Hairstyle comparison

Curtain Fringe vs Beach Waves: What Is the Difference?

Compare the Curtain Fringe and Beach Waves by length, shape, finish, maintenance, salon wording, and how each changes your overall outline.

Published 20 August 2026

Example of the Curtain Fringe hairstyle
ExampleCurtain Fringe
Example of the Beach Waves hairstyle
ExampleBeach Waves

The short version

The Curtain Fringe is defined by a centre opening with cheekbone-skimming, face-framing pieces, while the Beach Waves uses loose alternating bends with relaxed separation through the ends.

The Curtain Fringe is rated medium maintenance here, compared with low for the Beach Waves.

FeatureCurtain FringeBeach Waves
Signaturea centre opening with cheekbone-skimming, face-framing piecesloose alternating bends with relaxed separation through the ends
Lengthmediumlong
Shapesoft and face-framingflowing and relaxed
Finishairywavy
Maintenancemediumlow

Curtain Fringe

Choose this direction if...

You prefer a soft and face-framing outline with a airy finish and the defining feature of a centre opening with cheekbone-skimming, face-framing pieces.

Salon wording: Ask for a centre-parted fringe that opens around the eyes and blends gradually into face-framing layers.

Beach Waves

Choose this direction if...

You prefer a flowing and relaxed outline with a wavy finish and the defining feature of loose alternating bends with relaxed separation through the ends.

Salon wording: Ask for long layers that encourage loose movement without removing too much weight, and bring a reference for the relaxed finish you prefer.

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Hair Mirror

These informational guides are generated from Hair Mirror's structured hairstyle catalog and published automatically. They are not professional hair-care advice.