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25 Chic Shoulder-Length Curly Hairstyles to Elevate Your Look

Curly hair has a beauty all its own, full of texture, volume, and personality.

When styled at shoulder length, curls can frame the face beautifully, offering a balance of elegance and ease that makes this length especially versatile.

Shoulder-length hair is long enough to show off natural curl patterns and styling, yet short enough to be manageable, making it a popular choice for those who want something stylish without the maintenance of longer hair.

In this collection of 25 chic shoulder-length curly hairstyles, we’ll explore ideas that elevate your natural curls with easy styling and flattering cuts.

From layered bobs to modern shags, these styles are designed to celebrate all curl types, offering inspiration for every look you might want to try.

You’ll find styles that not only frame your face beautifully but offer low-maintenance options perfect for any occasion, be it a laid-back day out or a sleek evening affair.

Keep reading to find the perfect way to embrace your curls and give your shoulder-length hair a style that’s all your own.

25 Chic Shoulder-Length Curly Hairstyles

1. Medium Curly Layered Hairstyle

Woman with medium curly layered hairstyle, wearing a light blue tank top and a gold necklace with a green pendant, smiling at the camera.
By Instagram @markiemae.hair

Layers add movement to your medium curly hair, making it look fuller and more dynamic.

This style works well with natural curls, giving them room to bounce and reducing bulk.

Layers prevent your curls from appearing heavy or weighed down, allowing them to frame your face nicely.

You can style it with minimal effort, letting the curls fall naturally, or define them with a bit of styling cream.

This layered approach suits many face shapes, enhancing your natural texture while keeping maintenance low.

It’s a versatile choice for an everyday casual look or a more polished occasion.

2. Curly Shag

Person smiling and showcasing a Curly Shag hairstyle with light brown curls, wearing a red sleeveless shirt.
By Instagram @christie_dyball_hairdresser

A curly shag offers a modern twist on the classic shag haircut.

You get textured layers that add volume and movement, making it ideal for shoulder-length curls.

The layers create a balanced shape, preventing unwanted bulk.

This style works well with natural curls, enhancing your hair’s natural texture.

It’s low maintenance, requiring minimal styling effort.

Just apply a curl-enhancing product, scrunch, and let your curls air dry or diffuse for added volume.

Perfect for an effortlessly chic, casual look.

3. Layered Bob

Person with a layered bob hairstyle, eyes closed, wearing a white shirt and a tan fleece jacket.
By Instagram @noahedwardhair

A layered bob adds volume and movement to shoulder-length curly hair.

It involves cutting various lengths throughout your hair to achieve a natural flow.

The layers can help reduce bulkiness while allowing your curls to form more distinct patterns.

This style enhances the natural texture of your hair and can frame your face beautifully.

Whether you let your curls air dry or use a diffuser, the layered bob remains versatile and low maintenance.

It’s a great choice if you’re looking for something stylish and easy to manage.

4. Curly Bangs

Person with curly bangs hairstyle, wearing a black and white striped shirt, looking slightly upward in a well-lit setting.
By Instagram @headchopstudio

Curly bangs add texture and volume to your look while framing your face.

They work well with shoulder-length curls, creating a balanced, flattering effect.

You can style them to lie softly across your forehead or sweep them to the side.

Regular trims help maintain their shape and prevent frizz.

Use a lightweight curl-enhancing product to keep them defined and bouncy.

Avoid heavy creams or gels that might weigh them down.

Curly bangs are versatile and can be adapted for both casual and formal occasions, allowing you to switch up your look with ease.

5. Voluminous Curls With Bangs

Person with voluminous curls and bangs hairstyle, wearing a crochet top with blue, black, and white patterns, smiling with eyes closed.
By Instagram @curlsbysaminicole

Voluminous curls with bangs combine body and definition with a playful, youthful touch.

Your curls are styled to boost their natural volume, creating a full, lively look.

Adding bangs frames your face and adds a stylish flair.

It’s a versatile cut that suits various face shapes and is easy to manage.

You can wear it loose and relaxed or with a bit of styling product to keep the curls in place.

Effortless yet chic, it’s an ideal choice for a spontaneous day out or a casual night with friends.

