Curly hairstyles are a timeless and popular choice for women of all ages and backgrounds, and they continue to be a top pick in 2023. Recent stats from the International Hair Trends Report indicate that approximately 55% of women now prefer curly hairstyles, up from 45% in recent years.
This preference is no surprise, given that curly hair offers a diverse range of styles, from gentle waves to tight coils, suitable for any occasion. Curly hair carries a natural elegance that effortlessly adds glamour to your overall look, be it for a fancy event, casual outing, or a relaxed day at the beach.
Accepting your curly hair allows you to celebrate your natural beauty and express yourself with confidence. Join us as we explore the world of curly hairstyles, offering options perfect for every moment in life.
How can I make my Curly Hairstyles look more voluminous?
If you have curly hair, you may have noticed that it can sometimes look flat and lack volume. Fortunately, there are many ways to add volume to your curly hair and make it look more voluminous. Here are some tips and tricks to help you achieve more volume in your curly hair:
- Use volumizing products: Mousses and foam formulas are ideal for creating voluminous looks, and their airy texture won’t weigh hair down. Work a volumizing foam or mousse into your roots to create lift, then rake through to your ends to help define your curls.
- Diffuse your hair: Use a diffuser attachment on your hair dryer to dry your curls while adding volume. Once your hair is dry, remove the diffuser attachment and use the air from the dryer to blow your curls around a bit to create volume.
- Pick it out: A hair pick is a must-have tool for adding volume in all the right places. To create height, lift a section of curls with your hand, and pick in an upward motion to fluff the curls underneath, staying close to the scalp.
- Shake it out: Shake your hair out upside down with your fingers, then flip back up and move your hair where you want it. To set the instant volume, blast it into place with an alcohol-free hairspray or spritz.
- Get a haircut: A hairstyle that’s all one length can weigh down your curls. Visit a talented curl stylist, who can reshape your hair to create a fuller, more voluminous look.
- Clarify your hair: Clarifying shampoos can help remove product buildup and mineral deposits that can weigh down your curls. Use a chelating shampoo to clarify your hair from mineral deposit build-up such as lime.
Best Curly Hair products:
Here are some of the best curly hair products for 2023, according to various sources:
- Briogeo Curl Charisma Rice Amino + Avocado Leave-in Defining Crème
- SheaMoisture Curl & Style Milk
- Kérastase Curl Manifesto Shampoo
- Frizz Ease Secret Weapon Touch-Up Crème
- Dream Coat for Curly Hair
- Controlled Chaos hair products
- Living Proof Curl Definer, Defining Gel, and Curl Elongator
Top 20 Curly Hair Styles for Every Occasion
1. Natural Curls:
Embrace your natural curls and let them flow freely for a casual and effortless look. Natural curls exude authenticity and are perfect for those who want a low-maintenance style that highlights their unique hair texture.
Suitable for:
Ideal for individuals with naturally curly hair looking to embrace their curls without extensive styling.
Hair Texture:
Best suited for those with medium to tight curls, as it allows the curls to shine and be the focal point of the hairstyle.
Styling Tip:
Use a curl-enhancing product to define and maintain your curls. Opt for sulfate-free products to keep your curls healthy and well-defined.
2. Beach Waves::
Create loose, beachy waves for a relaxed, summery vibe. Beach waves are reminiscent of a day at the seaside, making them a perfect choice for those seeking a carefree and effortlessly stylish appearance.
Suitable for :
This style is suitable for individuals who desire a relaxed, sun-kissed look that’s perfect for both casual outings and beach vacations.
Hair Texture :
Beach waves work best with loose curls or straight hair. If you have naturally straight hair and want to achieve this look, consider using a curling wand or braiding damp hair.
Styling Tip :
To achieve beach waves, you can use a texturizing spray or sea salt spray for added texture. Simply scrunch your hair to create the desired wave effect.
3. Curly Ponytail:
The curly ponytail is a timeless and versatile style that’s quick and easy to achieve. It’s suitable for everyday wear, as well as more formal occasions. To create this look, gather your curls into a high or low ponytail. You can smooth the top section for a polished finish or leave it slightly messy for a more carefree vibe. This style works well with medium to tight curls and offers a chic and convenient way to keep your hair out of your face while looking fabulous.
Suitable For:
Quick and chic everyday styling.
