The anime universe is populated by countless characters, but some curly-haired individuals have etched themselves into the hearts of fans. Let's explore some of the most iconic:
1. Killua Zoldyck (Hunter x Hunter)
While Killua's hair is often depicted as spiky and somewhat unruly, closer inspection reveals a distinct wave and curl pattern, especially when it's longer or styled differently. His silver hair, combined with his assassin background and complex moral compass, makes him a fascinating character. Killua’s journey is one of breaking free from his family’s dark legacy, and his ever-evolving hairstyle mirrors his internal struggles and growth. He’s a prime example of how even a slightly less pronounced curl can contribute to a character's unique look.
2. Giorno Giovanna (JoJo's Bizarre Adventure: Golden Wind)
Giorno’s signature blonde, voluminous, and distinctly curly hair is perhaps one of the most recognizable styles in modern anime. It’s a bold statement, much like Giorno himself. His ambition to become a gangster and bring justice to the criminal underworld is matched by the sheer extravagance of his hairstyle. The curls are not just hair; they are a crown, a symbol of his regal aspirations and his powerful Stand, Gold Experience. His hair is a testament to the over-the-top, stylish aesthetic that defines JoJo's Bizarre Adventure.
3. Simon (Gurren Lagann)
Simon’s hair starts as a simple, short, curly style that perfectly suits his initial timid and introverted personality. As the series progresses and Simon grows into a confident leader, his hair also undergoes subtle changes, becoming more prominent and expressive. His curly mop is a visual representation of his inner strength and determination. It’s a humble beginning for a man who ends up piloting colossal mechs and saving the universe. The way his hair bounces and moves during intense battles adds to the sheer kinetic energy of Gurren Lagann.
4. Alphonse Elric (Fullmetal Alchemist)
Alphonse Elric, in his human form before the tragic alchemy accident, had a rather unassuming, short, curly hairstyle. While his iconic armor body often overshadows his physical appearance, the memory of his gentle nature and his distinctive curly hair remains. It’s a subtle detail that grounds him as a relatable young boy thrust into extraordinary circumstances. His journey, alongside his brother Edward, is a profound exploration of sacrifice, loss, and the meaning of humanity, and his brief moments of human appearance with that curly hair are poignant reminders of what he fights to regain.
5. Ken Kaneki (Tokyo Ghoul)
Ken Kaneki’s hair undergoes a dramatic transformation throughout Tokyo Ghoul. Initially, he has black, straight hair. However, after his transformation into a half-ghoul, his hair turns stark white. While not naturally curly, the style often adopted by his ghoul persona, especially in fan art and certain depictions, emphasizes volume and a slightly tousled, almost wavy texture that can be interpreted as a form of natural curl or wave. His white hair is a powerful visual metaphor for his descent into the ghoul world and the loss of his humanity. The stark contrast between his original black hair and his white ghoul hair signifies his internal conflict and the duality of his existence.
6. Yosuke Hanamura (Persona 4)
Yosuke, the energetic and often comedic relief of Persona 4, sports a distinctive, curly brown hairstyle. His hair is a perfect match for his boisterous personality, always looking a bit windswept and full of life. It adds to his approachable and friendly demeanor, making him an instant favorite among fans. His curls seem to bounce with every joke and every dramatic moment, embodying the vibrant spirit of Inaba and the bonds of the Investigation Team. He’s the kind of character whose hairstyle feels as integral to his personality as his dialogue.
7. Shizuo Heiwajima (Durarara!!)
Shizuo Heiwajima is known for his imposing physique and his volatile temper, often depicted as one of the strongest characters in Ikebukuro. His hair is a dark, messy, and distinctly curly style that perfectly complements his wild, unpredictable nature. It looks like he just rolled out of bed after a bar brawl, which, given his character, is entirely plausible. His curls are an outward manifestation of the barely contained chaos within him. He’s a force of nature, and his hair is the visual equivalent of a storm cloud.
