Short curly natural styles are taking the hair world by storm! From teeny weeny afros (TWA) to wild, free-flowing curls, there’s something magical about embracing your natural texture. As a stylist who’s seen it all, I’m thrilled to share these 19 show-stopping styles that’ll have you turning heads and feeling fabulous in your natural glory.
1. Tapered TWA with Defined Curls
Honey, nothing says ‘I woke up like this’ better than a tapered TWA with those juicy defined curls!
Grab some curl-defining cream, scrunch those coils, and let them pop. My clients who rock this look always leave with an extra swagger in their step.
2. Finger Coils Magic
Though they take some patience, finger coils are worth every minute!
I’ve spent hours twirling clients’ hair into these perfect spirals, and the results? Absolutely magical. The technique creates uniform curls that last for days—just don’t forget that lightweight oil to keep them shining!
3. Curly Mohawk Fierce
Where boldness meets beauty—that’s the curly mohawk!
Shave or fade those sides, leave the middle wild and curly, and watch as everyone’s jaws drop when you strut by. My edgier clients can’t get enough of this style’s versatility and head-turning power.
4. Crown of Bantu Knots
If you’re craving something regal yet playful, Bantu knots are calling your name!
Section that gorgeous TWA into tiny squares, twist until they coil upon themselves, and secure. My tip? Sleep with a satin scarf to keep these beauties intact for days.
5. Wash-and-Go Wonder
However busy your schedule, a wash-and-go never disappoints!
Cleanse those curls, apply leave-in conditioner while soaking wet, scrunch in some gel, and let nature do the rest. I’ve seen even the most time-pressed clients transform their morning routine with this effortless style.
6. Side-Swept Curly Pixie
Hence the eternal popularity of the side-swept pixie—it’s flirty, fun, and oh-so-flattering!
Keep one side slightly longer, sweep those curls across the forehead, and watch how it frames your beautiful face. My clients with heart-shaped faces particularly rock this look!
7. Twist-Out Texture
Meanwhile, twist-outs remain my number one recommendation for incredible texture and volume!
Twist small sections while damp, let dry completely, then unravel for that perfect crinkled curl pattern. The secret? Twist in opposite directions for that natural, non-uniform look my clients adore.
8. Flat-Twisted Crown
Whereas some styles scream for attention, flat-twisted crowns whisper elegance!
Create several flat twists running from front to back, leaving the back curls free. My celebrity clients choose this red-carpet-worthy style when they want sophistication with a touch of natural flair.
9. Frohawk Fabulous
Perhaps nothing makes a statement quite like the fabulous frohawk!
Slick those sides down with eco-styler gel, fluff the middle into wild freedom, and secure with bobby pins if needed. I’ve created this look for countless clients heading to concerts, parties, or just Tuesday grocery shopping!
10. Defined Part Design
Consequently, never underestimate the power of a well-placed part!
Carve a zigzag, curved, or geometric part into your TWA for instant edge. The best part? This takes a basic curly style from zero to hero in seconds—my time-saving hack for clients who need a quick style upgrade.
11. Updo en forme d'ananas
Although typically for longer locks, the pineapple works wonders for short curls too!
Gather those curls at the crown, secure loosely, and let them cascade like a fountain of fabulousness. My clients with tapered cuts particularly love how this style shows off their face and neckline.
12. Colored Coils
Why settle for one shade when your curls can be a canvas?
Add vibrant color—think honey blonde, rich burgundy, or even pastel pink—to transform your TWA instantly. I’ve watched shy clients become bold personalities once those colored coils frame their gorgeous faces!
13. Curly Undercut
Yet nothing combines sophistication and edge quite like a curly undercut!
Keep those curls flourishing on top while sporting a clean undercut on the sides or back. I’ve created this look for teachers, executives, and artists alike—it’s truly versatile for any lifestyle.
14. Flexi Rod Set
Nevertheless, for special occasions, flexi rod sets deliver unmatched glamour!
Wrap small sections around flexi rods, let dry completely, then remove for bouncy, defined curls that last. My clients who struggle with curl definition fall head over heels for this transformative technique.
15. Accessorized TWA
Since even the simplest TWA transforms with the right accessories!
Tuck in colorful clips, headbands, or even tiny fresh flowers to elevate your style instantly. My fashion-forward clients keep a collection of accessories to match every outfit—genius for style versatility!
16. Slicked Edges with Curly Top
Whenever you need that perfect balance of polished and playful, try slicked edges with a curly top!
Lay those edges with precision using a toothbrush and edge control, while letting the top curls flourish freely. My corporate clients swear by this boardroom-to-happy-hour versatile look.
17. Half-Moon Part TWA
Indeed, geometric parts can completely transform your TWA game!
Create a half-moon curved part from ear to ear, defining two distinct styling sections. The contrast between the neat part and wild curls creates visual interest that my most artistic clients absolutely adore.
18. Curly Faux Hawk
Unless you’ve tried a curly faux hawk, you haven’t experienced the perfect blend of sophistication and rebellion!
Slick the sides up (not down) toward the center, creating height without shaving anything. My clients who need versatility love how easily this transforms back to a full curly style.
19. Stretched Curls
Though shrinkage is real, stretched curls show off your actual length!
Use the banding method overnight to gently elongate those coils without heat damage. I’ve helped countless clients discover inches they didn’t know they had with this gentle stretching technique.