Curls come in many forms, from loose waves to tight coils - no two textures are the same. You might have embraced your natural curls since day one, or you might still be in the process of understanding your curl pattern. Either way, finding the right hair style is key to unlocking your curls' full potential.
Gone are the days of trying to fight your curls. Award-winning hairdresser Errol Douglas MBE says: ‘What’s powerful right now is how the natural texture is being embraced in all its glory. No relaxers, no heat damage, just raw, radiant coils, kinks, and curls.’
The right haircut can breathe life into your natural curls, and it can make styling a lot easier (who doesn’t love a few extra minutes in bed?) But with so many trends out there, knowing where to start can feel overwhelming.
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But don’t worry, we have you covered. We’ve spoken to curly hair experts to bring you their top tips. From the best celebrity cuts to mastering the art of maintaining healthy, bouncy curls, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know to make your curls thrive. And once you’ve chosen your next style? GHI has found the best shampoos, conditioners and oils for curly girls.
What are the best haircuts for naturally curly hair?
Edward James, a curly hair specialist and founder of Edward James Salon, says: ‘When cutting curly hair, it’s essential to build shape gradually, working with the curl’s natural bounce rather than against it. Cutting curls when they are dry enables the stylist to consider how much the hair will shrink.’
He adds: ‘For shorter curly hair, structured layering is key. For medium-length curl styles, you need to allow for natural shrinkage, otherwise the hair can puff out into a ball of fluff and layers can separate. For long curly hair, soft, graduated layers are ideal.’
1. The Classic Afro
Fleur East is known for her iconic Afro. Errol says: ‘The Afro is more than a hairstyle, it’s a crown, a statement, and a celebration of heritage, identity, and unapologetic beauty.’ With this cut, Errol recommends moisturising cream and hair oil for maximum hydration.
Perfect for: 4A, 4B, 4C
2. The Wolf Cut
Natasha Lyonne’s wolf cut offers a modern twist on the shag and the mullet. Think choppy layers, volume and a touch of the 70s. This haircut is trending for a reason - it’s low maintenance, incredibly versatile and ideal for those with a curly hair texture.
Perfect for: 2C, 3A
3. The Graduated Layers
Kerry Washington’s graduated layers frame the face beautifully. Edward explains: ‘For long curly hair, soft, graduated layers are ideal for avoiding the dreaded ‘pyramid' shape.’
Perfect for: 4A, 4B, 4C
4. The Soft Layers
The GH team have been obsessing over Andie Macdowell’s hair. Here, the star has smoothed out her natural corkscrew curls while still keeping her hair full of movement. Edward says this haircut ‘shows how layering can enhance fullness without adding weight.’ Ideal for those with a loose to medium curl pattern.
Perfect for: 2A-3B
5. The Dolce Vita Bob
If, like Sandra Oh, you have thick bouncy hair, you’re in luck with this trending style. The Dolce Vita bob is full of volume, bounce and 1950s glamour. This hairstyle will have you looking Hollywood-ready wherever you go.
Perfect for: 3A, 3B
6. The Rounded Afro
If you’re looking for a more defined Afro shape, you may want to take some inspiration from Tracee Ellis Ross. This hair cut features ‘rounded layers, concave for volume and movement,’ says Errol.
Perfect for: 4A, 4B, 4C
7. The Chin Length Bob
Halle Berry’s chin-length bob feels effortlessly chic and cool. The natural volume of the curls create a beautiful rounded shape that perfectly frames and highlights the face.
Perfect for: 3A, 3B, 3C
8. The Short Asymmetric Afro
Want to make a statement? Keep it short like Lupita Nyong’o. This short, asymmetric cut plays with balance: bold with a laid-back edge.
Perfect for: 4A, 4B, 4C
9. The Curly Bangs
Issa Rae’s defined, bouncy curls and soft bangs are a match made in heaven. This cut is effortlessly pretty, feminine and romantic.
Perfect for: 4A, 4B, 4C
10. The Wet-Look Curls
Channel Maya Jama with wet-look curls- effortlessly cool and summer-ready. To achieve this glossy look Edward recommends applying a generous amount of Color Wow Pop n’Lock Serum.
Perfect for: 2C, 3A, 3B
Which curly hairstyles should I be cautious of?
There’s no doubt that curly hair is beautiful; however it also comes with its challenges. Curls require unique care and while we all love a trip to the salon, it’s important to know what to be cautious of when left to your own devices.
Tight Ponytails and Buns
As much as we all love a slick-back look, it’s best to reserve these styles for special occasions. Errol Douglas says: ‘Constant pulling can cause tension on the hairline, leading to traction alopecia. They flatten your curl pattern and create breakage, especially if done on dry hair.’
Protective Styles Done Too Tightly
Protective styles such as braids, cornrows and twists are designed to protect the hair from damage. However, if done incorrectly they can cause more harm than good. ‘Protective styles that are installed too tightly can cause breakage and even long-term hair loss,’ says Errol. ‘Always make sure your scalp isn’t sore. Pain is a red flag.’
Hot Tools Addiction
While it’s tempting to switch it up and straighten your curls, we all know heat can be damaging. Edward says: ‘If you switch between wearing your hair curly and straight, be aware that frequent heat styling can weaken curl formation over time. Use a good heat protector like Aveda’s Nutriplenish Leave-In Conditioner as well as regular treatments to maintain hair health.’
Frequent Use of Hair Extensions
Hair extensions are a quick way to change up your look, but did you know that they can damage your natural hair? Errol warns: ‘Hair extensions, especially sew-ins and glue-ins, can weigh down your curls and cause tension on the scalp. They also make it harder to maintain your natural hair’s health underneath.’
Styles That Need Constant Combing
While running a comb through your curls may be tempting, it’s important to be aware that too much brushing can cause accidental damage. Errol warns: ‘Curly hair doesn’t like to be manipulated too often. Combing or brushing dry curls can cause frizz and tangles.’
What should you consider when washing curly hair?
Wash day: whether you love or hate it, it has to be done. Getting it wrong could cause frizz and breakage, so when it comes to washing your curls, it’s important to carefully consider your technique and the products you’re using.
Errol recommends the ‘co-washing’ method: ‘Instead of traditional shampoos, use a cleansing conditioner to wash your hair. This method helps retain moisture and is gentler on curly hair.’
If you’re looking for wash day recommendations, Edward is a fan of Bouclème Hydrating Hair Cleanser ‘which gently removes product buildup but without stripping the hair. Follow with a hydrating conditioner like Botanical Repair Conditioner by Aveda and always dry with a microfibre towel (or cotton T-shirt) and always blot, never rub.’
Choose your curl finish.
There’s no shortage of styling techniques to explore with curly hair. Whether you love bouncy, defined curls or prefer the au naturale look, Edward has shared the products and techniques can really work.
For defined, polished curls
‘Use products with more hold. Try Innersense I Create Hold , which is an organic styling gel that gives long-lasting definition with a soft finish.’
For a natural, touchable finish
‘Lighter creams and leave-ins work best. Only Curls Hydrating Curl Creme defines without residue and leaves curls feeling soft and free.’
For a glossy, wet-look curl
‘Layering hydrating products with a gel works brilliantly. Color Wow Pop n’Lock Serum gives that shiny, high-fashion finish without stiffness. Apply generous amounts to wet hair for a long-lasting wet look.’
Innersense I Create Hold
Only Curls Hydrating Curl Crème
