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Celebrity Long Curly Hairstyles: 50 Stunning Looks for Every Face Shape and Hair Type

May 21, 2025 by Susan Dawson Leave a Comment

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Embracing your natural curls or creating the perfect curly style can transform your entire look. In 2025, celebrities continue to showcase innovative ways to rock long curly hair that work for various face shapes, hair textures, and personal styles.In this comprehensive guide, we’ve curated 50 breathtaking celebrity-inspired long curly hairstyles, complete with professional styling instructions, product recommendations, and hair type compatibility guidance. Whether you have naturally curly locks or want to create gorgeous curls with styling tools, you’ll find your perfect match here.

How to Use This Guide

Each hairstyle in our collection includes: – Celebrity inspiration photos – Step-by-step styling instructions – Difficulty level rating (1-5) – Maintenance requirements – Best face shapes and hair types – Product recommendations

In This Article:

  1. Beach Waves and Loose Curls (Styles 1-10)
  2. Medium-Defined Curls (Styles 11-20)
  3. Tight Ringlets and Spiral Curls (Styles 21-30)
  4. Naturally Textured Curls (Styles 31-40)
  5. Curly Updos and Special Occasion Styles (Styles 41-50)
  6. Expert Advice from Professional Stylists
  7. Product Recommendations by Hair Type
  8. Frequently Asked Questions

Beach Waves and Loose Curls

1. Shakira’s Golden Defined Ringlets

Shakira displaying golden defined ringlets - signature celebrity curly hairstyle with natural volume

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Shakira’s iconic golden ringlets have been her signature look throughout her career. As famous for her curls as she is for her strong vocals and belly dancing, Latina singer Shakira may have changed hair colors from time to time, but she never ditched her natural ringlets. Her signature golden curls offer the perfect balance of definition and natural volume.
↑ Back to Top | Beach Waves | Medium Curls | Tight Ringlets | Natural Texture | Curly Updos

Similar Styles You Might Love:

  • 40 Medium-Length Curly Hairstyles for Every Face Shape
  • Top 15 Products for Curly Hair in 2025
  • 5-Minute Beach Waves Tutorial for Busy Mornings
  • Highlighting Techniques for Curly Hair
  • Red Carpet Curly Hairstyles from the 2025 Awards Season

2. Rihanna’s Effortless Natural Curls

Rihanna natural effortless curls with blonde highlights - relaxed celebrity curly hairstyle
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Rihanna’s natural curls look effortlessly chic with minimal styling and light blonde highlights. After watching her reinvent herself countless times, natural Rihanna might be the best Rihanna. This look features perfectly poised brown and blonde curls with minimal styling for a relaxed yet glamorous effect. The multi-tonal highlights add dimension while maintaining a natural appearance.
↑ Back to Top | Beach Waves | Medium Curls | Tight Ringlets | Natural Texture | Curly Updos

3. The Blake Lively Celebrity Long Curly Hairstyles

Blake Lively half-up beach waves - classic celebrity curly hairstyle for special occasionsSourceIt’s impossible to talk about long curly hairstyle or just hair in general, really, and not discuss Blake Lively. This queen who was once described by her husband as ‘the Beyonce of the red carpet,’ knows how to flaunt it. Her golden tresses look best when she sports beach waves. Blake Lively’s signature golden beach waves have become one of Hollywood’s most requested hairstyles

4. The Camila Alves

camila alves long curly hairstyles

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Speaking of beach waves, doesn’t Camila Alves always look so effortless to you? It’s almost like she just stepped off a yacht and happened to wander graciously onto a red carpet somewhere. How does one achieve this look?

5. The Beyonce Celebrity Long Curly Hairstyles

Beyoncé voluminous curls with bangs - fierce celebrity hairstyle with dramatic volume

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Queen Bey has a fierce mane. In her own words, she is a lioness, and she clearly has the mane to prove it. It’s true that to get to these long curly hairstyles we know and love, she gets some help from extensions, but we surely adore what we seee/ Beyoncé’s voluminous curls create a fierce, lioness-inspired look perfect for stage performances and red carpet appearances.

