Have you ever noticed how rare curly-haired characters are in anime? In a world where sleek, straight locks dominate, those with bouncy curls, wild ringlets, or soft waves immediately stand out.
But why is that? Is it just a design choice, or does it say something deeper about their personalities?
Think about it—Usopp’s untamed curls match his wild imagination in One Piece, Sailor Neptune’s wavy locks mirror her elegance and mystery, and Tatsumaki’s gravity-defying green curls reflect her overwhelming psychic power in One Punch Man. It’s as if curly hair in anime isn’t just a style—it’s a statement.
Curly-haired characters often symbolize individuality, rebellion, and unpredictability. They don’t follow the rules, and their stories are some of the most compelling in anime. So, what makes them so unforgettable?
30 Most Loved Anime Characters with Curly Hair
From protagonists to side characters, these individuals have left a lasting impact on anime fans worldwide.
1. Elizabeth Ethel Cordelia Midford (Black Butler)
Elizabeth, or “Lizzy,” isn’t just Ciel Phantomhive’s fiancée—she’s a master swordswoman hidden behind an adorable, cheerful personality. At first glance, she appears to be a delicate noblewoman, but beneath those golden curls lies an unwavering strength. Her character reminds us that appearances can be deceiving, making her one of the most dynamic anime characters with curly hair.
2. Usopp (One Piece)
Who would have thought that a seemingly cowardly sniper with exaggerated stories would grow into one of the bravest warriors in One Piece? Usopp’s curly hair reflects his chaotic yet endearing personality. His transformation from a scared storyteller to a fearless pirate is one of the most satisfying arcs in anime history.
3. Shinji Matō (Fate Series)
A character you love to hate. Shinji Matō’s curly locks contrast his cruel and envious nature. Unlike other anime characters with curly hair, his spiraling jealousy and desperation make him a darker presence in the Fate universe.
4. Giorno Giovanna (JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure: Golden Wind)
Golden curls, golden ambition. Giorno, the son of Dio Brando, is one of the most stylish and determined protagonists in the JoJo franchise. His Stand, Gold Experience, allows him to bring objects to life—fitting for someone whose very presence electrifies the series.
5. Mai Valentine (Yu-Gi-Oh!)
Few duelists command the stage like Mai Valentine. Her long, wavy blonde hair is as iconic as her Harpie Lady deck. While she starts as an independent and aloof character, her growth into someone who values friendship makes her a standout in Yu-Gi-Oh!
6. Ravel Phoenix (High School DxD)
Ravel Phoenix is more than just a noble devil—she’s a symbol of intelligence, strategy, and fierce loyalty. Her golden ringlets enhance her regal presence, making her one of the most refined anime characters with curly hair.
7. Gintoki Sakata (Gintama)
Gintoki’s messy silver curls are the perfect reflection of his lazy, unpredictable nature. Beneath his carefree, sarcastic attitude is a warrior haunted by his past. His ability to switch from comedic relief to serious swordsman makes him one of anime’s most beloved characters.
8. Shunsui Kyōraku (Bleach)
A laid-back captain with immense power, Shunsui’s wavy locks match his easygoing demeanor. But don’t let his relaxed attitude fool you—he’s one of the strongest captains in the Bleach universe.
9. Kaoru Tanamachi (Amagami SS)
Tomboyish yet charming, Kaoru brings a refreshing energy to Amagami SS. Her lively nature is perfectly complemented by her untamed curly hair, which adds to her unpredictable personality.
10. Spike Spiegel (Cowboy Bebop)
Spike’s messy curls are a perfect match for his laid-back yet lethal nature. He’s the very definition of “cool” in anime, embodying the noir anti-hero with his fluid martial arts, philosophical outlook, and tragic backstory.
11. Tatsumaki (One Punch Man)
Despite her small frame, Tatsumaki is an unstoppable force of nature. Her wild green curls reflect her fiery temper and immense psychic abilities, making her one of the most powerful anime characters with curly hair.
12. Kiryu Moeka (Steins;Gate)
Socially awkward and emotionally complex, Moeka hides behind her phone while dealing with deep psychological struggles. Her soft curls add to her fragile yet mysterious presence in Steins;Gate.
13. Richard Ranasinghe de Vulpian (The Case Files of Lord El-Melloi II)
Refined, intelligent, and always composed, Richard is a master of magical investigations. With noble origins and a strategic mind, he plays a key role in unraveling the mysteries of the Fate universe.
14. Mami Tomoe (Puella Magi Madoka Magica)
Graceful, kind, and the ideal mentor figure—until tragedy strikes. Mami carries herself like the perfect magical girl, but behind her muskets and elegant fighting style is a deep loneliness that makes her fate even more heartbreaking.
