20 Short Hairstyles for Curly Hair Men That Look Great with Beards
Curly hair and beards? That’s a power combo. However, finding the right short hairstyle to complement both your texture and facial hair can be a challenge. Whether you’re rocking tight coils or loose waves, the right cut can enhance your curls and highlight your beard.
From fades to cropped styles, we’ve rounded up 20 short curly hairstyles that pair effortlessly with beards—so you can level up your grooming game with confidence and style. Let’s get into the looks that turn heads and show off your personality.
1. Curly High Fade with Line-Up
This bold look blends a crisp high fade with a natural curly texture on top. The defined line-up adds sharp contrast, while the beard balances the style for a clean yet edgy vibe. It’s perfect for men who want definition, structure, and modern appeal without compromising their curl game.
2. Taper Fade with Defined Curls
A taper fade creates a gradual transition that highlights your natural curls. Paired with a shaped beard, this look is neat but still full of personality. It keeps the sides clean while letting the curls on top do the talking—ideal for guys who love the controlled texture with minimal fuss.
3. Curly Caesar Cut
The Caesar cut is a timeless style made modern with curly hair. It keeps the fringe short and even, adding a masculine edge that works great with full or trimmed beards. Low-maintenance yet stylish, this cut complements all beard lengths and is great for guys who prefer a clean silhouette.
4. Short Curly Afro with Beard Fade
A short curly afro offers volume without going overboard. When matched with a beard fade, it creates a smooth flow from your hair to facial hair. It’s especially flattering for dense curl patterns and men who want an effortless, natural look that still feels sharp and groomed.
5. Curly Undercut with Beard
The undercut adds contrast by shaving the sides and leaving curls on top. This edgy style draws attention upward while keeping the beard grounded and balanced. Whether your beard is thick or shaped, it pairs well with the defined separation of the undercut, making this a bold style statement.
6. Low Fade with Textured Curls
A low fade maintains a sleek and professional finish, while the textured curls bring dimension and movement. With a clean-shaven cheekline and shaped beard, this cut radiates polished masculinity. Ideal for men who want a stylish cut that’s appropriate for both work and casual settings.
7. Curly Crop Top with Shadow Beard
A cropped top lets your curls stay close to the scalp for easy maintenance, while a shadow beard keeps the overall look subtle and smooth. This combo is low-maintenance but high-impact, making it great for men who like minimal effort without sacrificing style or personal flair.
8. Twist-Out Curls with Mid Fade
Twist-out curls offer amazing definition and volume, especially when paired with a mid-fade. This style highlights the hair texture while keeping the sides clean. A well-blended beard makes this look cohesive from top to bottom, adding character and rugged charm to your overall appearance.
9. Short Sponge Curls with Chin Strap Beard
Sponge curls give a soft, coiled texture that works perfectly with a shortcut. Add a chin strap beard for a sleek, contemporary contrast. It’s a great choice for guys who want to highlight both curl definition and a unique beard style without growing out a full beard.
10. Curly Fringe with Beard Line-Up
Let your curls fall forward into a fringe for a relaxed, stylish look. This adds a casual vibe, which balances nicely with a sharply lined-up beard. It’s ideal for men who want a youthful yet mature style that highlights their natural texture and adds dimension to their faces.
11. Short Curly Mohawk with Full Beard
A short curly mohawk is bold but wearable, especially when kept tight on the sides and full on the top. Paired with a thick, shaped beard, this cut makes a strong statement. It’s great for guys who want an expressive hairstyle that still looks clean and deliberate.
12. Buzz Cut with Curly Texture and Beard
This isn’t your basic buzz cut—it’s textured to show off curl patterns even with minimal length. With a neatly groomed beard, this ultra-low-maintenance look gives you edge and structure. Great for active men or those who want simplicity without completely sacrificing their natural hair texture.
13. Drop Fade with Tight Curls
A drop fade follows the head’s curve, giving a smooth, rounded finish that enhances curly volume on top. Tight curls stand out with definition, especially when the beard is shaped to mirror the hair’s flow. This balanced look adds symmetry and makes a strong impression from all angles.
14. Curly Pompadour with Fade and Beard
Yes, curly hair can rock a pompadour. With the right product, your curls can be styled upward and back, giving you volume and height. Add a fade and a tapered beard for a classy, elevated finish that merges vintage vibes with modern-day swagger.
15. Short Curly Quiff with Low Beard Fade
A curly quiff lifts curls at the front for volume and edge. Paired with a low beard fade, it creates a seamless transition that’s clean but not too sharp. This style adds height and dimension, perfect for oval or round faces looking to elongate and define their look.
16. Textured Top with Skin Fade and Beard
Keep the curls wild and free on top while going ultra-clean on the sides with a skin fade. The contrast makes the curls pop and the beard stand out. This look is bold and defined, perfect for guys who love sharp lines paired with their natural hair movement.
17. Mini Frohawk with Tapered Beard
A mini frohawk offers a playful twist on traditional fades. Keep the center strip of curls short but defined, and taper your beard to echo the shape. This stylish look works especially well for confident men who like a dash of edge in their everyday grooming.
18. Curly Ivy League Cut with Stubble Beard
This classic Ivy League cut keeps the top short and neat, but with enough length to let curls show. Add a stubble beard for a masculine finish that doesn’t overpower. It’s clean-cut with just the right amount of attitude—ideal for professional settings or first impressions.
19. Side-Parted Short Curls with Beard Blend
A natural side part lets curls fall gracefully for a slightly more polished aesthetic. Blend the beard into the hairline for a cohesive finish. This style is all about clean flow and subtle detailing—great for men who appreciate balance, symmetry, and a touch of classic charm.
20. Short Curly Top with Faded Temples and Beard
Keeping the curls short up top while fading the temples makes for a sharp, structured look. This cut frames the face nicely, especially when the beard is faded at the same angle. It’s subtle but stylish—a go-to option for men who want curls without the extra volume.
Conclusion:
Your curls and your beard are both statements—so why not let them work together in style? These 20 short curly hairstyles aren’t just trendy, they’re built to highlight your natural texture and beard shape in the best way. Whether you prefer a clean fade, a textured top, or a low-maintenance crop, there’s a look here that fits your vibe. So go ahead—try something new, refresh your look, and let your curls and beard shine together.