6. The Alicia Keys

The moment she decided it was time to go makeup free, singer Alicia Keys also took a natural approach to her long curly hairstyles. We could not love her more. Also, we applaud the no makeup movement as one which is extremely empowering to women.
alicia keys long curly hairstyles

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7. The Solange Knowles Celebrity Long Curly Hairstyles

The hipster sister of the Knowles duo, Solange loves to flaunt her large curly hair in true hipster fashion. If you find you need a little extra help to get to this level of body and volume, buy some extensions.
Solange Knowles Hairstyle

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8. The Halle Berry

Here’s a sight you don’t get to see every day. Yes, actress Halle Berry has curly hair in real life, and this is how she looks with long curly hairstyles. The long, tamed curls bring out the soft and feminine side of her, especially when paired with subdued makeup and oversized earrings.
halle berry long curly hairstyles

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9. The Salma Hayek Celebrity Long Curly Hairstyles

Another actress whom you probably didn’t know has naturally curly hair is Salma Hayek. She typically puts an iron curler at work when stepping out in public and arranges every single one of those ringlets in a neat row.
Salma Hayek Hairstyle

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10. The Zendaya

Probably the most beautiful head of hair on our long curly hairstyles, Zendaya flaunts her deep brunette shade and her arctic berry lipstick like no one else. Don’t fret though. It’s not all hers. This is the work of countless extensions, which means you can get the look as well.
Zendaya spectacular voluminous deep brunette spiral curls - high-impact celebrity formal hairstyle
Zendaya’s spectacular voluminous curls create a glamorous, high-impact look perfect for special occasions. Image: Pinterest

Medium-Defined Curls

11. Keri Russell’s Iconic 90s Ringlets

Here’s a throwback picture of Kerri Russell which is definitive proof that the actress owns a time machine. She looks exactly the same, save for the long curly hairstyles which are so 90s, and we demand to know how she does it.
Keri Russell wearing classic 90s-inspired spiral curls with warm chestnut tones at a television awards ceremony in 2025
Keri Russell’s iconic 90s-style ringlets remain a timeless reference for medium-defined curls. Image: Pinterest
↑ Back to Top | Beach Waves | Medium Curls | Tight Ringlets | Natural Texture | Curly Updos

Similar Styles You Might Love:

  • The 90s Curly Hair Revival – Updated Looks for 2025
  • How to Add Volume to Curly Hair Without Frizz
  • Master the Perfect Curl – Curling Iron Techniques
  • Best Hair Accessories for Curly Styles
  • Throwback Celebrity Curly Hairstyles We Love

12. The Lorde

Long curly hairstyles in that organic, tree bark brown color have become Lorde’s iconic look. In fact, if we were to see her without the mass of long ringlets, we probably wouldn’t recognize her. Like Ariana Grande without the ponytail!
lorde long curly hairstyles

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13. The Kate Hudson Celebrity Long Curly Hairstyles

This is a candid and casual picture of the otherwise extremely poised and polished Kate Hudson. She has tousled bottle blonde hair, and she allows her naturally curly hair to rule free and of its own dominion.
Kate Gudson Hairstyle

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14. The Taylor Swift

True fans know that the old Taylor, the one who can’t come to the phone anymore has naturally curly hair. Yes, she is a huge fan of long curly hairstyles even now, but in a much more polished way. Back in the day she used to sing country songs and had a mass of bushy ringlets.
taylor swift long curly hairstyles

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15. The Rita Ora Celebrity Long Curly Hairstyles

Another famous songstress who could have fooled us with her vintage curls and retro looks whenever she’s on the red carpet is Rita Ora. In fact, she adores long curly hairstyles and lets her hair down whenever she can.
Rita Ora Hairstyle

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16. The Sarah Jessica Parker

So much of Sarah Jessica Parker’s persona has been infused with that of Carrie Bradshaw that, when you see a picture, you cannot tell which is which. The truth is they are both into long curly hairstyles, and both love New York. What more can you want?
sjp long curly hairstyles

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17. The Vanessa Hudgens Celebrity Long Curly Hairstyles

This is it. This is what perfect long curly hairstyles look like. We have found the hair of our dreams, and it belongs to Vanessa Hudgens. The secret is a lot of moisture both when you wash it and after with lotions, creams, conditioner, and leave-in spray.
Vanessa Hudgens Hairstyle

