Here's Exactly How to Style Your Curly Hair

Easy.

written by

updated Feb 24, 2020

Man with curly hair on the runway — Ekrem Serif Egeli/Getty Images

There are many ways to wear curly hair. Whether you choose a mass of unruly curls (tamed with a bit of product, of course) or a shorter length with ringlets, there are myriad options for styling. Below, we've rounded up 12 curly hair styles, along with some of our go-to products for getting the most of your coif.

01 of 12

Fashionable Curls

Man with curly hair — Vittorio Zunino Celotto/Staff/Getty Images Entertainment

Short on the sides and long on top is fun and fashionable way to sport curls. It's also a great way to more easily manage curly hair.

02 of 12

A Mass of Curls

Model with curly hair — Stefania D'Alessandro/Getty Images

Those with thick hair and tight curls have an opportunity to make it a defining feature of their look. A hairstyle like this would definitely require some sort of anti-frizz serum and perhaps a leave-in conditioner.

03 of 12

A Bit Shaggy

Hair that has a strong wave or loose curl (like that of a young Nick Jonas) can look great when worn shaggy.

04 of 12

Fun Curls

Whether you are going for a high-fashion look or growing your hair out, having fun with a curly hairstyle is the best approach.

05 of 12

A Shorter Mop of Curls

Letting your hair grow out just enough to let curls begin to form is a great way deal with curly hair. A hairstyle like this is also tidy for guys who need to look more professional.

06 of 12

Beachy Curls

There is nothing like that post-swim, sun-bleached look of having just come from riding the waves. A little mousse (try OuiDad's VitaCurl+ Soft Defining Mousse, $26) can easily help you achieve this look.

07 of 12

Shiny, Chic Curls

Take a cue from designer Zac Posen and add product. A little pomade or serum can really add shine to your hair and help define your curls.

08 of 12

A Little Longer on Top

Keeping the hair shorter (but not too short) on the sides and back while keeping it longer on top is a great way to keep your hair tidy and show off a little curl.

09 of 12

Clipped Short

Man with short curly hair — Mike Flokis/Getty Images

Some guys with curly hair opt to cut it short. This look works particularly well for those with tight curls, and is easier to style than a longer length.

10 of 12

The No-Fuss Look

Model with curly hair on the runway — Vittorio Zunino Celotto/Getty Images

Another easy way to handle curly hair is to let it grow just long enough to let curls form—this way, it remains loose but not untidy.

11 of 12

Natural Curls

Like I said before, guys with hair that is thick and with tight curls have an opportunity to make it a defining feature of their look. A hairstyle like this would definitely require some sort of anti-frizz serum and some leave-in conditioner (see our product picks, below).

Apply a lightweight hair oil (like argan or almond) after showering to help seal in extra moisture into your curls.

12 of 12

Medium Length with Ringlets

Leaving a little length so that your hair can form ringlets can be such an amazing way to show off your hair. If I had curly hair, this is how I would wear it.

Below, some products that are ideal for styling short, curly hair in a variety of ways.