There are few things more covetable than that effortlessly chic, undone hair. And this season, nothing epitomizes insouciant cool quite like shoulder length curly styles. For the modern woman, these versatile looks deliver major impact with minimal effort. From beachy waves to defined curls, these low-maintenance hairstyles celebrate your gorgeous natural texture. The essence of laid-back sophistication, they provide a welcome reprieve from overworked updos and blown-out styles that can sap precious morning hours. As someone who has spent countless hours researching styles for our curly haired readers, I can attest that shoulder-skimming curls are where sexy nonchalance meets undone sophistication. With the right techniques and products, these looks are deceptively simple to achieve. In the following curated list, I’ll guide you through gorgeous curly hairstyles suited to every texture. From brushed-out spirals ruling the runways to modern twists on retro glamor, get ready to covet every last look.
1. Tousled Curly Lob
This laid-back, lived-in look is the epitome of cool-girl curls. The shoulder-skimming length gives you the best of both worlds – enough weight to create gorgeous movement, but not so long that it feels high-maintenance. Ideal for thick, natural curl patterns, the tousled lob is all about enhancing your texture with a few well-placed layers and some strategic scrunching. Bonus points for money pieces framing your face!
2. Curly Shag with Bangs
Edgy, effortless, and incredibly flattering – the curly shag is a must-try for anyone with a bohemian vibe. This style is all about embracing your natural texture with layers upon layers of curl-enhancing cuts. Pair it with some wispy curtain bangs for a ’70s-inspired twist that looks amazing on oval and heart-shaped faces.
3. Shoulder Length Curls With Volume
Big, bouncy, and full of life – voluminous curls are a surefire way to turn heads. This look is perfect for those with naturally thick, coarse hair that tends to fall flat at longer lengths. Ask your stylist for strategic layers and a curl-enhancing cut to maximize volume and movement. Finish with a curl-defining cream or mousse for frizz-free definition.
4. Curly Bob with Side Part
Sophisticated, sleek, and utterly timeless – the curly bob is a classic for a reason. This chin-grazing length is ideal for those with fine or thin hair, as it creates the illusion of fuller, bouncier curls. A deep side part adds an extra dose of polish and can help to elongate round face shapes. Style with a curl-enhancing cream or serum for smooth, frizz-free spirals.
5. Tight Ringlet Curls
If you’re blessed with tight, corkscrew curls, this glamorous look is for you. Tightly coiled ringlets create a striking, sculptural effect that’s perfect for formal events or date nights. Ask your stylist for a blunt, shoulder-length cut to really showcase your curl pattern. Use a curl-defining gel or mousse to enhance definition and shine.
6. Layered Curly Shag
This modern spin on the classic shag is perfect for those who want to add some serious movement and body to their curls. Layers upon layers of feathered ends create a gorgeous, piece-y effect that looks incredible on all curl patterns. Style with a texture spray or dry wax to enhance separation and give your curls that coveted, lived-in vibe.
7. Curly Angled Lob
For a look that’s equal parts edgy and feminine, try an angled curly lob. This asymmetrical cut features longer pieces in the front that gradually get shorter towards the back, creating a striking, face-framing effect.
8. Bouncy Shoulder Length Curls
Sometimes, simple is best – and these bouncy, shoulder-skimming curls are proof. This timeless look is perfect for those with medium to thick curl patterns who want a low-maintenance style that still packs a punch. Ask your stylist for subtle layers to create movement and shape, and finish with a curl-defining cream or serum for frizz-free definition.
9. Curly Lob with Money Pieces
Add some face-framing flair to your curly lob with some strategically placed money pieces. These lighter, brighter pieces around the face create gorgeous dimensions and draw attention to your best features. It’s a great option for those with round or square face shapes, as the framing effect can help to elongate and soften angles.
10. Shoulder Skimming Ringlets
If you’ve got tight, corkscrew curls, this glamorous look is for you. Shoulder-skimming ringlets create a striking, sculptural effect that’s perfect for formal events or date nights. Ask your stylist for a blunt, shoulder-length cut to really showcase your curl pattern, and use a curl-defining gel or mousse to enhance definition and shine.
