22 Medium Length Curly Hairstyles That Add Volume & Shape
From everyday wash-and-go looks to glamorous date-night styles, these 22 medium-length curly hairstyles prove that curls are the ultimate statement.
Each look comes with outfit pairings and step-by-step styling tips to help you recreate the magic at home.
1: The Layered Curly Bob
This classic cut keeps curls lightweight and bouncy.
Layers remove bulk from the bottom and redistribute volume around your cheekbones and jaw, creating a sculpted silhouette that moves naturally with every step.
Outfit Pairing
- Fitted ribbed tank in cream or terracotta
- Gold layered necklaces for a sun-kissed glow
- High-waisted wide-leg trousers
- Strappy heeled sandals in nude leather
Styling Guide
- Apply curl cream to soaking-wet hair section by section
- Scrunch upward with a microfiber towel to encourage curl formation
- Diffuse on low heat, cupping curls at the roots for lift
- Finish with a light-hold hairspray to lock in shape without crunch
2: The Curly Shag with Curtain Bangs
Effortlessly cool and undeniably trendy, the curly shag brings rockstar energy to everyday style.
Choppy layers throughout the mid-lengths and ends create incredible texture, while curtain bangs softly frame the face for a flattering, modern look.
Outfit Pairing
- Vintage band tee tucked into leather mini skirt
- Chunky boots with a slight platform
- Oversized blazer draped over shoulders
- Stacked silver rings and cuff bracelet
Styling Guide
- Work a volumizing mousse through damp hair from roots to tips
- Use a denman brush to define curls in small sections
- Blow-dry bangs with a round brush for a soft curtain effect
- Shake out final style and separate curls with fingertips for lived-in texture
3: Defined Spiral Curls
Nothing says statement hair like perfectly defined spirals.
This style celebrates the natural pattern of your curls, enhancing each ringlet into a glossy, springy coil that catches light beautifully and commands attention in any room.
Outfit Pairing
- Cozy oversized knit sweater in camel or burgundy
- Slim-fit jeans with a raw hem
- Suede ankle boots
- Simple gold hoop earrings
Styling Guide
- Detangle wet hair with a wide-tooth comb and generous conditioner
- Apply a strong-hold gel using the praying hands method on each section
- Allow hair to air dry completely or diffuse until a cast forms
- Scrunch out the crunch with a few drops of argan oil for glossy, soft spirals
4: Half-Up Half-Down Curls
The best of both worlds — this versatile style pulls curls away from the face while keeping length and volume on display.
It’s polished enough for a work meeting yet relaxed enough for weekend brunch, making it a true everyday hero.
Outfit Pairing
- Flowy midi blouse in a soft pastel or floral print
- Tailored linen trousers
- Woven basket bag for daytime charm
- Delicate drop earrings
Styling Guide
- Style curls as usual and let them set completely
- Gather the top section from temple to temple and secure with a claw clip or silk scrunchie
- Pull a few face-framing tendrils free for softness
- Fluff the bottom section at the roots for a full, cascading finish
5: Deep Side Part Drama
Shifting your part to a deep side instantly creates asymmetric volume and old-Hollywood allure.
The heavier side cascades with lush curls while the other stays sleek and close, producing a dramatic contrast that elevates any occasion.
Outfit Pairing
- Silk camisole in champagne or emerald green
- Tailored black cigarette pants
- Pointed-toe kitten heels
- Statement cocktail ring
Styling Guide
- Create a deep side part on damp hair using a rat-tail comb
- Pin the flatter side down with bobby pins while drying for a sleek finish
- Diffuse the voluminous side, lifting at the root for maximum drama
- Set the look with a medium-hold hairspray and tuck the flat side behind the ear
6: The Curly Lob
Hitting right at the collarbone, the curly lob is the perfect in-between length.
It’s long enough to pull back yet short enough to feel fresh and light. This universally flattering cut works on every curl type and face shape.
Outfit Pairing
- Classic denim jacket over a white cotton tee
- High-waisted straight-leg jeans
- Clean white sneakers
- Canvas tote and tortoiseshell sunglasses
Styling Guide
- Apply leave-in conditioner and curl enhancing cream to wet hair
- Twist small sections around your finger to encourage curl clumping
- Diffuse with head flipped upside down for root volume
- Once dry, shake gently at the roots and separate any large curl clumps
7: Bouncy Blowout Curls
Think supermodel volume and red-carpet glamour. This blowout style takes your natural curls and amplifies them into big, bouncy, camera-ready waves.
It’s dramatic, it’s luxurious, and it makes every entrance unforgettable.
Outfit Pairing
- Off-shoulder bodysuit in black or deep red
- High-waisted satin midi skirt
- Strappy heeled mules
- Bold gold cuff and chandelier earrings
Styling Guide
- Blow-dry hair in sections using a large round brush, wrapping hair away from the face
- Set each section with velcro rollers while still warm
- Let rollers cool completely, then remove and shake out
- Mist with a shine spray and gently separate curls for mega volume
8: Face-Framing Curly Layers
Strategic layers around the face act like a natural highlight, drawing attention to your best features.
