22 Iconic Curly Hair Ideas for Men

Curly hair is a timeless feature that many men wear proudly, as it adds volume, texture, and personality to any hairstyle. For those with curly hair, choosing the right cut or style can elevate your overall look, while embracing the natural bounce and shape of curls. Whether you’re looking for a bold, modern look or a more classic vibe, we’ve rounded up 22 iconic curly hair ideas that are perfect for men of all ages.

15 Curly Hair Ideas for Men

1. Short and Tight Curls

The short and tight curl hairstyle is a clean, sharp look for men who want to maintain a well-groomed yet textured style. This look highlights the natural curl pattern while keeping things neat and manageable. Ideal for professional settings, short curls are versatile and easy to maintain with regular trims and lightweight styling products.

2. Curly Fade

A curly fade combines the smoothness of a fade with the texture of natural curls. The fade works well by gradually shortening the hair from the top down to the sides, creating a sharp contrast between the curls and the fade. The curly fade can be paired with different hair lengths on top for added versatility. For maintenance, regular visits to the barber are essential for keeping the fade sharp.

3. Medium Curly with Side Part

For men who want a bit more length, medium curls with a side part offer a sophisticated look. This style allows you to let your natural curls shine while adding structure with the side part. The medium-length curls can be styled with a light hold cream or mousse for definition. Regular trimming ensures that the curls stay fresh and bouncy.

4. Curly Quiff

The curly quiff is an attention-grabbing style that combines the boldness of curls with the classic quiff. This look works best when the curls are styled upwards and slightly back, creating volume and height. To achieve this style, use a curl-enhancing mousse or gel to define the curls, and apply a strong-hold hairspray for longevity.

5. Afro Curls

Afro curls are a bold, iconic choice for men who embrace their natural, voluminous curls. The afro is all about letting the hair grow out into a rounded shape, with the curls creating a full, attention-grabbing appearance. To maintain the afro, regular moisturizing and trimming are essential to keep the shape intact and prevent frizz.

6. Curly Pompadour

The curly pompadour is a stylish hybrid that combines vintage pompadour elements with modern curls. This look adds height at the front, with the curls styled back for a retro yet contemporary vibe. To maintain the pompadour, use a strong-hold product to keep the volume, and make sure to comb through the curls to avoid tangling.

7. Long Curly Hair

For men with longer curly hair, the long curly look offers a relaxed, laid-back vibe. The curls cascade down the back and shoulders, creating a natural, effortless style. To avoid frizz, use hydrating shampoos and leave-in conditioners, and consider getting layers to avoid excessive bulk at the ends.

8. Curly Mohawk

The curly mohawk is a daring hairstyle that offers maximum impact. This bold style keeps the sides shaved or faded, while the hair in the center is styled into tight, voluminous curls. The mohawk stands out as an edgy, rebellious style. Regular trims and curly styling creams will help keep the curls defined and the mohawk shape intact.

9. Textured Crop

The textured crop is a shorter, more defined curly hairstyle that highlights the natural texture. The hair is kept short and styled in layers to create a textured, voluminous look that works well for a clean, edgy appearance. To maintain this cut, use a lightweight styling cream and visit the barber regularly for upkeep.

10. Curly Undercut

The curly undercut features long curls on top and short, buzzed sides, creating a striking contrast. The undercut is versatile, offering a modern edge to the classic curly look. To maintain the shape, trim the sides regularly, and use a curl cream or gel to define the curls on top.

11. Curly Bro Flow

The curly bro flow is a casual, relaxed style where curls naturally flow back. This is an ideal choice for men who want a low-maintenance yet stylish look. The curls should fall naturally, with minimal product needed. Regular trims will help maintain the shape and avoid uneven lengths.

12. Curly Buzz Cut

A curly buzz cut is the perfect option for men who want to keep their curls short and easy to manage. This look keeps the curls close to the scalp, offering a neat yet textured style. The buzz cut requires little maintenance, though it’s important to regularly trim the curls for a fresh, clean appearance.

13. Curly Pompadour with Fade

A curly pompadour combined with a fade creates a high-contrast, stylish hairstyle. The fade on the sides and back adds sharpness, while the curls at the top are styled to add volume and height. This hairstyle requires regular trims for both the fade and the pompadour, along with strong-hold products to maintain the volume.

14. Long Curls with Beard

For men who want a more rugged, masculine look, long curly hair paired with a beard creates a balanced, sophisticated style. The key is to ensure that both the hair and the beard are well-groomed and defined. Regular beard trims and moisturizing products will keep both the curls and beard looking sharp.

15. Curly Side Sweep

The curly side sweep is a soft, stylish way to wear your curls. This look works by sweeping the curls to one side, creating a smooth, flattering shape. The side sweep adds dimension and movement to the curls, making them appear fuller and more defined. Light-hold styling products are ideal for maintaining this look without weighing the curls down.

Why These Curly Hair Styles Are Popular

Curly hair styles have become increasingly popular because they offer versatility, texture, and personality. Many of these iconic curly looks are trendy because they embrace individuality and offer a range of options from edgy to refined. Whether it’s the boldness of a curly mohawk or the sophistication of a curly quiff, curly hairstyles are a way for men to express their personal style while still maintaining a polished appearance.

How to Choose the Best Curly Hair Style for You

Choosing the right curly hair style depends on your hair length, texture, and the look you want to achieve. For example:

• Face Shape: Men with round faces may prefer styles that add height, such as a curly pompadour or quiff, while men with longer faces might opt for a softer style like the curly side sweep.
• Hair Texture: Thicker curls benefit from styles that add structure, like the curly fade or textured crop. Men with finer curls may prefer looser styles like the curly bro flow or afro curls.
• Personal Style: If you’re looking for a bold statement, a curly mohawk or undercut might be ideal, whereas a more refined look could be achieved with a medium-length curly side part.

Curly Hair Maintenance Tips

Maintaining curly hair requires the right products and techniques:

• Hydrate and Moisturize: Curly hair tends to be drier than straight hair, so use moisturizing shampoos and conditioners to keep your curls hydrated.
• Use the Right Styling Products: Invest in curl creams, gels, or mousses designed to define and enhance curls without weighing them down.
• Regular Trims: Curly hair can easily become unruly without regular trims. Visit your barber every few weeks to keep your curls looking fresh and defined.
• Avoid Heat: Excessive heat styling can damage curly hair. If you must use heat, apply a heat protectant to minimize damage.

Upcoming Curly Hair Trends in 2025

In 2025, we expect to see more curly styles embracing natural textures with less manipulation. Trends will include longer, more relaxed curls, as well as fresh takes on classic cuts like the curly fade and textured crop. As men continue to embrace their natural curls, expect to see an increase in styles that focus on enhancing curl patterns rather than taming them.

Conclusion

Curly hair is timeless and offers endless styling possibilities for men. Whether you prefer tight curls, long flowing locks, or something in between, there’s a curly hairstyle that fits your personality and lifestyle. Experiment with these 15 iconic curly hair ideas to find the look that best suits you, and don’t be afraid to embrace your natural curls with confidence. Ready to rock your curls? Explore these styles and take your look to the next level!