25 Stylish Short Curly Hairstyles for Men That Are Easy to Maintain

Short curly hairstyles are a perfect combination of texture, volume, and low-maintenance upkeep. For men, curly hair doesn’t have to be difficult to manage with the right cut and product, you can enjoy effortless style that celebrates your natural curls. Whether you’re working with tight coils, loose curls, or somewhere in between, these 25 stylish short curly hairstyles will keep you looking fresh, confident, and modern in 2025.

Why Short Curly Hairstyles Work So Well

• Low upkeep – Shorter length means less time washing and styling
• Enhances curl definition without weighing down the hair
• Versatile looks for professional and casual settings
• Easy to personalize with fades, partings, or facial hair
• Keeps hair healthy by reducing breakage and tangles

25 Stylish Short Curly Hairstyles for Men In 2025

1. Curly Caesar Cut

The Curly Caesar Cut brings together timeless structure and natural texture. This classic style features short, uniform curls with a blunt fringe that sits just above the forehead. It’s ideal for men who want a defined look that’s easy to manage while still highlighting their curls. Whether your curls are loose or tight, this cut delivers balance between control and character, giving you a smart and stylish everyday appearance.

• Key Features:
  • Short, even curls with a blunt fringe
  • Clean edges and low sides
  • Great for both loose and tight curl patterns
  
• Styling Tips:
  • Use a curl-defining cream to enhance shape and reduce frizz
  • Maintain edges with regular trims or a line-up
  • Brush forward while damp for a smooth fringe
  • Keep hair hydrated to avoid dryness and shrinkage
  
• Best For:
  • Men with Type 2C to 4A curls
  • Those wanting a tidy, low-maintenance curly style
  • Professional and casual settings
  
• Vibe:
  • Clean-cut and structured
  • Effortlessly classic
  • Understated confidence
  

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2. Temple Fade with Curls

The Temple Fade with Curls delivers the best of both worlds sharp fades and natural texture. This style features a crisp fade at the temples and sideburns, while leaving the top full of healthy, defined curls. It’s great for adding contrast and shape without losing the charm of your curls. The fade draws attention to the volume on top, making this a flattering, face-framing choice.

• Key Features:
  • Defined curls on top with faded temples
  • Tapered sides that accentuate natural texture
  • Modern, sculpted silhouette
  
• Styling Tips:
  • Use a leave-in conditioner or curl cream to define curls
  • Refresh the temple fade every 1–2 weeks to keep it clean
  • Apply edge control or balm along the hairline for a sharp finish
  • Avoid heavy products to keep curls light and bouncy
  
• Best For:
  • Men with Type 3B to 4A curls
  • Short to medium top length
  • Guys seeking a stylish but manageable curly cut
  
• Vibe:
  • Fresh and defined
  • Stylish and structured
  • Low-effort with high payoff

3. Short Curly Afro

The Short Curly Afro is a timeless and low-maintenance style that embraces natural texture in a neat, rounded silhouette. By keeping curls even in length across the head, this look offers balance, volume, and softness perfect for highlighting your curl pattern without high upkeep. It’s a versatile choice that works well in both casual and professional settings while celebrating natural curls with subtle control.

• Key Features:
  • Even length all around
  • Rounded shape for a soft, clean outline
  • Emphasizes natural curl pattern
  
• Styling Tips:
  • Use a curl moisturizer or leave-in conditioner to keep curls hydrated
  • Pick or pat curls gently to maintain the rounded shape
  • Trim regularly to keep the silhouette even
  • Avoid over-combing to retain natural definition
  
• Best For:
  • Men with Type 3C to 4B curls
  • Those who prefer natural, uniform texture
  • Low-maintenance routines
  
• Vibe:
  • Soft and natural
  • Effortless and classic
  • Fresh with a retro edge
  

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4. Curly High Top

The Curly High Top gives your curls the spotlight they deserve. With length concentrated at the crown and closely tapered or faded sides, this style is all about vertical volume and contrast. It’s a bold, stylish option that modernizes the vintage high-top with texture and flow. The height on top draws the eye upward, making it perfect for men who want to make a confident statement while keeping sides neat and easy to manage.