6. Long Bob

A person with curly, shoulder-length hair styled in a Long Bob, smiling at the camera.
By Instagram @gildedfoxcurls

The long bob, or “lob,” sits just above the shoulders, offering a versatile length for curly hair.

It frames the face beautifully while providing enough length for variety in styling.

You can let your curls fall naturally for a voluminous look or add layers for extra movement.

Maintain your curls with a lightweight curl cream to define and reduce frizz.

The long bob is easy to manage, making it a perfect choice for those seeking a balance between short and long styles.

7. Textured Shoulder Cut

Smiling person with textured shoulder cut hairstyle, wearing a red sweater and necklace.
By Instagram @aoki_hair

A textured shoulder cut adds definition to your curls with varied lengths.

It maintains shoulder length, keeping hair lightweight and lively.

This cut enhances natural curls, reducing bulk and frizz.

Layers frame the face, creating a balanced, stylish look.

Ideal for those wanting volume and movement without daily heat styling.

Suitable for any curl pattern, it offers flexibility in styling options.

Simple to manage, this hairstyle works well with both casual and formal looks.

Use curl-enhancing products to maintain shape and keep curls bouncy and hydrated.

A great choice for a fresh and trendy change.

8. Lob with Large Messy Curls

Person with a Lob hairstyle featuring large, messy curls, wearing a black T-shirt.
By Instagram @ilcapellaiomattoacconciatori

This style features a long bob (lob) cut that stops around your shoulders.

The look is all about the large, relaxed curls that create a carefree and voluminous appearance.

The messy curls add texture and movement, perfect for creating the illusion of fuller hair.

Styling involves using a large barrel curling iron or letting your natural curls dry with a diffuser for a looser wave.

This hairstyle suits casual settings and allows flexibility with parting your hair on either side or down the middle, giving you a versatile option for any occasion.

9. Chin-Length Curly Bob Haircut

Person with a chin-length curly bob haircut, wearing a black shirt and gold necklaces, smiling at something off-camera.
By Instagram @ms.ocea

A chin-length curly bob is a chic and low-maintenance style.

This cut frames your face, highlighting your features.

It allows your natural curls to take center stage, offering volume and movement.

It’s versatile, letting you part your hair on either side or in the middle.

The length is long enough to tuck behind your ears but short enough to keep your curls looking bouncy and fresh.

You can easily enhance it with a bit of styling product to define curls.

Ideal for those who want a manageable haircut that doesn’t compromise on style.

10. Medium Curly Deep Side Part Hairstyle

Person wearing a medium curly deep side part hairstyle.
By Instagram @thehairfable

Create a sleek and voluminous look with a medium curly deep side part hairstyle.

Start by parting your hair deeply on one side to add depth and dimension.

This style not only enhances natural curls but also frames your face beautifully.

You can use a curling iron for defined curls or a diffuser for a more natural look.

It’s perfect for any occasion, offering a flattering shape that highlights your features.

Opt for lightweight styling products to maintain bounce and avoid frizz.

11. Side-Parted Retro Waves

Woman with side-parted retro waves hairstyle, wearing a white top, smiling indoors.
By Instagram @nimsy_makeupartist

Side-parted retro waves give your shoulder-length curls a vintage vibe.

Part your hair deeply to one side for dramatic flair.

Use a curling iron or rollers to create soft, uniform waves that echo classic Hollywood glam.

Set with a light hairspray to maintain the shape without stiffness.

This style works best with defined curls and adds a touch of elegance to your everyday look.

It’s perfect for special occasions or adding a bit of vintage charm to your outfit.

12. Bob Hairstyle for Curly Hair

Woman showcasing a curly bob hairstyle, wearing a pink top and gold necklaces.
By Instagram @alwaysameera

A bob hairstyle for curly hair typically falls just above the shoulders.

It’s a versatile cut that accentuates your natural curls.

Keeping the length similar all around gives a neat look while allowing your curls to frame your face nicely.

You can style it with some curl-enhancing products to define the curls.

Regular trims help maintain the shape and prevent split ends.

This style offers an easy wash-and-go routine, making it a practical choice if you prefer low-maintenance hairstyling.

