25 Medium Length Curly Hairstyles to Try
Embracing your natural curls is a journey of self-love and style exploration, and medium-length hair offers the perfect canvas for endless possibilities. This versatile length strikes a beautiful balance, providing enough body and bounce to showcase your texture without the extensive weight or maintenance often associated with very long hair. It’s the sweet spot for those seeking a refreshed look that feels both chic and effortlessly cool, making it a beloved choice for curly girls everywhere.
Whether you’re looking for a dramatic change or subtle enhancements, our curated list of the top 25 medium-length curly hairstyles is designed to inspire your next salon visit or at-home styling session. From timeless classics that exude elegance to modern cuts that embrace an edgy vibe, we’ve got every curl type and preference covered. Get ready to fall in love with your magnificent mane all over again and discover the perfect style to amplify your unique personality and natural beauty.
1. The Classic Curly Lob
The ‘Lob,’ or long bob, is a timeless favorite that perfectly suits medium-length curly hair, offering a sophisticated and polished look. This style typically falls between the chin and collarbone, providing ample length to showcase your curls’ natural bounce and movement. It’s incredibly versatile, working well with various curl patterns from loose waves to tighter coils, and can be styled for both casual and formal occasions.
To achieve this classic look, ensure your stylist cuts your hair with layers that enhance your curl pattern, preventing it from looking boxy or triangular. Regular trims are essential to maintain its crisp shape and keep your ends healthy and defined. A good leave-in conditioner and a curl-defining cream will be your best friends for styling, helping to control frizz and add beautiful luster to your bouncy lob.
Effortless elegance with a classic curly lob that perfectly frames the face.
2. Shaggy Layers with Bangs
The shaggy cut has made a glorious comeback, and it’s particularly stunning on medium-length curly hair, offering a rock-and-roll edge with a soft, natural feel. This style is characterized by multiple, choppier layers throughout the hair, creating texture, volume, and an effortlessly cool vibe. Paired with curly bangs, it perfectly balances a retro aesthetic with modern flair, softening facial features beautifully.
Curly bangs are key to nailing this look, as they blend seamlessly with the layered texture, giving the cut a cohesive and playful appeal. Styling involves enhancing your natural texture with a curl mousse or sea salt spray, then letting your curls air dry or diffusing them for maximum volume. This low-maintenance style embraces natural movement and is perfect for those who love an undone, chic look.
Unleash your inner rockstar with a trendy shaggy cut and adorable curly bangs.
3. Voluminous Layered Curls
For those who dream of bigger, bolder hair, voluminous layered curls are the ultimate medium-length style to consider. This cut focuses on strategic layering that removes weight from the interior of the hair, allowing your curls to spring up and expand, creating incredible height and width. The layers are typically cut to enhance the natural curl pattern, making the hair appear fuller and more dynamic.
Achieving maximum volume often involves using lightweight curl products, such as a volumizing mousse or a root-lifting spray, applied before diffusing your hair upside down. The key is to avoid heavy creams that can weigh down your curls, instead opting for products that encourage lift and definition. This style is fantastic for adding drama and presence to your look, making your curls truly stand out.
Go big or go home! Voluminous layered curls that demand attention.
4. Defined Ringlets with a Center Part
Emphasizing the beauty of individual curl strands, defined ringlets with a center part offer a refined and elegant medium-length style. This look focuses on creating distinct, spiral-shaped curls that are uniform and well-hydrated, showcasing the exquisite texture of your hair. The center part provides a symmetrical and balanced framework, drawing attention to your facial features while allowing your ringlets to cascade beautifully.
To achieve this level of definition, a strong curl-defining gel or cream is essential, applied to soaking wet hair using the ‘praying hands’ method or by individually coiling strands. Patience during the drying process, preferably with a diffuser on low heat or by air drying, is crucial to prevent frizz and maintain the integrity of each ringlet. This style is perfect for those who love a polished and structured curly look.
Symmetry and shine: flaunt your perfectly defined ringlets with a chic center part.
