The Mestiza Muse

Be Beautiful. Be Natural. Be You.

Be Beautiful. Be Natural. Be You.

Table of Contents

Table of Contents

Image of curly haired woman sporting a French bob.

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Discovering the right hairstyle for your curly hair can be a game-changer. It’s not just about trends; it’s about finding a style that complements your face, celebrates your natural curl pattern, and reflects who you are. Whether you’re after a fresh change or your new go-to look, that may work just for you.

Here are the eight best styles for curly hair that are stealing the spotlight this year: 1) Fluffed-Out Curls, 2) Curly Fringe, 3) Long Layered Curls, 4) Mid-Length Curly Hair, 5) Short Haircuts for Curly Hair, 6) The Messy Bun, 7) Updo with Curly Bangs, and 8) Cropped Curls.

Let’s delve into each of these hairstyles, discussing their key characteristics, how they suit different face shapes, and what kind of lifestyle they cater to. This is not just about choosing a trendy hairstyle; it’s about selecting one that reflects your persona and enhances your natural beauty.

8 Best Curly Hairstyles

For a sophisticated and effortless look, we went to Pinterest in search of stylish hairstyles for curly hair. Be prepared to stand out from the crowd with one of these looks!

Some of these curly hairstyles are popular for enhancing the natural texture of your hair.

These styles include:

1) Fluffed-Out Curls

Best Styles for Curly Hair in 2023 - fluffed out curls.
Photo credit: Pinterest
Best Styles for Curly Hair in 2023- fluffed-out curls.
Photo credit: Pinterest

Entity: Natural Curl Pattern, Volume

Fluffed-out curls are all about va-va-volume! The key to fluffed-out curls lies in the products you use and the way you style your hair.

Introduction and Background:

  1. Celebration of Natural Curls: One of the standout aspects of the Fluffed-Out Curls style is how it fully embraces your natural curl pattern. Unlike some styles that require a lot of manipulation, this one allows your curls to shine in their most natural state, bringing authenticity to your overall look.
  2. Importance of Natural Volume: Achieving the perfect Fluffed-Out Curls isn’t just about curl definition; it’s also about maximizing your hair’s natural volume. This look gives you an opportunity to let your hair breathe and occupy its own space, creating a fuller and more dynamic appearance.

Styling Techniques

  1. Optimal Product Use: To get the most out of this style, it’s important to use the right products. Lightweight mousses or foams are often the best way to go for maximizing fluff without weighing your curls down. Apply these products when the hair is still damp to lock in moisture and ensure long-lasting definition.
  2. Role of Diffuser Attachment: Using a diffuser attachment on your hair dryer can be a game-changer for preserving your hair’s natural texture. The diffuser spreads the heat evenly and minimizes frizz, leaving you with beautifully defined, voluminous curls.

Who It’s For

  1. Facial Features and Curl Types: This style particularly complements all facial features, espeicially those with oval or heart-shaped faces, as it frames the face softly. As for curl types, it’s incredibly versatile, making it one of the best haircuts for those with medium-length to longer hair. The additional length allows for more room to showcase your curls’ natural bounce and volume.

Expert Tips

  1. Layered Cut for Bouncier Curls: A layered cut can further elevate this hairstyle. The layers add depth and dimension, making your curls appear even more bouncy.
  2. Maintaining the Style Overnight: To keep your Fluffed-Out Curls looking fresh, consider loosely tying your hair on the top of your head using a silk or satin scrunchie before bed. This ‘pineapple’ technique minimizes tangles and frizz, keeping your curls intact for the next day.

How to fluff out curls

  • The best way to volumize your curls is to delicately insert a wide-tooth comb or pick into the roots and tug outwards gently. Keep in mind that you don’t have to drag it all through.
  • With this method, not only does your hair appear fuller and more voluminous but it is also lifted from the scalp.

Check out this step-by-step YouTube video by Melis Curls on how to fluff out your curls:

Video credit: MelisCurls

2) Curly Fringe

Growing up, I was convinced straight-haired girls were the only ones that could pull off bangs. If this sounds familiar to you, don’t be discouraged; those with curly hair can wear bangs too!

Curly fringe is all the rave this year and is a super easy way to add texture and definition to your look.