13. Tousled Round Curly Bob

Close-up of a person modeling a Tousled Round Curly Bob hairstyle with blonde curls, wearing a black top.
By Instagram @hairbytrinalondon

A tousled round curly bob adds volume and character to your shoulder-length hair.

This style features loose curls that frame your face naturally, giving a soft, relaxed look.

You achieve the tousled effect by using a lightweight styling product to enhance your curls and add texture.

Regular trims maintain the shape of the bob and keep curls bouncy.

It’s a low-maintenance option that offers a casual yet stylish appearance suitable for various occasions.

With its flattering, rounded silhouette, this bob works well for different face shapes, highlighting your curls’ natural beauty.

14. Pretty Wavy Blonde Balayage Lob

Close-up of a person showcasing a Pretty Wavy Blonde Balayage Lob hairstyle, with natural waves and soft highlights.
By Instagram @hair.by.mckalyn

A wavy blonde balayage lob is a shoulder-length haircut that combines loose waves with a seamless blend of blonde tones.

This style creates an effortless, beachy vibe that adds volume and texture to your curls.

The balayage technique ensures a natural sun-kissed look, ideal for enhancing your facial features.

Suitable for most face shapes, the lob offers versatility—wear it with a middle or side part, and adapt your waves from loose to tight to suit your mood.

With its low-maintenance color, this hairstyle results in less frequent salon visits, making it a practical yet stylish option.

15. Retro Layers

Profile of a person with a Retro Layers hairstyle, showcasing wavy, tousled hair.
By Instagram @hairspell

Retro Layers bring a vintage vibe to your shoulder-length curls by stacking layers throughout your hair.

The layers add volume and movement, giving your curls a bouncy, full look.

This style works well to enhance natural curl patterns and provides a defined shape.

It’s an excellent choice if you want to bring a touch of the past into your modern style while keeping your look fresh and dynamic.

With minimal effort in styling, it’s perfect for creating an effortlessly chic appearance.

16. Natural and Loose

A person with natural, loose curls holding a small gray and tan French Bulldog puppy.
By Instagram @beeblondor

Natural and Loose hairstyles keep your curls relaxed and effortless.

This style works perfectly for shoulder-length hair, allowing your natural curl pattern to shine without excessive styling.

Let your curls fall naturally for a carefree and approachable look.

Use a lightweight curl-enhancing product to maintain shape and reduce frizz.

Ideally, allow your hair to air dry or use a diffuser on low heat to preserve curl integrity.

This style is low-maintenance yet stylish, perfect for everyday wear.

Remember to regularly moisturize to keep your curls defined and healthy-looking.

17. Layered Curls with Tendrils

Profile view of a person with layered curls and tendrils hairstyle, showcasing defined and textured curls.
By Instagram @smilesnstyles.billie

Add dimension and volume to your shoulder-length curls with layered cuts.

By trimming different lengths into your hair, you create a dynamic, bouncy look that maintains its shape.

Tendrils, soft, face-framing strands, add a playful element.

They flow gently over your shoulders, highlighting your features and giving an effortless touch.

This style is easy to manage, providing movement and freeing your curls.

Use lightweight products to define your curls without adding weight, and consider a spritz of shine spray for extra gloss.

Suitable for casual and semi-formal occasions, layered curls with tendrils keep your hair lively and fresh.

18. Medium Voluminous Hairstyle with Bouncy Curls

Portrait of a person with a medium voluminous hairstyle featuring bouncy curls. The hairstyle frames the face, highlighting well-defined curls.
By Instagram @aoki_hair

This style gives you soft, bouncy curls that add fullness and movement to your shoulder-length hair.

A layered cut enhances volume and controls shape, letting your curls spring naturally.

Applying a curl-enhancing mousse or gel can define your ringlets while reducing frizz.

Dry the hair with a diffuser to maintain and boost the curl pattern.

Regular trims help keep the ends healthy and maintain the desired length.

This hairstyle is suitable for both casual and formal occasions, offering an easy-to-manage yet stylish look that celebrates your curly texture.

19. Pink and Green Curly Mullet

Person with pink and green curly mullet hairstyle, wearing clear glasses.
By Instagram @_unholyhair

The Pink and Green Curly Mullet combines bold colors with a distinctive shape.