Shorter pieces at the cheekbones and jaw open up the face while longer layers in back maintain fullness and shape.
Outfit Pairing
- Simple white crew-neck tee
- Relaxed-fit mom jeans
- Birkenstock-style sandals or loafers
- Minimal gold pendant necklace
Styling Guide
- Focus curl cream on the face-framing pieces, twisting them individually
- Let the rest of the hair air-dry or diffuse naturally
- Use a small curling wand to re-define any face-framing pieces that lost shape
- Finish with a pea-sized amount of anti-frizz serum on the outer layers
9: Romantic Messy Updo
This effortlessly undone updo looks like you spent zero minutes on it — but in the best way. Loose, wispy curls escape a relaxed bun or twist.
Creating a soft, romantic halo that’s perfect for date nights, weddings, and garden parties.
Outfit Pairing
- Floral wrap dress in soft blush or lavender
- Strappy block-heel sandals
- Dainty pearl stud earrings
- Light cashmere shawl for evening
Styling Guide
- Loosely gather curls into a low bun at the nape, leaving pieces around the face
- Secure with bobby pins and a silk scrunchie, keeping it intentionally imperfect
- Pull out wispy tendrils at the temples and nape
- Mist with a flexible-hold spray to maintain the soft, lived-in look
10: Wash-and-Go Natural Coils
The ultimate low-effort, high-impact style. A well-executed wash-and-go lets your natural curl pattern shine in all its glory.
It celebrates texture, volume, and the unique beauty of coily hair with minimal manipulation.
Outfit Pairing
- Earth-tone linen button-down shirt
- Olive or tan cargo pants
- Woven leather belt
- Wooden bead bracelet and stud earrings
Styling Guide
- Apply a generous amount of leave-in conditioner to soaking-wet hair
- Layer a curl-defining gel or custard on top using the shingling method
- Do not touch hair while drying — let it set completely
- Once fully dry, fluff roots gently with a pick for volume
11: Sun-Kissed Curly Balayage
Color meets curl in this gorgeous style. Hand-painted highlights add dimension and depth to your curls, making each ringlet pop individually.
The balayage technique creates a natural, sun-drenched effect that grows out beautifully.
Outfit Pairing
- Relaxed linen shirt in white or oatmeal
- Denim cutoff shorts or a breezy maxi skirt
- Leather slide sandals
- Layered beaded necklaces and woven hat
Styling Guide
- Use a color-safe shampoo and deep condition weekly to maintain vibrancy
- Apply a lightweight curl milk, paying extra attention to highlighted ends
- Diffuse gently or air-dry for a natural, effortless look
- Add a UV-protectant spray to keep color from fading in the sun
12: Boho Headband Curls
A headband transforms curly hair from everyday to editorial.
Pushing curls back and letting them cascade behind creates a regal, bohemian silhouette that works for festivals, vacations, and creative workdays alike.
Outfit Pairing
- Flowy V-neck blouse in a warm earthy print
- High-waisted palazzo pants
- Woven wedge espadrilles
- Layered boho bracelets and a crossbody fringe bag
Styling Guide
- Style curls as desired and let them fully set
- Place a padded or fabric headband about an inch back from the hairline
- Use your fingers to pull volume forward slightly in front of the band
- Fluff the curls behind the headband for maximum fullness
13: Textured Curly Crop
Short on the sides and full on top, this edgy style is all about confidence.
The textured crop keeps curls controlled yet expressive, offering a bold, fashion-forward look that requires minimal daily styling.
Outfit Pairing
- Fitted leather or faux-leather moto jacket
- Graphic tee or simple black tank
- Skinny jeans or jogger pants
- Combat boots or high-top sneakers
Styling Guide
- Apply a texturizing paste or pomade to damp hair
- Use fingers to push curls upward and forward on top
- Let air-dry for a matte, textured finish
- Reshape throughout the day by scrunching the top section
14: Playful Double Curly Buns
Youthful, fun, and endlessly charming, double buns showcase your curls in a unique way.
The texture of curly hair gives these buns a naturally full, rounded shape that straight hair simply can’t replicate.
Outfit Pairing
- Striped Breton top or cropped graphic tee
- High-waisted paperbag shorts
- Platform sneakers or chunky sandals
- Colorful beaded earrings
Styling Guide
- Part hair down the center from forehead to nape
- Twist each section into a loose bun on either side, securing with pins
- Pull out face-framing pieces and any shorter layers for softness
- Spritz with texturizing spray for a lived-in, playful finish
15: The Curly Power Ponytail
Sleek at the front, voluminous at the back — the curly ponytail is a power move.
It’s polished enough for professional settings while the explosion of curls in the tail adds personality and movement that turns heads.
Outfit Pairing
- Fitted turtleneck in black, cream, or camel
- Tailored trousers with a crease
- Pointed-toe ankle boots
- Structured handbag and gold stud earrings
Styling Guide
- Smooth the front and sides with a boar-bristle brush and light gel
- Gather curls into a mid-height ponytail and secure with a strong elastic
- Wrap a small section of hair around the elastic to conceal it
- Fluff and separate the ponytail curls for maximum volume and bounce
16: French Girl Curly Bangs
There’s something irresistibly chic about curly bangs. They add instant character and youthfulness, softly grazing the eyebrows and blending into face-framing layers.
