15+ Gorgeous French Curl Hairstyles You’ll Want to Try in 2025

Cindy Marcus
Cindy Marcus Hairstylist, Editor-in-Chief

French curls are perfect if you’re looking for a style that’s both elegant and versatile. This look is all about soft, defined curls that frame your face while still giving you the volume you need. The key to achieving the perfect French curl is using a curling iron with a wider barrel—this creates those large, soft waves instead of tight ringlets. A lightweight mousse or setting lotion can help hold the curls without weighing them down, giving you that bouncy, natural look.

Whether you want an updo with cascading curls or you’re planning to wear them loose and flowing, French curls can easily go from casual to classy. Ready to level up your style and get those curls popping? Keep reading for all the inspo you need!

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Long box braids with flowing French curls in a sleek, elegant style

#1 French Curls Hairstyle

Long, sleek box braids paired with soft, flowing French curls create a polished and versatile look. The braids are evenly distributed with a clean center part, transitioning into voluminous curls that add movement and elegance. This style is perfect for someone who wants a protective option with a touch of glam, though the maintenance of the curls may require regular detangling to keep them fresh.

Shoulder-length French curls with black braids

#2 Shoulder-Length French Curls

This shoulder-length French curls style is lightweight and easy to manage, perfect for those who want a shorter protective option. The rich black braids blend seamlessly into tight curls, adding volume and bounce. This is a great choice for everyday wear, though the shorter length may require frequent curl upkeep.

Extra-long box braids with cascading French curls

#3 Long French Curls Hairstyle

These extra-long box braids with cascading French curls create a dramatic and elegant effect. The dark, glossy braids contrast beautifully with the soft, loose curls at the ends, making this style perfect for oval and heart-shaped faces. A great choice for statement-making occasions, but the length may require more maintenance.

Knotless box braids with voluminous French curls

#4 Knotless Braids with French Curls

This knotless braid style features neatly parted sections and voluminous French curls at the ends for a modern and lightweight design. The combination of clean parting and flowy curls makes it a great option for anyone seeking a protective style with minimal scalp tension. Perfect for long-lasting wear, though curls may need periodic refreshing.

Jet-black French curls with box braids

#5 French Curls Hairstyle for Black Girls

Jet-black box braids flowing into glossy French curls create a stunning look that’s both protective and glamorous. The curls are tightly coiled for definition, making it ideal for formal or everyday wear. Perfect for those with thick hair, though the curls require proper hydration to avoid dryness.

Light blonde box braids with soft French curls

#6 Easy French Curls Hairstyle

Light blonde box braids with soft French curls offer a simple yet elegant style. The clean side parting gives a polished finish, while the loose curls at the ends add a touch of softness. This style is lightweight and perfect for beginners, though it works best for fine to medium hair types.

Red French curls with a claw clip and blonde tips

#7 French Curls Hairstyle with Claw Clip

This vibrant red French curls style is secured with a claw clip, blending functionality and beauty. The bold copper braids transition into soft blonde curls at the tips, adding depth and contrast. This updo is perfect for casual or semi-formal occasions, but the dual-toned curls may need extra care to maintain their vibrancy.

Rich brown box braids with tight French curls

#8 French Braid and Curls Hairstyle

Rich brown box braids paired with tight French curls create a classic yet modern style. The curls start midway through the braids, offering both texture and movement. This hairstyle works well for round and oval face shapes and is a protective style that still allows for playful styling.

Box braids with French curls and a large satin bow

#9 French Curls Hairstyle with Bow

Box braids with cream and brown tones, finished with soft French curls and a large satin bow, offer a romantic and playful style. The contrasting colors and curls add depth, while the bow serves as a standout accessory. This is great for casual outings or special events but may require styling to keep the bow secure.

Pink and blonde French curls updo with braids

#10 French Curls Updo

A soft updo featuring pink and blonde box braids and curls adds a whimsical touch. The multi-tonal braids twist beautifully into a high ponytail, with curls cascading down for added flair. This look is perfect for someone looking for a playful yet polished hairstyle, but the vibrant colors may require extra maintenance.

Vivid red box braids with French curls

#11 Red French Curls

Vivid red box braids with fiery French curls create a bold and attention-grabbing style. The vibrant hue enhances the dimension of the curls, making this look a show-stopper. This works best for confident individuals who want a low-maintenance yet striking hairstyle, though color upkeep may require regular refreshes.

High ponytail with blonde French curls and tight box braids

#12 French Curls Ponytail

Box braids pulled into a sleek, high ponytail with flowing blonde French curls create a dramatic and stylish look. The tight braids at the crown provide a secure base, while the loose curls add volume and softness. Perfect for formal events or nights out, though the curls need occasional touch-ups to maintain their shape.

Shoulder-length box braids with rich brown French curls

#13 Medium French Curls Hairstyle

Medium-length box braids with rich brown French curls at the ends provide a balanced, manageable style. This medium-length look is perfect for anyone who wants to embrace curls without committing to a longer braid style. It’s great for oval face shapes and provides the benefits of a protective style with less weight.

High ponytail with French curls and highlighted box braids

#14 Playful French Curls

Highlighted box braids pulled into a high ponytail with cascading French curls add a playful and glamorous twist. The intricate braided base keeps the style secure, while the soft, flowing curls provide volume and bounce. Ideal for special occasions, though it may not be the best for those seeking a low-maintenance option.

Long-length box braids with caramel French curls

#15 Cute French Curls Hairstyle

Long-length box braids accented with caramel French curls create a fun and youthful hairstyle. The curls are concentrated at the ends, adding playful volume without overwhelming the look. This style works best for those with medium to thick hair density, offering a lightweight feel but requiring upkeep to maintain curl definition.

Blonde box braids with French curls in a half-up ponytail

#16 Blonde French Curls

Golden blonde French curls cascade from tight box braids, styled into a high half-up ponytail for added drama. This look blends playful curls with a bold, bright color, making it perfect for those who want to stand out. It works well for thicker hair types but requires attention to keep the curls defined and prevent frizz.