Curly hair is one of the most expressive, versatile, and effortlessly cool textures a man can have. It adds personality, texture, and volume that straight-haired styles can’t always achieve. Whether you have tight coils, loose waves, or natural ringlets, curly hair gives you the freedom to experiment with both classic and modern looks.
The key to rocking curly hairstyles lies in the right cut, styling technique, and maintenance routine. From short fades to long layered looks, there’s something for every face shape and vibe. In this guide, we’ll explore 10 curly hairstyles for men — ranging from casual and low-maintenance to bold and fashion-forward — along with styling tips and care advice to help you embrace your curls confidently.
1. The Curly Undercut
The curly undercut is a modern favorite that combines structure with natural texture. This style features short sides and back with the curls left longer on top. The contrast draws attention to the natural curl pattern while keeping the look sharp and masculine.
To style, use a curl cream or light mousse to define the top while keeping the sides clean. The undercut is great for men who want a trendy yet manageable style that looks intentional and stylish. You can easily transform it from casual daywear to a polished evening look by adjusting the product and volume.
Ideal for: Medium to tight curls
Maintenance: Low – regular trimming on the sides every few weeks
2. Short Curly Fade
For men who like to keep their hair tidy but still embrace curls, the short curly fade is a top pick. This cut blends short curls on top with faded or tapered sides, giving a balanced, neat appearance. The fade can be high, mid, or low, depending on how bold you want it.
The beauty of this hairstyle lies in its simplicity and versatility. It works well in professional environments while maintaining a relaxed edge. Use a curl enhancer to keep the top hydrated and frizz-free. A few twists of styling gel can also help define the curls for a more structured look.
Ideal for: All curl types
Maintenance: Medium – regular fades and moisturizing products
3. Curly Fringe
The curly fringe is a laid-back yet fashionable style that’s perfect for men who want to embrace volume and texture. The front curls fall naturally across the forehead, creating a youthful, dynamic look.
This hairstyle works especially well for men with looser curls or wavy textures. You can pair it with a taper fade or keep it uniform for a more natural flow. Styling requires minimal effort — simply apply a curl-defining cream or leave-in conditioner to maintain bounce and prevent dryness.
Ideal for: Loose curls or wavy hair
Maintenance: Low – occasional trims to keep the fringe length balanced
4. Medium-Length Curly Layers
If you prefer to show off your natural curls, medium-length layered curls offer the perfect balance between free-flowing and styled. Layering prevents bulkiness, allowing curls to fall naturally while maintaining shape and volume.
Use a lightweight leave-in conditioner or curl-enhancing gel to keep the curls defined. A diffuser attachment when drying can help maintain the natural texture. This style exudes effortless charm and suits men with thicker hair who want to highlight their natural curl pattern.
Ideal for: Medium to tight curls
Maintenance: Medium – conditioning and detangling regularly
5. Long Curly Hair
Long curly hair has an undeniably artistic and bohemian appeal. Letting curls grow out showcases their full texture and movement, giving you a relaxed, confident look. The key to maintaining long curls is hydration — curly hair tends to dry out easily, so regular deep conditioning and gentle detangling are essential.
You can wear it loose for a carefree vibe or tie it back into a ponytail or half-bun for a neat, practical appearance. Long curls pair perfectly with beards or scruffy facial hair for a rugged, masculine edge.
Ideal for: Loose curls to tight ringlets
Maintenance: High – consistent moisturizing and trimming
6. Curly Pompadour
The curly pompadour is a bold, stylish twist on a classic cut. It keeps the curls voluminous at the front while the sides are trimmed short or faded. The lifted top adds height and dimension, perfect for formal or semi-casual settings.
Styling involves using a volumizing mousse or curl cream, then shaping the curls upward and backward. This look is best suited for men who like to make a strong style statement without losing their curls’ natural personality.
Ideal for: Loose to medium curls
Maintenance: Medium – needs regular styling to maintain volume
7. Curly Afro
The curly afro is timeless and celebrates natural texture in its purest form. It’s all about embracing your curls with confidence and maintaining a rounded, balanced shape.
The key to this look is shape control — regular trims keep the silhouette neat while maintaining fullness. Moisturizing creams and oils are essential for keeping curls healthy and hydrated. This look is perfect for men who want a bold, natural expression of their curly hair.
Ideal for: Tight curls and coils
Maintenance: Medium to high – requires consistent care and moisture
8. Curly Mullet
Yes, the mullet is back — and when paired with curls, it’s a statement-maker. This modern take on the retro cut features short sides and a voluminous curly back. It’s edgy, unique, and surprisingly wearable when styled right.
Keep the top and back hydrated with curl cream, and use a light hold gel to keep shape without stiffness. The modern curly mullet is a mix of rebellion and creativity — ideal for men who like to stand out from the crowd.
Ideal for: Loose to medium curls
Maintenance: Medium – occasional shaping and hydration
9. Curly Side Part
A curly side part adds a touch of refinement and vintage charm to your look. By parting the curls naturally to one side, you create asymmetry that highlights texture while maintaining a clean outline.
This style works great for both casual and professional settings. It can be styled with curl mousse for definition and volume. Pair it with a fade or taper on the sides for a modern finish.
Ideal for: All curl types
Maintenance: Low – easy daily styling with minimal product
10. Curly High Top Fade
The curly high top fade blends old-school cool with modern precision. The sides are faded close to the skin, while the top remains full and curly. This look emphasizes volume and structure, ideal for men who want a sharp, distinctive appearance.
To style, define the curls on top with a moisturizing cream or light gel and maintain the fade regularly for crisp edges. It’s a bold, eye-catching cut that celebrates curly texture while keeping it neat and structured.
Ideal for: Tight curls
Maintenance: Medium – regular fades and curl hydration
Conclusion
Curly hair isn’t something to hide or tame — it’s a defining feature that adds personality and confidence to your style. The best curly hairstyles for men enhance natural texture while balancing structure and manageability. Whether you prefer short fades or long curls, the key is to keep your hair hydrated, trimmed, and well-shaped.
Experimenting with different styles helps you discover what best suits your face shape, lifestyle, and vibe. From low-maintenance looks to expressive, fashion-forward cuts, curly hair offers endless possibilities — so embrace the curls and let your natural texture shine.