If you’re shopping for a stylish gift for the curly-haired man in your life—or just looking to help someone embrace their natural texture—this list is exactly what you need. Short curly hairstyles are having a major moment, and it’s not hard to see why. They’re low-maintenance, packed with personality, and versatile enough to suit any guy’s lifestyle or fashion sense. Whether you’re gifting grooming tools, hair products, or simply looking for inspiration for a fresh cut, the right hairstyle can make all the difference. In this guide, we’ve rounded up the best short curly hairstyles that men can rock with confidence all year long. From edgy fades to natural coils, each style comes with tips and product suggestions to help them look sharp and feel great. Let’s dive into these 13 standout looks and help you find the perfect match—or gift—for your favorite curly-haired guy.
1. Taper Fade with Defined Curls
source@zaycutzit
The taper fade with defined curls is a bold yet clean look that works for nearly every face shape. It’s a favorite among trendsetters who want to keep their sides neat while allowing the top to show off their curls in full form. This style frames the face while maintaining a tidy and modern silhouette, making it a great pick for men who want structure without sacrificing style. To achieve the definition, a lightweight curl cream or styling gel is key—preferably one that offers hold without flaking. If you’re gifting this look, a quality curl sponge or diffuser attachment for a blow dryer can help amplify and shape curls easily. It’s a hairstyle that transitions seamlessly from casual hangouts to professional settings. Plus, it’s easy to maintain between barber visits with the right grooming tools.
2. Curly High Top Fade
source@modernfreshfades
The curly high top fade takes a vintage 90s vibe and gives it a modern twist that screams confidence. Ideal for men with tighter coils or thicker curls, this style features volume up top with closely shaved sides to create a striking contrast. It’s the perfect option for someone who loves to stand out while keeping their curls intact. Styling this cut involves moisturizing the curls and occasionally trimming the sides to maintain the shape. Consider gifting a curl-enhancing leave-in conditioner or a pick comb to keep the high top looking fresh. This look not only boosts the hair’s natural volume but also highlights facial features in a bold, structured way. It’s great for guys who are artistic, expressive, or just want to make a memorable impression.
3. Short Curly Crop
source@nenei_hairstylist
A short curly crop is all about effortless cool. This low-maintenance style keeps curls close to the scalp for a neat, tidy appearance that’s still packed with personality. It’s an excellent choice for men who want to embrace their texture without dealing with a complicated grooming routine. This cut is ideal for athletes or those in active professions, as it stays in place and requires minimal upkeep. To keep the curls healthy and defined, a sulfate-free curl shampoo and conditioner set makes a thoughtful and practical gift. A hydrating hair balm can also help preserve curl shape without weighing hair down. The short curly crop works across a range of curl types and is perfect for someone who prefers simplicity with a touch of style.
4. Curly Fringe with Low Fade
source@v.hugostyles
The curly fringe with a low fade offers a fresh, modern aesthetic that flatters almost every head shape. The defined curls in the front create an eye-catching element, while the gradual fade on the sides provides a polished finish. This style works great for men with looser curl patterns or wavy hair, giving them a structured but creative edge. Styling the fringe requires a good curl activator and occasional trimming to keep the shape in check. A premium styling cream or pomade can also make a great gift, helping to control frizz while enhancing curl texture. This hairstyle blends youthful charm with sophistication, making it an excellent choice for the stylish man who isn’t afraid to experiment.
5. Textured Caesar Cut
source@greymatterla
The textured Caesar cut is a timeless option with a modern twist that’s ideal for men with curls or waves. It features short hair all around with a slightly longer, textured top that’s combed forward. This version of the classic Caesar look brings out the best in curly hair by allowing natural texture to do the talking. It’s great for men who prefer short hair but still want to showcase their curl pattern. A matte-finish styling product, like a texture paste, is perfect for defining this look without adding shine. If you’re gifting this style, consider a good pair of trimming scissors or an all-in-one grooming kit for touch-ups. It’s stylish, easy to maintain, and subtly edgy.
6. Mini Afro with Tapered Sides
source@twiztdabarber
The mini afro with tapered sides is a celebration of natural curls with a well-groomed twist. This cut keeps the curl volume on top while trimming the back and sides for a cleaner look. It’s a strong style statement that also prioritizes texture and hair health. Regular moisturizing is key, so gifting a rich curl cream or a leave-in hydrating mist would go a long way. A wooden wide-tooth comb is also a fantastic, gentle tool for curl maintenance. The mini afro suits men who want a laid-back look that doesn’t sacrifice personality. It’s particularly ideal for those who appreciate cultural expression and natural style.
