If you’re blessed with naturally curly hair, you know medium length is the perfect sweet spot – long enough to show off those gorgeous curls but short enough to keep maintenance manageable. These 2025 trends celebrate curly texture while offering fresh takes on classic looks. Whether you prefer defined ringlets or carefree waves, there’s a perfect medium-length haircut for curly hair waiting for you!
1. Layered Curly Lob
The curly lob is having a major moment as the ideal medium-length haircut for curly hair. Falling just above the shoulders, this style features soft layers that remove bulk while maintaining beautiful bounce. The face-framing layers create movement that flatters all face shapes. It’s versatile enough for both professional settings and weekend outings. For best results, use a curl-defining cream and diffuse upside down for maximum volume at the roots.
2. Face-Framing Curtain Bangs
Curtain bangs get a curly makeover in this stunning medium-length haircut for curly hair. The wispy, parted bangs blend seamlessly into the rest of your curls, softening your features beautifully. This cut works particularly well for oval and heart-shaped faces. The bangs are cut slightly longer to account for curl shrinkage, and they can be styled to either side for versatility. Pair with shoulder-length layers for a romantic, feminine look that’s surprisingly low-maintenance.
3. Textured Shoulder-Length Ringlets
For those with naturally tight curls, this medium-length haircut for curly hair creates perfect, uniform ringlets that bounce at shoulder length. The secret is in the subtle layering that removes weight without sacrificing definition. This style looks particularly striking when the curls are well-moisturized and defined with a curl cream. It’s a polished look that transitions beautifully from day to night. The length keeps curls from becoming too heavy while still allowing for plenty of movement.
4. Soft Voluminous Waves
If your curls tend toward the wavy side, this medium-length haircut for curly hair enhances your natural texture with effortless charm. The S-shaped waves start mid-length, creating a beachy, lived-in look that’s full of body. Light layers throughout add dimension without making the hair look thin. This is one of the most forgiving styles for growing out curls, as the waves disguise any awkward growth phases. A sea salt spray can enhance the texture for that perfect just-back-from-the-beach vibe.
5. Side-Swept Curly Bob
The asymmetrical side-swept bob is a fresh take on the classic medium-length haircut for curly hair. The diagonal line created by the side part and sweeping curls elongates the neck and flatters round faces. This style works particularly well for thick curly hair that needs some weight removed. The length variation adds visual interest while keeping maintenance simple. For special occasions, you can pin back one side with decorative clips for an elegant evening look.
6. Curly Blunt Cut with Feathered Ends
This medium-length haircut for curly hair offers the best of both worlds – the strong shape of a blunt cut with the movement of feathered ends. The baseline falls at a flattering collarbone length, while the lightly textured ends prevent the style from looking too heavy. It’s an excellent choice for those who want definition without sacrificing volume. The cut works especially well for type 3 curls that need some weight to prevent excessive shrinkage. A light-hold gel helps maintain the shape without crunch.
7. Tousled Curly Shag
The shag gets a curly update in this playful medium-length haircut for curly hair. Choppy layers create volume at the crown while shorter pieces around the face add framing. What makes this cut special is its intentionally messy, lived-in look that requires minimal styling. It’s perfect for those who want a carefree, youthful style that embraces natural texture. The layers help distribute curl volume evenly, preventing the dreaded “triangle” shape. A texturizing spray enhances the piece-y finish.
8. Curly Mid-Length Fringe
Bangs aren’t just for straight hair! This medium-length haircut for curly hair features a full, curly fringe that highlights your eyes and cheekbones. The rest of the hair falls in voluminous layers that balance the shorter front pieces. The key is cutting the fringe slightly longer than desired to account for curl shrinkage. This style works particularly well for those with oval or long face shapes, as the fringe helps shorten the appearance of the face. A curl-defining product keeps the fringe looking polished.
