The 17 Prettiest Natural Curly Hairstyle Ideas
Stunning styles to update your look.
By Trends like the "skinification" of hair are informing how we approach what shampoos and conditioners we choose to line our showers with to the best ways to fight frizz and breakage (a major area of concern for anyone with naturally textured hair).
It makes sense that strong, thick, healthy hair will allow anyone to do more in terms of styling, especially when there are so many beautiful looks out there for natural hair worth trying out. From waist-skimming braids and bantu knots to closely cropped Afros and face-framing curls, the best natural hairstyles of the moment have one thing in common: "They're fresh takes on classic looks," says hairstylist Andre Walker, who works with celebrities like Oprah Winfrey.
And there are many modern ways to approach your favorite classic—and it can be as simple as styling a traditionally straight bob with your natural curls or trying an elevated take on a childhood favorite like pig tails. Ahead, 17 of the prettiest natural hairstyles to borrow from the stars.
Curly Bob
Bob cuts don't have to always be sleek and straight. Take it from Tracee Ellis Ross. The texture and shape of her hair add so much dimension to this style.
Bantu Knots
Tinashe's impeccable bantu knots with triangle parts from the 2022 American Music Awards are edgy, cool, and perfectly complement her red carpet look.
Embellished Space Buns
These space buns are truly out of this world, and Janelle Monae takes her style to the next level with tiny embellishments placed throughout.
Wavy Pixie
Ruth Negga's short, tousled pixie evokes major retro vibes proving that naturally curly and wavy hair textures are incredibly versatile.
Braided Pigtails
Yara Shahidi proves that pigtails aren't just for the kids. Elements like her braided crown and loose strands make this look red carpet gold.
Elongated Braids
Opt for ultra-long braids à la Solange Knowles the next time you want a waist-length style—the texture and curls add effortless dimension.
Ethereal Volume
Zendaya's blown-out caramel Afro and above-the-eyebrow bangs make a case for always keeping a dryer on hand (and bang-trimming scissors, for the bold).
Half Up, Half Down
Curls and coils shine with a half-up, half-down style, like this Zazie Beetz look. Just make sure you have plenty of bobby pins before you start.
Cropped Afro
A cropped Afro paired with fresh-faced makeup is natural beauty at its best, as Lupita Nyong'o demonstrates.
Curly Updo
Alicia Keys's sky-high ringlets are a natural wonder. They highlight her accessories perfectly.
Braided Ponytail
This '60s-inspired high pony-braid hybrid gets a modern update with its braided texture and color dimension. All hail the (hair) queen Beyoncé.
Sleek Braids
Yes, a slick back style can work with braids. Just look at Jada Pinkett Smith for inspo.
Face-Framing Curls
Oprah ages backwards thanks to her iconic curls and subtle face-framing layers.
Undercut Pixie
A pixie-meets-faux hawk isn't easy to pull off. Follow Jennifer Hudson's lead with curly, lash-skimming bangs and plenty of shine.
Wavy Bob
The mussed-up modern ease of Uzo Aduba's center-parted bob is undeniably sophisticated.
Sculptural Afro
Natural coils come in all shapes and sizes, and Samira Wiley's cropped cut easily segues from elegant to edgy.
Tiny Twists
A short crop with twisted ends looks chic on or off the red carpet—though Viola Davis single-handedly proves the former.
Watch Next
The Best Purple Shampoos to Brighten Blonde Hair
10 Secrets to Growing Thicker, Longer Hair
Are Black-Owned Brands Selling Out or Scaling Up?
13 Hair Growth Serums for Thicker Hair in Days