Hair Texture:
Suitable for medium to tight curls.
Styling Tip:
Smooth the top section for a polished finish.
4. Cascading Curls:
Cascading curls offer an elegant and timeless look. Part your hair down the middle, allowing your luscious curls to flow down your shoulders, creating a striking frame for your face. This style is ideal for formal events and special occasions, adding a touch of sophistication. Use a curl-defining product to maintain the polished appearance of these medium to tight curls.
Suitable For:
Formal events and elegant occasions.
Hair Texture :
Ideal for medium to tight curls.
Styling Tip:
Use a curl-defining product for a polished appearance.
5. Curly Bob:
The curly bob is a trendy and manageable everyday hairstyle that offers a fresh and youthful vibe. It’s versatile and suits various face shapes. You can add a modern twist by incorporating bangs into your curly bob. It works well with medium curls, offering a stylish and low-maintenance option for those who love shorter hair.
Suitable For:
Ideal for those looking for a trendy and manageable everyday style.
Hair Texture:
Works well with medium curls.
Styling Tip:
Consider adding bangs to your curly bob for a modern twist and style your curls for a fresh and youthful appearance.
6. Half-Up, Half-Down:
The half-up, half-down hairstyle strikes the perfect balance between casual and formal. It’s a versatile choice for various occasions. Simply pull the top half of your curls into a bun or secure it with decorative pins or clips, leaving the rest down for a balanced and chic look. This style complements medium to tight curls beautifully.
Suitable For:
Perfect for those who want to achieve a balanced style that works for both casual and formal events.
Hair Texture:
Suits medium to tight curls.
Styling Tip:
Enhance the look by securing the bun with decorative pins or clips to add a touch of elegance to this versatile hairstyle.
7. Curly Afro:
The curly afro is all about embracing your natural texture and exuding confidence. This bold and voluminous style is perfect for those with tight, voluminous curls. Achieve this look by using an Afro pick to create volume and maintain your curls’ natural shape.
Suitable For :
Ideal for individuals who want to celebrate their natural texture and make a statement with a bold, voluminous afro.
Hair Texture:
Perfect for tight, voluminous curls.
Styling Tip:
To achieve maximum volume, use an Afro pick to lift and fluff your curls, enhancing the fullness of your curly afro hairstyle.
8. Curly Fishtail Braid:
The curly fishtail braid is a unique and eye-catching style that combines the elegance of a fishtail braid with the charm of curly hair. This hairstyle is perfect for those with medium curls who want to stand out and make a statement. The intricacy of the fishtail braid adds a touch of sophistication to your overall look.
Suitable For:
This hairstyle is suitable for individuals who seek a distinctive and eye-catching style that works for various occasions. It’s particularly well-suited for events where you want to make a memorable impression.
Hair Texture:
Ideal for medium curls, as they provide the right amount of texture and volume to create a beautiful fishtail braid.
Styling Tip:
When creating the fishtail braid, use small sections of hair to achieve a detailed and intricate look. This will make your curly fishtail braid even more captivating.
9. Curly Updo:
The curly updo is a timeless and sophisticated hairstyle that’s perfect for more formal occasions. It involves pinning your curls up to create an elegant and polished look. To soften the style, leave some tendrils of hair to frame your face, adding a touch of femininity to the overall appearance.
Suitable For:
This hairstyle is suitable for individuals attending formal events, such as weddings, galas, or special parties. It exudes an air of elegance and is ideal for those who want a classic and refined look.
Hair Texture:
Best for medium to tight curls, as they hold the updo securely and create a polished appearance.
Styling Tip :
To achieve the perfect curly updo, use pins and hair ties to secure your curls in an updo style. Leave some tendrils around your face for a softer, more romantic look.
10. Curly Twist Out:
The curly twist out is a fantastic hairstyle for those looking to achieve defined and textured curls. This method involves creating twists or braids in your damp hair and allowing them to set before unraveling them. The result is a beautiful and natural-looking head of curls that exude a playful and carefree vibe.
Suitable For:
The curly twist out is suitable for anyone who wants to enhance their natural curl pattern or add texture to their hair. It’s a versatile style that works well for both casual and formal occasions.
Hair Texture:
This style works well for those with medium to tight curls or wavy hair.
