Embracing your natural curls has never been more fashionable. As we approach 2024, the hair industry is seeing a surge in appreciation for curly hair textures. Whether you have loose waves or tight coils, there’s a style that will make your curls shine. Let’s explore 35 stunning curly hairstyles that are set to dominate the fashion scene in 2024.
Curly Hair by Type
Understanding your curl type can help you choose the right style:
- Type 2 (Wavy): Loose waves, prone to frizz
- Type 3 (Curly): S-shaped spirals
- Type 4 (Coily): Z-shaped coils, very tight
“Knowing your curl type is like having a roadmap to great hair days.” – Lorraine Massey, author of “Curly Girl: The Handbook”
The Psychology of Curly Hair
Embracing your natural curls isn’t just a fashion choice; it’s a psychological one. A study in the Journal of Cosmetic Science found that hair significantly affects self-perception. People who accept their natural hair texture often report higher self-esteem.
“When I chopped off my hair, I felt the most beautiful. It was a liberation.” – Viola Davis, on embracing her natural curls.
1. The Classic Afro
The timeless Afro is making a powerful comeback. This iconic style celebrates the natural volume and texture of curly hair. In 2024, we’re seeing a resurgence of this look, with many opting for a slightly asymmetrical shape for a modern twist.
“The Afro is more than a hairstyle; it’s a statement of identity and pride.” – Tracee Ellis Ross, actress and curly hair advocate.
Pro Tip: Use a wide-tooth pick comb to shape your Afro. The Afro Star Pick Comb is a favorite among stylists.
2. Curly Shag
The shag haircut, popular in the 70s, is getting a curly makeover. This style features lots of layers and a messy, rock-and-roll vibe that works beautifully with curly hair’s natural texture.
Example: Actress Natasha Lyonne’s curly shag has become a modern icon, inspiring many to embrace this edgy style.
3. Curly Pixie Cut
Short hair isn’t off-limits for curly-haired individuals. A curly pixie cut is edgy, low-maintenance, and perfect for those hot summer days.
Pro Tip: For a defined curly pixie, try Ouidad Curl Quencher Moisturizing Sealing Cream. It seals in moisture without weighing down short curls.
4. Curly Bob
The curly bob is versatile and chic. In 2024, we’re seeing both blunt and layered versions, each offering a unique take on this classic style.
Example: Kerry Washington’s curly bob at the 2023 Met Gala was a standout, proving that curly bobs can be high fashion.
5. Curly Bangs
Gone are the days when curly-haired folks avoided bangs. In 2024, curly bangs are all the rage, adding a playful and youthful touch to any hairstyle.
Pro Tip: Ask your stylist for “calligraphy bangs.” This technique, where bangs are cut to frame your face’s unique shape, is perfect for curls.
6. Pineapple Updo
This updo, resembling a pineapple’s crown, is not only stylish but also protective. It’s perfect for preserving your curl pattern while you sleep.
Product: The Slip Pure Silk Scrunchie is gentle on curls, preventing breakage during the night.
7. Side-Swept Curls
For a glamorous look, try side-swept curls. This style adds a touch of Old Hollywood charm and is perfect for special occasions.
Example: Blake Lively’s side-swept curls at the 2023 Cannes Film Festival were a nod to classic Hollywood glamour.
8. Curly High Ponytail
A high ponytail showcases your curls while keeping them off your face. It’s sporty, sleek, and perfect for the gym or a casual day out.
Pro Tip: Use a curl refresher like DevaCurl Mist-er Right to revive your curls post-workout.
9. Half-Up, Half-Down Curls
This versatile style keeps hair out of your face while still letting your curls flow. In 2024, we’re seeing many variations, from half-up buns to braided crowns.
Example: Rihanna’s half-up, half-down curls at her Fenty Beauty launch showcased this style’s versatility.
10. Curly Mohawk
For those who dare to be different, the curly mohawk is a bold choice. It’s edgy, punk-inspired, and sure to turn heads.
Product: Got2b Ultra Glued Invincible Styling Gel provides the strong hold needed for this dramatic style.
11. Ombre Curls
Color and curls go hand in hand. In 2024, ombre curls are trending, with darker roots fading into lighter ends for a sun-kissed look.
Pro Tip: Opt for a “curly hair color specialist.” These experts understand how color interacts with different curl patterns.
12. Curly Braids
Incorporating braids into your curly hair adds texture and visual interest. Try a side braid or a braided crown for a boho-chic vibe.
Example: Alicia Keys often sports curly braided styles, making her a go-to inspiration for this look.
13. Curly Space Buns
Double buns, or space buns, are playful and fun. They work great with all curl types and are perfect for festivals or casual outings.
Pro Tip: Use Verb Curl Cream to define your curls before creating space buns.
14. Long, Layered Curls
If you’ve got length, flaunt it! Long, layered curls are romantic and feminine. In 2024, we’re seeing lots of face-framing layers.
Example: Beyoncé’s long, layered curls have been a signature look for years, proving its timeless appeal.
15. Curly Undercut
An undercut adds an element of surprise to curly hair. It’s hidden when your hair is down, but visible when styled up.
Pro Tip: Consider a design in your undercut. In 2024, geometric patterns and swirls are popular choices.
16. Curly Lob
The long bob, or “lob,” is a modern classic. When paired with curls, it becomes even more dynamic and full of movement.
Example: Gugu Mbatha-Raw’s curly lob at the 2024 Golden Globes was the talk of the red carpet.
17. Defined Ringlets
For those with tighter curls, 2024 is all about defining those beautiful ringlets. Use curl-defining creams and oils to enhance your natural pattern.
Product: Pattern Beauty Leave-In Conditioner is a cult favorite for defining tight curls.
