20 Curly Girl Hairstyles That Follow the CG Method
The Curly Girl (CG) Method has revolutionized how millions of women care for their natural curls.
Founded on the principle of ditching sulfates, silicones, and heat damage, this approach encourages your hair to return to its healthiest, most vibrant curl pattern.
But following the method doesn’t mean being limited to just one look — far from it.
From wash-and-go simplicity to glamorous updos, the CG method gives you the foundation for versatile, show-stopping hairstyles that are as healthy as they are beautiful.
Whether you’re rocking type 2 waves or type 4 coils, these 20 hairstyles will inspire your curl journey with detailed styling techniques and outfit pairings to match every vibe.
1: The Wash-and-Go
The ultimate low-maintenance CG method staple. Apply your leave-in conditioner and styling gel to soaking wet hair, then let your natural curl pattern do the rest. This look celebrates your curls in their most authentic form.
Outfit Pairing
- Oversized linen button-down in cream or soft white
- High-waisted mom jeans with a relaxed fit
- Minimal gold hoop earrings to frame the face
- White canvas sneakers or leather sandals
Styling Guide
- Apply gel or mousse to soaking wet hair using praying hands method
- Scrunch upward gently to encourage curl formation
- Air dry or use a diffuser on low heat with no touching
- Once fully dry, scrunch out the crunch (SOTC) with a few drops of lightweight oil
2: The Pineapple Updo
A classic overnight preservation technique that doubles as a gorgeous daytime look. Gather all your curls loosely at the very top of your head — the cascading curls create instant volume and drama.
Outfit Pairing
- Cozy oversized knit sweater in dusty rose or camel
- Leggings or joggers in a neutral tone
- Silk scrunchie that matches your outfit palette
- Dainty layered necklaces for an effortless feel
Styling Guide
- Gather curls loosely at the crown using a silk or satin scrunchie
- Let curls fan out naturally from the top — avoid pulling tight
- Pull a few tendrils loose around your face for a softer look
- Refresh any flat pieces with a spritz of water and curl cream
3: Diffused Volume Blowout
Get bouncy, full-bodied curls by using a diffuser attachment on your blow dryer. This technique speeds up drying time while preserving curl definition and adding incredible root volume that lasts all day.
Outfit Pairing
- Fitted blazer over a simple camisole for polished casual
- Straight-leg trousers or tailored wide-leg pants
- Pointed-toe mules or block-heel ankle boots
- Statement stud earrings to complement the voluminous hair
Styling Guide
- Apply styling mousse and gel to damp hair, raking through evenly
- Flip head upside down and cup curls into the diffuser bowl
- Use medium heat and low speed — hover, don’t press against scalp
- Finish with a blast of cool air to set the curls and lock in volume
4: Half-Up Half-Down Curls
The best of both worlds — hair pulled back from the face while showing off your curl length and definition. This versatile style works for brunch dates, office days, and everything in between.
Outfit Pairing
- Flowy boho midi dress with floral or earthy prints
- Layered pendant necklace with natural stone accents
- Woven straw bag or crossbody in tan leather
- Strappy flat sandals or espadrille wedges
Styling Guide
- Section off the top half of your hair from ear to ear
- Secure loosely with a claw clip or silk scrunchie at the crown
- Fluff the top section gently for added height and body
- Refresh the bottom curls with a water and conditioner mix spritz
5: Twist-Out Defined Spirals
Create gorgeous, uniform spirals by twisting damp hair into sections overnight or until dry. When unraveled, the result is beautifully stretched, defined curls with incredible shine and movement.
Outfit Pairing
- Earthy-toned wrap top or off-shoulder blouse
- High-waisted A-line skirt in a complementary shade
- Bold hoop earrings in gold or wooden material
- Ankle-strap heels or platform sandals
Styling Guide
- Apply curl cream generously to damp, detangled hair
- Section hair and create two-strand twists throughout
- Allow twists to dry completely — overnight works best
- Unravel gently, separate with fingers, and fluff roots for volume
6: The Messy Curly Bun
Effortlessly chic and perfect for third-day curls. Gather your curls into a loose, undone bun and let wispy pieces frame your face. It looks intentionally imperfect and absolutely stunning.
Outfit Pairing
- Soft ribbed tank top or cropped sweater in neutral tones
- High-waisted lounge pants or cozy wide-leg trousers
- Delicate chain bracelet and small hoop earrings
- Fuzzy slippers at home or clean white sneakers for errands
Styling Guide
- Gather day-old curls loosely at the nape or mid-height of head
- Twist gently and wrap around itself, securing with bobby pins
- Pull out face-framing pieces and a few curls at the nape
- Spritz with a light-hold hairspray to keep the shape without stiffness
7: Silk Scarf Headband Look
Accessorize your curls with a silk or satin scarf tied as a headband. The silk fabric protects your curls from friction while adding a retro-chic element that elevates any outfit instantly.