• Key Features:
  • Longer curls at the top with short or faded sides
  • High-contrast silhouette
  • Structured shape with lots of texture
  
• Styling Tips:
  • Apply curl-enhancing cream to boost definition and control frizz
  • Use a pick or fingers to shape the volume upward
  • Keep the sides clean with regular fades or tapers
  • Refresh curls daily with a light mist or curl refresher spray
  
• Best For:
  • Men with thick, Type 3B to 4C curls
  • Those who want a standout shape with easy upkeep
  • Urban, fashion-forward looks
  
• Vibe:
  • Bold and confident
  • Retro meets modern
  • Sharp and expressive
  

5. Drop Fade with Defined Curls

The Drop Fade with Defined Curls is a sleek, stylish option that highlights the natural shape of your head while showcasing your texture. The drop fade curves behind the ears, dipping lower at the back to create a rounded, clean silhouette. This subtle detail enhances the contrast between the tight fade and the voluminous, defined curls on top. It’s a modern cut that brings edge and refinement to any curl pattern.

• Key Features:
  • Curved drop fade around the ears and nape
  • Defined curls with shape and height on top
  • Clean, sculpted outline with natural texture
  
• Styling Tips:
  • Use curl cream or gel to keep curls bouncy and defined
  • Shape the fade every 1–2 weeks to maintain its curve
  • Apply oil to the scalp to avoid dryness around faded areas
  • Sleep with a satin cap to preserve definition
  
• Best For:
  • Men with 3B to 4A curls
  • Short to medium lengths
  • Those wanting a sharp fade with textured contrast
  
• Vibe:
  • Clean and modern
  • Fresh and detailed
  • Stylishly sculpted
  

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6. Buzz Cut with Curl Pattern

The Buzz Cut with Curl Pattern is the ultimate in minimalist curly style. By keeping the hair very short all over, this look still allows the natural curl or wave pattern to peek through without requiring daily styling. It’s especially effective for men with coarse or tightly coiled hair who want low upkeep while embracing texture. This cut offers a masculine, practical approach that’s perfect for any season.

• Key Features:
  • Uniform, ultra-short length across the scalp
  • Visible natural curl or wave pattern
  • No-fuss, wash-and-go simplicity
  
• Styling Tips:
  • Moisturize with a lightweight leave-in to prevent dryness
  • Brush with soft bristles to maintain scalp health
  • Keep edges and neckline trimmed for a polished look
  • Add a subtle fade or line-up for extra definition
  
• Best For:
  • Men with coarse, curly, or wavy hair
  • Those who want ultra-low maintenance
  • Athletes, busy professionals, or minimalist stylers
  
• Vibe:
  • Clean and masculine
  • Low-key and practical
  • Effortlessly fresh
  

7. Short Sponge Curls

Short Sponge Curls are a go-to for men who want fast styling with a naturally defined finish. This technique uses a curl sponge to form tight, coiled curls all over the scalp, offering great texture with minimal effort. It’s especially ideal for coarse or coily hair types that respond well to sponge manipulation. The result is a fresh, well-shaped look that holds its form throughout the day.

• Key Features:
  • Tight, uniform coils created with a curl sponge
  • Even length across the head
  • Great for defining Type 4 textures
  
• Styling Tips:
  • Use a curl sponge in a circular motion on damp or lightly moisturized hair
  • Apply a twisting cream or gel beforehand for added hold
  • Refresh every few days with water or leave-in spray
  • Avoid over-sponging to prevent frizz or breakage
  
• Best For:
  • Type 3C to 4C curls
  • Short, textured hair
  • Quick, easy maintenance routines
  
• Vibe:
  • Defined and natural
  • Fresh and tidy
  • Quick and low-effort
  

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8. Low Fade with Curly Fringe

The Low Fade with Curly Fringe is a stylish yet subtle way to show off natural curls. The low fade keeps the sides tight and clean, while the longer curls up front form a soft fringe that gently falls over the forehead. This cut offers face-framing volume and adds visual interest without being overly dramatic perfect for guys who want something trendy but not high-maintenance.

