Curly hairstyles for women over 60 are one of my favorite ways to instantly add softness, lift, and personality without trying to look “too young.”
Curls naturally camouflage thinning areas, brighten the face, and make your hair feel fuller and more alive.
Instead of fighting your texture, these looks help you lean into it with cuts and shapes that make styling easier, not harder.
Think: flattering volume, soft movement, and styles that still look good on day two.
Save the looks that catch your eye as you scroll so you can show your stylist exactly what you want at your next appointment.
Why You’ll Love Wearing Your Curls Over 60
- Curls add instant body and bounce, even on fine or aging hair.
- Soft shapes and layers help blur harsh lines and give a gentle, lifted effect around the face.
- Many of these curly hairstyles grow out gracefully, so you don’t feel “overdue” for a trim every month.
Quick Curly Hair Tips Before You Cut
- Bring 2–3 inspiration photos from this list so your stylist can see the length, volume, and bang shape you like.
- Ask for a cut that’s done at least partly on dry hair so the stylist can see how your curls actually spring and fall.
- Mention how much time you really spend styling; your cut should match your lifestyle, not the other way around.
#1. Loose Curl Shoulder-Length Lob
When you want your curls to feel lush but still manageable, a loose curl shoulder-length lob is my go-to.
The length brushes the shoulders, giving you that “long hair” feeling without dragging your curls flat.
This works beautifully if you like softness around the collarbone and want movement without tons of layers.
Ask your stylist for a lob that’s slightly layered and then style with loose, lived-in curls using a 1–1.25-inch iron or your natural texture.
#2. Curly Pixie with Soft Undercut
For women over 60 who are done wrestling with bulky curls, I love a curly pixie with a soft undercut.
The undercut removes weight at the sides and nape so your ringlets can pop up and show their shape.
This cut is perfect if you want a wash-and-go routine and don’t mind a slightly edgy, modern vibe.
Just work a bit of curl cream or mousse through damp hair, scrunch, and let your natural curls do the rest.
#3. Medium Curly Hair with Sun-Kissed Highlights
Medium curly hair with sun-kissed highlights is ideal if you like movement but don’t want super long hair.
The length allows your curls to bounce freely, while the lighter pieces catch the light and add dimension.
This is especially flattering on brunettes who want a soft glow instead of high-contrast streaks.
Ask for subtle, blended highlights placed around your face and through the top layer to make every ringlet stand out.
#4. Long Curly Layers with Side-Swept Bangs
If you love your long curls but want them to feel more youthful and fashion-forward, side-swept bangs are a game changer.
The fringe sweeps across the forehead, drawing attention to your eyes and adding energy to the whole look.
This style works beautifully on naturally curly hair that has some length and density.
Blow-dry the bangs first with a small round brush, then let the rest of your curls air-dry or diffuse with curl cream for soft, bouncy movement.
#5. Natural Curl Bob with a Middle Part
When you want something cute, simple, and current, a natural curl bob with a middle part is an easy win.
The bob sits just above the shoulders, giving a clean, modern outline without feeling severe.
A center part creates a balanced, trendy frame for your face and looks great with glasses, too.
Apply a light mousse, define your curls with your fingers, and let them air-dry for a “done but not overdone” finish.
#6. Romantic Ringlets with a Deep Side Part
On days when you want extra drama and romance, long ringlets paired with a deep side part are stunning.
The exaggerated part adds height at the crown and instantly makes the look feel more glamorous.
This is perfect for special events or anytime you want your curls to be the main accessory.
Use a small-barrel iron or wand to refine any curls that need help, then flip your part deep to one side and finish with a flexible hairspray.
#7. Short Stacked Bob for Tight Curls
Tight curls can look incredibly chic in a short stacked bob.
The stacked layers at the back lift and shape your curls, creating a beautifully rounded silhouette.
This cut is great if your curls tend to get triangular or heavy at the bottom.
Ask your stylist to cut some of it dry so they can see exactly how each coil lives and make sure the stack flatters your profile.
#8. Big Curly Hair with Lowlights
If you love big, bold hair, lean into it with big curly hair enhanced by lowlights.
