Frisé vs. bouclé

The subtleties of French language often capture fine nuances in meaning, particularly so in the world of description. When it comes to hair, two words commonly used are 'frisé' and 'bouclé', both indicating a type of curliness but with small distinctions that are important in conveying the exact nature of someone's hairstyle.

Frisé

'Frisé' refers to tightly coiled or crisply curled hair that typically has a more afro-style appearance. This term is usually used when the curls are very small and defined, similar to the texture of crimped hair.
Elle a les cheveux frisés naturellement, ce qui lui donne un look très dynamique.
(She has naturally frizzy hair, which gives her a very dynamic look.)
Après la douche, ses cheveux deviennent encore plus frisés.
(After the shower, his hair gets even frizzier.)

Bouclé

'Bouclé' describes hair that is curly in a looser and often more regular pattern than 'frisé'. The term conveys a softer image, typically bringing to mind large, bouncy curls or waves resembling those created by rollers or a curling iron.
Ses cheveux bouclés tombent en cascades le long de ses épaules.
(Her curly hair falls in cascades down her shoulders.)
Il utilise un fer à boucler pour obtenir un effet bouclé parfait pour la soirée.
(He uses a curling iron to achieve perfect curls for the evening.)

Summary

While both 'frisé' and 'bouclé' describe curly hair in French, 'frisé' captures a sense of tightness and crispness in the curls, often associated with an afro style or very tiny curls. 'Bouclé', on the other hand, suggests more substantial, rounder curls or waves that portray a softer image typically seen with voluminous styles. Understanding these differences enables speakers to more accurately describe the specific type of curls one has.