‘Country Curls’ Are Back in Style—Here’s How to Make It Look Modern

Yeehaw, y’all! The western-country era is back, and with it comes Taylor Swift’s country-style curls. We’re seeing tighter curls on celebrities, the runway, and everywhere in between, as more women are replacing their loose waves with corkscrew curls. (Think Carrie Underwood during American Idol, Dolly Parton’s permed shag, and Reba McEntire’s auburn curls in the ‘80s.)

According to Paul Cucinello, celebrity hairstylist and co-founder of Cucinello Beauty, people are tired of the same old center part with loose waves that Kim Kardashian made popular. “With all of the western fashion trends we’re seeing, it only makes sense that we would start to look back at country western hairstyles as well,” says Cucinello. “Taylor’s curliest style from back in the day isn’t really a current look, but it’s being updated for today with a more modern version.”

These curls are much more defined than loose waves, without being crunchy or gelled. “They are the kind of curls you can only get with a roller set or curling heat tool,” says Cucinello. 

While most hair types can achieve the country curls look, naturally wavy hair does work best for this kind of style because the wave supports the structure of the tighter curl you’re creating, making it almost seem effortless and longer lasting, according to Cucinello. “You’ll need a bit of patience, the right tools, and a decent amount of lead time to make this look work.”

How to Achieve Country Curls With Naturally Curly Hair

• Step 1: On clean damp hair, apply a blowdry cream with hold (like Oribe Curl Gloss or Davines This Is a Curl Gel Oil). Make sure it is evenly distributed. 
• Step 2: For the best results, Cucinello suggests picking up a set of silicone pin curlers (like the Spoolies Original Hair Curlers) or bendable foam hair rollers (like these). Take 1-2” sections and wrap your hair around the base of the curlers, starting at the roots and continuing to wrap until you reach the ends. 
• Step 3: Invert the curler so that it locks in place. If you want to use regular rollers, opt for a smaller size and twist each section before you wrap it around each roller, starting at the roots and continuing to wrap until you reach the ends. 
• Step 4: Secure the roller. Continue this method until your entire head is finished. 
• Step 5: You can either let your hair dry overnight or allow it to dry completely (a few hours) before unwinding the curlers. 
• Step 6: Once all the curlers are out, use a working hairspray to lightly spray all your curls. Let that dry for a few minutes.
• Step 7: Using either a shine spray or serum, apply a small amount to your hands, rub them together, and then gently scrunch your hair, making sure not to separate the curls. 
• Step 8: Flip your head over and massage your scalp with your hands. Gently rake your fingers through just to break up the curls, making sure to avoid your part, which will keep it looking polished. 

How to Achieve Country Curls With Naturally Straight Hair

Use the same instructions from Cucinello above, but with a few caveats. “I’d suggest the same instructions I mentioned above, but you should choose a product with a bit more hold and make sure your hair is 100% dry before you start to unwrap,” says Cucinello. “You’ll also want to use a bit more hairspray, since you won’t have any natural wave to support your style.”