• Key Features:
  • Low fade around the ears and nape
  • Curly fringe at the front
  • Balanced structure with a soft finish
  
• Styling Tips:
  • Use a curl-enhancing cream to define the fringe
  • Diffuse or air-dry for natural volume
  • Keep the fade sharp with regular trims
  • Apply edge control to tidy the hairline
  
• Best For:
  • Men with soft to medium curls (Type 2C to 3B)
  • Oval, round, or heart-shaped faces
  • Trend-conscious styles with minimal upkeep
  
• Vibe:
  • Fresh and youthful
  • Softly structured
  • Contemporary and laid-back

9. Curly Mohawk Fade

The Curly Mohawk Fade is a bold yet balanced look that lets your curls take center stage. The hair is left fuller along the center of the head from front to back while the sides are closely faded for clean contrast. This creates a sleek silhouette with movement and height that still feels lightweight and manageable. It’s a standout choice for men who want a curly style with attitude and edge.

• Key Features:
  • Full curls along the central strip of the head
  • Tapered or skin-faded sides
  • Dynamic shape with strong visual contrast
  
• Styling Tips:
  • Apply curl-enhancing mousse or gel to shape the mohawk section
  • Maintain the fade every 1–2 weeks for a crisp outline
  • Use a diffuser when blow-drying to build volume at the top
  • Edge the hairline for an extra sharp finish
  
• Best For:
  • Type 3B to 4A curls
  • Men looking for a bold yet short curly style
  • Face shapes that benefit from vertical volume
  
• Vibe:
  • Bold and expressive
  • Urban and edgy
  • Cool with personality
  

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10. Short Twisted Curls

Short Twisted Curls add texture and definition by sectioning hair into small, twisted coils. This style combines the benefits of a protective look with the visual appeal of tightly coiled curls. It’s ideal for those who want to reduce daily styling time while still showing off their natural texture. The look is neat, wearable, and can easily transition into twist-outs for added versatility.

• Key Features:
  • Small, individually twisted curls
  • Neatly defined shape
  • Doubles as a protective style
  
• Styling Tips:
  • Twist hair with a butter or twisting cream for long-lasting hold
  • Use a satin cap at night to preserve twist shape
  • Refresh the scalp with light oils to prevent flaking
  • Twist on damp hair for tighter coils or dry hair for looser results
  
• Best For:
  • Type 3C to 4C hair
  • Short hair lengths needing texture and definition
  • Low-manipulation styling routines
  
• Vibe:
  • Textured and tidy
  • Protective and practical
  • Low-key but stylish

11. Side-Parted Curls

Side-Parted Curls bring structure and intention to natural texture by creating a clear part either hard-lined or naturally separated. This small detail gives the overall look more polish, letting your curls fall to one side for a flattering, face-framing style. Whether styled with product or left loose, the part adds a touch of classic sophistication while keeping the cut fresh and easy.

• Key Features:
  • Defined side part (razor-cut or natural)
  • Curls styled to one side for added shape
  • Low-maintenance with a polished twist
  
• Styling Tips:
  • Use a comb to define the part on damp hair
  • Apply curl cream or mousse to guide curls in one direction
  • Use a bit of edge control to clean up around the part line
  • Refresh with water spray to keep definition day-to-day
  
• Best For:
  • Type 2C to 3C curls
  • Men who want style without sacrificing simplicity
  • Oval or square face shapes
  
• Vibe:
  • Refined and natural
  • Clean with personality
  • Subtly stylish
  

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12. Tapered Short Afro

The Tapered Short Afro is a clean, balanced style that highlights your natural curls while maintaining a neat, sculpted outline. The sides and back are gradually tapered into the skin, allowing the curls on top to sit higher with rounded volume. This cut keeps the texture intact while adding shape and control, making it a favorite for guys who want a natural look that’s tidy and sharp.

