20 Curly Hairstyles for Plus Size Women

Finding the perfect look involves more than just following trends. You deserve a style that celebrates your curves and highlights your best features. This guide to 20 Curly Hairstyles for Plus Size Women will help you find a look that feels uniquely you while keeping things effortlessly stylish.

Auburn Curls with Earthy Vibes

selfie of a 31-year-old plus size Black woman with a chubby face and slightly flared nose. The skin is heavily textured with a complex pattern of subtle birthmarks on the cheek and a faint, thin scar traversing the left eyebrow. The eyes are warm hazel. She is wearing a white and red printed slip dress with a voluminous auburn curly hairstyle, front view, rocky background.

You need a color that pops against your skin while maintaining an organic feel.

These auburn curls provide massive volume that balances out wider shoulders and adds height to your silhouette.

Reach for a curl defining cream to keep the spirals tight and bouncy.

This shoulder length cut works beautifully for heart shaped faces because it creates weight at the bottom.

Wear this look to your next outdoor brunch or a casual stroll through the park to feel like a desert queen.

Light Brown Sunny Spirals

selfie of a 29-year-old plus size Caucasian woman with a chubby face and delicate nose. The skin is heavily textured with a complex pattern of dense freckles across the bridge of the nose and a small mole near the corner of the mouth. The eyes are bright blue. She is wearing a white top with black floral print on the sleeves with a messy light brown curly hairstyle, front view, sunny outdoor park background.

Nothing says approachable like a warm smile paired with soft, light brown curls.

This medium density style relies on soft layering to prevent the dreaded triangle shape that often plagues curly hair.

Your stylist should focus on face framing pieces to highlight your cheekbones.

The natural highlights catch the sun perfectly during outdoor gatherings.

If you have a round face, this airy texture adds soft angles without overwhelming your features.

Use a light hold hairspray to maintain movement all afternoon.

Contrasting Blonde and Dark Waves

selfie of a 35-year-old plus size Caucasian woman with a chubby face and straight nose. The skin is heavily textured with a complex pattern of sun spots and a faint, thin scar traversing the left eyebrow. The eyes are deep-set green. She is wearing a black outfit with a long curly blonde hairstyle, front view, blurred background with another woman.

The contrast between dark hair and bright blonde curls creates a striking visual balance.

Long, flowing waves elongate your neck and torso, which offers a slimming effect for many body types.

High density hair thrives in this style as the weight keeps the curls from becoming too frizzy.

Oval and rectangular face shapes benefit most from this length.

This look transitions seamlessly from a busy workday to a late dinner with friends.

Keep the roots hydrated to ensure maximum shine.

Sultry Dark Midnight Curls

selfie of a 38-year-old plus size Latina woman with a chubby face and rounded nose. The skin is heavily textured with a complex pattern of fine lines around the eyes and a faint, thin scar traversing the left eyebrow. The eyes are dark brown. She is wearing a black knotted V-neck top with a dense dark curly hairstyle, front view, gold sequined background.

Dark curls offer a sense of mystery and sophistication that lighter shades sometimes lack.

This look features tight, high density coils that provide a dramatic frame for your face.

Choosing a V-neck top further enhances the elongating effect of the hair.

This style suits diamond face shapes by adding volume around the mid face area.

Professional events or festive parties call for this polished yet bold appearance.

Apply a silicone free serum to achieve that glass like reflection on every curl.

Casual Brown Curls with Bangs

selfie of a 33-year-old plus size Caucasian woman with a chubby face and button nose. The skin is heavily textured with a complex pattern of acne scarring and a faint, thin scar traversing the left eyebrow. The eyes are light brown. She is wearing a gray sweatshirt and glasses with a shoulder-length curly brown hairstyle with bangs, front view, indoor home background.

Bangs and glasses create a smart, quirky aesthetic that stays cozy for everyday life.

This shoulder length cut uses soft curls to soften the frame of your eyewear.