Styling Tip:
To achieve a successful curly twist out, start with damp hair and use a twist-out cream to set your curls. Be patient when unraveling the twists, as this will help maintain the defined curl pattern.
11. Curly Mohawk:
The curly Mohawk is a bold and edgy hairstyle that involves styling the sides of your hair short while leaving a strip of curly hair down the center. This look creates a striking contrast and is perfect for those who want a unique and daring appearance.
Suitable For:
The curly Mohawk is suitable for individuals who want to make a bold fashion statement. It’s often chosen by those with tight curls who are looking for a distinctive and trendy style.
Hair Texture:
This style is ideal for those with tight, coily curls. It’s important to have enough hair length in the center section for styling.
Styling Tip:
To achieve the perfect curly Mohawk, maintain the sides short by trimming or shaving. Use a curl-enhancing product for the center section to keep the curls defined and voluminous.
12. Vintage Pin-Up Curls:
Vintage pin-up curls are a classic and glamorous hairstyle that harks back to old Hollywood. It involves creating defined and retro curls that exude timeless elegance. This style is perfect for special occasions when you want to channel the charm and sophistication of vintage Hollywood.
Suitable For:
Vintage pin-up curls are suitable for individuals who appreciate vintage glamour and wish to make a statement at formal events. It’s an excellent choice for those with medium to tight curls.
Hair Texture:
This style works best for individuals with medium to tight curls. It’s important to have enough curl definition for the vintage pin-up look.
Styling Tip :
Achieving vintage pin-up curls involves using pin curls and setting them with hairspray. To make the curls more defined and long-lasting, start with damp hair and set each curl carefully.
13. Curly Headband:
The curly headband style is perfect for keeping your curls out of your face while adding a touch of flair. It involves using a decorative headband or scarf to accessorize your curls, creating a chic and practical look.
Suitable For:
The curly headband style is suitable for anyone who wants to keep their curls well-managed and stylish. It’s a great option for casual and everyday wear, as well as special occasions.
Hair Texture:
This style is suitable for individuals with medium to tight curls. The headband helps keep the curls in place and adds an element of style to the overall appearance.
Styling Tip:
To achieve the curly headband look, select a decorative headband or scarf that complements your outfit. Place it around your head, positioning it to keep your curls in place while allowing some to frame your face for added charm.
14. Messy Side Swept Curls:
Messy side-swept curls offer a sultry and carefree appearance. This hairstyle involves sweeping your curls to one side, creating an effortlessly stylish look that’s perfect for both casual outings and more formal events.
Suitable For:
Messy side-swept curls are suitable for individuals who want a relaxed yet elegant hairstyle. It’s a versatile choice for various occasions and complements a wide range of outfits.
Hair Texture:
This style works best for those with medium curls. The messier, side-swept look adds a touch of natural charm and style to your appearance.
Styling Tip:
To achieve the messy side-swept curls, apply a texturizing spray to add volume and create a slightly tousled look. Sweep your curls to one side and use a few bobby pins if needed to secure the style.
15. Curly High Bun:
The curly high bun is a sophisticated and formal hairstyle that involves gathering your curls into a neatly arranged bun atop your head. This style exudes elegance and is suitable for special occasions or when you want a polished appearance.
Suitable For:
The curly high bun is suitable for individuals seeking a refined and formal look. It’s an excellent choice for weddings, parties, or any event where you want to make a statement.
Hair Texture:
This style is ideal for individuals with medium to tight curls. It’s essential to have enough curl definition to create a voluminous bun.
Styling Tip :
To achieve the curly high bun, consider using a donut bun maker to help shape the bun. Smooth your curls into a high bun, ensuring it looks neat and well-arranged for a formal occasion.
16. Curly Pigtails:
Curly pigtails are a youthful and fun hairstyle that involves styling your hair into two playful ponytails on either side of your head. This look exudes a sense of joy and is perfect for casual and carefree occasions.
Suitable For:
Curly pigtails are suitable for individuals who want to embrace a fun and youthful style. This look works well for casual outings and can add a touch of charm to your appearance.
Hair Texture:
This style is suitable for those with medium curls. Having enough curl definition will ensure that the pigtails look playful and stylish.
Styling Tip:
To achieve curly pigtails, secure each ponytail with colorful hair ties for a playful and vibrant look. You can also tease the pigtails slightly to add volume and texture.
