casual and professional days. With the right products and quick routine, I’ve managed to keep my curls looking polished yet effortless, and I often recommend it to anyone aiming for a bold but easy-to-manage style.

Curly Middle Part 

A curly middle part brings an ordered symmetry to even the most unruly texture, framing the face with natural curls while encouraging a freeform boho vibe. Positioned at the center, it keeps eyes visible and effortlessly frames, creating a soft-focus romantic look that’s versatile for casual or formal settings. For styling, work on damp hair, use a fine-toothed comb and apply leave-in conditioner to aid formation for well-defined yet free-flowing curls.

From my own experience, I’ve found that this style works best when paired with lightweight products that don’t weigh down curls, keeping them fresh throughout the day. I often recommend this look to clients who want something stylish yet low-maintenance.

Curly Two Block

The curly two block style keeps the weight on top while the back and sides are clipped short, giving a clean modern outline that pairs beautifully with loose medium curls. This cut allows natural volume and texture, letting the fringe sit naturally while a good curl cream on damp hair helps maintain contrast and shape.

From my own styling journey, I noticed this cut gave me the perfect balance between tidy and trendy. With the right products, I felt confident stepping out, and it’s the style I recommend most when clients want low effort but maximum impact.

Long Messy Curls with Beard 

Long messy curls paired with a beard can strike the perfect mix of a relaxed yet confident look, especially when you let them fall freely for a natural vibe. This style is fairly easy to maintain with the right products, like a leave-in conditioner or curl cream that help reduce frizz and enhance definition without making hair feel heavy.

From my own experience, maintaining this style felt rewarding once I learned how to pair curls with a neatly kept beard. Using lightweight curl products daily made my hair manageable while still keeping that natural definition. If you’re ready to embrace bold yet effortless style, this is the look worth trying.

Long Brushed Back Curls

Long brushed back curls are a classy, versatile hairstyle that combines dramatic sweeping length with authentic texture, giving a head-turning movie-star look. Using a styling cream and a wide-tooth comb allows maximum curl movement while preserving the integrity of the hair. This style projects confidence and adds bold sophistication for any occasion.

From my experience, letting my hair grow longer and using a light curl cream with a wide-tooth comb really transformed my curls. The style looked sleek yet natural and gave me a noticeable boost in confidence.

Long, Parted Curly Hair

Long, parted curly hair frames the face, adding structure and symmetry while letting your natural curl pattern shine. The longer length gives coils room to form, and using a leave-in conditioner with curl cream helps enhance shape and control frizz, while a lightweight hair oil tames flyaways for a polished finish. This style is effortless yet striking, perfect for those who want a refined and natural look.

From my experience, maintaining this style with the right conditioner and curl cream made my curls defined without heaviness. It gave me a clean, structured appearance while keeping the natural bounce intact, making it one of my go-to styles for any occasion.

Swept Back Loose Waves 

Swept-back loose waves create a rugged modern hairstyle for guys, highlighting natural flow and adding dimension with shaggy layers without overwhelming the look. This style requires minimal upkeep simply apply texturizing sea-salt spray to damp hair and air-dry, letting your waves sweep back naturally for an effortless, windswept appearance. Perfect for those seeking a laid-back yet stylish vibe.

From my experience, using sea-salt spray on damp hair gave my waves a natural flow and volume. The style looked effortless and dynamic, making it my go-to when I wanted a carefree yet polished look.

Long Curly Hair with Side Part 

Long curly hair with a side part adds subtle polish and definition while letting your natural curls shine. Shifting the part creates asymmetry and volume, giving curls an intentional direction and shape. Simply apply curl cream to damp hair, style finger-style and let dry naturally for a soft and effortless finish.

From my experience, this style enhanced my curls’ natural shape and gave a polished yet relaxed vibe. Using finger-style application made the curls look defined without being stiff, creating a versatile everyday look.

Curly Wolf Cut 

The curly wolf cut is an eye-catching, retro-meets-modern hairstyle that combines layered shag texture with an elongated mullet, delivering a 70s glam, rock-inspired vibe. Choppy layers enhance natural curls, creating a lived-in, unpredictable feel with full dimension and movement, while a messy pulled-forward fringe displays curls in their glory.

From my experience, this cut instantly gives a bold, confident look, letting curls move freely while maintaining a playful retro edge. Styling with minimal product keeps the texture natural and vibrant, making it perfect for anyone seeking a standout hairstyle.

The Most Attractive Curly Hairstyles For Men

The most popular, attractive curly men’s hairstyles range from crew cuts and heavy fringe to short messy curls with faded sides and long brushed-back styles. Burst fade mohawks, loose flowing curls and modern mullets add variety, offering options that suit both medium-length and tousled hair.

Middle-parted, long, and tapered styles or blowouts create structure while remaining flexible, ensuring your hair complements your features and personality. By pairing with the right styling techniques, curls retain shape and shine, giving a polished yet natural finish. These looks are perfect for guys seeking an easy, stylish approach that enhances their natural texture.

From my experience, experimenting with different cuts like a burst fade or tousled medium curls transforms everyday hair into something eye-catching. Using a light curl cream or mousse helps define texture without stiffness, and the right cut truly makes your style effortless and confident.

What’s The Easiest Curly Haircut To Maintain For Guys?

The simplest curly haircut for men to maintain is a short crew cut with a fade, which showcases curls while keeping hair cropped and effortless. This style is perfect for those seeking a stylish, low-maintenance look without daily fuss. Longer variations, including broccoli cuts or messy textured fringes, remain wearable while allowing your natural curls to shine.

Using the right moisturizing care products keeps curls healthy and defined, whether your hair is cropped or slightly longer. Low-maintenance styling makes these cuts ideal for busy guys who want to look polished without effort.

From my experience, a crew cut fade keeps curls controlled yet lively, and pairing it with a light curl cream transforms a simple style into something sharp and stylish. Minimal upkeep allows confidence without daily stress, making it my go-to recommendation for any guy with curly hair.

Conclusion 

Curly hairstyles for men are more than just a trend; they’re a statement of confidence, personality, and individuality. From sharp, low-maintenance crew cuts to bold, voluminous long curls, each style allows men to showcase their natural texture while staying effortlessly stylish. With the right products and care, curls can look polished, defined, and full of life every day. Experimenting with lengths, fades and partings transforms ordinary hair into a standout feature that commands attention. Embracing your curls not only elevates your look but also empowers you to express your unique style with boldness and flair.

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