17 Hairstyles for Men with Curly Hair and Versatile Lengths

Curly hair defines a man’s character. It offers natural volume and texture that straight hair simply lacks. Managing it requires the right strategy.

Versatility is key for the modern man. Whether you prefer short fades or long flows, curls adapt beautifully. Finding your signature look is about balance.

This guide covers seventeen premium styles. These looks suit various face shapes and lifestyles. Embrace your natural texture with confidence today.

1. The Curly Drop Fade

The curly drop fade is a contemporary staple for men who want a sharp, clean-cut appearance. By tapering the hair down behind the ear, it creates a curved silhouette that emphasizes the volume on top.

This style is particularly effective for men with tighter curl patterns or coils. It provides a structured frame for the face while keeping the sides manageable and neat for professional environments.

To maintain this look, regular trips to the barber are essential to keep the fade crisp. Use a light curl cream on the top section to define the ringlets without adding excessive weight.

2. The Mid-Length Bro Flow

The “Bro Flow” is the ultimate choice for men seeking a relaxed yet sophisticated aesthetic. This hairstyle allows your curls to move naturally, typically sitting at ear or jaw length to frame the face.

It works exceptionally well for men with wavy to medium-curly hair textures. The goal is to look effortless, making it a favorite for creative professionals and those who enjoy a rugged, outdoorsy vibe.

Apply a sea salt spray to damp hair to enhance the natural wave. Avoid heavy gels, as the charm of the Bro Flow lies in its movement and touchable texture throughout the day.

More Amazing Ideas

17 Professional Hairstyles for Men with Polished Cuts and Versatile Lengths — Read more16 Hairstyles for Wavy Hair Medium Length for Natural Flow — Read more16 Hairstyles for Men Wavy Hair to Control Natural Texture — Read more19 Office Hairstyles for Curly Hair That Keep Curls Defined — Read more19 Curly Hairstyles for Kids with Natural Texture and Defined Curls — Read more

3. The Classic Curly Quiff

The curly quiff bridges the gap between vintage charm and modern masculinity. By keeping the hair longer at the forelock and shorter on the sides, it adds significant height to your profile.

This style is ideal for men with rounder faces, as the vertical volume helps elongate the facial structure. It requires a bit more styling time but offers a high-impact result for formal occasions.

Use a matte pomade to provide hold while allowing the curls to retain their natural shape. Work the product through the front section and lift upward and slightly back for maximum impact.

4. Long Curly Shag

The long curly shag is a nod to the rock-and-roll era, updated for the modern man. It involves strategic layering to remove bulk while highlighting the natural bounce of shoulder-length curls.

This cut is excellent for men with thick hair who find that a single-length cut feels too heavy. The layers prevent the “triangle” shape and ensure the hair moves dynamically with every turn.

To style, use a leave-in conditioner to prevent frizz and maintain moisture. This look thrives on a “woke up like this” energy, so minimal intervention is usually the best approach.

5. The Tapered Curly Fringe

The tapered curly fringe brings the hair forward over the forehead, creating a youthful and edgy appearance. The sides are kept short to ensure the focus remains entirely on the textured curls up front.

This is a fantastic option for men with higher foreheads or those who want to accentuate their eyes and brow line. It offers a cool, street-style aesthetic that works well with casual fashion.

A curl-defining mousse is your best friend for this style. Scrunch the product into your damp fringe to ensure the curls stay tight and don’t turn into a wall of frizz by midday.

More Amazing Ideas

16 Hairstyles for Men Straight Hair from Short to Medium — Read more17 Athletic Hairstyles for Curly Hair That Stay Secure — Read more17 Softball Hairstyles for Curly Hair That Fit Under Caps — Read more15 Hairband Hairstyles for Long Hair to Keep Bangs Back — Read more19 Hairstyles for Women in Their 50s with Versatile Lengths and Layers — Read more

6. The Slicked-Back Curly Undercut

For a high-contrast look, the slicked-back curly undercut is unmatched. The disconnected sides create a sharp boundary, while the long curls on top are swept back for a sleek finish.

This style offers a refined take on the traditional undercut, proving that curls can be just as formal as straight hair. It is a powerful choice for men in leadership roles or high-fashion circles.

