Curly Hairstyles for Women

Top 25+ Curly Hairstyles for Women of All Ages and Hair Types.

​Curly Hairstyles for Women

Curly Hairstyles for Women
Image: @tatumshanehair
Curly Hairstyles for Women
Image: @tatumshanehair
Curly Hairstyles for Women
Image: @tatumshanehair

If your hair tends to spiral, spring, zigzag or swirl in wild and wonderful directions, congratulations; you’re officially part of the curl club! And guess what? There’s never been a better time to celebrate your texture. Whether you’re rocking short curly hairstyles for women that scream sass and style, embracing long curly hairstyles for women that bounce with drama or exploring curly hairstyles for women that defy age, gravity and outdated beauty standards; this guide is for you.

From curly black hairstyles for women to cute short curly hairstyles for older ladies and even trendsetting short curly hairstyles women can wear to brunch and boardrooms, we’re diving deep into the twisty, tousled and totally fabulous world of hairstyles for curly hair women. Because when it comes to curly hairstyles for ladies, one size never fits all; and that’s the magic.

Types of Curly Hair for Women

Understanding your curl type is essential for choosing the right hairstyles, products and care routines. The curly hair typing system; popularized by hairstylists has classified hair into types based on texture and curl pattern, ranging from wavy (2) to coily/kinky (4). Within each type, there are subcategories (A, B and C) that indicate the tightness or looseness of the curl.

Let’s break down the curly categories (Types 2–4):

Type 2: Wavy Hair for Women

Wavy Hair for Women
Image: @wavycurly

This type lies between straight and curly, with a soft S shape and minimal volume.

  • 2A: Fine, loose waves with minimal frizz. Easy to straighten or curl.
  • 2B: More defined S waves with slight frizz and a bit more volume.
  • 2C: Thick, coarse waves that are prone to frizz and close to true curls.

Best Hairstyles: Beachy waves, layered lobs, soft bobs

Type 3: Curly Hair for Women

Curly Hair for Women
Image: @tatumshanehair

True curly hair with spirals that range from loose to tight ringlets. It tends to be more voluminous and frizz prone than Type 2.

  • 3A: Loose, shiny curls about the size of sidewalk chalk.
  • 3B: Springier curls with a medium circumference and more density.
  • 3C: Tight corkscrew curls, densely packed and very voluminous.

Best Hairstyles: Wash and go, layered haircuts, curly bangs, twist outs

Type 4: Coily/Kinky Hair for Women

Coily/Kinky Hair for Women
Image: @hermanthaa.l

This hair type has very tight curls or zig zag patterns and is often dense and fragile. It needs the most moisture and gentle handling.

  • 4A: Soft, defined coils with a visible S pattern.
  • 4B: Z shaped curls with less definition and more shrinkage.
  • 4C: Very tight coils with minimal definition; highly shrinkable and delicate.

Best Hairstyles: TWAs, afro styles, protective hairstyles like twists and braids

Short Curly Hairstyles for Women

Short curly hairstyles for women are the perfect blend of style, ease and personality. Whether you’re going for a bold curly pixie cut, a textured tapered curly cut or a timeless short curly bob, there’s a style to suit every face and curl type. Trendy options like the curly shag or a daring buzz cut with natural curls offer a fresh twist for those ready to stand out.

Popular curly hairstyles for women among all age groups, short curly hairstyles women love include both modern and classic cuts. From youthful, chic styles to cute short curly hairstyles for older ladies and confident short curly hairstyles for black women, to graceful short curly hairstyles for older women, there’s no shortage of inspiration in the world of curly short hairstyles for women.

1. Curly Pixie Cut

Curly Pixie Cut
Image: @beautyconamor
Curly Pixie Cut
Image: @passingwhimsies

Face Shape: Oval, heart or round
Hair Type: 3A to 3C curls
Hair Length: Very short to short
Styling Product: Lightweight curl cream or mousse for definition without stiffness

2. Tapered Curly Cut

Face Shape: Round, oval or square
Hair Type: 3B to 4B
Hair Length: Short with longer crown
Styling Product: Curl pudding or twist cream to define top curls and hold shape

3. Short Curly Bob

Face Shape: Oval, heart or diamond
Hair Type: 2C to 3B
Hair Length: Chin to jaw length
Styling Product: Frizz control gel or curl enhancing leave in conditioner

Also Read: Bob Cuts for Women

4. Curly Shag

Face Shape: Oblong, oval or square
Hair Type: 2B to 3C
Hair Length: Short with layered ends
Styling Product: Texturizing spray or volumizing mousse for a tousled finish

