Long curly hair is a natural masterpiece, full of volume, bounce, and personality. But styling it can sometimes feel overwhelming, especially when searching for a look that enhances its beauty while staying manageable. The key to embracing curly hair is to find styles that complement its texture while keeping frizz and tangles under control. Whether you prefer a chic, effortless look for daily wear or an elegant updo for special occasions, these 16 hairstyles will make your long curly hair shine.
1. The Voluminous Curly Fro
The voluminous curly fro is a bold, unapologetic style that allows your curls to reach their full potential. This look embraces the natural shape of curly hair, creating a beautifully rounded and voluminous style that radiates confidence. To achieve the best results, use a moisturizing leave-in conditioner and a curl-defining gel to enhance curl pattern and reduce frizz. A pick comb or your fingers can be used to fluff up the curls, adding extra volume and bounce. This style is perfect for those who love a carefree yet striking look that stands out in a crowd. Whether worn with a side part, middle part, or all-around even shape, the voluminous curly fro is a timeless way to celebrate natural curls.
2. Half-Up, Half-Down
The half-up, half-down hairstyle is one of the most versatile and universally flattering looks for long curly hair. It allows you to enjoy the best of both worlds—keeping some hair pulled back while letting the rest of your curls cascade freely. This style can be worn in different variations, from a sleek pulled-back look to a messy and voluminous version. Add a few tendrils framing your face for a soft, romantic touch, or secure the top section with a decorative clip or scrunchie for extra flair. The half-up, half-down style works well for casual days, professional settings, and even special occasions when styled with accessories like pearls, ribbons, or jeweled pins.
3. Curly High Ponytail
A curly high ponytail is both sophisticated and practical, making it a favorite for those with long curly hair. Unlike a straight ponytail, which often lacks volume, a high ponytail with curls is naturally full and bouncy, adding movement and elegance. To achieve a sleek base, use a small amount of styling gel or mousse to smooth down flyaways and baby hairs. A silk or satin scrunchie is recommended to prevent breakage while adding a stylish touch. For a more dramatic effect, wrap a section of hair around the base of the ponytail to conceal the hair tie. This look is perfect for everything from workouts to glamorous evenings out, proving that simple can also be stunning.
4. Loose Curly Bun
The loose curly bun is the ultimate effortless yet chic hairstyle. Whether you’re heading to work, running errands, or attending a casual gathering, this hairstyle is an easy go-to. It’s all about embracing the natural volume and shape of curls while creating a relaxed bun at the nape of the neck or slightly higher for added drama. Unlike a tight, slicked-back bun, this style allows for a few loose strands to fall around the face, giving it a soft, romantic touch. Adding a texturizing spray before styling can enhance the curl pattern and ensure the bun holds its shape without looking stiff. For an elegant twist, consider accessorizing with a decorative clip or flower pin.
5. Side Swept Curls
Side swept curls exude glamour and sophistication, making them a perfect choice for formal events or date nights. This style is achieved by gathering all the curls to one side and securing them with hidden pins or a stylish hair accessory. The beauty of this look lies in its balance—it allows curls to remain free and voluminous while maintaining an elegant, polished shape. For a Hollywood-inspired touch, you can use a curling wand to define certain sections of your curls, giving them a more structured, wavy appearance. The key to achieving the perfect side-swept curls is using a lightweight, anti-frizz serum to maintain shine and control flyaways, ensuring the style lasts throughout the day or night.
6. Braided Crown
A braided crown is the perfect way to combine intricate braiding with the natural beauty of curly hair. This look involves weaving two or more braids along the hairline, either starting from the temples or going across the entire head like a halo. The rest of the curls can be left flowing or gently pinned into a low bun for an extra elegant effect. This style works exceptionally well for weddings, bohemian-inspired outfits, or outdoor events where you want to keep hair off your face while still looking stylish. To add more dimension, you can opt for a fishtail or Dutch braid instead of a traditional three-strand braid. A light mist of curl-defining spray will help ensure that your curls stay voluminous and defined throughout the day.
7. Messy Top Knot
The messy top knot is the epitome of casual chic. It’s an easy way to keep long curly hair up while maintaining a stylish, carefree appearance. Unlike a structured bun, the messy top knot embraces texture and volume, giving off a relaxed yet put-together vibe. The key to achieving the perfect messy bun is to avoid over-manipulating your curls—let them fall naturally and pin them in place loosely to create the illusion of effortless volume. To enhance the look, leave a few curly tendrils out to frame the face or add a patterned scarf around the bun for a boho-inspired finish. This hairstyle is great for both everyday wear and spontaneous nights out, making it a must-have in any curly-haired person’s styling routine.
8. Waterfall Braid with Curls
A waterfall braid with curls is a romantic, whimsical hairstyle that allows your curls to flow beautifully while adding an intricate braided detail. This style starts with a French or Dutch braid at the crown, with sections of hair being dropped as the braid moves across the head, creating a cascading effect. The end result is a look that resembles a waterfall, with curls tumbling down in a dreamy, elegant way. It’s an excellent option for weddings, garden parties, or special occasions where you want to showcase your curls while adding a unique, feminine touch. Using a light curl-defining mousse or spray will help keep the curls fresh and bouncy throughout the day.
9. Curly Side Bun
The curly side bun is a chic, asymmetrical hairstyle that brings a touch of sophistication to long curly hair. Whether worn sleek or voluminous, this style is both flattering and practical, keeping curls neatly gathered while allowing some strands to frame the face. You can enhance the look by incorporating a twist or small braids leading into the bun for added texture. This hairstyle pairs beautifully with formal attire, making it ideal for elegant dinners, galas, or weddings. To ensure your curls remain defined, use a curl-refreshing spray before styling and secure the bun with discreet hairpins to maintain its shape.