• Key Features:
  • Short curls on top with tapered sides and neckline
  • Rounded, soft volume on top
  • Well-blended, clean silhouette
  
• Styling Tips:
  • Use a moisturizing cream to maintain softness and shape
  • Keep the taper clean with biweekly trims
  • Shape curls with a pick or fingers to preserve form
  • Use light edge control for a sharp finish
  
• Best For:
  • Type 3C to 4B curls
  • Men who want a natural but clean style
  • Both professional and casual settings
  
• Vibe:
  • Classic and composed
  • Neat with texture
  • Stylishly natural
  

13. Mini Frohawk

The Mini Frohawk is a toned-down take on the traditional mohawk, featuring short curls through the center of the head with softly tapered or faded sides. It keeps enough edge to stand out without being too bold perfect for guys who want personality and movement in their style while keeping things appropriate for daily settings. It’s playful, stylish, and easy to maintain.

• Key Features:
  • Short curls styled into a narrow center strip
  • Faded or tapered sides for subtle contrast
  • Compact mohawk silhouette with natural texture
  
• Styling Tips:
  • Define curls with twisting cream or curl gel
  • Maintain side fades every 2–3 weeks
  • Use a wide-tooth comb or fingers to lift curls slightly at the crown
  • Apply light oil to reduce frizz and boost shine
  
• Best For:
  • Type 3B to 4A curls
  • Men looking for edge without extreme styling
  • Round or square face shapes
  
• Vibe:
  • Subtle rebel energy
  • Urban and modern
  • Stylish but wearable
  

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14. Short Curly Crop

The Short Curly Crop is all about precision and ease. Curls are trimmed close to the scalp but left textured on top to preserve their natural pattern. This cropped cut works well with fades, line-ups, or simple clean edges, offering a polished look that requires little maintenance. It’s great for highlighting facial features and keeping cool while still embracing curls.

• Key Features:
  • Tightly trimmed curls with minimal length
  • Optional fade or line-up for sharpness
  • Texture retained despite short length
  
• Styling Tips:
  • Use curl activator or cream for light definition
  • Edge up the hairline for a clean finish
  • Keep scalp hydrated with leave-in conditioner or oils
  • Minimal product needed for everyday wear
  
• Best For:
  • Type 3A to 4B hair
  • Men who want short, clean styles that still show texture
  • Low-maintenance grooming routines
  
• Vibe:
  • Clean and contemporary
  • Fresh and defined
  • Simple yet textured

15. Short Curly Quiff

The Short Curly Quiff puts a modern spin on a classic silhouette by using natural curls to build volume and shape at the front. Instead of straight, sculpted waves, this version lets curls rise and flow slightly forward, forming a soft quiff that adds personality and depth. It’s stylish without being stiff perfect for men who want structure but still embrace texture.

• Key Features:
  • Lifted curls styled into a forward-facing quiff
  • Short back and sides for contrast
  • Natural volume with minimal length
  
• Styling Tips:
  • Apply light mousse or curl cream to damp hair
  • Use fingers or a diffuser to guide curls into a quiff shape
  • Trim regularly to maintain proportion and front height
  • Keep sides neat for visual balance
  
• Best For:
  • Men with Type 2C to 3B curls
  • Oval or diamond face shapes
  • Those who want a classy cut with modern flair
  
• Vibe:
  • Confident and cool
  • Refined with a touch of playfulness
  • Trendy but approachable
  

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16. Curly French Crop

The Curly French Crop brings the iconic French crop into the curly hair arena by focusing on a short, textured fringe and a tidy silhouette. Curls are left longer at the front and shaped to fall forward, while the back and sides stay clean and faded. This cut puts emphasis on the eyes and forehead while keeping the rest of the look tight and manageable great for men who like both edge and ease.

• Key Features:
  • Short, curly fringe at the front
  • Cropped and faded sides
  • Balanced cut with natural texture
  
• Styling Tips:
  • Apply curl-defining cream to enhance the front fringe
  • Keep edges crisp with regular barber visits
  • Air dry or lightly diffuse to avoid frizz
  • Trim the fringe often to keep it from overgrowing the brow
  
• Best For:
  • Type 2B to 3C curls
  • Guys who want low-maintenance shape with visible texture
  • Modern, sharp face-framing looks
  
• Vibe:
  • Edgy and current
  • Minimal but bold
  • Street-style sharp
  

17. 360 Waves (Curly Hair Version)

360 Waves are a timeless and disciplined look for men with short, curly hair. By consistently brushing curls into circular wave patterns and compressing them with a durag, this style sculpts the natural curl into smooth, rippling lines. While it requires commitment, the payoff is a polished, head-turning texture that shows off your curl pattern in a unique and controlled way.