5. Asymmetrical Curly Lob
The asymmetrical curly lob is a modern and edgy take on the classic long bob, perfect for adding a touch of unique flair to your medium-length curls. This style features one side of the hair cut noticeably shorter than the other, creating a dynamic and striking silhouette. It works beautifully with curly textures, as the natural volume and movement of curls soften the asymmetry, preventing it from looking too stark.
This cut is fantastic for highlighting your jawline and can be customized to suit your personal style, whether you prefer a subtle difference in length or a more dramatic contrast. Styling an asymmetrical lob is similar to a regular lob, focusing on curl definition and frizz control, but with an added emphasis on showcasing the varied lengths. It’s a bold choice that speaks volumes about your confidence and contemporary taste.
Dare to be different with an edgy asymmetrical curly lob that exudes modern confidence.
6. Curly Bob with Undercut
For the truly adventurous, a medium-length curly bob paired with an undercut offers a surprising and stylish twist. An undercut involves shaving or closely clipping the hair underneath a section, usually at the nape or sides, while the rest of the curly hair remains longer. This provides an instant cool factor and allows for a stunning contrast between soft curls and sharp, clean lines.
The beauty of this style lies in its versatility; the undercut can be hidden when the curls are down or revealed by pinning up sections of your hair. It’s also an excellent option for managing thick hair, as it removes bulk from underneath, making your curls feel lighter and more manageable. Consider adding a subtle design to your undercut for an extra touch of personalization.
Bold and beautiful: a curly bob with a hidden undercut for an edgy surprise.
7. Half-Updo with Face-Framing Curls
The half-updo is a universally flattering style that works wonderfully with medium-length curls, offering an elegant yet relaxed aesthetic. By pulling back the top section of your hair, you create volume at the crown and highlight your facial features, while allowing the rest of your beautiful curls to cascade freely around your shoulders. This style is perfect for showing off your texture without all your hair being down.
For a softer look, leave out a few curly tendrils around your face to gently frame it. This adds an element of romance and casual charm, making the style feel less formal and more approachable. Whether secured with a delicate clip, a hair tie, or even a small braid, the half-updo is a go-to for both everyday elegance and special occasions, showcasing the best of your natural curl.
Effortless romance: a charming half-updo with delicate face-framing curls.
8. Deep Side Part with Maximum Volume
A deep side part instantly adds drama and sophistication to medium-length curly hair, creating an illusion of incredible volume and movement. By shifting your part significantly to one side, you encourage the hair on the heavier side to lift at the roots, giving a glamorous, swept-over effect. This style is fantastic for creating an impactful silhouette and enhancing the natural bounce of your curls.
To maximize the volume, apply a root-lifting product to damp hair before diffusing, focusing on the side where the hair is heaviest. Gently scrunch your curls and allow them to air dry or diffuse thoroughly to lock in the lift. This look is perfect for making a statement, offering a blend of old Hollywood glamour and contemporary chic that is both striking and incredibly flattering for many face shapes.
Turn heads with a deep side part that amplifies your curls’ natural volume and allure.
9. Curly Fringe (Bangs)
Bringing personality and playful charm to medium-length curls, the addition of a curly fringe, or bangs, can completely transform your look. Unlike straight bangs that require constant styling, curly bangs embrace your natural texture, blending seamlessly with the rest of your hair. They frame the eyes beautifully and can soften strong facial features, creating a youthful and approachable aesthetic.
When getting curly bangs, it’s crucial to have them cut dry, allowing your stylist to see exactly how your curls fall and where they will sit. Styling involves minimal effort – a little curl cream or gel to define them, and then letting them air dry or gently diffusing them. This style is fantastic for adding a fresh, modern twist to any medium-length curly cut, from lobs to layered shags.
Embrace the charm of a curly fringe – playful, stylish, and utterly captivating.
10. Braided Accent with Loose Curls
Adding a braided accent to your medium-length loose curls is a wonderful way to introduce intricate detail and visual interest without overwhelming your natural texture. This style involves taking a small section of hair, often from the front or side, and braiding it back, securing it discreetly. It’s a fantastic option for keeping hair out of your face while showcasing the beauty of your flowing curls.
