How to Style Naturally Curly Hair – Our Top Tips and Tricks

Curly hair is often described as both a blessing and a challenge. Those with straight hair might envy its bounce and volume, but anyone with curls knows that frizz, dryness, and unpredictability can make styling feel like a full-time job.

The truth is, with the right haircut, clever styling techniques, and the best natural curly hair styling products, managing your curls can be simple and rewarding. In this guide, our Sleek and Chic stylists share their expert tips for styling naturally curly hair — from everyday routines to professional advice on the best cuts and products.

Why Styling Naturally Curly Hair Can Be Tricky

Curls are naturally drier and more fragile than straight strands. Their spiral shape makes it harder for natural oils to travel from root to tip, which is why frizz, knots and breakage are common issues. But that doesn’t mean you need to fight your texture. Learning how to style naturally curly hair is all about working with your curls, not against them.

Choosing the Right Haircut for Curly Hair

A haircut is the foundation of every curly style. Without the right cut, even the best products can only do so much.

• Short curls: If you’re wondering how to style short naturally curly hair, opt for a layered pixie or a shaggy bob that adds shape and prevents triangle-like bulk.

• Medium curls: A graduated bob or long layers around the face work beautifully, giving bounce and movement without overwhelming your features.

• Long curls: For those who prefer long natural curly hair styles, adding layers stops the weight from dragging curls down and keeps the shape fresh.

If you’re unsure which option suits you, book a consultation with our expert stylists — our team of hairdressers in Blandford Forum specialize in tailoring cuts to enhance your natural curl pattern.

The Best Natural Curly Hair Styling Products

Great curls start in the shower. Using products designed specifically for curls ensures your hair gets the moisture and definition it needs.

• Care Confident Curl Low-Poo Shampoo – a gentle, sulphate-free shampoo that cleanses without stripping essential moisture, leaving curls soft and manageable.

• Care Confident Curl Mask – an intensive treatment infused with Shea Butter and Coconut Oil, perfect for restoring hydration, shine, and elasticity.

• Care Confident Curl Leave-In Wavy – a lightweight leave-in cream that enhances waves (types 2A–2C), controls frizz, and boosts shine.

• Care Confident Curl Leave-In Curly – ideal for curlier textures (3A–4A), this nourishing cream defines curls, smooths frizz, and offers 24-hour hydration.

• Care Confident Curl Leave-In Coily – specially created for coily hair (3A–4C), this rich formula deeply moisturises, defines, and strengthens coils.

At Sleek and Chic, we stock professional care ranges such as Kevin Murphy's curl-friendly formulas, designed to enhance texture while reducing frizz.

How to Dry Curly Hair Without Frizz

The way you dry your hair can make or break your style.

• Air Dry When Possible: Let curls form naturally without too much heat.

• Use a Diffuser: If you need to blow dry, attach a diffuser. It spreads airflow evenly and enhanced curl definition while preventing frizz.

• Heat Protection: Always use a spray before applying heat to protect your strands.

Easy Styles for Naturally Curly Hair

One of the joys of curly hair is its versatility. Whether you want something quick for a weekday morning or polished for an evening event, there are plenty of easy styles for naturally curly hair to try:

• Wash-and-Go: Apply curl cream to damp hair and let your natural pattern shine.

• Half-Up, Half-Down: Keeps curls out of your face while showing off volume.

• Pineapple Updo: Perfect for long curls, this style piles curls high on top of the head.

• Defined Ringlets: Use a small curling wand to touch up and define any curls that fall flat.

How to Style Short Naturally Curly Hair

Shorter cuts can be some of the easiest and most stylish options for curly textures. A short naturally curly haircut is bold and modern — and contrary to what many think, it’s very versatile.

• Use a lightweight mousse to create volume at the roots.

• Add definition to individual curls with a curl cream.

• Play with accessories like clips or headbands for variety.

The trick is to keep the layers balanced so curls fall naturally rather than puffing out.

Long Natural Curly Hair Styles

If you prefer length, there are countless long natural curly hair styles to explore. Long curls are striking and elegant, but they do require maintenance.

• Layers prevent hair from looking heavy or shapeless.

• Hydrating masks keep ends smooth and healthy.

• Protective styles such as braids or buns can prevent tangles and split ends.

Professional Tips for Styling Naturally Curly Hair

Our stylists often share this advice during appointments:

1. Detangle Wet: Always use a wide-tooth comb or detangling brush on wet hair with conditioner applied.

2. Section Styling: Apply products in small sections for even distribution and maximum definition.

3. Don’t Overwash: Washing curls too often strips essential oils. 2–3 times a week is plenty.

4. Refresh Between Washes: Spritz hair with water or curl refresher spray to revive curls without restyling from scratch.

These small changes can make a huge difference in how manageable and defined your curls look day-to-day.

Hairstyles for Natural Curly Hair: Inspiration

If you’re running out of ideas, here are some popular hair styles for natural curly hair trending now:

• Curly bangs paired with shoulder-length layers.

• A curly bob with deep side parting.

• Slicked-back curls for a chic evening look.

• Loose, voluminous waves styled with a diffuser.

The best part? Curly hair can adapt to both casual and formal looks with minimal effort.

Why Choose Sleek and Chic Hair Design for Curly Hair Styling

Our stylists at Sleek and Chic Hair Design specialize in tailoring cuts and treatments to enhance curls. Inspired by the creative energy of Dorset, our hair salon in Blandford Forum has become a go-to destination for clients looking for expert care in a relaxed, stylish space.

Whether you’re booking with our talented hairdressers in Blandford Forum, you’ll receive personalised advice and styling that makes the most of your curls.

Book Your Appointment Today

If you’ve been struggling with your curls or simply want to embrace them with confidence, let us help. From recommending the best natural curly hair styling products to showing you easy styles for naturally curly hair that suit your lifestyle, we’ll transform your routine and your confidence.

Book your appointment with Sleek and Chic Hair Design today and discover how beautiful and manageable your natural curls can be.