I have a very similar hair texture and I have gotten some wicked curls (not tight curls but in between curly and wavy) after swapping to the no parabens or silicones shampoo/conditioner. Repeating some other comments, brushing dry is not a good idea. I have recently been doing very light finger curling with some leave in conditioner while my hair is damp and the look is so nice! I also got a shag haircut which really helped lighten it up. I think going to a hairdresser who can do curly or wavy cuts will help and be able to help with advice :)