Popular braided accents include a delicate three-strand braid, a subtle twist, or a small Dutch braid along the hairline. This technique works perfectly for both casual daytime looks and more elegant evening events, offering a touch of bohemian charm or refined grace. It’s an easy yet impactful way to elevate your everyday curly hairstyle.
Elevate your loose curls with a delicate braided accent for a touch of bohemian chic.
11. Wet Look Curls
The ‘wet look’ is a high-fashion, high-impact style that works incredibly well on medium-length curly hair, creating a sleek, glossy, and intensely defined aesthetic. This trend involves applying a strong-hold gel or mousse to thoroughly wet hair, then letting it dry without disturbing the curls, resulting in a shiny, “just-out-of-the-shower” appearance that lasts all day. It’s unexpectedly sophisticated and surprisingly easy to achieve.
This style is perfect for showcasing healthy, hydrated curls and can add an edgy, editorial vibe to your overall look. It minimizes frizz completely and provides a fresh, modern alternative to fluffy, voluminous curls. The wet look is particularly striking for evening events or when you want to make a bold, contemporary statement with your beautiful medium-length texture.
Sleek, shiny, and utterly captivating: embrace the high-fashion wet look for your curls.
12. Medium Length Loose Waves
For those with a looser curl pattern or who desire a softer, more relaxed texture, medium-length loose waves offer a beautiful and effortless style. This look is characterized by gentle, flowing bends rather than tight coils, creating a romantic and natural appearance. It’s the quintessential ‘beachy waves’ look, but with enough length to offer versatility and sophistication.
Achieving perfect loose waves often involves using a lightweight curl enhancer or sea salt spray on damp hair, then gently scrunching or diffusing with a focus on defining the natural S-shape of the wave. This style is incredibly adaptable, suitable for both casual everyday wear and more dressed-up occasions, exuding an air of understated beauty and relaxed charm. It’s a favorite for its soft movement and easy-going vibe.
Effortless beauty: flowy, medium-length loose waves that capture the spirit of summer.
13. Pineapple Updo (Loose & Messy)
The pineapple updo is a beloved technique for curly hair, and it translates beautifully into a stylish, loose, and messy updo for medium lengths. This involves gathering your curls loosely at the very top of your head, near your forehead, and securing them with a soft scrunchie or hair tie. The key is to keep it high and loose, allowing your curls to tumble over and frame your face playfully.
This style isn’t just for sleeping; it’s a chic, casual updo that provides maximum volume and a youthful, carefree vibe. It’s perfect for warmer days, exercising, or simply when you want your curls off your neck while still showcasing their magnificent texture. The loose, messy nature adds to its charm, making it an effortlessly cool option for any day.
Playful perfection: a loose, messy pineapple updo that’s chic and carefree.
14. Graduated Curly Bob
A graduated curly bob offers a sophisticated and structured silhouette that beautifully complements medium-length curly hair. This cut is characterized by shorter layers at the back that gradually lengthen towards the front, creating a stacked or ‘A-line’ effect. This technique builds volume at the crown and nape, giving the style a distinct shape and elegant lift, while still allowing the curls their natural bounce.
This style is particularly flattering for those who desire a bob with a bit more edge and a defined shape. It works wonderfully to enhance the natural form of your curls, making them appear more uniform and polished. Regular trims are crucial to maintain the graduated line, ensuring your bob retains its chic and artful structure, making it a powerful statement style.
Sophisticated curves: a graduated curly bob that offers elegant structure and volume.
15. Curly Mohawk (Faux Hawk)
For those seeking a daring and edgy look without the commitment of shaving, a medium-length curly faux hawk is an incredible style choice. This involves sweeping and pinning the sides of your hair up and towards the center, creating the illusion of a mohawk while allowing your natural curls to form a voluminous, textured crest down the middle. It’s a bold statement that showcases personality and confidence.
This style is surprisingly versatile and can be adapted for different levels of drama, from a subtle lift to a truly impactful ‘hawk.’ Strong-hold hairspray and bobby pins are your best tools for creating and securing this look. It’s perfect for special events or when you want to channel your inner rebel chic, proving that medium-length curls can be as fierce as they are beautiful.
Unleash your inner rebel with a fierce and fashionable curly faux hawk!