• Key Features:
  • Uniform wave patterns wrapping around the head
  • Defined ripple effect in short curls
  • Smooth, sculpted finish
  
• Styling Tips:
  • Brush daily with a medium bristle brush in the direction of wave flow
  • Apply a light pomade or wave grease to enhance hold and shine
  • Wear a durag overnight to maintain compression
  • Wash and deep condition weekly to keep hair healthy
  
• Best For:
  • Type 2C to 4A curls
  • Men committed to a grooming routine
  • Short lengths with dense texture
  
• Vibe:
  • Sleek and refined
  • Structured and classic
  • Detail-focused and bold
  

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18. Curls with Skin Fade

Curls with Skin Fade is a modern favorite that highlights contrast and precision. The top features tight or loose curls full of texture and movement, while the sides are faded all the way down to the skin for a super clean finish. This look enhances the shape of the head and lets your curls shine by keeping everything below neat and minimal.

• Key Features:
  • Voluminous curls on top
  • Skin-level fade at the sides and back
  • High contrast between texture and sharpness
  
• Styling Tips:
  • Use a curl cream or leave-in to keep curls defined
  • Maintain the fade with a trim every 2–3 weeks
  • Apply edge control to clean up the hairline
  • Diffuse or air-dry to avoid puffiness
  
• Best For:
  • Type 3A to 4B curls
  • Men who want bold contrast in a short style
  • Oval, round, or square face shapes
  
• Vibe:
  • Fresh and trendy
  • Bold and clean-cut
  • Street-smart and modern

19. Short Curly Top with Line Design

The Short Curly Top with Line Design elevates a basic curly crop by adding razor-cut lines, hard parts, or geometric designs into the faded sides. These sharp accents bring edge and creativity to your look, allowing for personal expression without adding complexity to your daily routine. Paired with well-defined curls on top, this style is both artistic and easy to manage.

• Key Features:
  • Defined curls left short and textured on top
  • Razor lines or custom designs etched into the fade
  • Bold and trendy finish
  
• Styling Tips:
  • Define curls with a curl cream or gel
  • Consult a skilled barber for clean, crisp line work
  • Refresh curls with leave-in conditioner spray
  • Keep lines sharp with touch-ups every 1–2 weeks
  
• Best For:
  • Type 3A to 4A curls
  • Guys who like artistic detail in their cuts
  • Short styles with personality
  
• Vibe:
  • Creative and expressive
  • Urban cool
  • Youthful with attitude
  

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20. Curly Edgar Cut

The Curly Edgar Cut takes the signature blunt fringe of the classic Edgar and gives it a textured twist. Instead of straight or rigid lines, this version allows natural curls to create volume and edge, especially at the front. The sides are typically faded tight, enhancing the boldness of the front shape while keeping the rest of the look clean and edgy.

• Key Features:
  • Curly front fringe with cropped or blunt edge
  • Tight fade or taper on the sides
  • Strong silhouette with curl texture
  
• Styling Tips:
  • Apply defining cream to control the front curls
  • Keep the fringe trimmed for shape and definition
  • Use a soft brush or edge tool to keep hairline clean
  • Avoid heavy product to let curls breathe
  
• Best For:
  • Type 2C to 3B curls
  • Men who like high-contrast, fashion-forward cuts
  • Heart-shaped or round faces
  
• Vibe:
  • Bold and edgy
  • Trend-conscious
  • Sharp with texture
  

21. Short Afro with Beard

The Short Afro with Beard is a timeless combo that balances natural texture with masculine edge. The afro is trimmed neatly and kept close to the scalp, allowing the curls to maintain shape without requiring heavy styling. When paired with a well-groomed beard whether full or faded it creates a cohesive, powerful look that works from boardrooms to casual settings.