Best Styles for Curly Hair in 2023 - curly fringe.
Photo credit: Pinterest
Best Styles for Curly Hair in 2023- curly fringe.
Photo credit: Pinterest

Entities: Face Framing, Curl Definition, Hair Length

Introduction and Background

  1. The Allure of Curly Fringe: The Curly Fringe style adds a youthful, edgy element to your look. It naturally works with your curls to create an individualistic appearance. This isn’t a look that requires precision; it lets your natural curls set the tone for an effortlessly chic outcome.
  2. Versatility of Hair Length: What’s wonderful about the Curly Fringe is its adaptability across different hair lengths. Whether you sport shorter or longer locks, introducing a curly fringe can revamp your style and bring a flattering frame to your face.

Styling Techniques

  1. Product Choices for Defined Curls: Achieving a captivating Curly Fringe is all about curl definition. Selecting the right curl-defining cream or gel is a great way to structure your fringe. These products hold the curls in place and leave them soft to the touch.
  2. Diffuser for Natural Curl Shape: A diffuser attachment continues to be a key tool, as with the Fluffed-Out Curls. The diffuser enhances your natural curl pattern while combating frizz, ensuring your fringe serves its face-framing purpose effectively.

Who It’s For

  1. Suitability for Different Facial Features: This style shines on those with square or round facial shapes, elongating and balancing the face. The Curly Fringe is highly adaptable, and suitable for various curl patterns and lengths, thus making it a great choice for both short and long hair.

Expert Tips

  1. Cutting Techniques for Perfect Curls: When it comes to cutting a Curly Fringe, technique is paramount. Opt for a dry cut and consider seeing a stylist who specializes in curly hair. This ensures that each curl is cut in a way that it naturally frames your face.
  2. Day-to-Day Maintenance: Maintaining your Curly Fringe can be as simple as a quick refresh with a refresher spray or a dab of the curl-defining product you used initially. This quick touch-up can sustain the curl’s shape and definition without necessitating a full restyle.

3) Long Layered Curls

Best Styles for Curly Hair in 2023- long layered curly hair.
Photo credit: Pinterest
Best Styles for Curly Hair in 2023- long layers for curly hair.
Photo credit: Pinterest

Entities: Curl Longevity, Natural Bounce, Hair Health

Introduction and Background

  1. The Elegance of Long-Layered Curls: Long-layered curls create the optical illusion of volume and length with minimal bulk, making them ideal for those who want a stylish hairstyle. Unlocking your naturally curly hair’s full potential is as simple as adding layers! With a layered hairstyle, you can achieve beautiful definition, texture, and movement throughout all of your curls.
  2. Importance of Healthy Hair: The beauty of Long-layered curls truly shines when your hair is healthy. Good hair care practices, including regular trims and deep conditioning, can make a noticeable difference in how your layers fall and how your curls bounce.

Styling Techniques

  1. Maximizing Curl Longevity: Keeping your curls in prime condition for an extended period can be achieved through the careful selection of styling products. Depending on your hair texture, opt for leave-in conditioners and gels that offer long-lasting conditioning and curl definition.
  2. Accentuating Natural Bounce: One of the secrets to perfect Long-layered Curls is to enhance your hair’s natural bounce. Utilize flexi-rods for a heat-free option to accentuate your hair’s natural bounce.

Who It’s For

  1. Suitability for Different Hair Lengths and Types: Long Layered Curls are ideal for those with medium-length to long hair. The layers offer a way to manage and lighten very thick hair while also providing structure for finer hair types. The style can be adapted to suit a variety of curl patterns, making it one of the most versatile curly hairstyles.

Expert Tips

  1. Layering Techniques for Hair Health: The layering technique adds aesthetic value and contributes to better hair health. By removing some of the weight from your hair, the layers may help reduce breakage and split ends, making your curls look healthier over time.
  2. Maintaining the Layers: To ensure your Long-layered curls continue to look their best, consider a trim every 8-12 weeks. This will help maintain the shape of the layers and the overall health of your hair.

