A wave that lasts longer, looks more natural, and isn’t just another beachy look.
Anyone who’s styled curls knows the struggle: beach waves lose shape by midday, tight coils can feel overdone, and humidity throws everything off balance. Utah curls have a looser texture with straighter ends and surprise with their longevity. It’s a look that feels styled and lived-in at the same time.
@manesxgianna
Utah curls were popularized on The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives, where women in Utah often paraded a wave pattern that quickly caught on nationwide. The name stuck thanks to local influencers who favored this distinct style.
Utah’s dry climate dictates the look of the hair. With low humidity levels, curls hold a bend near the root but slip out at the ends and have an almost straight-line appearance. It makes perfect sense not to force your hair into something it might not pull off.
@hairbynicolinapercia
Utah curls are often compared to or mistaken for beach waves. Many even question whether they’re any different. In essence, beach waves usually form a uniform ripple from top to bottom, while Utah curls are fuller near the scalp but taper into straight ends.
Beach waves can be done with almost any hot tool, overnight braids, or heatless curlers, but Utah curls typically require a curling iron with a clamp. That clamp lets you start higher up and keep the ends sleek for that telltale contrast.
@beautyby.bentley
You’ll need: curling iron with clamp (1”–1.5”), duckbill clips, comb or brush, heat protectant, mousse, light hairspray or texturizing spray.
Stylist Alexandra Devine recommends the following method:
@hairdesignbydevine
This style requires length to show its full glory. Long, layered styles, particularly when there’s a hint of natural texture to build on, are practically made for Utah curls. Jessi Ngatikaura, the star of The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives, observes: “The more layers, the better when it comes to having curled hair because layers and texture help hold the style.”
Hairstylist Lauren Ashely Woods chimes in: “My client and I love how the Utah curl shows more length VS a traditional bouncy curl.” Plus, Utah curls age beautifully throughout the day, softening rather than collapsing. A rare gift for anyone who doesn’t want to re-style at 4 p.m.
@lwoodssalon
Utah curls are a clever way to get texture that lasts. If you’re hooked on curls that soften rather than vanish, check out our guide on how to make your curls last longer.