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18. The Ariana Grande

Did you know Ariana Grande has curly hair? Neither did we until she posted a collage of Insta pics with the caption that she missed her healthy curls. Who would have known? She stubbornly wears the exact same straight-haired hairstyle every time.
ariana grande long curly hairstyles

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19. The Hailee Steinfeld

This looks like a prom does for long curly hairstyles if we’ve ever seen one. Hailee Steinfeld looks like a huge porcelain doll with her big curls. And that dress is simply to die for. The sweetheart neckline is covered in sequins and has a dark mesh to make it more age-appropriate.
Hailee Steinfeld long curly hairstyles

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20. The Winnie Harlow Celebrity Long Curly Hairstyles

Nobody in the world owns it like Winnie Harlow so why should her long curly hairstyles be any different? The fantastically beautiful model proved that you can be whomever you want as long as you believe in yourself and work hard.
Winnie Garlow Hairstyle

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Tight Ringlets and Spiral Curls

21. Naomi Campbell’s 70s-Inspired Voluminous Afro

Speaking of models and long curly hairstyles, here’s Naomi Campbell showing us another way in which you can wear your curls. She’s sporting an asymmetrical and oversized afro with a 70s style turtleneck tank top. The silver and red makeup is reminiscent of the 70s as well.
naomi campbell long curly hairstyles

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22. The Nicole Scherzinger

Here’s another cool look that was obtained with the use of hair extensions. Former Pussycat Dolls lead singer Nicole Scherzinger opted for long curly hairstyle extensions in the matching color of her hair. In this way, it just seems like she has more body and volume.
Nicole Scherzinger Hairstyle

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23. The Amy Adams Celebrity Long Curly Hairstyles

Although not a natural curly haired girl, Amy Adams sported this fantastic example of long curly hairstyles in American Hustle, which made it worthy of mention. It’s a tapered look from the Disco Era in her signature flaming locks, complete with a silver sequin dress and crude black eyeliner makeup.
amy adams american hustle long curly hairstyles

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24. The Ciara

This is what we would call the girl next door look as far as long curly hairstyles go and singer Ciara has nailed it. She looks fantastic with this shade of dark cherry red hair, as well as with that defined set of mermaid curls.
Ciara Hairstyle

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25. The Lady Gaga Celebrity Long Curly Hairstyles

Lady Gaga has had so many looks over the years that we’re not sure we can remember all of them. However, she has come a long way since making an appearance in a giant egg or dressing in a meat gown. Nowadays, she’s a lot closer to natural and organic with these long curly hairstyles.
lady gaga long curly hairstyles

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26. The Selena Gomez

You don’t get to be the most followed person on Instagram if you don’t have great hair. That’s a fact. Another fact is that Selena Gomez currently has 133 million followers. Another fact is that she loves long curly hairstyles. And so do we.
Selena Gomez displaying luscious medium-defined curls with rich chocolate brown color at a music awards ceremony in 2025
Selena Gomez’s perfectly defined curls and glossy finish make this style a popular choice for both everyday wear and special events. Image: Pinterest

27. The Kelly Rowland Celebrity Long Curly Hairstyles

Singer Kelly Rowland’s hairstyle can actually be classified as extra-long, given the fact that it almost reaches her waist. If you like it, you can copy this look. However, you should know that it requires a lot of maintenance.
kelly rowland long curly hairstyles

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28. The Julia Roberts

Actress Julia Roberts is the owner of, presumably, the most famous long curly hairstyles of all time in Hollywood. If you were to name one curly haired actress, who would it be? Julia Roberts. Her huge curly mane in Pretty Woman is unforgettable.
julia roberts long curly hairstyles

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29. The Jennifer Lopez

Another fierce lady who takes huge pride in her lioness mane is none other than Jennifer Lopez. She is famous for sticking with her long curly hairstyles even as she progressed in an age when most women typically go for the chop or what we call the mom bob.
jennifer lopez long curly hairstyles

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30. The Katy Perry Celebrity Long Curly Hairstyles