4) Mid-Length Curly Hair

Best Styles for Curly Hair in 2023 - mid-length curly hair.
Photo credit: Pinterest
Best Styles for Curly Hair in 2023- mid length curly hair.
Photo credit: Pinterest

Entities: Versatility, Curl Definition, Manageability

Introduction and Background

  1. The Appeal of Mid-Length Curly Hair: A classic mid-length sits slightly above the collarbone or between your collarbone and chest (aka Grown-Out Mid-Length or Medium Length). This look offers a versatile canvas for various curl patterns, allowing for a customizable style that suits a wide range of aesthetics and lifestyles.
  2. Ease of Manageability: One of the main attractions of medium-length curls is their manageability. This length is often easier to maintain than longer styles but still provides ample room for showcasing a diverse range of curl patterns. It’s playful, wild, springy, and bouncy! From layered cuts to curly shag styles to classic looks – these beautiful curly hairstyles are ideal for turning heads and making your life easier.

Mid-length curls include:

  • Asymmetrical Lob
  • Angled Lob
  • Curly Shag
  • Long Bob
  • Layered Lob
  • Wolf Cut
  • Shaggy cut

Styling Techniques

  1. Products for Curl Definition: To make the most of your mid-length curls, opt for lightweight curling creams or mousses that enhance curl definition without weighing your hair down. The best way to apply these products is when the hair is damp.
  2. Heat-Styling vs Air-Drying: You may choose between heat styling and air-drying depending on your lifestyle and personal preferences. A diffuser attachment can help with volume, while air-drying allows your curls to form in their most natural state.

Who It’s For

  1. Broad Appeal for Various Curl Types: Mid-Length Curly Hair is suitable for a wide range of curl types and facial features. Its versatility makes it one of the best haircuts for those looking for a balanced, adaptable style that offers both ease and flair.

Expert Tips

  1. Cutting Techniques for Balanced Curls: When it comes to cutting mid-length curls, the approach can vary based on your specific curl pattern. It’s advisable to consult with a curly hair expert to determine the best cutting technique for your hair type, ensuring balanced, flattering results.
  2. Routine Maintenance: Invest in regular trims and consider deep-conditioning treatments to keep your mid-length curls looking their best. The upkeep maintains the style and promotes healthier, more vibrant curls.

5) Short Haircuts

Best Styles for Curly Hair in 2023- short curly hair.
Photo credit: Pinterest
Best Styles for Curly Hair in 2023 - French bob.
French bob. Photo credit: Pinterest

Entities: Effortless Chic, Texture Play

Introduction and Background

  1. The Contemporary Edge of Short Curly Haircuts: Short curly haircuts offer an instant upgrade to a modern, edgy look. Reinvigorate your style with a chic, chopped hairdo. Though the short hair trend is not entirely novel, they will always remain modern and stylish.
  2. Reduced Weight: Many beautiful short hairstyles can highlight your natural beauty. Having shorter locks will reduce the weight on your curls and make them more lively, bouncy, and full of movement. You’ll be sure to turn heads! From pixie cuts to French bobs and wavy crops, there are plenty of options to choose from plenty.

Styling Techniques

  1. Optimal Use of Styling Products: Because there’s less hair to work with, the products you use need to be highly effective without overwhelming your curls. Lightweight gels and mousses are often the best way to enhance your natural volume while providing hold.
  2. The Role of the Diffuser: Even with shorter hair a diffuser attachment can help enhance your curls. The diffuser spreads the heat more evenly, preventing frizz and helping to define curls, which is especially effective for shorter lengths.

Who It’s For

  1. Tailoring to Facial Features and Curl Types: Short haircuts can be exceptionally flattering when tailored to your face shape and curl type. Whether your curls are tight, loose, or wavy, a short haircut can highlight your facial features and bring out the best in your curls.

Expert Tips

  1. Precision Cutting for Short Curls: A well-executed cut is crucial for short curly hairstyles. Opt for a stylist experienced in curly hair to achieve a precise, textured cut that complements your natural curl pattern.
  2. Maintaining Your Short Cut: Regular trims are essential to keep your short curly haircut looking its best. Consider a 4-6 week maintenance schedule and occasional deep conditioning to ensure your hair remains healthy and your style stays fresh.