5. Buzz Cut with Natural Curls

Buzz Cut with Natural Curls
Image: @adrianfanus
Buzz Cut with Natural Curls
Image: @baldandboujee

Face Shape: All face shapes
Hair Type: 3C to 4C
Hair Length: Ultra short
Styling Product: Moisturizing leave in or curl balm to keep scalp and curls hydrated

Medium Length Curly Hairstyles for Women

Medium length curly hairstyles for women offer the perfect balance between manageability and style, making them a go to choice for many. From chic cuts to voluminous textures, medium length hairstyles for women with curly hair are as versatile as they are flattering. Whether you prefer a playful shoulder length curly cut with bangs, the modern elegance of a layered curly lob (long bob) or the edgy definition of blunt cut curls, there’s a style to suit every personality.

Popular curly hairstyles for women like the curly wedge or soft shoulder length spiral curls give natural bounce and shape. For those looking to refresh their look, medium curly hairstyles for women and trending curly hairstyles for women medium length offer timeless beauty with a contemporary twist.

6. Layered Curly Lob (Long Bob)

Layered Curly Lob (Long Bob)
image: @herahairbeauty
Layered Curly Lob (Long Bob)
Image: @byronbeautybar

Face Shape: Oval, heart or round
Hair Type: 2C to 3B
Hair Length: Collarbone to shoulder length
Styling Product: Curl defining cream or serum to add shine and bounce

7. Shoulder Length Curly Cut with Bangs

Shoulder Length Curly Cut with Bangs
Image: @hirohair
Shoulder Length Curly Cut with Bangs
Image: @ilovevirgola

Face Shape: Oval, square or heart
Hair Type: 3A to 3C
Hair Length: Shoulder length with face framing bangs
Styling Product: Lightweight gel or styling foam to define curls and keep bangs in place

8. Blunt Cut Curls

Blunt Cut Curls
Image: @tamyraaa

Face Shape: Oval or diamond
Hair Type: 2B to 3A
Hair Length: Even cut at shoulder length
Styling Product: Smoothing cream or curl lotion to reduce frizz and enhance structure

9. Curly Wedge

Face Shape: Round, heart or square
Hair Type: 3A to 3C
Hair Length: Shorter back with longer front layers
Styling Product: Curl mousse or light hold gel for lift and layered definition

10. Shoulder Length Spiral Curls

Shoulder Length Spiral Curls
Image: @twistedhare
Shoulder Length Spiral Curls
Image: @beautyyyguru_

Face Shape: All face shapes
Hair Type: 3B to 4A
Hair Length: Shoulder length
Styling Product: Curl custard or defining gel for strong hold and long lasting curl definition

Long Curly Hairstyles for Women

Long curly hairstyles for women offer a perfect blend of elegance, volume and versatility. Whether you’re embracing your natural texture or looking for a fresh take on your curls, curly hairstyles for women with long hair include everything from defined shapes to free flowing styles. Popular curly hairstyles for women like long layers with defined curls, curly curtain bangs with long hair and the romantic half up, half down curly style add shape and movement without sacrificing length.

For a carefree vibe, boho curly layers and side parted long curls are go to options in the world of women’s long curly hairstyles. These looks flatter all ages, including the effortlessly graceful long curly hairstyles older woman love. Long curly hairstyles women is one of the most admired and adaptable hairstyle categories for women.

11. Long Layers with Defined Curls

Long Layers with Defined Curls
Image: @curl.envy

Face Shape: Round, oval or heart
Hair Type: 2C to 3C
Hair Length: Below shoulders to mid back
Styling Product: Curl enhancing cream or gel to define and separate curls without weighing them down

12. Half Up, Half Down Curly Style

Half Up, Half Down Curly Style
Image: @curlsbybebonia
Half Up, Half Down Curly Style
Image: @oliviascanu

Face Shape: All face shapes
Hair Type: 2B to 4A
Hair Length: Shoulder length and longer
Styling Product: Edge control or styling gel for smooth hold at the roots; light curl cream for the rest

13. Curly Curtain Bangs with Long Hair

Face Shape: Oval, oblong or heart
Hair Type: 2C to 3B
Hair Length: Long with curtain style bangs
Styling Product: Lightweight mousse or soft hold gel to maintain curl shape and prevent puffiness in bangs

14. Boho Curly Layers

Face Shape: Heart, diamond or oval
Hair Type: 3A to 3C
Hair Length: Chest to mid back
Styling Product: Texturizing spray or curl mist to enhance bounce and create a natural, tousled look