16. High Ponytail with Volume
A high ponytail with volume is a classic, energetic style that perfectly complements medium-length curls, offering both practicality and panache. By gathering all your curls at the crown of your head, you create an instant lift and a youthful, playful bounce. This style is fantastic for showing off your facial features and highlighting the texture of your curls, letting them tumble freely from a high vantage point.
To achieve maximum volume, gently tease the roots before securing the ponytail, and then fluff out the curls once it’s tied. Leaving out a few wispy tendrils around the face can soften the look, adding a touch of romance. This versatile updo is ideal for workouts, casual outings, or even a chic evening event when you want an effortlessly glamorous and secure style.
Bounce and beauty: a voluminous high ponytail that’s both playful and practical.
17. Space Buns (Half-Up)
For a whimsical, playful, and undeniably trendy look, medium-length curls lend themselves perfectly to half-up space buns. This style involves sectioning the top half of your hair into two equal parts and forming two small buns or knots on either side of your head, leaving the rest of your beautiful curls flowing down. It’s a fun way to incorporate an updo while still showcasing your length.
Space buns are incredibly versatile; they can be neat and tight for a more polished look, or loose and messy for a relaxed, festival-ready vibe. This style is fantastic for adding a touch of youthful exuberance and can be adorned with glitter or hair accessories for extra flair. It’s a go-to for casual outings, concerts, or whenever you want to express a fun-loving personality.
Double the fun! Adorable half-up space buns for a playful, trendy curly look.
18. Curly Side Swept Bangs
If a full curly fringe feels too bold, curly side-swept bangs offer a softer, more subtle way to frame your face and add a stylish element to your medium-length curls. These bangs are cut longer than a traditional fringe and designed to sweep gracefully to one side, blending seamlessly with the rest of your layers. They add a touch of romance and softness to any curly cut.
Side-swept bangs are incredibly flattering, drawing attention to your eyes and cheekbones without obscuring your forehead entirely. They’re also relatively low-maintenance; a quick scrunch with a curl cream or a light mist of hairspray is often all that’s needed to keep them in place. This versatile style works well with lobs, layered cuts, or even a simple, uniform length, providing a charming and elegant touch.
Frame your face with grace: elegant curly side-swept bangs for a soft, romantic touch.
19. Modern Disco Curls
Channel your inner disco diva with a modern take on the iconic 70s volume, perfectly suited for medium-length curly hair. This style emphasizes extreme volume, expansive width, and a somewhat uniform, bouncy texture that radiates joy and exuberance. It’s about embracing big hair that makes a bold statement, reminiscent of a glamorous bygone era, but with a fresh, contemporary feel.
To achieve this magnificent look, focus on maximizing volume from the roots through extensive diffusing, potentially using a pick to lift and shape once dry. A strong-hold hairspray is essential to maintain the impressive height and shape throughout the day. This style is a fantastic choice for those who love to stand out and celebrate the natural fullness and power of their magnificent curls.
Get groovy! Bring back the glam with voluminous modern disco curls that radiate confidence.
20. Medium Length Curls with a Headband
Elevate your medium-length curly hair with the simple yet stylish addition of a headband, a timeless accessory that instantly transforms your look. Whether you opt for a thin, delicate band or a wide, statement piece, a headband can add a touch of sophistication, playfulness, or bohemian charm to your curls. It’s an effortless way to manage your hair while adding visual interest.
Headbands are not just for keeping hair out of your face; they can also be used to push curls up for more volume at the crown or to showcase your curl pattern while adding a pop of color or texture. Experiment with different materials like silk, velvet, or adorned bands to match your outfit or mood. This versatile accessory is perfect for quick styling on busy days or dressing up for a special occasion.
Accessorize with flair! A chic headband perfectly complements your beautiful medium-length curls.
21. Angled Curly Lob (A-Line)
The angled curly lob, also known as an A-line lob, is a chic and contemporary cut that features hair that is shorter in the back and gradually gets longer towards the front. This creates a striking, forward-moving silhouette that adds a sense of dynamism and sophistication to medium-length curly hair. The angle can be subtle or dramatic, depending on your preference, offering a custom look.
