15 Twisty Curly Shag Hairstyles
Looking to add some serious flair to your curls while keeping it chic and effortless? Shag hairstyles are your golden ticket to a look that’s equal parts edgy and playful. With the right twist and texture, these hairstyles celebrate natural volume and movement, giving your curls the freedom to shine.
Below, we dive deep into 15 twisty curly shag hairstyles that are taking the hair world by storm. Get ready to find the perfect style for you—because your curls deserve the spotlight.
1. The Classic Curly Shag
The classic curly shag is timeless and versatile, perfect for anyone who loves a balance of structure and spontaneity. This style features layered curls that cascade in a flattering shape, emphasizing natural volume while keeping it manageable.
Why It Works:
The layers reduce bulk in the wrong places and enhance your curls’ bounce. It’s ideal for medium-length or long curly hair and pairs well with all face shapes.
Pro Tip:
Ask your stylist for shorter layers around the crown to add height and dimension. Pair this with a curly fringe for a modern twist.
2. Shag with Bangs
Adding bangs to your curly shag amps up the cool factor instantly. Think of it as the cherry on top of a delicious sundae—a small detail with a big impact.
Why It Works:
Bangs soften the face and bring attention to your eyes. They also frame the face beautifully, creating a youthful and dynamic vibe.
Styling Hack:
Use a diffuser while drying your bangs to maintain their shape and texture. A touch of curl cream helps fight frizz.
3. Short Curly Shag
For those who love low-maintenance styles, the short curly shag is a game-changer. It’s edgy, bold, and perfect for showing off your natural texture.
Why It Works:
This style is perfect for framing your face and highlighting your cheekbones. The shorter length makes it easy to manage while still packing a punch of personality.
Anecdote:
A friend of mine once cut her long locks into a short curly shag on a whim—and let me tell you, the compliments didn’t stop rolling in. She said it was like getting a confidence boost with every curl!
4. Long Layered Curly Shag
If you’re not ready to part with your length, a long-layered curly shag offers the best of both worlds. It gives you the volume and movement you crave while keeping your hair’s length intact.
Why It Works:
The layers prevent long curls from feeling heavy or flat, creating a light and airy effect.
Pro Tip:
Scrunch your hair with a mousse or curl gel while it’s damp to define layers and add hold.
5. The Wet-Look Curly Shag
This style is all about looking effortlessly chic. With the right product, you can create a glossy, defined look that screams sophistication.
Why It Works:
Perfect for special occasions or a night out, the wet-look shag highlights every curl in a structured yet relaxed way.
Styling Hack:
Use a curl-defining gel with high shine and let your hair air dry for that perfect wet look without looking greasy.
6. Wolf Cut Shag for Curls
The wolf cut is the ultimate trendsetter’s choice, combining a shaggy, untamed aesthetic with edgy layers. For curly hair, it’s a dream come true, offering tons of movement and volume.
Why It Works:
This cut focuses on volume at the crown and tapers down into shaggy layers, creating a bold silhouette.
Anecdote:
After I tried a wolf cut shag, I couldn’t believe the difference it made. Suddenly, my hair had personality—it felt alive!
7. Textured Curly Shag with Highlights
Want to add more depth to your shag? Subtle highlights can bring out the texture of your curls, making every twist and turn pop.
Why It Works:
Highlights add dimension and enhance the natural movement of the curls, giving a sun-kissed effect.
Pro Tip:
Opt for balayage highlights for a more natural look. They blend seamlessly with curls and grow out gracefully.
8. Messy Curly Shag
Who says messy can’t be stylish? The messy curly shag embraces imperfection, creating an effortlessly cool vibe.
Why It Works:
This style is perfect for those who prefer a more relaxed and laid-back look. It’s easy to style and doesn’t require much upkeep.
Styling Hack:
Scrunch a texturizing spray into your curls to enhance the tousled effect.
9. Curly Shag with Curtain Bangs
Curtain bangs are a match made in heaven for shag hairstyles. They add a retro vibe while perfectly complementing the shag’s layered structure.
Why It Works:
The bangs frame your face while blending seamlessly into the rest of the curls.
Pro Tip:
Trim your curtain bangs regularly to keep them looking fresh. A bit of styling cream can help maintain their shape.
10. Asymmetrical Curly Shag
For those who love to stand out, the asymmetrical curly shag offers a bold and modern twist. The uneven layers create an edgy and artistic vibe.
Why It Works:
The asymmetry adds visual interest and works well for those with naturally thick curls.
Styling Hack:
Define the longer side with a curl-defining cream to make the asymmetry more noticeable.
11. Medium-Length Curly Shag
Not too short, not too long—the medium-length curly shag is a versatile option that works for any occasion.
Why It Works:
It’s a great middle ground for those who want volume without going too bold.
Pro Tip:
Keep the ends lightly trimmed to maintain the shape and prevent split ends.
12. Layered Shag with Defined Curls
If your curls tend to be a bit wild, this style focuses on definition and structure. Each layer is cut to enhance the natural shape of your curls.
Why It Works:
This style keeps the curls from looking too chaotic while preserving their natural beauty.
Anecdote:
I once had a stylist who told me, “Your curls are like poetry; they just need the right rhythm.” That’s exactly what this style achieves.
13. Curly Shag with an Undercut
Want to add an edgy twist to your shag? Pair it with an undercut for a daring and unique look.
Why It Works:
The undercut reduces bulk, especially for those with thick hair, and adds an element of surprise.
Styling Hack:
Play with hair accessories like clips or scarves to show off your undercut.
14. Voluminous Curly Shag
This style is all about going big or going home. The voluminous curly shag celebrates the beauty of big, bold curls.
Why It Works:
The layers are cut to maximize volume, giving your hair a full and luscious look.
Pro Tip:
Use a volumizing mousse and a diffuser to enhance the volume without sacrificing curl definition.
15. Shag with Natural Texture
Sometimes, less is more. Embracing your natural texture with a shag cut allows your curls to shine in their most authentic form.
Why It Works:
This style celebrates individuality and is perfect for those who prefer minimal styling.
Anecdote:
One of my friends used to spend hours trying to “tame” her curls. Once she embraced her natural texture with a shag cut, she felt more confident and carefree than ever.
Final Thoughts
Shag hairstyles for curly hair are more than just a trend—they’re a celebration of natural beauty and individuality. Whether you want something bold and edgy or soft and sophisticated, there’s a twisty curly shag out there for you. Your curls are unique, and they deserve a cut that lets them shine.
So, which of these styles are you trying next?