6) Messy Bun 

Best Styles for Curly Hair in 2023- messy bun.
Photo credit: Pinterest

Entities: Casual Elegance, Versatility, Time-saving

Introduction and Background

  1. The Uncontrived Elegance of the Messy Bun: A Messy Bun is similar to a ponytail, only instead of leaving your hair hanging down like a ponytail, you put a twist and a loop in your hair that allows it to remain up with your curls hanging off to one side. The curly-haired Messy Bun captures casual elegance effortlessly. This style is perfect for those days when you want to look put together without spending hours on your hair. Its relaxed yet chic vibe makes it a go-to choice for various occasions.
  2. Time-saving and Convenient: A great thing about the Messy Bun is that it’s a quick and easy style to pull together, making it one of the most time-efficient hairstyles for curly hair. Even when you’re pressed for time, there’s still enough room to quickly sculpt a glorious messy bun!

Styling Techniques

  1. Creating Natural Volume: For a fuller Messy Bun, you can tease the hair lightly at the top of your head before securing it into a bun. This technique accentuates your hair’s natural volume, lending a luxurious fullness to the style.
  2. Hair Accessories for Extra Flair: Hairpins, scrunchies, or even a few deliberately placed French braids can enhance your Messy Bun, adding a personalized touch to this versatile hairstyle.

Who It’s For

  1. Adaptable for Different Lengths and Textures: The Messy Bun is inclusive, catering to curly girls with different lengths and curl types; it’s basically for everyone! Whether you have short layers or longer hair, this style can be adapted to suit your specific needs.

Expert Tips

  1. Secure Yet Gentle Fastening: To maintain the style’s relaxed appearance and your hair’s natural texture, opt for hair ties that are secure yet gentle to prevent unnecessary hair breakage.
  2. Day-to-Night Transition: A Messy Bun can easily transition from a day-to-night look with a few simple tweaks. Consider loosening a few strands for a softer appearance, or add some hairpins for a more refined look when transitioning to an evening event.

7) Updo with Curly Bangs

Best Styles for Curly Hair in 2023 - updo with curly bangs.
Photo credit: Pinterest

Entities: Glamour, Face-Framing, Styling Versatility

Introduction and Background

  1. The Fusion of Elegance and Trendiness: The Updo with Curly Bangs combines classic elegance with modern style, giving you the best of both worlds. It offers a sophisticated way to showcase your curls while simultaneously framing your face with playful bangs.
  2. Highlighting Facial Features: The curly bangs in this style act as a frame, emphasizing facial features and adding a touch of glam to your overall look.

Styling Techniques

  1. Balancing Updo and Bangs: Achieving a harmonious balance between the updo and bangs is crucial for this style. Using styling creams or mousses can help maintain the shape of your curls in the updo.
  2. The Importance of Pinning: Strategic pinning can make or break this look. Pinning your curls in a way that maximizes natural volume in the updo while allowing the curly bangs to fall naturally is essential for pulling off this style.

Who It’s For

  1. Best Suited for Medium to Long Hair: The Updo with Curly Bangs is particularly well-suited for those with medium-length to longer hair. The style requires enough length to create a voluminous updo, while the bangs work best with a certain level of length and volume.

Expert Tips

  1. Choosing the Right Products for Hold and Shine: A firm-hold hairspray can be your best friend for keeping this updo in place. Opt for a product that offers hold without stiffness, ensuring that your curls remain touchable and natural-looking.
  2. Adapting to Different Occasions: One of the most striking features of this style is its versatility. You can easily dress it up with elegant hair accessories for formal events or keep it simple and chic for more casual outings.

8) Curly Crop

Image of the back of a curly cropped hairstyle.
Photo credit: Pinterest

Entities: Curly Crop Hairstyle, Styling Versatility, Face-Framing

Introduction and Background

1. Unveiling Chic Simplicity: The Curly Crop Hairstyle is a celebration of chic simplicity, merging the timeless appeal of curls with a contemporary twist. This hairstyle brings a fresh and playful vibe, effortlessly enhancing your facial features with its face-framing effect.

2. Embracing Styling Versatility: Beyond its inherent charm, the Curly Crop offers remarkable styling versatility. It adapts seamlessly to various occasions, making it a go-to choice for both formal events and casual outings.

3. Highlighting Facial Features: A defining feature of the Curly Crop is its ability to accentuate facial features. The curls delicately frame the face, adding a touch of glamour to your overall appearance.

Styling Techniques

4. Crafting Effortless Texture: Achieving the perfect texture is key to mastering the Curly Crop. Utilize curl-enhancing products to define and accentuate the natural curl pattern, ensuring a lively and textured look.

