June 22, 2025 — A new hairstyle trend is taking center stage this summer, captivating beauty enthusiasts across the United States with its dreamy, voluminous appeal. Dubbed “cloud curls,” the style is characterized by its soft, airy texture and halo-like volume, offering a whimsical yet wearable alternative to structured curls and high-maintenance styles.
Coined by British celebrity hairstylist Tom Smith, cloud curls aim to emulate the natural buoyancy and flow of clouds, moving away from heavily defined ringlets toward a more effortless and organic look. Smith describes the style as “curved, light, and airy textures that float like a halo,” emphasizing freedom, movement, and natural expansion.
The cloud curl aesthetic has already earned the endorsement of numerous star stylists and celebrities, including pop icon Miley Cyrus, who recently showcased a tousled, voluminous curl pattern in line with the trend. Cyrus’s adoption of the look further propelled cloud curls into the spotlight, helping the style gain traction among Gen Z and millennial audiences on platforms like Instagram and TikTok.
Smith also highlights the critical role of the haircut in achieving the desired volume. He recommends precision layering—especially soft, rounded cuts—to allow curls to lift and expand naturally. Without the right shape, he notes, the cloud effect may fall flat or look weighed down.
As temperatures rise and humidity climbs, cloud curls offer a low-maintenance yet striking solution for summer hair care. Unlike sleek styles that can quickly succumb to frizz or flatten under heat, this look thrives in natural conditions. The inherent messiness and volume are not only tolerated but celebrated, making it ideal for poolside days, beach vacations, and casual outdoor gatherings.
Beyond aesthetics, the rise of cloud curls reflects a broader cultural shift within the beauty industry—one that celebrates authenticity, self-love, and natural expression. For many, embracing cloud curls is as much a statement of identity as it is a style choice. It reflects a move away from rigid beauty standards and towards inclusive, low-effort elegance that uplifts every hair type.
Beauty editorials and fashion outlets are amplifying the trend’s reach. Publications like Glamour, Creativehead, and Woman & Home have all featured cloud curls as a defining look of 2025, forecasting continued popularity well into the fall and beyond. The style has also emerged as a favorite among stylists preparing red carpet looks and editorial shoots, due to its romantic, touchable finish.
As summer unfolds, cloud curls offer a timely combination of style, simplicity, and self-expression. Whether heading to a festival, brunch, or simply enjoying a breezy afternoon outdoors, this trend encourages wearers to embrace their natural texture—and let their hair take flight.