This is the hairstyle equivalent of a perfectly worn-in beret.
Outfit Pairing
- Breton stripe long-sleeve top
- Fitted midi skirt in navy or black
- Ballet flats or Mary Janes
- Red lip and a structured mini handbag
Styling Guide
- Apply a small amount of curl cream specifically to damp bangs
- Diffuse bangs on low heat, gently scrunching to encourage curl pattern
- Use a mini flat iron to adjust any pieces that curl too tightly
- Refresh next-day bangs with a water spray bottle and a touch of mousse
17: Glamorous Accessorized Curls
Why choose between jewelry and hairstyling when you can combine both?
Strategically placed clips, pins, and barrettes turn your curls into wearable art. This style transforms a regular curl day into something red-carpet worthy.
Outfit Pairing
- Satin or silk camisole top
- High-waisted tailored trousers
- Strappy heeled sandals
- Matching gold or pearl jewelry set
Styling Guide
- Style and set curls as desired, ensuring maximum definition
- Place decorative clips along one side, pinning curls back from the face
- Use 3-5 coordinating accessories for a curated, intentional look
- Finish with a high-shine spray to make both hair and accessories gleam
18: The Curly Faux Hawk
Bold, editorial, and unapologetically fierce. The curly faux hawk channels punk energy through natural texture, piling volume high in the center while keeping the sides close.
It’s a statement that says you own every room you walk into.
Outfit Pairing
- Fitted black bodysuit or mock-neck top
- Leather or coated skinny pants
- Pointed-toe ankle boots with hardware
- Edgy ear cuffs and stacked rings
Styling Guide
- Apply a strong-hold mousse and push all curls toward the center of the head
- Pin the sides flat with bobby pins, smoothing with gel for a sleek contrast
- Encourage the center curls upward by diffusing while lifting at the root
- Lock the shape in place with a firm-hold hairspray
19: Effortless Beach Wave Curls
That tousled, just-came-from-the-ocean texture is endlessly appealing.
Beach wave curls sit somewhere between a wave and a curl, creating a relaxed, sun-warmed look that feels like a permanent vacation for your hair.
Outfit Pairing
- Oversized linen button-down shirt, partially unbuttoned
- Denim cutoffs or a flowy cotton maxi dress
- Flat leather sandals or espadrilles
- Woven straw hat and shell necklace
Styling Guide
- Apply sea salt spray generously to damp hair
- Twist hair into 4-6 large sections and let air-dry
- Once dry, untwist and shake out for natural beachy movement
- Scrunch with a touch of texturizing spray for extra grit and hold
20: Elegant Side-Swept Curls
Sweeping all your curls to one side creates an instantly elegant, feminine look.
This asymmetric style exposes one shoulder beautifully and works as a gorgeous option for formal events, date nights, or anytime you want to feel glamorous.
Outfit Pairing
- Wrap dress in jewel tone — emerald, sapphire, or ruby
- Pointed-toe stiletto heels
- Statement drop earring on the exposed side
- Small clutch in metallic or satin
Styling Guide
- Create a deep side part and pin curls on the lighter side with hidden bobby pins
- Sweep all remaining curls over the opposite shoulder
- Secure behind the ear on the pinned side with decorative pins if desired
- Mist with a humidity-resistant hairspray for long-lasting hold
21: Warm Ombre Curls
An ombre color transition adds visual depth and dimension to curly hair like nothing else.
Dark, rich roots melting into warm copper or honey ends create a stunning gradient that highlights the three-dimensional quality of every curl.
Outfit Pairing
- Cream or oatmeal oversized cardigan
- Simple fitted tank underneath
- High-waisted brown or tan trousers
- Suede ankle booties and layered gold chains
Styling Guide
- Use a color-depositing conditioner on ends to maintain warmth between salon visits
- Apply a rich curl butter focusing on the lighter, more porous ends
- Diffuse upside down for maximum root lift and curl definition
- Finish with a lightweight oil on the ends for glossy, healthy-looking color
22: Retro Volume Blowout
Channel your inner disco queen with this show-stopping retro blowout.
Think Studio 54 volume — big, bold, and unapologetic. This style celebrates the natural fullness of curly hair and turns it up to eleven for maximum impact.
Outfit Pairing
- Sequin or metallic halter top
- High-waisted flared trousers in velvet or satin
- Platform heels or sparkly mules
- Oversized hoop earrings and a bold lip
Styling Guide
- Apply a heat protectant and volumizing primer to towel-dried hair
- Blow-dry in sections using a large round brush, directing volume outward
- Wrap sections around large hot rollers and let cool completely
- Remove rollers, flip hair upside down, and shake vigorously for massive volume
Embrace Your Curls
Whether you prefer a low-maintenance wash-and-go or a glamorous blowout, the key to great curly hair is hydration, patience, and celebrating your unique texture.
Every curl pattern is beautiful — find the style that makes you feel unstoppable.
