My hair is curly, very thick, and coarse. How do I gracefully grow out my short cut?

For the last four years or so I've been rocking a short cut (see photo). I've loved it, but I want to make a change and grow it out. However, all the resources I've found for growing out a short cut seem to apply only to fine, silky, or kinky hair. My coarse curls don't act quite the same way. Would love some advice!