15. Emporio Ivankov (One Piece)
Flamboyant, fearless, and fabulous! Ivankov leads the Kamabakka Kingdom with an eccentric flair, using the Horu Horu no Mi to manipulate hormones. He’s larger than life, both in personality and in power.
16. Nui Harime (Kill la Kill)
Pink, playful, and absolutely psychotic. Nui might act like an innocent little girl, but she’s one of the deadliest characters in Kill la Kill, enjoying every second of chaos and destruction she causes.
17. Sarah Dupont
A noble-born fencer with a rebellious streak. Sharp-witted, elegant, and always five steps ahead, she seeks her own path beyond family expectations.
18. Takurō Sakakiba
A laid-back genius who prefers naps over drama. Cool-headed, sarcastic, and a natural strategist, he avoids trouble—until it finds him.
19. Nina Einstein (Code Geass)
A genius with a terrifying obsession. Nina’s brilliance makes her an asset, but her unstable emotions and xenophobic tendencies make her a dangerous wild card—especially when her scientific mind is put to destructive use.
20. Nagisa Furukawa (Clannad)
Sweet, soft-spoken, and stronger than she looks. Nagisa’s delicate health may slow her down, but her determination to revive her school’s drama club and stay by Tomoya’s side proves she has a heart full of resilience.
21. Ryota Miyagi (Slam Dunk)
Fast, sharp, and always underestimated. Ryota may not be the tallest on the court, but his speed and basketball IQ make him a key player for Shohoku High.
22. Biscuit Krueger (Hunter x Hunter)
Don’t let the cutesy appearance fool you—Bisky is a battle-hardened Nen master. She mentors Gon and Killua with tough love, and when she drops the act and gets serious, her true power is terrifying.
23. Suzuka Dairenji (Tokyo Ravens)
A bratty genius with serious magical skills. Suzuka starts out as an antagonist, but as the series progresses, she proves there’s more to her than just arrogance and power.
24. Saitou Shimaru (Gintama)
The quietest Shinsengumi member, but don’t mistake silence for weakness. Saitou is a deadly swordsman who doesn’t need words to make an impact.
25. Melty Q Melromarc (The Rising of the Shield Hero)
The princess who actually deserves the crown. Unlike her manipulative sister, Melty is kind, just, and fiercely loyal to Naofumi, proving that not all royals are bad news.
26. Fiel Nirvalen (No Game No Life)
A magical elf with a mischievous streak. Fiel is cunning yet kind, and her bond with Chlammy is one of the most intriguing relationships in the series.
27. Tsumugi Inuzuka (Sweetness and Lightning)
Pure sunshine in child form. Tsumugi’s curiosity and love for food bring warmth to every scene, making her one of anime’s most lovable kids.
28. Tomoe Koga (Rascal Does Not Dream of Bunny Girl Senpai)
A tsundere with a heart of gold. Tomoe struggles with self-worth and social pressure, but her arc is one of the most relatable in the series.
29. Atsuko Jackson (Michiko & Hatchin)
A fierce, no-nonsense cop with history. Atsuko’s complicated relationship with Michiko makes her more than just an antagonist—she’s a woman torn between duty and personal feelings.
30. Sailor Neptune (Sailor Moon)
Grace, power, and elegance wrapped in one. Michiru Kaioh is the embodiment of sophistication, and when she fights alongside Sailor Uranus, nothing stands in their way.
Why Curly-Haired Characters Are So Special
Curly hair in anime isn’t just a design choice—it often represents something deeper. Wild, unkempt curls can symbolize rebellion and chaos, while soft waves may hint at a gentle or dreamy personality. Statistically, straight-haired characters dominate anime, making anime characters with curly hair stand out even more.
In fact, in a survey conducted by Anime Trending, fans reported that unique hairstyles play a significant role in how they remember and connect with a character. About 72% of respondents said that a character’s hairstyle affected their initial impression, and anime characters with curly hair often ranked high in memorability.
Think about it—when was the last time you saw an anime protagonist with tight curls? It’s rare, which makes these characters even more striking when they appear.
Conclusion: The Charm of Anime Characters with Curly Hair
Anime is all about expression, and anime characters with curly hair break the mold in the best way possible. Whether they are heroes, villains, mentors, or wildcards, these characters often bring a unique flair to their respective series.
So, the next time you watch an anime, pay attention to those curly-haired characters. They just might steal the show—both visually and narratively. Who knows? Maybe one of them will become your new favorite.