Use a high-shine water-based pomade to achieve the slicked-back effect without losing the curl definition. Use your fingers instead of a comb to maintain the visible texture of the hair.

7. Shoulder-Length Natural Curls

Embracing full shoulder-length curls is a bold move that signals confidence and patience. This versatile length allows for various styling options, including tying it back or letting it hang free.

Men with wider jawlines or square face shapes benefit from the softening effect of long curls. It creates a balanced, harmonious look that celebrates natural hair growth and healthy texture.

Maintenance is vital here; use sulfate-free shampoos and deep-conditioning treatments weekly. Keeping the ends hydrated prevents split ends and ensures your curls look vibrant rather than dull or thirsty.

8. The Curly Pompadour

The curly pompadour is a statement style that screams elegance and attention to detail. It takes the classic 1950s silhouette and updates it with the unique texture of natural curls.

This look requires significant length on top to create the necessary “roll” or lift. It is a favorite for men who take pride in their grooming routine and want a look that stands out in a crowd.

Apply a firm-hold cream to damp hair and blow-dry using a diffuser to set the shape. The goal is to achieve height while keeping the curls distinct and neatly arranged.

More Amazing Ideas

15 Quick and Easy Hairstyles for School Short Hair Curly — Read more17 Fade Hairstyles for Men from Low Tapers to Skin Fades — Read more19 Snoop Hairstyles for Natural Hair with Braids and Twists — Read more17 Bridesmaid Hairstyles for Short Hair with Pins and Curls — Read more19 Lazy Hairstyles for Long Hair When You Have No Time — Read more

9. The Burst Fade Mohawk

The burst fade mohawk is a dynamic and athletic style for men who want an energetic look. The fade curves around the ear, leaving a strip of curls that runs from the forehead to the nape.

This style is highly popular among athletes and younger men due to its aggressive yet stylish silhouette. It showcases the curl texture perfectly while keeping the sides extremely cool and breathable.

Keep the mohawk section hydrated with a daily mist of water and light oil. This ensures the curls remain “popping” and resilient throughout your daily activities or workouts.

10. Low-Maintenance Buzz Cut with Texture

If you prefer a short look, the textured buzz cut is a masculine and practical choice. By leaving just enough length on top to show the curl pattern, you get the ease of a buzz with more personality.

This style is perfect for busy men who don’t want to spend time styling their hair in the morning. It highlights a strong bone structure and works well for men with receding hair lines.

While it is low maintenance, you should still use a scalp moisturizer. Keeping the skin and short hair healthy ensures the natural curl pattern looks intentional and well-groomed rather than neglected.

11. The Curly Side Part

The curly side part is the ultimate “gentleman’s” haircut for textured hair. By defining a clear part line, you bring structure to what can often be a wild and unruly hair type.

This style works best for medium-length curls and is highly suitable for the office. It offers a structured, professional appearance that still honors your hair’s natural inclination to curl and wave.

A comb-over technique with a side part requires a product with decent hold. Apply a styling cream to damp hair, find your natural part, and let the curls settle into place as they dry.

More Amazing Ideas

18 Hairstyles for Coily Hair to Retain Moisture and Length — Read more15 Hairstyles for Very Long Hair from Braids to Updos — Read more19 Natural Hairstyles for Kids Short Hair with Gentle Puffs — Read more16 Hairstyles for Baby Boys with Soft Curls or Fine Hair — Read more17 Soccer Hairstyles for Long Hair Using Braided Ponytails — Read more

12. The Man Bun with Tapered Sides

The man bun remains a versatile tool for men with long curls, especially when paired with tapered sides. This combination provides a clean look around the ears while managing the length on top.

It is an excellent “utility” style for the gym or hot summer days when you want your hair off your neck. The taper fade ensures you still look groomed even when the hair is tied up.

Avoid using thin rubber bands that can snag and break curly hair. Instead, use “hair clouds” or silk ties to secure the bun, protecting your curls from unnecessary damage and tension.

13. The Textured Crop

The textured crop is a modern, European-inspired style that features short, blunt-cut curls on top with a high skin fade. It is a sharp, geometric look that emphasizes the hair’s density.

This style is particularly flattering for men with thick, coarse curls. The short length on top makes the curls easy to manage while the fade provides a striking, high-fashion contrast.