Medium density hair works best here to keep the bangs from looking too sparse or too heavy.

Square face shapes love this cut because it rounds out the jawline.

You can rock this while running errands or working from home.

Use a microfiber towel to dry your hair to prevent frizz in the fringe.

Chic Short Cropped Curls

selfie of a 28-year-old plus size Multi-ethnic woman with a chubby face and delicate nose. The skin is heavily textured with a complex pattern of small beauty marks and a faint, thin scar traversing the left eyebrow. The eyes are almond shaped brown. She is wearing a strapless gold intricately patterned top with a short dark curly hairstyle, front view, red carpet background.

Short hair gives you a chance to show off your collarbones and shoulders with confidence.

This cropped curly look removes weight and adds a youthful energy to your overall appearance.

Tight, well defined curls across the crown create a structured shape that stays in place all night.

This hairstyle favors pear shaped bodies by drawing the eye upward.

Save this look for a formal gala or a fancy wedding reception.

A firm hold gel will keep these curls looking sharp and intentional.

Modern Cherry Red Waves

casual photo of a 42-year-old plus size Caucasian woman with a chubby face and pointed nose. The skin is heavily textured with a complex pattern of enlarged pores and a faint, thin scar traversing the left eyebrow. The eyes are gray. She is wearing a black top with a dark cherry red wavy shoulder-length hairstyle, side view, brick background.

Deep red tones add a layer of boldness to standard waves.

Shoulder length hair with a subtle wave pattern provides a classic look that never goes out of style.

This medium density hair is easy to manage with a large barrel curling iron or overnight rollers.

People with pale or olive skin tones find this cherry shade particularly flattering.

This versatile style works for job interviews or weekend trips.

Run a wide tooth comb through the waves to keep them looking soft.

Elevated Long Dark Spirals

selfie of a 30-year-old plus size Black woman with a chubby face and broad nose. The skin is heavily textured with a complex pattern of dark spots and a faint, thin scar traversing the left eyebrow. The eyes are chocolate brown. She is wearing a grey long-sleeved top with a long dark curly hairstyle, front view, well-lit room.

Lengthy curls provide a sense of luxury and femininity that complements a plus size figure.

These dark, tight spirals fall past the shoulders to create a vertical line that draws the eye down.

High density hair ensures the style looks full and healthy rather than flat.

Rounder faces benefit from the length as it provides a slimming frame.

This look is perfect for milestone celebrations or professional photography.

Regular deep conditioning keeps these long strands from tangling or losing their natural luster.

Natural Brown Everyday Curls

selfie of a 34-year-old plus size Caucasian woman with a chubby face and straight nose. The skin is heavily textured with a complex pattern of light freckles and a faint, thin scar traversing the left eyebrow. The eyes are blue-green. She is wearing a white ribbed tank top with a natural curly brown hairstyle, front view, white background.

Sometimes the most effective style involves working with your natural texture without too much fuss.

These medium brown curls offer a relaxed, effortless vibe that pairs perfectly with a basic tank top and jeans.

The cut maintains a uniform length which provides stability for those with finer hair densities.

Heart shaped faces look balanced with the volume centered around the ears.

Use a sea salt spray to add a bit of grit and volume for a beachy feel.

Edgy Curls with Bold Fringe

selfie of a 27-year-old plus size Caucasian woman with a chubby face and delicate nose. The skin is heavily textured with a complex pattern of faint redness and a faint, thin scar traversing the left eyebrow. The eyes are hazel. She is wearing a grey shirt and black choker with a medium-length curly brown hairstyle and bangs, front view, indoor background.

Combining curls with a thick fringe adds a touch of rock and roll to your aesthetic.

This medium length cut relies on heavy layering to give the curls a bouncy, energetic movement.

The bangs help to shorten a longer face shape, creating a more harmonious look.

You can pair this with bold lipstick and a choker for an night out at a concert.