18. Curly Faux Hawk
Not ready for a full mohawk? The curly faux hawk gives a similar edgy vibe without the commitment.
Pro Tip: A faux hawk is a great way to hide grown-out roots. The height at the crown draws attention away from the hairline.
19. Deep Side Part Curls
A deep side part instantly adds volume and drama to curly hair. It’s a simple change that makes a big impact.
Example: Laura Harrier’s deep side part at the 2023 Oscars showed how this simple change can elevate a look.
20. Curly Top Knot
On days when you want your hair up, a curly top knot is chic and effortless. Let some tendrils escape for a softer look.
Product: Briogeo Curl Charisma Rice Amino + Avocado Leave-In Defining Crème is perfect for those loose tendrils.
21. Slicked-Back Curly Ponytail
For a sleek, professional look, try a slicked-back curly ponytail. Use gel to smooth the front while letting your curls shine in the back.
Pro Tip: Use a boar bristle brush like the Mason Pearson Handy Mixture Brush to smooth the front without disrupting your curl pattern.
22. Curly Finger Coils
Finger coils are a beautiful way to define and showcase tight curls. This style requires patience but the results are stunning.
Product: Camille Rose Naturals Aloe Whipped Butter Gel provides the perfect slip for finger coiling.
23. Curly Frohawk
A fusion of an Afro and a mohawk, the frohawk is bold and stylish. It’s perfect for those who want to make a statement.
Example: Janelle Monáe’s iconic frohawk has become synonymous with her avant-garde style.
24. Diffused Curls
In 2024, we’re seeing a return to soft, diffused curls. This technique enhances your natural texture without making it too defined.
Pro Tip: Use a microfiber towel like the DevaTowel to blot hair before diffusing. It minimizes frizz.
25. Curly Cornrows
Cornrows aren’t just for straight hair. In 2024, we’re seeing stunning cornrow styles that incorporate and celebrate curly textures.
Product: Design Essentials Natural Almond & Avocado Curl Enhancing Mousse keeps curls defined in cornrows.
26. Curly Hair Accessories
Elevate your curly styles with accessories. Think colorful scarves, bold hair clips, and even delicate flowers.
Trend: Oversized hair clips are big in 2024. The Jennifer Behr Maasai Barrette is a favorite among curly-haired celebs.
27. Curly Curtain Bangs
Curtain bangs are having a moment, and they look fantastic on curly hair. They softly frame the face for a 70s-inspired look.
Example: Sarah Hyland’s curly curtain bangs at the 2023 Emmy Awards brought this retro style back into the spotlight.
28. Stretch Curls
For those with tighter curls, stretch curls are a game-changer. This technique elongates your curls, showcasing their true length.
Product: TGIN Butter Cream Daily Moisturizer is excellent for stretch curls, providing hydration without shrinkage.
29. Curly Asymmetrical Cut
Break the mold with an asymmetrical cut. One side longer than the other adds a modern, artistic flair to your curls.
Pro Tip: This style is great for those growing out a shorter cut. The longer side disguises the awkward growth stage.
30. Curly Hair with Highlights
Highlights add dimension and life to curly hair. In 2024, we’re seeing a preference for natural-looking, sun-kissed highlights.
Technique: Ask for “pintura highlights.” This hand-painted technique mimics natural sun-lightening on curls.
31. Curly Crown Braid
A crown braid is regal and elegant. When done with curly hair, it gains an extra touch of texture and whimsy.
32. Curly Tapered Cut
A tapered cut keeps the sides and back short while leaving more length on top. It’s a stylish way to manage thick, curly hair.
33. Pinned-Up Curly Styles
Use bobby pins to create unique, pinned-up styles. The possibilities are endless, from faux hawks to vintage-inspired looks.
34. Curly Mullet
Yes, you read that right! The mullet is back, and it looks surprisingly cool with curly hair. It’s edgy, retro, and very 2024.
35. Natural, Undefined Curls
Sometimes, the best style is no style at all. In 2024, we’re seeing a celebration of natural, undefined curls—just wash, condition, and go!
Curly Hair Care Tips for 2024
To make these styles shine, proper hair care is crucial. Here are some tips for maintaining healthy curls in 2024:
- Co-washing: Use conditioner to clean your hair, preserving natural oils.
- Deep conditioning: Weekly masks keep curls hydrated.
- Silk pillowcases: Reduce friction and frizz while you sleep.
- Diffuser: Enhance your natural curl pattern.
- Avoid heat: Let your curls air dry when possible.
Best Products for Curly Hair in 2024
| Product Type | Top Pick | Key Benefits |
|---|---|---|
| Shampoo | DevaCurl No-Poo | Sulfate-free, preserves natural oils |
| Conditioner | Shea Moisture Coconut & Hibiscus | Deep hydration, frizz control |
| Leave-In | Kinky-Curly Knot Today | Detangles, defines curls |
| Curl Cream | Miss Jessie’s Multicultural Curls | Works for various curl types |
| Hair Oil | Moroccanoil Treatment | Adds shine, reduces frizz |
Celebrity Curly Hair Inspiration
Many celebrities are embracing their natural curls, setting trends for 2024:
- Zendaya – Voluminous curls
- Yara Shahidi – Defined coils
- Shakira – Wild, rock-star curls
- Sandra Oh – Curly lob
- Tracee Ellis Ross – Classic Afro
Conclusion: Celebrate Your Curls in 2024
2024 is the year to embrace, experiment with, and celebrate your natural curls. From classic Afros to daring mullets, there’s a style for every personality and curl type. Remember, your curls are unique—they tell your story, reflect your heritage, and showcase your beauty. So go ahead, try one (or several!) of these 35 styles, and make 2024 your curliest year yet!