She’s not a natural curly haired girl herself, but Katy Perry is definitely an inspiration for all of us who want curly hair on a daily basis but have to work for it. Here she is with a set of sweetheart curls, in her signature raven brunette.
katy perry long curly hairstyles

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Naturally Textured Curls

31. Christina Aguilera’s Dramatic Contrast Curls

Another songstress enamored with long curly hairstyles is Xtina. She tried all manner of curls herself but who can forget this look back from the early 2000s, when she sported white blonde hair with black peekaboo highlights? She was a modern-day Cruella DeVil. Here’s a whole article on peekaboo highlights for inspiration.
christina aguilera long curly hairstyles

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32. The Nicole Kidman

Yes, Nicolae Kidman too has very curly hair. She doesn’t wear it a lot, so this pic is a rare one indeed. In fact, the actress hasn’t been seen sporting long curly hairstyles in years. She always straightens her hair, both for movies and public appearances.
nicole kidman long curly hairstyles

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33. The Taylor Momsen Celebrity Long Curly Hairstyles

If modern grunge had a face, it would be Taylor Momsen’s. She embodies both grunge rock and femininity with her deeply smudged smokey eyes and gorgeous long curly hairstyles in a fantastic white platinum blonde.
taylor momsen long curly hairstyles

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34. The Leona Lewis

With hazel eyes that swim gently between green and brown and hair the color of smoked toffee, Leona Lewis is really a sight for sore eyes. Add to all that a gorgeous head of soft ringlets and you’ve got yourself long curly hairstyles to copy.
leona lewis long curly hairstyles

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35. The Kerry Washington

This is another story of a Hollywood actress who used the hair straightener for a long time until she decided that it was actually an empowering move for her to start wearing her natural hair. This is what it looks like. A gorgeous afro.
kerry washington long curly hairstyles

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36. The Taraji P. Henson Celebrity Long Curly Hairstyles

Can someone, please, direct us to the place where they take glamour shots such as these? Our Instagram is in need of some. Taraji P. Henson is gorgeousness personified and she knows it. Long curly hairstyles? Yes, please! Right now!
taraji p henson long curly hairstylesv

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37. The Kendall Jenner Celebrity Long Curly Hairstyles

Kendall Jenner of the Kardashian clan does not have curly hair herself. However, she has sported curls many times when she walked for different designers in their shows. This is one of those times and look how cute she is.
kendall jenner long curly hairstyles

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38. The Sara Sampaio

Speaking of supermodels, here is Sara Sampaio looking flawless as ever. We cannot decide what we like best about her. Her gorgeous smile, her dazzling blue eyes, or the most perfect set of curls we’ve ever seen? She just makes it all look so easy.
sara sampaio long curly hairstyles

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39. The Gabrielle Union

If you want to copy this look and don’t have naturally curly hair, you will have to bring out the old hair curler. If you do have curly hair, then you’re in luck. See? Long curly hairstyles are indeed for everyone.
gabrielle union long curly hairstyles

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40. The Gigi Hadid Celebrity Long Curly Hairstyles

Our list of long curly hairstyles is abundant in supermodels because they typically have the best hair. Here is sweetheart Gigi Hadid flaunting her gorgeous blonde hair as well as her always bikini ready body.
gigi hadid long curly hairstyles

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Curly Updos and Special Occasion Styles

41. Janet Jackson’s Timeless Curly Layers

Another blast from the past in the form of inspiration as far as long curly hairstyles go comes from singer and actress Janet Jackson. We absolutely adore the color of her hair, which is a very warm and delicious milky hot chocolate brown.
janet jackson long curly hairstyles

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42. The Emmy Rossum

The Phantom of the Opera’s Emmy Rossum is as fresh-faced now as she ever was back when she was starring in your favorite young adult movies. A true natural beauty, Emmy loves long curly hairstyles that allow her to flaunt her natural heavy curls.
emmy rossum long curly hairstyles

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43. The Mariah Carey

Although she is larger than life diva now who doesn’t leave the house without her makeup artists and stylists arranging every single strand of her hair, there was a time when Mariah Carey was just Mariah. She was a fan of long curly hairstyles and looked like your next-door neighbor who happened to sing really well.
mariah carey long curly hairstyles