15. Side Parted Long Curls

Face Shape: Square, round or heart
Hair Type: 2C to 3B
Hair Length: Long with side part
Styling Product: Shine serum or anti frizz cream to keep curls smooth and glossy

Curly Hairstyles for Older Ladies

Curly hairstyles for older women are all about embracing natural texture while adding softness, volume and elegance. From cute short curly hairstyles for older ladies to more defined and structured looks, there’s a flattering option for every age and personality. Popular curly hairstyles for women like the soft curly pixie, curly bob with side part and tapered cut with curls offer a modern twist with minimal upkeep.

Hairstyles such as the layered curly crop and classic curly shag bring bounce and dimension, perfect for curly hairstyles for women over 40, curly hairstyles for women over 50 and curly hairstyles for women over 60. Even timeless hairstyles for 70 year old woman with curly hair can feel fresh and stylish with the right cut and care.

16. Soft Curly Pixie

Soft Curly Pixie
Image: @bghrocks
Soft Curly Pixie

Face Shape: Oval, heart or round
Hair Type: 2C to 3B
Hair Length: Very short
Styling Product: Lightweight curl mousse or soft hold cream to enhance texture without stiffness

17. Curly Bob with Side Part

Face Shape: Oval, square or heart
Hair Type: 2B to 3A
Hair Length: Chin to neck length
Styling Product: Anti frizz serum or curl defining cream for smooth, polished curls

18. Tapered Cut with Curls

Face Shape: Round, oval or diamond
Hair Type: 3B to 4A
Hair Length: Short sides, longer top
Styling Product: Curl pudding or styling butter to define coils and add moisture

19. Layered Curly Crop

Face Shape: Oval, oblong or heart
Hair Type: 2C to 3C
Hair Length: Short to medium layers
Styling Product: Light styling cream or volumizing foam for shape and bounce

20. Classic Curly Shag

Classic Curly Shag
Image: @skipdoeshair

Face Shape: Oval, square or round
Hair Type: 2B to 3B
Hair Length: Short to mid length
Styling Product: Texturizing spray or curl mousse to enhance layers and add volume

Curly Hairstyles for Black Women

Curly hairstyles for Black women are as bold, beautiful and versatile as the women who wear them. From defined twist out curls to expressive bantu knot out curls, these styles celebrate natural texture and cultural pride. Popular curly hairstyles for women like the curly frohawk, afro with tapered sides and twa (teeny weeny afro) offer both style and ease.

For those seeking easy to manage options, short curly hairstyles for Black women, including short curly natural hairstyles for Black women, are perfect for highlighting face shape and curl pattern. Whether you’re into sculpted styles or carefree volume, curly black hairstyles for women, short curly hairstyles Black women and other Black curly hairstyles for women continue to lead the way in natural hair expression.

21. TWA (Teeny Weeny Afro)

TWA (Teeny Weeny Afro)
Image: @bdbhairproducts
TWA (Teeny Weeny Afro)

Face Shape: All face shapes
Hair Type: 4B to 4C
Hair Length: Very short
Styling Product: Moisturizing curl cream or leave in conditioner to keep curls soft, hydrated and defined

22. Bantu Knot Out Curls

Bantu Knot Out Curls
Image: @heatfreehair
Bantu Knot Out Curls
Image: @naptural85

Face Shape: Round, oval or heart
Hair Type: 3C to 4C
Hair Length: Short to medium
Styling Product: Curl butter or setting mousse for smooth definition and frizz control during knot out

23. Afro with Tapered Sides

Face Shape: Round, square or oval
Hair Type: 4A to 4C
Hair Length: Short sides, longer top
Styling Product: Curl cream or twist butter for hold and shape, plus edge control for clean sides

24. Curly Frohawk

Face Shape: Oval, heart or square
Hair Type: 3C to 4B
Hair Length: Medium top, short or pinned sides
Styling Product: Gel or styling pomade for smooth sides; curl defining cream for the top section

25. Twist Out Curls

Face Shape: All face shapes
Hair Type: 3B to 4C
Hair Length: Short to long
Styling Product: Twisting cream or butter with a sealing oil to enhance curl definition and reduce frizz

Celebrity Inspired: Curly Hairstyles for Women

26. Zendaya’s Voluminous Curly Hair

Zendaya’s Voluminous Curly Hair
Image: @zendaya

Zendaya has become a style icon and her voluminous curly blowouts are both dramatic and chic. With defined curls brushed out for body and bounce, this curly hairstyles for women screams confidence and class.