10. Curly Layers
Curly layers are not just a hairstyle but a game-changer for those with long curly hair. Adding layers helps reduce bulk, enhance curl definition, and create a more structured yet natural look. The beauty of layered curls is that they add movement and shape, preventing the hair from looking too heavy or weighed down. Whether you prefer long, subtle layers for a more natural effect or short, choppy layers for extra volume, this cut flatters all face shapes and curl patterns. Regular trims and hydrating hair masks will keep your layers healthy and frizz-free, allowing your curls to remain bouncy and full of life.
11. Curly Bangs
Curly bangs are a fantastic way to frame the face while embracing natural texture. This trendy style adds personality and softness to long curly hair, creating a chic, youthful look. Whether you opt for wispy, curtain-style bangs or full, voluminous fringe, curly bangs can complement different face shapes and enhance your natural curls. One of the best things about curly bangs is their versatility. You can style them in a fluffy, voluminous manner for a playful vibe or keep them defined and structured for a polished appearance. If you have tighter curls, a layered cut can help prevent the bangs from looking too bulky. Loose curls and waves, on the other hand, can create a breezy, effortless effect. To maintain curly bangs, regular trims are essential to keep them at a flattering length. Moisturizing products like leave-in conditioners or curl creams help keep them hydrated and frizz-free. With the right care, curly bangs can elevate your entire look, making them a statement piece for your long, curly hair.
12. Pineapple Updo
The pineapple updo is a curly girl’s best friend, especially for preserving curl definition while keeping the hair off the face. This high, loose ponytail gathers curls at the crown of the head, allowing them to cascade forward in a fun and playful way. While this style is often used as an overnight technique to protect curls while sleeping, it’s also an effortlessly stylish look for daytime wear. This updo not only enhances volume and curl definition but also prevents tangling and frizz. It’s a great go-to style for hot summer days, casual outings, or simply when you want to highlight your curls without too much effort. For an elevated version of the pineapple updo, you can accessorize with a silk scarf, headband, or decorative hairpins to add an extra touch of style. Whether you’re running errands or heading out for a night with friends, this simple yet stunning hairstyle ensures that your long curly hair stays bouncy and full of life.
13. Curly Space Buns
Curly space buns are fun, energetic, and full of personality, making them a perfect choice for anyone who wants a trendy yet playful look. This hairstyle involves parting the hair into two sections and twisting or wrapping the curls into two voluminous buns on either side of the head. The key to a stylish space bun look is embracing the natural texture of your curls while keeping the buns secure yet effortless. Space buns can be styled in different ways, depending on your vibe. For a messy and relaxed look, leave a few tendrils of curls out around the face to add softness. If you want a sleek and polished version, smooth the roots with a styling gel before securing the buns tightly. This style is perfect for music festivals, casual hangouts, or even workout sessions, as it keeps hair out of the way while still looking super stylish. Space buns can also be dressed up with hair rings, glitter, or colorful scrunchies, making them a fun and trendy option for curly-haired individuals who love experimenting with their look.
14. French Braid with Curls
A French braid combined with loose curls is the epitome of elegance and romance. This hairstyle beautifully blends structure and movement, creating a soft yet sophisticated look that’s perfect for both casual and formal occasions. The braid starts at the top of the head and gradually incorporates more hair as it moves downward, allowing the remaining curls to flow freely at the ends. What makes this hairstyle so appealing is its versatility. You can wear a single French braid down the back for a classic approach, or create two French braids leading into curls for a boho-inspired style. It’s a great way to keep the hair controlled while still showcasing your curls in all their glory. For an extra polished look, use light-hold styling products to keep the braid neat while maintaining curl definition. If you’re going for a romantic touch, gently pull at the braid to loosen it slightly, creating a soft, ethereal feel. Whether you’re heading to work, a wedding, or a night out, the French braid with curls is a go-to style that effortlessly balances elegance and charm.
15. Curly Twisted Updo
The curly twisted updo is a timeless, elegant hairstyle that works beautifully for special occasions or professional settings. Unlike a standard bun or ponytail, this style involves twisting sections of curls before pinning them into place, creating an intricate yet effortless-looking updo. This hairstyle is perfect for weddings, formal events, or when you simply want a polished, put-together look. The beauty of the curly twisted updo is that it allows curls to be loosely styled rather than being tightly pulled back, preserving their natural volume and texture. To achieve this look, divide the hair into multiple sections and twist each one before pinning it to the back of the head. You can leave a few loose curls around the face for a softer, romantic effect. Using decorative clips, pearl pins, or floral accessories can enhance the elegance of the style, making it even more refined.
16. Curly Mohawk
For those who love edgy, bold, and statement-making hairstyles, the curly mohawk is a show-stopping look that turns heads. This style involves pinning or braiding the sides of the hair while allowing the curls to remain voluminous along the center, creating a mohawk-like shape. The curly mohawk exudes confidence and individuality, making it a favorite among those who love to experiment with their look. It can be worn messy and voluminous for a wild, carefree vibe, or styled with defined curls for a sleek, modern appearance. One way to enhance the curly mohawk is by adding braided or shaved side designs to create contrast. If you prefer a softer take on this edgy look, you can pin the sides back rather than shaving them for a temporary and more versatile version.
Conclusion
Long curly hair is a gift that offers unlimited styling possibilities. From elegant updos to playful braids and effortlessly voluminous styles, there’s no shortage of ways to make your curls shine. The key is to embrace the natural texture, use the right products to maintain definition, and experiment with styles that suit your personality and lifestyle. Whether you prefer a simple, everyday look or something more intricate for a special occasion, these hairstyles will help you highlight the beauty of your curls while keeping them healthy and manageable.