SZA has a knack for making a statement without saying a word, and her 2026 Grammys beauty look proved just that.
The singer turned heads with bouncy, voluminous curls that felt like a love letter to ’90s hair icons, merging nostalgia with modern glam.
From the red carpet to close-up cameras, every bounce of her curls screamed effortless style and playful sophistication.
The inspiration behind SZA’s look comes straight from the ’90s era of bold hair choices. Think soft, full-bodied curls reminiscent of Whitney Houston or Brandy, icons who made waves, literally and figuratively, with their hair. SZA’s stylist drew on these classics but added a contemporary twist: the curls were meticulously defined, shiny, and full of movement, striking the perfect balance between retro flair and modern polish.
To achieve the look, the stylist used a combination of heat styling and curl-enhancing products to create texture while preserving softness. Layers were cut strategically to allow each curl to spring freely, avoiding the “triangle” effect that sometimes plagues voluminous styles on textured hair. The result was a cascade of curls that framed her face beautifully, adding dimension and bounce that looked impeccable on camera and in motion.
What makes this style so impactful is its versatility. Bouncy curls like SZA’s can transition from red carpet to everyday glam with minor adjustments. Moisturizing creams and lightweight serums maintain shine without weighing the hair down, while flexible hold products preserve the curl pattern throughout a long night of performances, interviews, and photo ops.
Beyond aesthetics, the look celebrates natural texture and healthy hair practices. By embracing curls in all their glory, SZA is championing the beauty of movement and body, showing that high-impact hair doesn’t require straightening or extreme manipulation. It’s a nod to both self-expression and cultural heritage, linking today’s trends with the iconic looks of the past.
SZA’s Grammys curls were more than a hairstyle, they were a statement, a tribute, and a masterclass in how to bring retro inspiration into the modern era. Bold, bouncy, and beautifully nostalgic, they reminded fans that hair can be both a fashion accessory and a storytelling tool, perfectly reflecting the singer’s artistry and personality.