A tiny amount of matte clay worked into the tips of the curls can add extra definition. This prevents the hair from looking like a solid mass and instead highlights individual curl segments.

14. Voluminous Top with Skin Fade

This style is about maximizing the contrast between a totally smooth side and a high-volume curly top. It is a bold, modern look that emphasizes height and texture above all else.

It suits men who want to make their hair the centerpiece of their style. Because the sides are taken down to the skin, all the visual weight is shifted to the beautiful curls on top.

More Amazing Ideas

17 Beanie Hairstyles for Short Hair to Show Fringe and Ends — Read more15 Short Natural Hairstyles for Black Women 4C Hair Coils — Read more18 Running Hairstyles for Short Hair to Keep Bangs Back — Read more18 Boho Hairstyles for Long Hair from Braids to Loose Waves — Read more19 Indian Wedding Hairstyles for Long Hair with Traditional Flair — Read more

Using a diffuser when blow-drying is the secret to achieving this level of volume. The diffuser spreads the airflow so the curls aren’t blown out, allowing them to dry in their natural, voluminous shape.

15. The “Heartthrob” Curls

Popularized by 90s icons, the heartthrob look is making a major comeback for men with medium-length curls. It features hair that falls naturally over the forehead and ears in a “messy-preppy” style.

This look is best suited for men with looser curls or waves. It projects an approachable, charming vibe that works well for students or those in creative industries who want a softer look.

Maintain this style by using a light leave-in conditioner to keep the hair soft. You want the curls to look touchable and fluid, so avoid any products that create a “crunchy” or stiff texture.

16. Braided Curls with Undercut

For men with longer, versatile curls, braiding the top section offers a distinct and culturally rich aesthetic. Pairing these braids with a sharp undercut adds a modern, urban edge to the traditional look.

This is a fantastic protective style that reduces daily maintenance and protects the hair from environmental damage. It allows you to keep your length while presenting a very organized and intentional appearance.

Ensure you moisturize your scalp regularly while the hair is braided. Use a light oil like jojoba or peppermint oil to keep the skin healthy and prevent any itching or dryness between re-braiding sessions.

17. The Afro-Taper Fade

The Afro-taper fade is a classic and sophisticated choice for men with 4C or very tight curl patterns. It honors the natural volume of the hair while providing a clean, tapered finish at the temples and nape.

This style is timeless and universally respected for its clean lines and masculine silhouette. It works perfectly for all ages, from young men to distinguished older gentlemen with salt-and-pepper curls.

More Amazing Ideas

15 Hairstyles for Virgin Hair That Protect Natural Health — Read more19 Long Bob Hairstyles for Fine Hair with Volume and Movement — Read more15 50s Hairstyles for Long Hair with Vintage Waves and Rolls — Read more16 Hairstyles for Men Oval Face Shapes from Buzz to Long — Read more16 Formal Hairstyles for Men with Classic Cuts and Polished Styling — Read more

Use a high-quality pick to maintain the shape and volume of the Afro section. Applying a light sheen spray or natural oil will keep the coils looking healthy, hydrated, and deep in color.

Which face shape is best for curly hair?

Curly hair is versatile enough for any face shape, but the key is balance. Men with round faces should opt for styles with height, like a quiff, while square faces benefit from longer, softer curls.

How often should men wash curly hair?

Most men should limit washing curly hair to two or three times a week. Over-washing strips away natural oils, which leads to frizz; instead, use a conditioner more frequently to keep the hair hydrated.

Is curly hair high maintenance?

It can be, but it doesn’t have to be. Short styles like the textured crop or buzz cut are very low maintenance, while longer styles require more product and specific drying techniques to look their best.

What is the best product for curly hair?

Every man should have a quality leave-in conditioner and a curl-defining cream. These products provide the moisture curls crave and help hold the shape of the ringlets without making the hair feel stiff or greasy.

Can I get a fade if my hair is very curly?

Absolutely; fades are actually one of the best ways to manage very curly or coily hair. A fade provides a neat, masculine structure that makes the texture on top stand out more effectively.

How do I stop my curls from frizzing?

Frizz is usually a sign of dehydration. To combat it, apply styling products to soaking wet hair to lock in moisture, and avoid towel-rubbing; instead, pat the hair dry or use a cotton t-shirt.