Outfit Pairing
- Classic Breton striped top or fitted turtleneck
- High-waisted cigarette pants or a denim midi skirt
- Cat-eye sunglasses for a vintage Parisian vibe
- Ballet flats or loafers in patent leather
Styling Guide
- Fold a square silk scarf into a long band about 2 inches wide
- Place across your hairline and tie underneath your curls at the nape
- Arrange curls to cascade over and around the scarf naturally
- Choose a scarf color that contrasts your hair for maximum impact
8: Finger Coils Perfection
A time-intensive but jaw-dropping technique where you twirl each small section of hair around your finger to create perfectly uniform, springy coils. The definition is unmatched and lasts for days.
Outfit Pairing
- Sleek bodysuit or fitted mock-neck top in black
- Leather or faux-leather pants for an edgy contrast
- Bold geometric earrings that complement the coil structure
- Pointed-toe boots or strappy heeled sandals
Styling Guide
- Apply a generous amount of curl defining gel to wet hair
- Take small sections and wrap each one around your finger tightly
- Slide finger out carefully, leaving the coil intact
- Allow to fully air dry or diffuse on low — do not touch until completely set
9: The Curly Shag Cut
A retro-inspired layered cut that gives curly hair incredible movement and shape. The shorter layers on top create volume while the longer layers add flow. Curly bangs frame the face beautifully.
Outfit Pairing
- Vintage-inspired graphic tee or band shirt tucked in
- High-waisted flared jeans or corduroy trousers
- Retro round sunglasses or oversized frames
- Platform sneakers or chunky-soled boots
Styling Guide
- Apply lightweight curl cream from roots to ends on damp hair
- Scrunch layers individually to encourage different curl patterns
- Diffuse with head tilted to each side for maximum root lift
- Separate curly bangs with fingers and arrange across the forehead
10: Plopping Technique Results
Plopping uses a microfiber towel or cotton t-shirt to gently wrap freshly styled wet hair, allowing curls to set without gravity pulling them down. The result is super-defined, bouncy curls with zero frizz.
Outfit Pairing
- Casual cotton t-shirt dress or comfortable romper
- Denim jacket layered over for a put-together feel
- Simple stud earrings or small huggie hoops
- Comfortable slip-on sneakers or birkenstock-style sandals
Styling Guide
- Lay a microfiber towel or t-shirt flat, then flip wet styled hair onto it
- Wrap and secure at the nape of your neck, tucking in edges
- Leave on for 20-30 minutes or until curls are partially set
- Unwrap gently and either air dry the rest or diffuse on low
11: The Curly Bob
A shorter curl length that packs maximum personality. The curly bob sits between chin and shoulder length, creating a full, rounded silhouette that works wonderfully for both casual and professional settings.
Outfit Pairing
- Tailored button-up shirt in a crisp pastel shade
- Fitted pencil skirt or tailored cropped trousers
- Pearl or stud earrings for understated elegance
- Pointed-toe flats or kitten heels
Styling Guide
- Apply styling gel to soaking wet hair using the praying hands method
- Scrunch from ends upward to encourage curl formation at shorter length
- Diffuse with a concentrator focused on the ends for bounce
- Once dry, shake at the roots and arrange part as desired
12: Braided Crown with Loose Curls
A romantic updo where two braids wrap around the crown of your head while the remaining curls flow freely. It’s a stunning choice for weddings, date nights, or any occasion where you want to feel like royalty.
Outfit Pairing
- Flowing maxi dress in soft florals or solid jewel tones
- Delicate drop earrings with crystal or pearl accents
- Strappy heeled sandals in gold or nude
- Small clutch bag in a metallic finish
Styling Guide
- Create a deep side part and braid a section from each side
- Wrap braids across the crown and pin securely with bobby pins
- Fluff and arrange the loose curls below for volume
- Set with a flexible hold spray and tuck in any stray pieces
13: Gel Cast Crunch-Out
The holy grail CG technique — apply generous gel to wet hair, let it dry into a hard cast, then scrunch it out for the softest, most defined, frizz-free curls you’ve ever had. The transformation is truly magical.
Outfit Pairing
- Relaxed-fit graphic sweatshirt or cozy henley top
- Classic straight-leg jeans or casual chinos
- Layered delicate gold chains at varying lengths
- Clean white sneakers or casual Chelsea boots
Styling Guide
- Apply a generous amount of strong-hold CG-approved gel to dripping wet hair
- Use praying hands, scrunching, and finger-raking to distribute evenly
- Do not touch hair until it is 100% dry and feels crunchy like a cast
- Scrunch out the crunch with a tiny drop of argan or jojoba oil on palms
14: Curly Space Buns
Playful, youthful, and absolutely adorable. Two buns placed high on each side of your head with curly tendrils escaping give you that fun-loving, festival-ready vibe that’s impossible not to smile at.
