First of all, your brush-out looks absolutely gorgeous!
Second, I'd try using a gel with a stronger hold, and letting it dry more. My hair is shorter than yours, but I find if my curls are not crunchy, bone dry before taking them down, they last way less. Maybe since your hair has gotten longer it just needs a little bit more drying time. I find sitting near a room fan helps

Also, I'd watch the amount of product you're using. Too much gel can actually soften the hold you get! So can applying the gel on too-wet hair, as the water dilutes it.
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