This style features tight curls that frame your face, enhanced with vibrant pink and green hues.

The mullet cut longer at the back and shorter at the sides offers a retro vibe with a modern twist.

Perfect for expressing personality, it requires regular maintenance to keep colors vivid and curls defined.

Use styling products to maintain curl shape and color-safe products to protect the dye.

This hairstyle is an eye-catching choice for making a statement with your hair.

20. Soft Voluminous Curls for Mid-Length Hair

Side view of person with soft voluminous curls in mid-length hair, showcasing vibrant color and natural texture.
By Instagram @ecrunewyork

Soft voluminous curls add bounce to shoulder-length hair, creating a lively and fuller look.

These curls suit various face shapes, making it a versatile choice.

Use a large-barrel curling iron for loose curls that appear natural and effortless.

Add volume by gently teasing the roots or applying volumizing mousse.

Finish with a light-hold hairspray to maintain movement and avoid stiffness.

This style works well for both casual outings and special events, providing an easy transition from day to night.

Regular trims help maintain your style and prevent split ends.

21. Pretty Curly Bob with Side Bangs

Young woman modeling a pretty curly bob with side bangs, wearing a white shirt, looking to the side.
By Instagram @poppincurlsbeautybar

A pretty curly bob with side bangs offers a chic, manageable style.

The cut rests elegantly at your shoulders, allowing curls to frame your face naturally.

Side bangs provide a soft focus, adding dimension without overwhelming your features.

By keeping hair shoulder-length, you get a perfect balance between letting your curls bounce freely and maintaining control.

Styling is relatively easy: a good curl-defining product can enhance texture, and bangs can be swept aside for a casual look or styled for more formality.

Overall, it’s a versatile option that works well with most curly hair types.

22. Beach Waves

Woman with shoulder-length hair in Beach Waves hairstyle, smiling in a salon setting.
By Instagram @marzenamedori_hairstylist

Beach waves offer a relaxed, tousled look that mimics the natural texture of hair after a day at the beach.

This style works well with shoulder-length curly hair, adding volume and movement without looking too styled.

You can achieve it by using a curling iron with a wide barrel or by braiding damp hair and allowing it to air dry.

Beach waves are ideal for a casual, effortless vibe and can transition easily from day to night.

Maintain the look with a light texturizing spray for added hold and definition.

23. Subtle Side-Parted Waves

Woman with closed eyes modeling subtle side-parted waves hairstyle, wearing a white shirt.
By Instagram @latelierhairbeauty

Create a soft and sophisticated look with subtle side-parted waves.

To achieve this, start by parting your hair slightly off-center.

Use a curling iron to add gentle, loose curls throughout your hair, focusing on creating definition at the ends.

Keep the waves relaxed for a more natural appearance.

A light mist of hairspray will help maintain the style without weighing it down.

This hairstyle is effortlessly chic and works well for both everyday wear and special occasions, giving you a polished and slightly voluminous appearance that frames your face beautifully.

24. Voluminous and Natural

Woman with voluminous, curly hairstyle smiles confidently. Modeling a natural hair look with a brown sleeveless top.
By Instagram @jazailis

Embrace your curls with a voluminous natural look.

Keep your hair shoulder-length to highlight your natural texture without overwhelming your features.

Use a diffuser when blow-drying to enhance volume and definition.

You can apply a lightweight moisturizer or curl cream to keep your curls hydrated and frizz-free.

Regular trims help maintain the shape, and sleeping on a silk pillowcase minimizes frizz overnight.

This style suits any occasion, from casual outings to formal events.

25. Sunkissed Curly Bangs

A person with sunkissed curly bangs smiling, wearing a gold chain necklace.
By Instagram @brittminetti

Add some brightness to your curls with sun-kissed highlights.

These subtle touches of color add depth and dimension to your strands.

Curly bangs frame your face nicely, creating a playful, stylish look.

Whether you’re letting your curls cascade naturally or pinning them back for a more composed style, sunkissed curly bangs offer versatility and charm.

This hairstyle works whether you want a casual day look or something a bit more put-together.

Suitable for various face shapes, it can highlight your features in a flattering way.

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