20 Best Short Hairstyles for Men with Curly Hair

Curly hair can be a blessing when styled right—and short hairstyles are perfect for showcasing those natural waves without the hassle. Whether it’s the heat of summer or the chill of winter, short curly styles can adapt effortlessly to every season.

In this guide, we’ve handpicked the 20 best short hairstyles for men with curly hair that work year-round. From fresh fades to textured crops, you’ll find looks that keep your curls stylish, manageable, and full of personality. Ready to discover your next go-to style? Let’s dive in!

1. Taper Fade with Defined Curls

A taper fade paired with well-defined curls offers a clean, modern look that suits every season. The fade keeps things sharp on the sides, while the curls on top add texture and personality. It’s low-maintenance, stylish, and easy to shape with a curl cream or light mousse.

2. Curly Caesar Cut

The curly Caesar cut adds a unique twist to a timeless style. Featuring a short fringe and uniform length, this cut keeps curls manageable while highlighting natural volume. Perfect for warmer months, it gives a structured yet relaxed appearance that works great with both casual and professional outfits.

3. High Top Fade with Curls

Take your curly hair to new heights with a high top fade. This style emphasizes vertical volume and bold definition, especially flattering on tighter curl patterns. It’s an eye-catching look that thrives in summer and winter, keeping sides neat while showcasing your curls’ natural flair on top.

4. Short Curly Afro

A short curly afro is all about embracing natural texture while keeping things neat and manageable. The shape is rounded, the vibe is cool, and it works year-round. Great for guys who want to highlight their curls without going too long, this style gives off confident, carefree energy.

5. Buzz Cut with Natural Texture

Want a super low-maintenance style that still honors your curl pattern? The curly buzz cut is your go-to. It keeps things short and sharp while letting your natural texture subtly peek through. Ideal for hot summers or busy lifestyles, this cut requires minimal effort but still looks intentionally stylish.

6. Textured Crop for Curly Hair

The textured crop is a trending favorite for curly-haired guys who want edge and style. With short sides and a bit of length on top, it plays up volume and movement. Pair it with a fade or undercut for a bolder look—it’s stylish, season-flexible, and perfect for modern men.

7. Curly Undercut

A curly undercut creates bold contrast by shaving or fading the sides while leaving curls full and bouncy up top. This high-impact style keeps your look fresh across all seasons, especially in spring and fall. With strong definition and minimal side weight, it’s easy to maintain and always eye-catching.

8. Curly Fringe with Low Fade

Show off your natural curls with a forward-swept fringe combined with a low fade. This style frames the face well, softens facial features, and adds a fashionable touch. It works well year-round and is especially flattering during cooler seasons when you can rock longer curls without overheating.

9. Short Sides with Curly Top

This classic style features short, tapered sides and a textured curly top that adds volume and contrast. It’s clean-cut, versatile, and wearable in any season. Whether paired with a fade or scissor-cut sides, it’s perfect for men who want an easy yet stylish curly haircut that always looks fresh.

10. Temple Fade with Curls

The temple fade is subtle but sharp—perfect for curly-haired guys who want definition without going full skin fade. It tapers the edges around the temples while keeping volume on top. This balanced cut is great for all seasons, offering just enough edge to stay modern and clean.

11. Mini Curly Mohawk

Add a daring twist with a mini curly mohawk. The sides are faded or trimmed short, while curls run down the center from front to back. It’s a bold yet wearable option for spring and summer, great for men who want to keep curls short but still make a statement.

12. Side Part with Curly Texture

The side part isn’t just for straight hair—it looks amazing with curls too. By creating a natural parting and adding volume on one side, this style blends classic and modern. Perfect for fall or winter, it gives structure to your curls and works great with defined or loose textures.

13. Drop Fade with Curls

A drop fade follows the natural curve of your head, creating a clean, contoured look that enhances curly volume on top. This cut is especially flattering for tighter curls and provides great shape in every season. It keeps the sides sleek while letting your curls take center stage.

14. Short Dreaded Curls

Short dread-inspired curls offer a fusion of structure and texture. With defined sections and uniform length, this hairstyle looks trendy and easy to manage. Perfect for fall and winter when you want more styling control, it adds personality and texture without requiring long-term commitment like full dreads.

15. Curly Ivy League Cut

This preppy classic gets a curly twist. The Ivy League cut keeps sides short and the top slightly longer, giving your curls room to style back or to the side. Ideal for professional settings or dressier seasons, it’s polished without hiding your natural hair texture—subtle yet sophisticated.

16. Curly Faux Hawk

A faux hawk for curly hair is playful and edgy without going full punk. The curls are kept longer along the center and styled upwards, while the sides are faded or tapered. Great for warmer seasons, it’s a bold yet controlled look that shows off your curls in a modern way.

17. Low Taper with Loose Curls

A low taper keeps the look soft and subtle, perfect for looser curls. It gradually shortens the hair around the neck and ears, maintaining shape without harsh contrast. This laid-back style is excellent for all seasons and works especially well for men who prefer a natural, low-effort appearance.

18. Curly Crew Cut

A curly version of the crew cut gives you a sporty, clean appearance while preserving texture on top. It’s simple, sharp, and suits any season—especially summer. This cut’s low sides and short curls make styling a breeze, and it’s a top pick for men with active lifestyles or busy schedules.

19. Skin Fade with Curly Top

For maximum contrast, try a skin fade paired with a full curly top. The fade drops to the skin around the sides and back, while the curls add drama up top. This style thrives in all seasons, turning heads while giving you the flexibility to switch up lengths and curl definition.

20. Short Curly Pompadour

Give your curls a vintage twist with a short pompadour. Styled upward and backward with volume, it brings classic cool into modern styling. Great for formal looks or standout street style, this cut works in cooler seasons when longer curls can hold their shape and volume without frizzing.

Conclusion

No matter the season, your curls deserve a cut that’s cool, confident, and easy to maintain. These 20 short hairstyles prove that curly hair isn’t just stylish—it’s versatile and full of character. Whether you’re aiming for something sharp and clean or textured and relaxed, there’s a look here to match your vibe. Save your favorites, screenshot for your next barber visit, and let your curls do the talking all year long!