We love curly girls! Take a look at these gorgeous updos for curly hair. Whether it’s your natural curl or you created it with a curling iron, we promise not to tell!
Low Braided Curly Updo
Instagram @guilhermeviega
If you want to easily hide all your curls, braids are the most elegant way to do it. This curly hair updo can be as formal or as casual and boho as you want!
Beautiful Curly French Twist
Instagram @locksandlasheswi
Hairstylist Stephanie created this attractive French twist with lots of texture, ideal for girls with medium-length hair. The texture and volume create the illusion of longer hair without looking heavy.
Stunning Braided Curly Bun
Instagram @veronicafensel
This brilliant work of art is achieved by first creating curls, which add lots of depth and volume, and then gathering them into a large low bun. Finish with a thick braid and a pretty flower crown for a feminine touch.
Enhanced Updo
Instagram @hairbysamortega
Enhance your natural curls with this simple yet spectacular updo. Perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a date or a relaxing stroll on the beach!
High Bun
Instagram @st_biton
Q&A with the style creator, Esti Biton
Hairstylist and makeup artist / trainer in Tel Aviv, Israel
How would you describe this look?
This updo is my ideal look: striking and effortless. The curls stay defined and it’s very comfortable to wear; the most important thing when creating curls is that they maintain their shape for a long time.
Any advice for someone considering it?
This curly style suits thick, abundant hair, but it’s also a great solution for fine hair: the texture and volume create the illusion of fuller locks.
Keep in mind that the finish is natural and relaxed, although it takes some time to spray hairspray on each section before curling it; that process helps keep the curls in place.
It’s a great style for any woman who wants a clean, natural look while still feeling like herself.
Twisted Buns
Instagram @traehowardhair
Q&A with the style creator, Trae Howard
Freelance bridal and event stylist in Nashville, TN
How would you describe this look?
It’s a braided chignon with lots of volume for curly hair.
Any advice for someone considering it?
My dear bride wanted a clean, elegant updo with pretty details. I used Kenra Airgrip texture spray, which helped me control the frizz of her natural curl. I took small sections on top, created loose twists, and expanded them as I pinned them in a crisscross pattern.
I divided the base of the hairstyle into three braids, applied Puff Me to each one, and backcombed them to make them look nice and full, securing them to create a low chignon. I finished with Redken 32.
High Ponytail
Instagram @heloved_bohemian
Q&A with the style creator, Cheriese Anderson
Owner / hairstylist at Beloved Bohemian, Townsville, QLD
How would you describe this look?
This look is a textured, relaxed, voluminous ponytail: the perfect balance between polished and casual, showing off the length while keeping the hair away from the face. The best part is that it feels wildly romantic, carefree, and feminine.
Any advice for someone considering it?
This style is very versatile, low maintenance, and long-lasting.
I prefer to use texture powders to create and maintain the look, plus sea salt spray and dry shampoo as hairspray alternatives, to keep a light and airy finish.
If you don’t have natural length or volume, clip-in extensions are an affordable way to have a little more hair to work with.
It can be achieved on most hair types with the right preparation!
Loose Curly Updo
Instagram @dananematallahair
Q&A with the style creator, Dyana Nematalla
Master stylist at Melrose & McQueen Salon, Atlanta, GA
How would you describe this look?
This look is a thoroughly romantic updo for women with naturally curly hair. It’s perfect for the natural curly girl going to an elegant event but doesn’t want to straighten her hair: a more organic, tousled finish, and one of my favorites.
Any advice for someone considering it?
I usually start by dampening the hair and applying curl cream (R+Co Twister) and R+Co Chiffon mousse, then dry with a diffuser upside down. It’s perfect for the girl who already has texture in her hair and wants something different for a formal event; it can also be achieved on straight hair by curling it, adding texture, and gently combing back for a softer, more romantic finish.
Pinned-Up Greek Curls
Instagram @tanssi
Q&A with the style creator, Krystal Hopkins
Stylist at Krystalized Hair, Auburn, MA
How would you describe this look?
This Greek updo isn’t just great for a formal event—my client also had a dinner reservation! The silver bobby pins were the finishing touch: they added interest and dimension, plus that well-deserved “shabby chic” vibe.
Any advice for someone considering it?
If you already have curly or wavy hair, perfect: you’ll save time and get a gorgeous everyday look. For those who can’t stand second-day curls, pinning up the hair can turn out really beautiful.
This look was created with a triple-barrel curling iron on pinned-up hair, with my favorite KMS products!
ADD VOLUME, liquid powder applied with a blow dryer for body and a tousled touch.
THERMASHAPE 2-in-1, heat protection and setting spray.
HAIR PLAY, dry wax to separate and add texture after curling the hair; works on all curl types.
Low Curly Bun with Textured Twist
Instagram @makeupandhairbymichelle
Q&A with the style creator, Michelle
Licensed Cosmetologist at Makeup and Hair by Michelle, Clearfield, UT
How would you describe this look?
I would describe this look’s style as versatile, because it can be formal or casual, and I love how much natural texture it has.
Any advice for someone considering it?
Make sure you have a good hairspray that keeps the curl ends in place; I like Kenra hairspray.
Also choose elastics and bobby pins that match your hair color. This style keeps hair away from the face with its secure twists and gives a fun, playful vibe that suits your personality.
Romantic Low Curly Updo
Instagram @thestylistabroad
Q&A with the style creator, Ashley Peters
Independent stylist in McLean, VA
How would you describe this look?