How to get it: Use a volumizing mousse and blow dry with a diffuser. Lightly pick or brush through the curls for extra fullness.
Perfect for: Medium to long curls looking for a red carpet upgrade.

27. Tracee Ellis Ross’s Natural Afro

Tracee Ellis Ross’s Natural Afro
Image: @traceeellisross

Known for embracing her natural texture, Tracee Ellis Ross often sports a beautiful, rounded afro that highlights her signature coils. It’s bold, balanced and unapologetically stunning.

How to get it: Define curls with a styling cream, dry with a diffuser or air dry and fluff with a pick to shape.
Perfect for: Type 3C–4B curls who want a powerful, natural look.

28. Viola Davis’s Tapered Natural Cut

Viola Davis’s Tapered Natural Cut
Image: @violadavis

Viola Davis has graced awards shows with her natural, short curly hair, often in a tapered cut that’s elegant and strong. It’s empowering and effortlessly stylish.

How to get it: Keep sides and back trimmed while leaving the crown slightly longer for shaping. Moisturize and define with a curl pudding or styling custard.
Perfect for: Women over 40 looking for a chic and manageable curly style.

29. Shakira’s Long Beachy Curls

Shakira’s Long Beachy Curls
Image: @shakira

Shakira’s sun kissed curls have long been part of her iconic look. Loose, free flowing and full of texture, her curls reflect an easy going, boho vibe with high glamour.

How to get it: Use sea salt spray or mousse on damp hair, scrunch and let air dry. For tighter curls, use a wand for touch ups.
Perfect for: Long, wavy or 2C–3A curls aiming for a carefree style.

30. Rihanna’s Curly Bangs

Rihanna’s Curly Bangs
Image: @badgalriri

Rihanna has worn curly bangs multiple times; whether with a shaggy cut or longer curls. This edgy, face framing curly hairstyles for women adds attitude and softness all at once.

How to get it: Ask your stylist for blended curly bangs or pin longer curls into place for a faux fringe look.
Perfect for: Medium to long curls wanting a trendy twist.

Final Thoughts

No matter your age or curl pattern, there’s a perfect style waiting to be discovered. From fresh curly hairstyles for women to low maintenance short curly hairstyles for women, the beauty of curls is in their versatility. Whether you’re into bold curly hairstyles for ladies, classic hairstyles for curly hair women or trendy short curly hairstyles women, there’s something here for everyone.

Embrace curly short hairstyles for women, especially flattering options like cute short curly hairstyles for older ladies, short curly hairstyles for black women and short curly hairstyles for older women. Timeless styles like short curly hairstyles for women over 60 and short hairstyles for women with curly hair continue to inspire. Celebrate texture with curly black hairstyles for women, graceful curly hairstyles for women over 50 and effortless curly hairstyles women love.

No matter your curl type, style it your way; with confidence, beauty and bounce in every step. Explore the magic of women’s long curly hairstyles and let your curls speak.

FAQs: Curly Hairstyles for Women

1. Which hairstyle is best for curly hair?

The best curly hairstyles for women depend on your curl type, face shape and lifestyle. Popular and flattering options include layered cuts that reduce bulk and enhance shape, such as the curly lob (long bob), curly shag or tapered afro. These styles help define curls, minimize frizz and offer movement. For tighter curls, twist outs or TWA (Teeny Weeny Afro) styles are both stylish and manageable.

2. Does curly hair make a woman look younger?

Yes, certain curly hairstyles for women can create a youthful appearance. Curls naturally soften facial features and add volume, which can reduce the emphasis on fine lines or sagging. Styles like curly bangs, soft pixie cuts or layered shoulder length curls tend to brighten the face and give a fresher, more energetic look.

3. Does curly hair look better, short or long?

Both short and long curly hairstyles for women can look amazing; it all depends on personal preference, curl type and face shape. Short styles like the curly pixie or tapered cut offer boldness and ease, while long styles like boho layers or spiral curls provide drama and elegance. The key is choosing a shape that works with your natural curl pattern and daily routine.

4. What is the best low maintenance haircut for curly hair?

The best low maintenance curly hairstyles for women include the TWA, curly pixie cut and layered shoulder length cuts. These styles require minimal styling time, are easy to manage and let your natural curls do most of the work. Pairing the right haircut with a simple product routine; like a leave in conditioner and defining cream; makes it even easier to maintain healthy, beautiful curls.

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