Ever look in the mirror, curl cream in one hand and sheer panic in the other, wondering why your “Pinterest-perfect” curls look more like a frizzed-out poodle auditioning for a boy band?
Yeah, same. If you’ve got a round face like me and have spent way too much time scrolling for the perfect curly hairstyle that flatters instead of flattens welcome. You’ve just stumbled on the curly girl’s cheat sheet to looking without fighting your curls.
Let’s be real—finding curly hairstyles for round faces isn’t just about choosing a random updo or letting your hair roam free like it’s on vacation. It’s about balance, shape, and a sprinkle of sorcery (okay, just good layering and the right parting).
I’ve tested more curly styles than I care to admit some wins, some tragic—but I’ve learned what actually works to enhance cheekbones, slim the face, and make those curls pop.
Whether you’re rocking coils, waves, or ringlets, this guide’s got 20 flattering styles that are easy to pull off and even easier to love.
Now let’s break down the curly magic, one hairstyle at a time—complete with my go-to tips, face-flattering hacks, and a few funny fails along the way. Ready to find your curl-fidence? Let’s dive in.
1. Voluminous Curly High Ponytail
I love a high curly ponytail for days when I want that “instant facelift” effect without a drop of concealer.
It draws the eyes upward, adding height and balance to a round face.
To get volume, I fluff my roots with a pick and secure the ponytail just above the crown.
Bonus: it’s also a sneaky way to stretch a wash day. Check out these messy ponytail looks for more casual volume-packed inspo.
2. Side-Parted Loose Curls
This is my go-to for dinner dates or Zoom calls where I want to look effortlessly put together.
The side part breaks up the symmetry of a round face and adds dimension.
I use a light curl cream to keep things soft and touchable—not crunchy. Works great on medium to long curly hair.
You’ll love these side part hairstyles that enhance natural face shape.
3. Curly Half-Up Knot
When I want to look cute and keep my curls out of my eyes, this half-up knot comes to the rescue.
It pulls the hair up just enough to lift the face, while still letting curls flow.
I twist a small top section into a bun and leave the rest cascading—super low effort, super high reward.
More half-up, half-down styles for curly and short hair.
4. Textured Curly Bob
Ah, the curly bob. I chopped my hair into one during a quarantine spiral, and honestly? No regrets.
The trick is to keep the length just below the chin so it doesn’t widen the face.
Add lots of layers for texture and movement—that’s where the magic happens.
5. Long Curly Layers Down
If you’ve got naturally long curls, this style lets them shine.
The layers prevent that dreaded triangle shape and elongate the face.
I like adding a little mousse for bounce and definition. It’s a flattering classic that never really goes out of style.
.6. Curly Side Braid Style
Side braids are my lazy day savior—especially when I’m pushing day 4 hair.
I gather curls to one side and braid loosely, letting a few strands fall out for softness.
It slims the face by pulling everything diagonally. Plus, it’s romantic and looks way more complicated than it is.
7. High Curly Messy Bun
If I had a dollar for every time this bun saved me from a bad hair day, I’d be rich enough to hire a personal curl stylist.
I flip my head upside down, gather the curls, and let the messy volume do its thing.
It lifts the face and screams “casual chic”—perfect for errands or brunch.
8. Curly with Wispy Bangs
Yes, curly bangs can work on round faces—if they’re light and wispy.
I made the mistake of cutting them too thick once and instantly aged five years.
The key is soft texture and a longer length on the sides to keep things balanced.
A diffuser and a little patience go a long way.
9. Shoulder-Length Curly Shag
This shaggy masterpiece is all about volume at the crown and piecey ends—super flattering for a round face.
I love the ’70s rocker vibes it gives, especially with curtain bangs.
I scrunch with a lightweight gel and let air-dry for maximum cool-girl texture.
10. Curly Updo with Tendrils
Fancy event? This updo is elegant and forgiving. I loosely pin up the curls and leave a few tendrils hanging around the face to soften my round cheeks.
It’s one of those “I spent an hour on this” styles that really only takes ten minutes.
Pro tip: use bobby pins like you’re paid to lose them.
11. Middle-Part Curly Hair
A center part may seem risky on a round face, but with volume at the roots, it works.
It gives that modern, clean symmetry that’s trending all over TikTok.
I pair it with long layers and avoid too much product near the scalp. Confidence is 50% of the look.
See how a butterfly haircut on curly hair can boost root volume and movement.
12. Curly Low Side Ponytail
This one’s my “I need to look presentable in 5 minutes” trick.
I gather my curls low on one side and secure them with a scrunchie or ribbon.
It draws attention diagonally, which helps contour the face shape.
Bonus: it looks adorable with big hoop earrings. Try this with one of these messy hairstyles for that soft, undone vibe.
13. Defined Curls with Headband
Headbands are back, and I’m not mad about it. I pop one on with freshly defined curls to frame my face without flattening it.
Great for Zoom calls or when my roots are rebelling. Pro tip: use a wide, fabric headband for comfort and retro flair.
Explore more hairband hairstyles that work with curly textures.
14. Curly Half-Braided Crown
Feeling whimsical? This half-braided crown is basically a fairy tale for your curls.
I braid small sections from each side and pin them back while letting the rest of my hair do its curly thing.
It keeps hair off my face while still feeling soft and romantic—yes, please.
15. Short Curly Crop Style
I went full pixie once, and though it was bold, it worked.
A short curly crop adds structure and puts all the focus on your features.
I keep the curls tight and textured with a little styling cream. It’s edgy, low-maintenance, and surprisingly face-slimming.
16. Curly with Face-Framing Strands
Face-framing pieces are the unsung heroes of curly hairstyles for round faces.
They create vertical lines that elongate the face and highlight cheekbones.
I pull out a few curls around my temples anytime I do a pony or updo. Instant softness—no filter needed.
17. Loose Curly Space Buns
This one’s for the fun, quirky days. I part my curls down the middle and twist them into two loose buns high on my head.
Letting curls spill out keeps it playful without widening the face too much.
Warning: you will get compliments at the grocery store.
18. Curly with Side-Swept Fringe
A side-swept fringe gives all the drama without the risk of a full bang commitment.
It helps visually slice across the roundness of your face.
I style mine with a bit of curl-defining mousse and clip it while drying for that perfect swoop. Elegant but casual—just how I like it.
19. Voluminous Curly Blowout
When I want to feel like Beyoncé on a wind machine, I go for the big blowout.
I use a diffuser and root-lifting foam to create body without bulk.
olume on top is key—it gives that vertical lift round faces love. It’s glam, it’s bold, it’s mood-lifting.
20. Curly Low Bun with Volume
This is my “boss meeting” hairstyle pulled-together but still relaxed.
I fluff up my crown for volume, gather the curls low at the nape, and secure with pins.
Letting a few curls escape around the ears softens the overall look and keeps it flattering.
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