A light mousse applied while damp will help the curls hold their shape without feeling crunchy.

Warm Ginger Wavy Layers

selfie of a 45-year-old plus size Caucasian woman with a chubby face and rounded nose. The skin is heavily textured with a complex pattern of sun damage and a faint, thin scar traversing the left eyebrow. The eyes are green. She is wearing a black top with a shoulder-length wavy ginger hairstyle with blonde highlights, front view, outdoor sunlight.

Ginger hair with blonde highlights brings a sunny, warm glow to your face.

This wavy style uses layers to create a soft, touchable texture that looks great in any light.

The medium length is manageable for busy lifestyles while still offering enough hair to play with.

This color and cut combo works wonders for those with a warm complexion.

It is an ideal look for casual office days or family gatherings.

Use a color protecting shampoo to keep the ginger and blonde vibrant.

Textured Shag with Curly Bangs

selfie of a 32-year-old plus size Mixed-race woman with a chubby face and wide nose. The skin is heavily textured with a complex pattern of oily patches and a faint, thin scar traversing the left eyebrow. The eyes are dark brown. She is wearing an orange textured sweater with a dark curly shag hairstyle with bangs, front view, indoor studio.

The shag is back and it is better than ever for curly hair.

This cut features lots of short layers throughout the crown, creating immense volume and a cool, retro vibe.

The addition of curly bangs makes the look feel modern and intentional.

This style is excellent for those with high density hair who want to lose some weight without losing their length.

It suits almost any face shape by adding interest and movement.

Use a diffuse dryer to enhance the natural texture.

Classic Reddish-Brown Waves

selfie of a 49-year-old plus size Caucasian woman with a chubby face and delicate nose. The skin is heavily textured with a complex pattern of aging lines and a faint, thin scar traversing the left eyebrow. The eyes are hazel. She is wearing a white top and statement necklace with a long wavy reddish-brown hairstyle, front view, neutral background.

Soft, reddish brown waves offer a timeless elegance that feels sophisticated.

This long style relies on a gentle wave pattern rather than tight curls, which provides a smoother appearance.

The richness of the color adds depth and shine, making the hair look exceptionally healthy.

This look is perfect for formal events where you want to look polished but not overdone.

It works well for square and rectangular face shapes by softening sharp features.

A large round brush can help achieve this look.

Freckles and Purple Tones

selfie of a 36-year-old plus size Latina woman with a chubby face and delicate nose. The skin is heavily textured with a complex pattern of dark freckles and a faint, thin scar traversing the left eyebrow. The eyes are brown. She is wearing a purple shirt with a dark curly hairstyle, front view, natural lighting.

Dark curls paired with a vibrant purple top create a beautiful color story.

This medium length style emphasizes natural curls that frame the face and highlight features like freckles or dimples.

The curls are tight and well defined, showing off a healthy hair density.

This look is great for someone who wants a low maintenance style that still looks put together.

Oval faces find this balance of volume very flattering.

A simple leave in conditioner is often the only styling product you need.

Voluminous Blonde City Curls

Big, blonde, and bold curls make a powerful statement in any urban environment.

This style maximizes volume to create a halo of golden spirals that demand attention.

High density hair is a must for this look to prevent it from appearing stringy at the ends.

This style works best for round or heart shaped faces by adding significant height.

Wear this for a night out on the town or a big social event.

Use a volumizing powder at the roots to maintain that massive lift.

Multi-Hairstyle Curly Inspiration

selfie of a 31-year-old plus size Caucasian woman with a chubby face and delicate nose. The skin is heavily textured with a complex pattern of uneven skin tone and a faint, thin scar traversing the left eyebrow. The eyes are green. She is wearing a stylish blouse with a collage displaying four different hairstyles for plus-size curly hair, front view, digital graphic background.

Exploring different curly lengths and colors allows you to find your signature look.

From tight coils to loose waves, the variety in curly hair ensures there is something for every plus size woman.