9. Defined Spiral Curls
If you’re blessed with tight spiral curls, this medium-length haircut for curly hair showcases them beautifully. The uniform corkscrew pattern creates a stunning graphic effect at this length. Regular trims are essential to maintain the shape and prevent the ends from looking frayed. Deep conditioning treatments keep the curls supple and shiny. This style looks particularly striking when the curls are allowed to cluster naturally rather than being overly separated. The medium length prevents the spirals from becoming too heavy or stretched out.
10. Asymmetrical Curly Layers
For a bold, fashion-forward look, this medium-length haircut for curly hair uses uneven layers to create dramatic volume on one side. The contrast between the full and sleek sides makes a striking statement. It’s an excellent choice for those who want to emphasize their bone structure. The shorter layers on one side can be tucked behind the ear for an even more dramatic effect. This cut works particularly well for thick curly hair that can handle significant removal of weight on one side.
11. Curly Layered Ponytail
Who says ponytails are just for straight hair? This medium-length haircut for curly hair is designed to look fabulous when pulled up. The layers create volume and movement in the ponytail, while face-framing pieces left out soften the look. The length is perfect for a high pony that still shows off your curl pattern. For extra polish, wrap a small section of hair around the elastic to conceal it. This style transitions beautifully from gym to dinner with just a few adjustments.
12. Curly Half-Up Crown Braid
This medium-length haircut for curly hair is perfect for creating romantic half-up styles. The crown braid adds structure while the remaining curls cascade freely. The length is ideal for keeping the braid substantial without being overwhelming. For special occasions, you can weave ribbon or floral accents through the braid. The style works particularly well for weddings or outdoor events where you want to keep hair off your face while still showing off your curls. A light-hold hairspray keeps flyaways in check.
13. Curly Side-Parted Waves
A deep side part transforms this medium-length haircut for curly hair into a glamorous retro-inspired look. The waves are enhanced with a curling wand for uniform shape, though many curlies can achieve this look with proper styling of their natural texture. The side part elongates the neck and flatters round faces beautifully. For evening wear, you can smooth the top section for a polished contrast with the voluminous waves. The length is perfect for tucking behind one ear to show off statement earrings.
14. Curly Dutch Braid Accent
This medium-length haircut for curly hair incorporates a Dutch braid along the hairline as a stylish accent. The braid keeps hair off the face while the rest of the curls flow freely. It’s a perfect style for active days or when you want something a bit different. The medium length ensures the braid has enough hair to work with while still leaving plenty of curls to show off. For a boho vibe, gently pull apart the braid sections to make them fuller after braiding.
15. Curly Twisted Updo
For formal occasions, this medium-length haircut for curly hair transforms into an elegant twisted updo. Sections are loosely twisted and pinned at the nape, with face-framing pieces left out to soften the look. The medium length provides enough hair to create volume in the updo without being difficult to manage. It’s a perfect wedding guest or bridal style that celebrates natural texture. The twists can be arranged in various patterns for different effects, from sleek to romantic.
16. Curly High Bun with Face-Framing Tendrils
This medium-length haircut for curly hair makes creating a voluminous high bun effortless. The layers add fullness to the bun, while the strategically left-out tendrils frame the face beautifully. It’s an excellent style for hot summer days or when you want to show off your neckline. The height of the bun helps balance wider face shapes. For extra hold, use bobby pins that match your hair color and criss-cross them for maximum security without slippage.
17. Curly Low Messy Bun
The perfect “I woke up like this” style, this medium-length haircut for curly hair looks fabulous gathered into a low messy bun. The key is leaving plenty of pieces out to frame the face and create an intentionally undone look. The medium length provides enough hair to make a substantial bun without being difficult to secure. It’s an ideal third-day style when your curls need a refresh. A texturizing spray enhances the piece-y finish for that perfect effortless vibe.
No matter which of these medium-length haircuts for curly hair you choose, remember that healthy curls start with proper care. Regular trims, deep conditioning, and using the right products for your curl type will keep your hair looking its best. Consult with a curl specialist stylist to determine which of these 2025 trends will work best with your natural texture, face shape, and lifestyle. Here’s to a year of fabulous curly hair days!