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44. The Madonna Celebrity Long Curly Hairstyles

Remember Madonna in the 80s? Of course, you do. She was a style and fashion icon who shaped an entire generation. Scores of young girls and women everywhere copied her clothes, accessories, and long curly hairstyles.
madonna long curly hairstyles

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45. The Iman

One of the most beautiful supermodels in history, Iman is proud to display a round afro. You can see some blonde underlights in her dark chocolate hair. She paired the hairstyle with a golden dress with metallic straps, which we just love.
iman long curly hairstyles

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46. The Christina Aguilera Blonde Afro Celebrity Long Curly Hairstyles

Yes, we know we have Christina Aguilera on here twice. But the blonde afro had to make it on our list of long curly hairstyles. However, we have to point out that, even though absolutely everyone calls it a blonde afro, it is, in fact, just a massive heap of blonde crimped extensions. Still, she gets some points for trying to think outside the box.
blonde afro long curly hairstyles

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47. The Gugu Mbatha-Raw

If Gugu sounds familiar to you, that’s because she voiced Plumette in the 2017 live-action version of Beauty and the Beast. In real life, the actress is drop-dead gorgeous with flowing long black hair and a set of curls we would give anything for.
Gugu Mbatha-Raw long curly hairstyles

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48. The Janelle Monae

Here’s another singer turned actress overnight whom we had no idea was actually curly-haired. Janelle Monae loves long curly hairstyles and they love her back. She has the perfect pretty face for round afros, and she knows it.
janelle monae long curly hairstyles

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49. The Sarah Hyland

Ok, this one was really a shock. Sarah Hyland has curly hair in real life. It came as a huge surprise because the actress grew right before our eyes during the seasons of Modern Family and not once did we see her with anything but straight hair. And now we find out that long curly hairstyles are actually her thing.
sarah hyland long curly hairstyles

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50. The Chrissy Teigen Celebrity Long Curly Hairstyles

We don’t really think that Chrissy Teigen can do something wrong style wise. Ever. Just look at this blonde 70s curly blowout. Ok, we’re going to visit our stylist and get this hairstyle right now because it’s simply too cool for words.
chrissy teigen long curly hairstyles

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Conclusion

Most women who have curly hair will typically tell you that it’s incredibly difficult to maintain it. Celebrities included. A curly mane is usually disobedient, no matter how much product you use. Still, after seeing these 50 celebrity inspired long curly hairstyles, how cool is it to flaunt this organic quality that nature has given you and allow it to enhance your beauty? Let us know in the comment section below what you think.

Expert Advice from Professional Hairstylists

Chris Appleton

Celebrity Hairstylist to Jennifer Lopez and Kim Kardashian

“The biggest mistake people make with curly hairstyles is using the wrong barrel size for their desired result. For beachy waves, go larger (1.5-inch), for defined curls, go smaller (0.75-inch). And always, always curl away from the face around the hairline for the most flattering frame.”

Top Tip: “Let curls cool completely before touching them. This sets the pattern and can double the longevity of your style.”

Vernon François

Celebrity Curl Expert and Founder of Vernon François Collection

“Understanding your specific curl pattern is essential to choosing the right products and techniques. What works for type 2 waves will not necessarily work for type 4 coils. The key is moisture balance – most curls need more hydration than you think, but the application method varies dramatically by curl type.”

Top Tip: “Always apply styling products to soaking wet hair for maximum definition and minimal frizz. The squish to condish method works wonders for enhancing natural curl patterns.”

Takisha Sturdivant-Drew

Celebrity Hairstylist to Kerry Washington and Gabrielle Union

“For natural textures, it is all about protecting your hair while you sleep. A satin pillowcase is just the beginning – I recommend pineappling your curls with a loose scrunchie at night and refreshing in the morning with a light water and leave-in conditioner mist. This extends your style for days.”

Top Tip: “Do not shy away from regular trims, especially with curly hair. Healthy ends make for bouncy, defined curls that hold their shape longer.”

Jen Atkin

Celebrity Hairstylist and Founder of OUAI

“Heat protection is non-negotiable for curly styles created with hot tools. I always start with a heat protectant spray, and I never go above 350 degrees on the curling iron or wand. Lower heat might take slightly longer, but the damage difference is dramatic, especially for repeated styling.”