This guide encourages you to experiment with different parting styles and layering techniques.

Whether you prefer a short bob or waist length spirals, the key lies in maintaining moisture.

These styles are designed to boost your confidence and celebrate your natural texture.

Try a new curl cream every few months to see how your hair reacts.

Salon-Fresh Long Curled Bangs

selfie of a 29-year-old plus size Asian woman with a chubby face and flat nose. The skin is heavily textured with a complex pattern of small moles and a faint, thin scar traversing the left eyebrow. The eyes are dark brown. She is wearing a black top with a very long dark curly hairstyle with bangs, front view, salon setting.

There is nothing like the shine of a fresh salon cut and color.

These ultra long curls feature a heavy bang that rests just above the eyebrows, creating a focal point for your eyes.

The length reaches down to the waist, providing a dramatic and glamorous look.

This style is best for those with very high density hair who can support the weight of such a long cut.

Use a shine spray to replicate that professional salon finish every morning.

Beaded Cornrows and Curls

casual photo of a 34-year-old plus size Black woman with a chubby face and flared nose. The skin is heavily textured with a complex pattern of deep pores and a faint, thin scar traversing the left eyebrow. The eyes are dark brown. She is wearing a neutral top with a curly hair styled with cornrows and beads, side view, neutral background.

Protective styles like cornrows combined with loose curls offer the best of both worlds.

The intricate braids at the scalp provide a neat, structured look while the loose curls at the back add movement and volume.

Adding beads to the ends of the braids brings a touch of personality and cultural heritage to the style.

This look is incredibly practical for active lifestyles or humid weather.

It suits any face shape because the braids can be positioned to flatter your specific features.

Academic Chic Short Curls

selfie of a 41-year-old plus size Caucasian woman with a chubby face and delicate nose. The skin is heavily textured with a complex pattern of fine dry lines and a faint, thin scar traversing the left eyebrow. The eyes are blue. She is wearing a black sleeveless top and round glasses with a short dark curly hairstyle, front view, indoor library background.

Short, dark curls paired with round glasses create a look that is both intellectual and stylish.

This cropped cut is easy to maintain and keeps the focus on your face and eyes.

The curls are kept tight to the head, which prevents the hair from overwhelming smaller features.

This style is an excellent choice for women with round or oval face shapes.

It works perfectly for professional environments or quiet afternoons spent reading.

A little bit of pomade will give the curls a nice, defined finish.

Joyful Blue Background Curls

selfie of a 30-year-old plus size Latina woman with a chubby face and delicate nose. The skin is heavily textured with a complex pattern of dimples and a faint, thin scar traversing the left eyebrow. The eyes are brown. She is wearing a patterned one-shoulder dress with a dark curly hairstyle, front view, blue background.

Laughing and enjoying life is easier when your hair looks this good.

This dark curly style features a one shoulder dress that complements the asymmetrical volume of the hair.

The curls are messy and full of life, suggesting a carefree and confident personality.

This look is great for people with a bubbly energy and a love for bold colors.

The volume around the head balances out wider hips or shoulders perfectly.

Shake your curls out with your fingers to maximize the volume.

Sophisticated Layered Halter Curls

selfie of a 35-year-old plus size Caucasian woman with a chubby face and straight nose. The skin is heavily textured with a complex pattern of light freckles and a faint, thin scar traversing the left eyebrow. The eyes are green. She is wearing a black halter top and glasses with a dark curly hairstyle, front view, pastel striped background.

A black halter top creates a sleek silhouette that allows your curls to take center stage.

This layered dark curly look provides a lot of structure and prevents the hair from looking flat.

The curls are uniform and bounce around the face, drawing attention to your eyes and glasses.

This style is perfect for an art gallery opening or a sophisticated dinner date.

It works well for all face shapes as the layers can be adjusted for balance.

A light touch of hair oil will keep the ends looking sharp.

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