Throwback Pic Of Nicole Kidman's Natural Hair Reminds Us How Stunning Her Curls Are

Nicole Kidman has gone through a hair evolution over the course of her career. The "Eyes Wide Shut" star has done it all, from long pin-straight locks to blond waves. While Nicole Kidman's most unfortunate wig missteps are hard to look at, one of her real styles has stood the test of time: her natural auburn curls. Kidman reminded social media of her past in an Instagram post commemorating her daughter Sunday Rose's 18th birthday. The actor shared a throwback picture of herself holding Sunday as a baby while showing off her strawberry blond ringlets pulled up into a messy bun. 

Nicole Kidman's real-life hair is so different from the wigs she wears. While the star typically wears lengthy blond wigs for public appearances, creating a new signature look that makes her stand out on the red carpet, her natural curls are a refreshing change. Photos from Kidman's early career as a teen model show the future star rocking full-bodied curls — ringlets that are much tighter than the comparatively loose curls she'd occasionally showcase decades later. Kidman has explained that the change in curl pattern came after years of straightening and dyeing her hair for work. "It's so dreadful," Kidman said on The Graham Norton Show in 2016. "I have to say, anyone that has curly hair that's young, keep your curly hair, don't straighten it, because after a while, you don't get your curls back." While Kidman's early 2000s curls were different from the voluminous ringlets of her youth, they still suit the actor beautifully. 

Though Nicole Kidman regularly opts for lengthy blond wigs on the red carpet, she wears her natural hair freely in her day-to-day life. The actor shared one image on Instagram of her proudly rocking blond curls during an outdoor excursion in June 2026. Kidman channeled an effortless countryside energy in a casual outfit, wearing blue jeans, a button-down shirt, and white sneakers. Her loose curls contributed to the casual summertime vibe of the ensemble, giving us a glimpse of the actor in a more vulnerable state. Unlike the auburn ringlets on display in the throwback picture she posted for Sunday Rose's birthday, these blond curls are consistent with the color of the straight wigs that have defined Kidman's look over the past few decades.

Nicole Kidman has dressed for revenge since her divorce from Keith Urban in early 2026, but seeing her look at peace while enjoying a low-key moment is a welcome change. Kidman also rang in the New Year with her natural hair, with shots of her and her daughters (via InStyle) showcasing the "Practical Magic" star's blond curls. Since her divorce, Kidman has bounced back with a new, confident energy that's evident in her style alone — and we hope to see her curls continue to make their return.