8. Hisoka Morow (Hunter x Hunter)
Hisoka’s iconic, spiky yet undeniably curly hair is a signature element of his flamboyant and unsettling character. The vibrant red color and the gravity-defying curls contribute significantly to his jester-like appearance and his unpredictable, thrill-seeking personality. His hair is as much a part of his performance as his Nen abilities. It’s wild, untamed, and always draws attention, much like Hisoka himself. The way his curls frame his sharp, often predatory features adds to his dangerous allure.
9. Roy Mustang (Fullmetal Alchemist)
Colonel Roy Mustang, the Flame Alchemist, has a neatly styled, dark brown hair with a subtle wave that can appear curly depending on the angle and animation. While not as overtly curly as some others on this list, the texture adds a touch of sophistication and maturity to his otherwise sharp and commanding presence. His hair is often depicted as slightly messy during intense battles, hinting at the underlying passion and intensity he possesses. It’s a controlled chaos, much like his ambition to become the Fuhrer.
10. Kyo Sohma (Fruits Basket)
Kyo Sohma, the Cat of the Chinese Zodiac, has distinctive orange-red hair that is often depicted with a curly or wavy texture, especially when it’s longer. His hair is a visual cue to his wild, untamed nature and his inner turmoil. It’s a reflection of the curse that binds him and the emotional baggage he carries. His curls often seem to have a life of their own, mirroring his fiery temper and his deep-seated pain. The way his hair frames his expressive face makes his emotions all the more palpable.
11. Chuuya Nakahara (Bungou Stray Dogs)
Chuuya Nakahara, the executive of the Port Mafia, sports a stylish, light blue, curly hairstyle that perfectly matches his flamboyant and aggressive personality. His curls are voluminous and have a distinct bounce, adding to his compact yet powerful presence. His hair is as sharp and striking as his fighting style and his sharp tongue. It’s a look that says he’s confident, dangerous, and doesn’t care what anyone thinks. His unique hair color and texture make him instantly recognizable in the visually rich world of Bungou Stray Dogs.
12. Jean Kirschtein (Attack on Titan)
Jean Kirschtein’s hair is a medium-length, brown, and distinctly curly style. It’s a more grounded and realistic portrayal of curly hair compared to some of the more fantastical styles. His hair often looks a bit disheveled, reflecting the harsh realities and constant struggles faced by the Survey Corps. It adds a touch of ruggedness to his character, who evolves from a cynical and self-serving individual to a loyal and courageous soldier. His curls are a subtle but effective way to show his humanity amidst the chaos of fighting Titans.
13. Takemichi Hanagaki (Tokyo Revengers)
Takemichi Hanagaki, the protagonist of Tokyo Revengers, has a messy, medium-length, dark blonde hair that is characterized by its prominent curls and waves. His hairstyle is a perfect visual representation of his often chaotic and unpredictable journey through time. It’s a look that suggests he’s constantly in motion, trying to fix things, and often getting himself into trouble. His curls seem to embody his earnest, sometimes clumsy, but ultimately determined spirit.
14. Katsuki Bakugo (My Hero Academia)
While often described as spiky, Bakugo’s ash-blonde hair possesses a significant amount of volume and a distinct, explosive curl pattern that defies gravity. It’s a hairstyle that perfectly mirrors his explosive Quirk and his fiery, aggressive personality. His curls are sharp, angular, and seem to radiate energy, much like Bakugo himself. It’s a look that screams power and intensity, making him one of the most visually striking characters in My Hero Academia.
15. Eijiro Kirishima (My Hero Academia)
Eijiro Kirishima’s hair is a prime example of how curly hair can convey a heroic and rugged image. His naturally spiky and curly red hair is a defining feature, embodying his "manly" spirit and his unwavering determination. When he activates his Quirk, "Hardening," his hair becomes even more pronounced and sharp, adding to his formidable appearance. His curls are a symbol of his strength, resilience, and his unyielding spirit.