• Key Features:
  • Tightly coiled afro cut short and even
  • Facial hair adds structure and contrast
  • Easy-to-maintain grooming routine
  
• Styling Tips:
  • Moisturize curls regularly to retain softness and definition
  • Keep beard lined and shaped to match the afro’s contour
  • Use a curl sponge for added texture
  • Trim every few weeks to maintain proportions
  
• Best For:
  • Type 3C to 4C hair
  • Men who want a classic look with personality
  • Oval, square, and heart-shaped faces
  
• Vibe:
  • Mature and stylish
  • Balanced and strong
  • Effortlessly masculine
  

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22. Messy Curly Top

The Messy Curly Top embraces the wild charm of unstructured curls. This laid-back style keeps the sides short while letting the curls on top grow naturally with minimal interference. It’s ideal for guys who prefer a more relaxed, tousled aesthetic that still looks intentional. With the right texture, this cut gives off a cool, lived-in vibe that never tries too hard.

• Key Features:
  • Natural, voluminous curls left messy up top
  • Short or faded sides for structure
  • Low-maintenance yet fashion-forward
  
• Styling Tips:
  • Use a lightweight curl cream to define without weighing curls down
  • Avoid over-combing finger styling works best
  • Let hair air-dry to enhance natural shape
  • Refresh curls with water mist between washes
  
• Best For:
  • Type 2C to 3C curls
  • Men who like relaxed, undone styles
  • Casual or creative environments
  
• Vibe:
  • Easygoing and cool
  • Textured and effortless
  • Natural and carefree
  

23. Cropped Curly Bangs

Cropped Curly Bangs add personality and flair by allowing a short fringe of curls to fall naturally over the forehead. Paired with tight or faded sides, this cut frames the face and draws attention to the eyes while keeping the look neat and manageable. It’s a standout choice for men who want something unique but still easy to style.

• Key Features:
  • Short curly fringe over the forehead
  • Tapered or faded sides for balance
  • Defined yet playful structure
  
• Styling Tips:
  • Use curl cream or mousse to define fringe curls
  • Avoid over-styling let the fringe fall naturally
  • Trim regularly to keep the bangs at brow level
  • Keep sides neat to maintain the contrast
  
• Best For:
  • Type 2C to 3B curls
  • Men with smaller foreheads or high cheekbones
  • Fashion-forward or creative looks
  
• Vibe:
  • Trendy and expressive
  • Youthful with edge
  • Sharp with texture
  

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24. Short Finger Coils

Short Finger Coils are a go-to for men who want ultra-defined curl texture in a tidy, protective style. Using a bit of product and your fingers, curls are twisted into uniform spirals that last for days. This technique enhances curl definition, controls frizz, and helps maintain a sculpted look with minimal upkeep.

• Key Features:
  • Small, tight spirals created manually
  • Long-lasting definition
  • Works well on all curl types
  
• Styling Tips:
  • Start with damp hair and apply a curl-enhancing cream or gel
  • Twist small sections of hair around your finger until the whole head is done
  • Let air-dry or use a diffuser for better hold
  • Refresh with a curl spray or light oil between washes
  
• Best For:
  • Type 3A to 4B curls
  • Men who want a protective, long-lasting look
  • Both casual and formal settings
  
• Vibe:
  • Defined and structured
  • Groomed and low-maintenance
  • Stylish without effort
  

25. Curly Top Knot Undercut

The Curly Top Knot Undercut blends practicality and bold style by tying longer curls into a small top knot while keeping the sides and back cleanly shaved or faded. This high-contrast look puts the spotlight on your natural texture up top, while the undercut ensures minimal upkeep on the sides. It’s ideal for men growing out their curls or looking for a sharp, fashion-forward statement.

• Key Features:
  • Small curly top knot positioned at the crown
  • Undercut or skin fade around the sides and back
  • High contrast between length and shaved sections
  
• Styling Tips:
  • Apply a curl cream to keep the knot defined and soft
  • Use a soft band to avoid breakage when tying up curls
  • Keep the undercut clean with bi-weekly trims
  • Refresh curls with a mist spray or light leave-in conditioner
  
• Best For:
  • Type 3A to 3C curls
  • Men growing out their hair or wanting a hybrid style
  • Oval, oblong, or diamond face shapes
  

Vibe:
• Urban and edgy
• Trend-conscious and bold
• Curly with structure