Embrace Your Curls: The Rise of the Curly Shag Haircut
The beauty world is constantly evolving, with new trends emerging every season. One style that has made a significant comeback in recent years is the curly shag haircut. This playful, textured look combines retro charm with modern flair, making it a favourite for those with natural curls or waves. If you’re considering this versatile hairstyle, keep reading to discover why the curly shag is the must-have cut of the moment, how to style it, and tips for maintenance.
Why Choose a Curly Shag?
1. Effortless Texture
The curly shag is all about volume and texture. With its layered cut, this style adds bounce to your curls, creating a carefree, lived-in look. The layers help to lighten the weight of your curls, which can be especially beneficial for those with thicker or coarser hair types. This effortlessly tousled appearance is perfect for those who love a stylish yet low-maintenance vibe.
2. Versatility
One of the best things about the curly shag is its versatility. It can be worn in various lengths, from short to medium, and it can work beautifully with different curl patterns. Whether you have tight ringlets, loose waves, or a coil pattern, a curly shag can be customised to suit your unique hair type. Plus, you can easily switch up the vibe by playing with your parting or adding bangs.
3. Timeless Appeal
The shag haircut is rooted in 70s rock ‘n’ roll, embodying a sense of rebellion and freedom. The curly version adds a modern twist that feels both nostalgic and fresh. It’s the perfect haircut for anyone wanting to channel a laid-back, bohemian aesthetic while still feeling current.
How to Style Your Curly Shag
Once you’ve made the decision to go for a curly shag, the fun begins with styling! Here are some tips to help you get the most out of your new haircut:
1. Use the Right Products
The right products can enhance your natural curls and keep your shag looking fabulous. Start with a hydrating shampoo and conditioner designed for curly hair. After washing, apply a curl cream or mousse to damp hair to help define your curls without weighing them down. If your curls tend to frizz, consider an anti-frizz serum or oil for sleekness and shine.
2. Embrace Air Drying
For those with curly hair, heat styling can often lead to damage and frizz. Embrace air drying whenever possible to maintain the health of your curls. After applying your products, scrunch your hair gently and allow it to dry naturally. This method will enhance your curls’ natural shape and create a more carefree look.
3. Experiment with Styles
One of the beautiful things about the curly shag is its ability to be styled in multiple ways. Try parted bangs for a bold look or play with different partings to change up the vibe. Since shags have a lot of texture, you can also create a messy bun or half-up hairstyle, which can look effortlessly chic.
Maintenance Tips
Most hairstyles require some upkeep, and the curly shag is no different. Here are a few tips to keep your shag looking its best:
1. Regular Trims
To maintain the shape and bounce of your curly shag, regular trims are essential—typically every 6-8 weeks. This helps to keep the ends healthy and prevent split ends, which are more noticeable in textured hair.
2. Hydration is Key
Curly hair can be prone to dryness, so keep your locks hydrated. Use a deep conditioning treatment once a week to replenish moisture, and don’t forget to seal in that hydration with a leave-in conditioner or oil.
3. Protect Your Curls at Night
To avoid tangles and preserve your curl pattern while you sleep, consider sleeping on a silk or satin pillowcase. Alternatively, you can use a soft scrunchie to loosely tie your curls up, protecting them from breakage.
Certainly! Taking care of your curly shag haircut involves using the right products for cleansing, conditioning, and styling. Here’s a list of recommended products along with links for purchase that are readily available in the UK.
1. Shampoo and Conditioner
Curl wow – Hooked 100% Clean Curl Shampoo with Root-Locking Technology
– Why: Residue-free, sulfate-free formula helps anchor hair to prevent shedding + reduce breakage in curly hair.
Curl wow – Coco-Motion Lubricating Curl Conditioner
– Why: Instantly gives dry, dehydrated, brittle, “static” curls fluid motion, silky texture, bounce + elasticity
2. Serum
Curl wow – Flo-etry Vital Natural Curly Hair Serum
– Why: Rich-oil blend moisturises strands from root to tip for instantly plump, plush, juicy curls. No weight or greasy feel!
3. Curl Cream
Color wow – Dream Coat Supernatural Spray
– Why: This product is suitable for everyone, from lovers of the waves to indoor surfers, giving body to fine hair and a fantastic texture to thick hair.
4. Mousse
Umberto Giannini Curl Defining Mousse
– Why: This mousse is excellent for creating defined curls with soft, bouncy hold.
5. Styling Gel
Bumble and bumble Surf Spray
– Why: An ultra-light, alcohol-free formula that delivers all the combined benefits of gels, serums, and creams for perfectly defined curls.
6. Finish & Nourish
Moroccanoil Treatment Light
– Why: A lightweight oil that provides shine and nourishment without weighing the hair down. Perfect for adding moisture and reducing frizz.
7. Heat Protectant
GHD Heat Protect Spray
– Why: If you occasionally use heat styling tools, this spray helps protect your curls from damage.
Additional Tips
– Microfiber Towel/Dry T-Shirt: Use a microfiber towel or an old t-shirt to gently scrunch your hair dry after washing, as this minimises frizz.
– Diffuser: If you do choose to use a hairdryer, consider using a diffuser attachment to help diffuse heat gently and maintain your curl pattern.
These products should help you maintain and showcase your curly shag beautifully! Remember, everyone’s hair is unique, so it might take a bit of experimentation to find the perfect combination for your specific hair type and texture. Happy styling!
The curly shag haircut is a fun, versatile, and timeless choice that flatters many face shapes and hair types. Whether you’re a curly girl looking to embrace your natural texture or someone seeking a fresh, layered look, this hairstyle offers the best of both worlds. With the right products and a bit of styling know-how, you can rock a curly shag that feels uniquely you. So why not take the plunge? Your curls deserve to shine!