Top Tip: “For more natural-looking curls, alternate the direction you wrap the hair around the barrel – some toward the face, some away – and vary the size of sections you take.”

Comprehensive Curly Hairstyle Comparison

Use this detailed reference table to compare different curly hairstyle options and find the perfect match for your hair type, face shape, and styling preferences:
Hairstyle TypeDifficultyMaintenanceHair TypesBest Face ShapesTime to StyleKey ProductsLongevityCelebrity Example
Beach Waves⭐⭐ (Easy)Medium1B-2BOval, Heart, Square15-20 minSalt spray, Wave enhancer1-2 daysBlake Lively
Loose Curls⭐⭐ (Easy)Medium1C-2CRound, Diamond, Heart20-25 minCurl cream, Light-hold mousse1-2 daysRihanna
Cascading Spiral Curls⭐⭐⭐ (Moderate)Medium-High2B-3AOval, Long, Heart25-30 minCurl enhancer, Medium-hold gel2-3 daysShakira
Medium Defined Curls⭐⭐⭐ (Moderate)Medium-High2A-3AAll face shapes25-30 minCurl defining cream, Light gel2-3 daysKeri Russell
Tight Ringlets⭐⭐⭐ (Moderate)High3A-3COval, Heart, Diamond30-40 minCurl definer, Strong-hold gel3-4 daysZendaya
Voluminous Curly Bob⭐⭐⭐⭐ (Advanced)Medium-High3B-3CHeart, Oval, Diamond25-35 minVolumizing mousse, Curl cream2-3 daysSolange Knowles
Natural Textured Curls⭐⭐⭐⭐ (Advanced)High3C-4BRound, Oval, Heart30-45 minLeave-in conditioner, Styling butter4-7 daysNaomi Campbell
Defined Coils⭐⭐⭐⭐ (Advanced)High4A-4CAll face shapes45-60 minCurl cream, Heavy styling butter5-7 daysSolange Knowles
Curly Updo⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (Expert)MediumAll TypesOval, Heart, Diamond45-60 minStrong-hold gel, Hairspray1 daySalma Hayek
Half-Up Curly Style⭐⭐⭐ (Moderate)MediumAll TypesLong, Heart, Round20-30 minTexturizing spray, Light-hold hairspray1-2 daysSelena Gomez
Side-Swept Curls⭐⭐⭐ (Moderate)Medium-Low3A-4CRound, Square, Heart25-35 minCurl definer, Light oil1-2 daysBeyoncé
Braided Crown with Curls⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (Expert)LowAll TypesAll face shapes60+ minEdge control, Strong-hold hairspray3-5 daysAlicia Keys

Understanding Hair Type Classifications

  • Type 1: Straight Hair (1A: Fine and thin, 1B: Medium, 1C: Coarse)
  • Type 2: Wavy Hair (2A: Fine and thin, 2B: Medium, 2C: Coarse)
  • Type 3: Curly Hair (3A: Loose curls, 3B: Medium curls, 3C: Tight curls)
  • Type 4: Coily Hair (4A: Soft coils, 4B: Wiry coils, 4C: Tight coils)

Face Shape Guide

Different curl patterns and volumes can complement specific face shapes. Here’s a quick guide to help you choose:
  • Oval: Most styles work well. Balance is key.
  • Round: Add height at crown, avoid width at cheeks.
  • Square: Soften angles with face-framing curls.
  • Heart: Add volume at jaw level to balance wider forehead.
  • Diamond: Add width at forehead and jaw.
  • Long: Add width with voluminous curls, avoid excessive height.

Frequently Asked Questions About Long Curly Hairstyles

How do I maintain curly hairstyles overnight?

To maintain curly hairstyles overnight, use a silk or satin pillowcase to reduce friction. For longer-lasting curls, try pineappling (gathering hair loosely at the crown) with a silk scrunchie, or use the plop method with a microfiber towel or t-shirt. Refreshing sprays with water and leave-in conditioner can help revive curls in the morning.

What are the best styling products for long curly hair?