Outfit Pairing
- Cropped band tee or colorful tie-dye top
- High-waisted denim shorts or a mini skirt
- Chunky platform sneakers or combat boots
- Fun stackable rings and beaded bracelets
Styling Guide
- Part hair down the center from front to nape
- Gather each section high and twist into loose buns, securing with pins
- Pull out curly tendrils around the face, ears, and nape
- Spritz with a sea salt spray for added texture and hold
15: Low Curly Ponytail
Sleek at the top with a voluminous curly pony at the back. This sporty-meets-chic style keeps curls contained and controlled while still showing off their length and bounce. Perfect for active days.
Outfit Pairing
- Matching athletic set in a solid color like olive or navy
- Zip-up hoodie or cropped puffer vest layered over
- Clean running shoes or fashion sneakers
- Minimal sport watch or fitness tracker as accessory
Styling Guide
- Smooth the front and sides back using a CG-friendly edge control
- Secure at the nape or mid-height with a silk scrunchie or spiral tie
- Fluff and separate the ponytail curls for maximum volume
- Refresh the pony with a curl reviving spray if needed
16: Curly Bangs Statement
Curly bangs are having a major moment. Whether you cut them yourself or visit a curl specialist, these face-framing curls add instant personality and a fresh, modern edge to any curl pattern.
Outfit Pairing
- Classic denim jacket over a simple white tee
- High-waisted straight-leg jeans or cargo pants
- Chunky chain necklace or layered pendants
- Ankle boots or retro-style sneakers
Styling Guide
- Style bangs separately from the rest of your hair for better definition
- Apply a small amount of curl cream and scrunch bangs upward
- Diffuse bangs first while they’re still very wet for best shape
- Arrange across forehead with fingers — don’t brush or comb once dry
17: Side-Swept Glamour Curls
Channel Old Hollywood glamour by sweeping all your curls to one side. This dramatic, red-carpet-worthy style creates a stunning asymmetrical silhouette that photographs beautifully from every angle.
Outfit Pairing
- One-shoulder or asymmetric neckline dress in a rich tone
- Statement chandelier earring on the visible ear
- Strappy stiletto heels in metallic or deep satin
- Elegant clutch with jewel or beaded detailing
Styling Guide
- Create a deep side part on your preferred side
- Pin the shorter side flat against your head with discreet bobby pins
- Arrange all curls to fall over the opposite shoulder
- Set with a strong-hold hairspray and smooth flyaways with a silk serum
18: Curly Faux Hawk
Edgy, bold, and unapologetically confident. Pin the sides back while leaving maximum volume and height through the center. This punk-meets-natural style is a total head-turner.
Outfit Pairing
- Leather or faux-leather moto jacket in black
- Fitted black jeans or edgy distressed denim
- Combat boots or studded ankle boots
- Layered chain necklaces and ear cuffs
Styling Guide
- Section off the center strip of hair from forehead to nape
- Pin each side flat using bobby pins or small clips angled upward
- Fluff and lift the center section for maximum height and volume
- Set with a strong-hold gel or mousse for all-day structure
19: Double Dutch Braids with Curly Ends
A sporty-chic protective style that keeps curls stretched and protected while looking amazing. Two Dutch braids running along each side transition into loose, bouncy curls at the ends.
Outfit Pairing
- Fitted athletic tank or sports bra with mesh jacket
- High-waisted biker shorts or performance leggings
- Sleek running shoes in a bold colorway
- Minimal sweatband or wristbands for sporty flair
Styling Guide
- Detangle thoroughly and apply a leave-in conditioner for slip
- Dutch braid each side from the hairline, stopping midway down
- Secure with small CG-friendly elastic bands
- Fluff out the curly ends below the braids for contrast and volume
20: Day-Two Curl Refresh
Master the art of refreshing your curls on day two (and beyond) without a full wash. A few spritzes of water, some curl cream, and strategic scrunching bring yesterday’s curls back to life beautifully.
Outfit Pairing
- Cozy oversized cardigan over a simple ribbed tank
- Comfortable boyfriend jeans or soft joggers
- Fuzzy socks or shearling-lined slides at home
- Simple hair claw clip nearby for versatility
Styling Guide
- Spritz dry curls lightly with a water and conditioner mix in a spray bottle
- Apply a small amount of curl cream to palms and scrunch into dry areas
- Focus on the areas that lost definition — usually the crown and canopy
- Diffuse briefly on low heat or let air dry for a refreshed, natural look
Your Curls, Your Rules
The beauty of the Curly Girl Method isn’t just about healthier hair — it’s about embracing what makes you uniquely beautiful.
Every curl pattern is different, and these 20 styles are meant to inspire you to experiment, play, and fall in love with your natural texture all over again.
Remember, the best hairstyle is the one that makes you feel confident and radiant.