The deeper tones threaded through your curls create depth so your hair looks full but not flat.
This is a fantastic choice if your curls are thick and you enjoy a more “maximalist” look.
Tell your colorist you want soft, dimensional lowlights that blend seamlessly with your base color for a rich, multi-tonal effect.
#9. Curly Tapered Cut for Thin Hair
When you have thin hair but still want to celebrate your curls, a tapered cut can be incredibly flattering.
Keeping more fullness on top and narrowing toward the neckline instantly makes your hair look thicker.
This style is low-maintenance and great if you don’t want to spend forever styling.
Use a lightweight volumizing mousse at the roots and diffuse with your head upside down for extra lift.
#10. Naturally Curly Bob with Wispy Bangs
A naturally curly bob with wispy bangs is one of my favorite “instant softening” looks.
The length just below the chin brings playful bounce, while the feathery fringe gently skims the forehead.
This combo can take years off your appearance without looking like you’re trying too hard.
Ask your stylist to texturize the bangs so they look light and airy, then style with a curl cream and a quick diffuse.
#11. Mid-Length Layered Curls with a Feathered Fringe
Mid-length layered curls are perfect when you don’t want hair that’s too long or too short.
Adding a feathered fringe softens the face and helps your curls blend naturally into the bang area.
If you like a bit of fun, you can also add a slightly different shade underneath for a peekaboo pop when your curls move.
This style is easy to wear day to day but can be dressed up with extra definition and shine spray.
#12. Spiral Curls with a Subtle Ombre
Spiral curls with a subtle ombre are a gorgeous way to update your look without feeling overdone.
A soft transition from deeper roots to slightly lighter ends gives your curls depth and a youthful glow.
This works beautifully if you’re blending gray, or you just want a gentle color shift.
Ask for a low-contrast ombre that melts into your natural shade so the grow-out looks intentional, not harsh.
#13. Short Curly Crop with a Blunt Fringe
If your personality is bold and playful, a short curly crop with a blunt fringe will match your energy.
The strong, straight-across bangs contrast beautifully with the texture of your curls.
This look puts all the focus on your eyes and brows and feels very fashion-forward.
Keep curls defined with cream or gel, then smooth just the fringe with a brush and dryer for crisp edges.
#14. Curly Bob with Angled Cut
A curly bob with an angled cut is designed to highlight a great jawline and cheekbones.
The slightly longer front pieces frame your face while the shorter back keeps everything lifted.
This shape feels sophisticated yet still fun thanks to your natural curl.
Ask for an A-line or angled bob tailored to your curl pattern so the front doesn’t collapse and the back doesn’t puff out.
#15. Loose Wavy Layers with a Fringe
If you prefer looser waves over tight curls, loose wavy layers with a fringe give that relaxed, effortless vibe.
The fringe adds a flirty touch while the waves keep everything soft and wearable.
This is perfect if your hair is more wavy than curly or if you like styling with a curling iron.
Wrap random sections around a 1–1.25-inch iron, leave the ends out for a modern feel, then shake everything out with your fingers.
#16. Voluminous Curly Updo with a Crown Braid
For a dressy night out or a special event, a voluminous curly updo with a crown braid is a showstopper.
Curly lengths give you instant volume to pin up, while the braid circling the crown adds a soft, romantic touch.
This style keeps hair off your neck but still looks full and feminine.
Have your stylist prep your curls with mousse, pin them loosely, and then weave a braid around your hairline like a halo.
#17. Curly Bob with a Defined Part
Sometimes curls need just a bit of structure, and a curly bob with a defined part is a simple way to get it.
Choosing a clean side or center part makes the whole silhouette feel more intentional and polished.
This look is perfect if you like your natural curls but want them to read a little neater.
Carve your part while hair is damp, apply curl cream, and diffuse without disturbing that line.
#18. Long Boho Curls with a Zigzag Part
Long boho curls are one of those looks that feel fun at any age.
Adding a zigzag part instantly updates the style and gives a playful, modern twist.
This is great if you enjoy an easy, free-spirited vibe but still want a small styling detail that feels special.