The best styling products for long curly hair depend on your curl type. Generally, curl creams like Shea Moisture Curl Enhancing Smoothie work well for looser curls, while gels like Kinky-Curly Curling Custard provide more hold for tighter curl patterns. Leave-in conditioners, anti-humidity sprays, and curl-refreshing mists are also essential for maintaining healthy, defined curls.

How often should I wash curly hair?

Most hair experts recommend washing curly hair 2-3 times per week at most. Overwashing can strip natural oils that curly hair needs to stay moisturized and defined. Many people with curly hair benefit from co-washing (using conditioner instead of shampoo) between regular washes to maintain moisture balance without stripping oils.

What’s the difference between a curling iron and a curling wand?

A curling iron has a clip (or clamp) that holds hair in place while curling, while a curling wand is clipless, requiring you to hold the hair around the barrel manually. Curling irons typically create more uniform, polished curls, while wands create more natural-looking, beachy waves with tapered ends. Wands are generally better for achieving the casual, undone curl looks that are trending in 2025.

How can I make curls last longer in humid weather?

To make curls last longer in humid weather, start with an anti-humidity shampoo and conditioner. Apply a primer with anti-humidity properties before styling. Use alcohol-free styling products with strong hold, like gels and mousses formulated for humidity resistance. Finish with an anti-humidity hairspray like Frizz-Ease or Living Proof No Frizz. For natural curls, try the ‘gel sandwich’ method (leave-in conditioner, gel, oil) to seal the hair cuticle against moisture.

Frequently Asked Questions About Long Curly Hairstyles

How do I maintain curly hairstyles overnight?

Use a silk or satin pillowcase to reduce friction. Try pineappling (gathering hair loosely at the crown) with a silk scrunchie, or use the plop method with a microfiber towel or t-shirt.

What are the best styling products for long curly hair?

Curl creams like Shea Moisture work well for looser curls, while gels like Kinky-Curly provide more hold for tighter curl patterns. Leave-in conditioners, anti-humidity sprays, and curl-refreshing mists are also essential.

How often should I wash curly hair?

Wash curly hair 2-3 times per week at most. Consider co-washing (using conditioner instead of shampoo) between regular washes to maintain moisture balance.

Common Curly Hair Challenges & Solutions

Challenge: Frizz Control

Humidity and environmental factors causing unwanted frizz in curly styles.

Solutions:

  1. Use anti-humidity products with hold polymers
  2. Apply styling products to soaking wet hair
  3. Avoid touching curls while drying
  4. Consider a silk pillowcase and bonnet for sleeping
  5. Try the “gel sandwich” method (leave-in + gel + oil)

Recommended Products: Color Wow Dream Coat, Ouidad Advanced Climate Control Gel

Challenge: Curl Definition

Curls appear undefined or lose their shape quickly throughout the day.

Solutions:

  1. Use curl-specific products with stronger hold
  2. Try the “praying hands” application method
  3. Avoid raking through curls when dry
  4. Diffuse upside down for better curl formation
  5. Apply gel or mousse when hair is very wet

Recommended Products: Pattern Strong Hold Gel, DevaCurl SuperCream, Miss Jessie’s Jelly Soft Curls

Challenge: Volume at Roots

Flat roots with volume only at ends, creating a triangular shape.

Solutions:

  1. Try root clipping while drying
  2. Use a pick or wide-tooth comb at roots only
  3. Diffuse upside down or sideways
  4. Apply lightweight volumizing foam at roots
  5. Get a haircut with long layers to distribute volume

Recommended Products: Briogeo Blossom & Bloom Volume Spray, Innersense I Create Lift

Challenge: Dry, Damaged Curls

Heat or chemical damage causing breakage and lost curl pattern.

Solutions:

  1. Implement a protein-moisture balance routine
  2. Use deep conditioning treatments weekly
  3. Consider a “curly cut” to remove damaged ends
  4. Take a break from heat styling completely
  5. Use leave-in conditioners daily

Recommended Products: Olaplex No. 3, Briogeo Don’t Despair Repair Mask, Kinky-Curly Knot Today

Challenge: Second-Day Hair

Difficulty maintaining curl definition between wash days.

