How to Style the Curly Shag: Tips & Variations
The curly shag is a modern take on a retro classic, featuring choppy layers, volume, and natural movement that enhance your curls. This cut is perfect for those who want a low-maintenance yet stylish look that embraces natural texture. Whether you prefer soft waves, tight coils, or a bold, edgy finish, here are some styling tips and variations to help you rock the curly shag in 2025!
Classic Curly Shag: Soft, Layered Curls with Movement
The signature curly shag is all about layers that create volume and shape while keeping the overall look light and airy.
How to achieve it:
✔️ Apply a curl-enhancing cream or mousse to damp hair.
✔️ Use a diffuser attachment while blow-drying to enhance volume and curl definition.
✔️ Scrunch in a lightweight gel or curl mist for a frizz-free finish.
✔️ Finish with a hydrating curl spray to keep curls soft and bouncy.
Best for: Those who want a natural, effortless, and low-maintenance curly look.
Long Curly Shag: Boho & Romantic
For those who love longer hair, the long curly shag combines soft, cascading layers with natural waves or curls, creating a romantic and carefree vibe.
How to achieve it:
✔️ Apply a leave-in conditioner and curl-defining cream to damp hair.
✔️ Use a wide-tooth comb or fingers to detangle and define curls.
✔️ Let hair air-dry or use a diffuser for a natural, voluminous look.
✔️ Finish with a light texturizing spray for an airy, weightless effect.
Best for: Those who love long, flowy layers with natural movement.
Short Curly Shag: Playful & Edgy
A short curly shag is bold, fun, and full of personality, featuring choppy layers and volume around the crown for a modern, edgy effect.
How to achieve it:
✔️ Apply a volumizing mousse or curl foam to damp hair.
✔️ Use a round diffuser to enhance natural volume and shape.
✔️ Scrunch in a light-hold curl gel for definition without stiffness.
✔️ Use a matte pomade or styling cream to enhance texture and piecey layers.
Best for: Those who want a trendy, youthful, and energetic style.
Curly Shag with Bangs: Retro & Face-Framing
Adding curly bangs to a shag cut creates a vintage-inspired, playful look that highlights the eyes and cheekbones.
How to achieve it:
✔️ Apply a curl-enhancing gel or cream to damp bangs.
✔️ Use a round diffuser to dry bangs while scrunching for lift.
✔️ Separate curls with your fingers for a piecey, airy effect.
✔️ Lightly mist with hairspray or curl refresher to keep shape intact.
Best for: Those who want a bold, retro-inspired statement with lots of movement.
Curly Wolf Cut: Edgy & Rocker-Chic
A curly wolf cut is a mix between the shag and mullet, featuring heavier layers on top with longer, wispier pieces toward the ends.
How to achieve it:
✔️ Apply a texturizing mousse for lightweight volume.
✔️ Use a diffuser to enhance volume at the crown while keeping ends soft.
✔️ Add a matte styling paste to define piecey layers.
✔️ Finish with a curl mist or shine spray for an extra touch of polish.
Best for: Those who love a bold, edgy, and alternative style.
70s-Inspired Curly Shag: Vintage & Effortless
For a classic, Farrah Fawcett-inspired shag, this variation features big, voluminous curls with feathered layers for a soft, effortless look.
How to achieve it:
✔️ Use a curl-enhancing mousse or foam to add structure.
✔️ Blow-dry with a round diffuser for volume at the roots.
✔️ Use a curling iron on select pieces for extra bounce.
✔️ Finish with a light hairspray to hold shape while keeping movement.
Best for: Those who love a vintage, voluminous, and glamorous style.
Curly Shag with Undercut: Bold & Modern
For a unique, edgy take, adding an undercut to a curly shag reduces bulk while creating a striking, high-contrast look.
How to achieve it:
✔️ Keep the top layers voluminous and full of movement.
✔️ Ask your stylist for a tapered or undercut section at the nape or sides.
✔️ Apply a curl-defining cream to shape curls while maintaining volume.
✔️ Finish with a light pomade or styling wax to add definition and hold.
Best for: Those who want a bold, edgy, and easy-to-maintain style.
How to Maintain a Curly Shag
✔️ Regular trims every 6-8 weeks to keep the layers fresh.
✔️ Use hydrating curl products to maintain moisture and prevent frizz.
✔️ Avoid heavy creams and oils that weigh down the layers.
✔️ Experiment with different partings (center, deep side) to change up your look.
✔️ Refresh curls between washes with a curl mist or light styling foam.
Which Curly Shag Style is Right for You?
The curly shag is one of the most customizable and versatile cuts, perfect for those who love volume, movement, and a bit of edge. Whether you prefer long and soft, short and bold, or something in between, this cut enhances your natural curls while offering endless styling possibilities.
Thinking about getting a curly shag? Our expert stylists at Salon San Carlos in Pensacola, FL specialize in curly haircuts and can customize the perfect shag for your curl pattern, face shape, and lifestyle.
📅 Book your appointment today and let’s bring your curly shag to life!