7. Curly Mohawk Fade
source@thesurgeon1
The curly mohawk fade is for the man who isn’t afraid to push style boundaries. It features bold, voluminous curls at the center of the scalp, gradually fading into shaved or closely trimmed sides. This daring hairstyle demands attention and can be customized in terms of length and fade placement. To keep it looking sharp, a strong-hold curl defining gel is essential, and a high-quality trimmer makes an excellent gift to maintain the fade. This look is ideal for fashion-forward individuals who love creative expression. Despite its boldness, the mohawk fade can still be versatile, fitting in at both edgy and semi-formal occasions with the right outfit.
8. Temple Fade with Curls
source@modernfreshfades
A temple fade with curls is a great option for men who want something stylish yet subtle. This haircut keeps the curls on top intact while tapering the hair around the temples for a clean finish. It’s perfect for guys who want a smart, put-together look without going too bold. Lightweight curl products that promote natural bounce are perfect to maintain this style. A microfiber towel set or curl-defining cream can be an ideal gift combo to keep the curls frizz-free. This style works well across various hair textures and is great for men in professional environments or those who favor minimal grooming.
9. Brushed Forward Curls
source@c_exy1
Brushed forward curls give off an effortlessly cool vibe while letting the curl pattern take center stage. This cut keeps the sides trimmed short while the curls on top are styled forward, giving dimension to the face. It’s particularly flattering for men with round or oval face shapes. Styling products with a bit of hold and natural shine help maintain the shape throughout the day. Gifting a lightweight curl mousse or anti-humidity spray can make a big difference in keeping the look polished. It’s a laid-back yet fashion-conscious style that doesn’t take much effort to maintain—perfect for the man who values ease and style in equal measure.
10. Curly Ivy League Cut
source@ivyleaguebarberandbeauty
The curly Ivy League cut is a more refined take on the classic short curly style. With slightly longer hair on top and short, clean sides, it allows men to style their curls loosely or brush them over for a more formal look. It’s a great option for professionals or students who need a haircut that transitions from work to weekend seamlessly. Styling this cut may involve a light-hold pomade or grooming cream to keep curls in place without stiffness. A sleek grooming kit or high-quality pomade would be an excellent gift choice here. This hairstyle strikes a balance between classic and modern, making it a timeless option for any age.
11. Tight Curls with Skin Fade
source@salonmkcuts
Tight curls paired with a skin fade create a crisp, edgy appearance that highlights the contrast between texture and clean lines. The fade starts from the skin and gradually blends into the curls on top, creating a modern, sculpted look. It’s an ideal style for men with dense curls who want something eye-catching yet low-maintenance. To maintain the fade and keep the curls defined, a curl enhancer and scalp moisturizer are key. A cordless clipper or fade kit makes a thoughtful gift for keeping this style fresh between barbershop visits. It’s a confident, bold choice for men who take pride in looking sharp every day.
12. Loose Curls with Side Part
source@yewong.salon
Loose curls with a side part create a polished and effortlessly charming look. This style brings a touch of vintage elegance to naturally curly hair while keeping things modern and masculine. It’s great for men with longer, looser curls who want a bit of flair without going over the top. Using a curl-enhancing cream and a styling brush will help define the part and set the curls in place. For gift ideas, a ceramic brush and premium curl serum make great additions to any grooming kit. This hairstyle is a perfect blend of structure and freedom, suited for both romantic evenings and daily wear.
13. Curly Undercut
source@4hairfashion
The curly undercut is a bold yet adaptable hairstyle that lets men play with volume and texture. By keeping the curls long on top and the sides closely shaved or faded, this look creates a strong visual contrast that emphasizes natural curl patterns. It’s a favorite among fashion-forward men who like to stay ahead of the trends. Regular conditioning and curl definition are essential, so a curl cream or styling wax can be a great gift idea. For men who enjoy a bit of daily grooming, adding a scalp massager or detangling tool can enhance their routine. The undercut provides edge and personality, making it perfect for someone who loves to stand out.
Conclusion
Gone are the days when curly hair was seen as a challenge—today, it’s a signature feature that deserves to be celebrated. Whether you’re searching for a standout gift or simply helping a loved one embrace their natural texture, these 13 short curly hairstyles offer both inspiration and functionality. From bold fades to neat crops, every style in this list shows how curls can be styled to reflect personality, lifestyle, and modern trends. Pair the right cut with quality grooming tools—like curl creams, diffusers, or trimming kits—and you’re not just giving a gift, you’re supporting confidence and self-expression. So whether he’s into subtle sophistication or eye-catching edge, there’s a perfect curly hairstyle (and product) waiting to help him shine.