Create the zigzag with the tip of a comb on damp hair, then scrunch in curl cream and let everything air-dry.
#19. Loose Curl Mid-Length Shag
A loose curl mid-length shag gives you that soft rock ’n’ roll energy without feeling too wild.
Shaggy layers break up the weight and encourage your curls or waves to bounce in different directions.
This is ideal if you like a bit of deliberate “messiness” and lots of movement.
Use a texturizing spray on dry hair and scrunch with your hands to keep everything light, bouncy, and touchable.
#20. Voluminous Barrel Curls with a Center Part
Voluminous barrel curls with a center part are pure elegance.
Big, smooth curls paired with a clean middle part feel timeless and a little bit glamorous.
This look works beautifully for parties, photos, or anytime you want to feel extra polished.
Curl large sections away from your face, let them cool, then brush them out gently for that plush, soft finish.
#21. Slicked-Back Curls for a Sophisticated Look
When you want a sleek, powerful vibe with minimal effort, slicked-back curls are perfect.
Pushing the hair away from your face shows off your features and jewelry and feels very modern.
This is a quick 5-minute style for dinners, events, or even just a “put-together” errand day.
Comb a strong-hold gel through the top and sides of damp hair, slick it back, and let the rest of your curls dry naturally.
#22. Short Afro-Textured Curls
Short afro-textured curls beautifully showcase your natural pattern.
The shorter length lets coils stand up and out, giving flattering height and volume.
This is an amazing option if you’re ready to fully embrace your texture and keep styling simple.
Keep hair moisturized with a leave-in conditioner and light oil, and have your stylist shape it to complement your cheekbones and jawline.
#23. Curly Lob with a Side Braid
A curly lob with a side braid is one of those romantic, flirty combinations that always works.
The shoulder-grazing length feels modern, while the side braid adds a soft, feminine detail.
I love this look for brunch, dates, or family photos when you want a cute little twist without a full updo.
Braid a small section near your temple, pin it back into your curls, and leave the rest loose and bouncy.
#24. Vintage-Inspired Loose Curls
Vintage-inspired loose curls let you channel Old Hollywood glam in the best way.
Soft, uniform waves and a polished finish create that classic, movie-star effect.
This works beautifully on silver, blonde, or brunette curls and is gorgeous for formal events.
Set your hair in larger rollers or pin curls, let everything cool, then brush out gently and add shine serum for a smooth, glossy look.
#25. Tight Ringlets with a Root Shadow
Tight ringlets with a root shadow are a chic way to modernize your curls.
Keeping the roots slightly deeper than the lengths adds dimension and makes the color look intentional.
This is especially helpful if you’re transitioning from solid color or blending gray.
Ask your colorist for a soft, blurred root shadow so your grow-out looks seamless and youthful.
#26. Curly A-Line Cut with a Deep Side Part
A curly A-line cut with a deep side part gives you structure and movement at the same time.
The shorter back and longer front create a strong shape, while the deep part adds a touch of drama.
This style flatters strong features and works best on curls with some natural spring.
Have your stylist tailor the angle and length to your face so the cut grows out beautifully between appointments.
#27. Soft Curl French Bob with a Straight Fringe
A soft curl French bob with a straight fringe feels chic, artsy, and very current.
The shorter, boxy bob shape paired with gentle curls gives effortless lift, while the straight fringe adds cool contrast.
This look is perfect if you love a little Parisian flair and want to highlight your eyes.
Style the fringe smooth with a small brush, enhance your curls with cream or mousse, and let the shape do the talking.
How I Keep Curly Hairstyles Looking Fresh Over 60
- Book trims every 8–12 weeks to keep ends healthy and your shape defined.
- Sleep on a satin or silk pillowcase and loosely gather your hair on top of your head (“pineapple”) to protect your curls overnight.
- On non-wash days, mist curls with water or a curl refresher spray, scrunch in a bit of leave-in, and let them spring back to life.
Bring your favorite 2–3 looks from this guide to your next salon visit and let your stylist tweak the length, layers, and fringe so your curly hairstyle feels perfectly “you.”