5. Maintaining Shape and Volume: Strategic trimming is essential to maintain the shape of the Curly Crop. Regular trims prevent excessive weight, allowing the curls to bounce with natural volume.

Who It’s For

6. Universal Appeal for Various Hair Lengths: The beauty of the Curly Crop lies in its adaptability to different hair lengths. Whether you have short, medium, or long hair, this style can suit your preferences.

Expert Tips

7. Product Selection for Definition: Opt for styling products that provide definition without compromising on the natural feel of your curls. Curl creams and light-hold gels can be instrumental in enhancing the overall aesthetic of the Curly Crop.

8. Accessorizing for Personalized Flair: Elevate your Curly Crop with personalized flair by incorporating accessories. From headbands to clips, the hairstyle welcomes creative accessorizing, allowing you to express your unique style.

What Are the Different Types of Curly Hair?

There are four hair type groups, which include:

  • Type 1: Straight
  • Type 2: Wavy
  • Type 3: Curly
  • Type 4: Coily/Kinky

Within these groups, there are subsections to classify their textures. A means you have wide strands, B suggests medium strands, and C shows tightly packed strands. For example, 3C hair implies you have curly hair with compact curls.

You could have thin or thick hair, but to discover where your curl type lands on the spectrum, you can check out a hair type chart to confirm.

In general, you can feel the density and texture of your strands by rubbing them between your fingers.

You can ask yourself, “Is there a bounce in your curls?” Do you notice any curl patterns, like zig-zags or naturally wavy hair?

Double-check your hair type with a chart to confirm how your texture is classified. Use this hair type chart to assess your hair yourself.

Tips on How to Care for Your Hair

Looking after your curly locks is essential if you want them to be their best. So here are some tips on how to care for your curly hair and what hair products you should consider when prepping to help your waves, curls, or coils stay bouncy and full of life.

Use a sulfate-free shampoo and conditioner

Sulfates can be harsh by removing any natural oils from your scalp, making your hair dry and brittle.

So look for products that are specifically designed for curly hair and may include ingredients like shea butter, castor oil, or glycerine to increase moisture retention.

Use a wide-toothed comb

Use a wide-tooth comb to gently detangle your hair, causing less tension on the strands and hair shaft. There are also curly hair brushes that can gently detangle your hair without damage.

Deep condition

Curly hair is generally the driest hair type. This is because it’s harder for the scalp’s natural oils to coat the strands from the root to the ends compared to straight hair.

So, it’s essential to deep condition your hair (as needed) so it can get that much-needed hydration and prevent breakage.

Use a leave-in conditioner

Leave-in conditioners are also great for curly hair types, as they provide extra protection from the elements and help limit the risk of having dry hair.

You can use it after you’ve shampooed, conditioned, and dried your hair. It can also be reapplied once a week if more moisture is needed.

Heat styling should be avoided or minimized

Heat styling can damage your curls, so try to avoid it as much as possible to maintain your healthy hair.

And if you need heat, ensure you use a heat-protectant product and remember to keep the heat setting low on the appliance.

Sleep with a satin pillowcase or satin scarf

Satin pillowcases help to keep your curls hydrated and prevent them from getting messy and tangled.

Satin headscarves work similarly and help prevent many frizzes, especially if you move around a lot while sleeping.

Use a clean T-shirt or microfiber towel to dry

Regular towels can be rough, causing hair to break and frizz. So using a t-shirt or microfiber towel is gentler on your curly strands.

It will be less likely to cause any breakage or damage to your hair as it won’t snag or pull out strands when drying.

Additionally, these materials don’t dry out the scalp, which can leave your curls looking healthy and bouncy.

Trim your hair consistently

Regular trimming is paramount to keeping your curls healthy and looking their best. So consider a trim every 6–8 weeks.

Trimming your hair removes split ends, which are quite common in curly and coily hair types, and allows the hair to grow more evenly.

HI,I'M VERNA

I’m just a girl who transformed her severely damaged hair into healthy hair. I adore the simplicity of a simple hair care routine, the richness of diverse textures, and the joy of sharing my journey from the comfort of my space.

My mission? To empower others with the tools to restore, and maintain healthy hair, and celebrate the hair they were born with!

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