Solutions:

  1. “Pineapple” hair at night with a loose scrunchie
  2. Use a satin pillowcase or bonnet
  3. Make a DIY refresher spray (water + leave-in conditioner)
  4. Spot-treat frizzy sections with product on wet hands
  5. Consider “micro-plopping” with a microfiber towel to revive

Recommended Products: Pattern Refresh Spray, Ouidad Botanical Boost, Slipsilk Pillowcase

Recommended Style:

Alicia Keys’ Natural Textured Style

This low-maintenance style celebrates your natural texture while keeping styling time minimal. Use hydrating products and protective styling techniques for a beautiful, easy-to-maintain look.

← Start Over

Recommended Style:

Solange’s Defined Coils

This medium-maintenance style enhances your natural coil pattern with more definition. Use the LOC (Leave-in, Oil, Cream) method and finger coiling for beautiful, defined curls that last several days.

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Recommended Style:

Kerry Washington’s Structured Curls

This high-definition style requires more maintenance but creates stunning, sculptural curls. Use specialized styling techniques like shingling or the Denman brush method for maximum definition and structure.

← Start Over

Real People, Real Results

Michelle before trying Zendaya's spiral curl technique Michelle after using Zendaya's spiral curl technique

Michelle’s Transformation

Hair Type: 2B, Fine texture

“I never thought my fine waves could hold tight curls until I tried the Zendaya technique. The key was using small sections and letting curls cool completely before touching!”See Zendaya’s Style
James before defining his natural curl pattern James after enhancing his natural curl pattern

James’ Enhanced Curls

Hair Type: 3C, Medium thickness

“After years of cutting my curls short, I let them grow and followed the expert advice on moisture balance. My curls have never been so defined!”See Expert Tips
Aisha before trying the gel sandwich method Aisha after using the gel sandwich method

Aisha’s Frizz-Free Definition

Hair Type: 4A, Thick texture

“The gel sandwich method changed everything for my coils! I finally have definition without crunch, and my style lasts for days even in humid weather.”See Frizz Solutions

Curly Hair Challenge Solver

Experiencing specific issues with your curly hair? Use this interactive tool to find targeted solutions.

Frizz Control

Frizz control iconTame unwanted frizz and flyaways

Frizz Control Solutions

  1. Apply styling products to soaking wet hair
  2. Use anti-humidity products with hold polymers
  3. Try the “gel sandwich” method (leave-in, gel, oil)
  4. Avoid touching curls while drying
  5. Switch to a silk pillowcase
Expert Tip: “The single biggest cause of frizz is touching your hair while it dries.” – Vernon FrançoisSee More Expert Advice

Curl Definition

Curl definition iconEnhance your natural curl pattern

Definition Solutions

  1. Use curl-specific products with protein
  2. Apply styling products with “praying hands” method
  3. Try finger coiling for stubborn sections
  4. Diffuse upside down for better curl formation
  5. Consider a curl-specific haircut with layers
Expert Tip: “Definition starts in the shower—fully detangle with conditioner in before styling.” – Jen AtkinSee Defined Curl Styles

Dryness & Damage

Moisture iconRestore moisture and repair damage

Moisture Solutions

  1. Deep condition weekly with heat
  2. Implement protein-moisture balance routine
  3. Sleep with a satin bonnet or pillowcase
  4. Use leave-in conditioner daily
  5. Consider a trim to remove damaged ends
Expert Tip: “Damaged curls need both moisture AND protein—not just moisture.” – Chris AppletonSee Repair Techniques

Limp or Flat Curls

Volume iconAdd bounce and volume

Volume Solutions

  1. Use root clips while drying
  2. Try a lightweight mousse instead of heavy creams
  3. Diffuse upside down or sideways
  4. Use a pick at the roots only (not lengths)
  5. Consider a layered haircut for built-in volume
Expert Tip: “For maximum volume, avoid weighing curls down with too much product.” – Takisha Sturdivant-DrewSee Voluminous Styles

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Susan Dawnson
Susan Dawson

Susan is a successful hair stylist who chose to combine two of her biggest passions: writing and styling! When she is not sharing her experience with out readers, Susan updates her skills and knowledge with new styling courses and trainings. She specializes in event hair and makeup and is working on her own illustrated hairstyle book.

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