17. Curly Twist Braids:
Curly twist braids are an intricate and unique hairstyle that involves braiding your curls into twisted braids. This style is eye-catching and adds a touch of artistry to your overall appearance.
Suitable For:
Curly twist braids are suitable for individuals looking for a distinctive and artistic style. This look is versatile and can be worn for various occasions.
Hair Texture:
This style works well with individuals who have medium curls. The twists and braids create an interesting and textured look.
Styling Tip:
To achieve curly twist braids, section your hair and create small twists that you can later braid. This style allows for creativity, so you can experiment with different braid patterns for added uniqueness.
18. Curly Crown Braid:
The curly crown braid involves forming a beautiful crown-like braid with your curly hair. It’s an elegant and whimsical style that adds a touch of regal charm to your look. This hairstyle is perfect for special occasions when you want to feel like royalty.
Suitable For:
The curly crown braid is suitable for individuals who want to create an elegant and sophisticated appearance. It’s an excellent choice for weddings, proms, and other formal events.
Hair Texture:
This style is ideal for individuals with medium to tight curls. The defined curls provide the necessary texture for the crown braid.
Styling Tip:
To achieve the curly crown braid, you can add decorative pins or flowers to the braid for a more whimsical effect. Ensure that the braid is neatly arranged and sits atop your head like a crown.
19. Curly Side Braid:
The curly side braid is a romantic and bohemian hairstyle that adds a touch of whimsy to your look. It’s perfect for individuals with medium to tight curls who want a relaxed and carefree appearance. By creating a loose side braid with your curls, you can achieve this charming and effortless style.
Suitable For :
This hairstyle is suitable for those looking to infuse a sense of romance and boho chic into their look. It’s great for casual outings and relaxed events.
Hair Texture:
Works well with medium to tight curls, as they provide the necessary volume and texture for the braid.
Styling Tip:
For an even more relaxed and undone look, gently pull out a few strands from the braid to create a slightly messy effect, adding to the bohemian charm of this style.
20. Messy Bun:
The messy bun is a go-to choice for those seeking a stylish yet relaxed updo. It’s perfect for casual outings, but with a little extra flair, it can also complement more formal events. Achieving this look is simple: twist your curls into a bun, allowing some tendrils to escape for that effortless charm. Best suited for medium to tight curls, the messy bun is a carefree and trendy option for various occasions.
Suitable For:
A carefree and stylish updo.
Hair Texture:
Best for medium to tight curls.
Styling Tip:
Leave some curls loose for a relaxed look.
Final Words:
As we conclude our journey through the world of curly hairstyles for every occasion, one thing is clear: curly hair is a timeless and versatile choice. It’s a favorite for women of all ages, and its popularity continues to rise. Whether you’re heading to a formal event, a casual day out, or embracing a carefree beach vibe, there’s a curly style that suits your personality and the occasion. Curly hair exudes natural beauty and effortless glamour. So, embrace your curls, celebrate your uniqueness, and confidently express yourself through your hairstyle. With curly hair, you’re ready to shine at every moment in life.
FAQ’:
How ca n I define and maintain my natural curls?
Answer: To define and maintain your natural curls, use curl-enhancing products, opt for sulfate-free shampoos, and consider a diffuser attachment when drying your hair to add volume and texture.
What are the best products for curly hair?
Answer: The best products for curly hair typically include moisturizing shampoos and conditioners, leave-in defining creams, and styling products like mousses, foam formulas, and curl-enhancing gels.
Is it possible to achieve a curly hairstyle with naturally straight hair?
Answer: Yes, it is possible to achieve curly hairstyles with naturally straight hair. Techniques such as using a curling wand or braiding damp hair can help create beach waves or loose curls.
How do I add volume to my flat and lifeless curly hair?
Answer: To add volume to flat curly hair, you can use volumizing products, pick your hair, shake it out, and consider getting a haircut with layers to create more volume and bounce.
Which curly hairstyle is best for a formal event or special occasion?
Answer: Cascading curls, curly updos, vintage pin-up curls, and curly crown braids are ideal choices for formal events or special occasions. These styles exude elegance and sophistication.
Merry Ativan, a hairstylist and trendsetter, brings creativity and expertise to the world of hair fashion, helping clients feel their best.”