This style is particularly flattering as it elongates the neck and draws attention to the jawline, creating a very polished and deliberate appearance. The natural texture of curls beautifully softens the lines of the angle, preventing it from looking too severe. It’s an excellent choice for those seeking a modern, structured cut that still embraces the joyful movement and volume of their natural curls.
Sharp and sophisticated: an angled curly lob that perfectly blends structure with natural curl bounce.
22. Brushed Out Curls (Soft & Voluminous)
For a dreamy, ethereal, and utterly romantic look, brushed-out curls on medium-length hair offer a stunning alternative to super defined ringlets. This style involves gently brushing or picking out your dried curls to create a soft, voluminous cloud of hair with an almost fluffy, angelic texture. It transforms individual spirals into a cohesive, luxurious cascade of waves and softness.
To achieve this, ensure your curls are completely dry before gently brushing them out with a wide-tooth comb or a soft bristle brush, working from ends to roots. A light holding spray can help maintain the volume and prevent frizz without stiffness. This look is perfect for those who love a softer, more approachable texture that still boasts incredible volume and a touch of vintage glamour.
Dreamy and voluminous: embrace the romantic softness of brushed-out curls.
23. Tucked Behind Ears with Volume
Sometimes the simplest styling trick can make a big impact, and tucking medium-length curls behind the ears while maintaining volume at the crown is a prime example. This style elegantly pulls the front sections of your hair away from your face, highlighting your features and showcasing your jawline, while allowing the rest of your beautiful curls to flow freely and with impressive volume.
To ensure volume at the crown, gently lift and secure the hair with a root clip while drying, or tease slightly before tucking. This technique offers a clean, sophisticated look that is both practical and effortlessly chic. It’s perfect for showing off earrings or necklines and works wonderfully for both casual and more formal settings, providing a polished yet natural appearance.
Elegance simplified: tuck your curls behind your ears and let your natural volume shine.
24. Curls with Wispy Ends
For a lighter, airier feel, medium-length curls with wispy ends provide a delicate and charming aesthetic. This cut involves thinning out the very ends of the hair, allowing individual curls to form and move more freely without feeling heavy or bulky at the bottom. It creates a soft, feathered finish that enhances the natural bounce and definition of each curl.
Wispy ends are fantastic for preventing the dreaded ‘pyramid’ shape that can sometimes occur with curly hair, especially at medium lengths. This technique adds a touch of modern lightness and helps curls to clump together beautifully for a more defined, yet less weighty, look. It’s a subtle but effective way to refine your curly cut and inject a fresh, airy quality.
Light and lively: enjoy beautifully defined, wispy ends that enhance your natural curl bounce.
25. Classic Side Part Curly Lob
Revisiting the classic lob, but with a traditional side part, offers a universally flattering and graceful medium-length curly hairstyle. This style maintains the elegant length between the chin and collarbone, while the side part introduces a gentle asymmetry that adds softness and a touch of sophistication. It’s a timeless choice that never goes out of fashion and suits nearly all face shapes.
The side part provides a subtle lift at the roots and allows your curls to fall beautifully, enhancing their natural movement and volume. This versatile style can be dressed up or down, making it perfect for any occasion. To maintain this look, focus on consistent curl definition and regular trims to keep the shape polished and the ends healthy, ensuring your classic side part lob always looks its best.
Timeless charm: a classic side part curly lob that exudes elegance and natural beauty.
Conclusion
There you have it – 25 incredible medium-length curly hairstyles designed to celebrate and elevate your natural texture. From the timeless appeal of a classic lob to the daring edge of a faux hawk or the playful bounce of space buns, there’s a world of style waiting to be explored. Medium-length curls offer the perfect canvas for versatility, allowing you to switch between sophisticated elegance and carefree charm with ease, all while maintaining a manageable length.
Remember, the best curly hairstyle is one that makes you feel confident and beautiful. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different cuts, partings, and styling techniques to find what truly speaks to your individual style. Embrace your magnificent curls, nourish them with love and the right products, and let your medium-length mane be a testament to your unique beauty. Which one will you try first?