I created this hairstyle while working at Jewel Hair Design (@jewelhairdesign). I would describe this look as a romantic, sophisticated low updo. My favorite thing about this style is that it truly embraces natural curls: we didn’t curl the hair at all, except in a few spots with an odd bend, so 95% of what you see is her natural texture. I love that women can embrace the curls they were born with even in updos.
I also like how versatile it is: if someone wants it more boho, we can let some pieces down, or tighten it for something more structured. There are options.
Any advice for someone considering it?
This style is perfect for clients with naturally curly hair who want to show off their curls on their big day. It’s a very secure style, so it will stay intact until the end of the night even if you dance nonstop.
As for products, I used Kenra Smoothing Serum to unite and tame flyaways near the root, Kenra 25 hairspray, and when everything was in place, Kenra Shine Spray to add a touch of gloss.
Lighter highlights add dimension: I always recommend “milk chocolate” highlights to my brunette brides to bring the style to life, because otherwise the details can get lost.
Tools I used: 1-inch Pro Tools curling iron, Diane teasing comb, Olivia Garden bristle brush, and Diane bobby pins and needles. The accessory is from Hair Comes The Bride.
Prom-Worthy Pinned Curls
Instagram @kauneushoitola
Q&A with the style creator, Becki Geiger
Hairstylist and makeup artist at Martyn Salon, Lederach, PA
How would you describe this look?
I would describe this textured updo as a romantic, relaxed style. My favorite thing is that for the stylist, it’s anything but relaxed: it’s a challenge! Pinning curls in a specific way is very important to create a soft cascade. Every head and every hair is totally different, so the technique that works on one person may not work on another.
Any advice for someone considering it?
If you want a formal style or an updo, always come to the salon with dry, unwashed hair. Dirty hair is better, so hold out without washing it for as many days as you can; dry shampoo helps with the backcombing process. Don’t worry: stylists make sure your hair doesn’t look dirty at big events.
To all my curly clients who want a hairstyle like this or very similar: straighten your hair before you start curling! Unless you have perfect, structured curls, we prefer to smooth out the curl and then curl with a curling iron for a smoother, frizz-free finish.
I think this style works with any texture and density: curls make fine hair look more abundant. A length between shoulder and mid-back is ideal; shorter doesn’t allow for creating the bun, and longer can be too heavy for good hold.
Many young women choose this relaxed look for its texture. It’s a prom and wedding classic and brings more “personality” than a polished, sleek style.
Effortless Curly Half-Updo
Instagram @becky1hair
Q&A with the style creator, Becky Gonzalez
Senior Stylist at J.C. Penney InStyle Salon, Roseville, California
How would you describe this look?
I would describe this look as relaxed, fun, and versatile.
My favorite thing about this hairstyle is that it doesn’t have to be perfect: it looks like you put a ton of work into it, but it’s actually very easy! I also love that you can wear it casual or dressed up by adding jewels or little flowers.
Any advice for someone considering it?
For me, the most important part of this hairstyle is the starting curls. It works best with medium to thick hair, curly or wavy. If you’re going to try it with your natural curls, make sure you have enough product in your hair before you start so it doesn’t frizz and is easier to work with when pinning. You can try it with freshly washed hair or with second-day curls.
My client in the photo already had naturally curly hair, so when she arrived I re-dampened it with a spray bottle, applied mousse and a light serum, and dried it on low heat with the diffuser.
If your hair is wavy and doesn’t curl much, you can also touch up some sections with a small curling iron before pinning it. Just make sure the curls are dry before setting everything!
Next, gather the top section of hair into a ponytail, leaving some pieces loose in front. I like to divide the ponytail in two, twist each section, and wrap them into a soft bun. Secure it nice and tight; you can always gently pull on the bun afterward to loosen it a bit.
Touch up the pieces you left in front with the curling iron so everything looks softer, and you’re done! Finish with a light hairspray; I like to use one with soft hold so the curls still look natural and don’t end up sticky or stiff. My favorite is Healthy Sexy Hair Soy Touchable hairspray.
The most important thing to remember is that it doesn’t have to look perfect: the more relaxed and soft it looks, the better!
Textured Curly Chignon
Instagram @renkaat
Q&A with the style creator, Mindy Hobley
Owner of Ringletts Salon, New Orleans, LA
How would you describe this look?
I love this look because it has volume and feels relaxed. Current styles at Ringletts Salon are softer and simpler: this look is an example of the texture and simplicity we embrace.
The best thing about this look is that it can be done on any texture, from straight, fine hair to curly, with the right preparation and styling tools.
Any advice for someone considering it?
This look was created for a natural curly girl.
We polished her with a dry shine serum and then twisted and pinned each section to form a very textured chignon.
Soft and Organic Natural Curls
Instagram @hairbysammiejane
Q&A with the style creator, Samantha Jane Money
Hairstylist at Fortelli Salon & Spa, Mississauga, ON
How would you describe this look?
I love working with curly hair! My client was attending her sister’s wedding and we decided to work with her natural curls. I love how soft and organic it looks.
Any advice for someone considering it?
If you’re going for a natural curl hairstyle, a good way to prep your hair that day is to wash or condition it. Use a curl cream or a light gel to reduce frizz and twist small sections, about two centimeters, to form curls while they’re still damp. Make sure to diffuse dry or have enough time to air dry before your stylist appointment!
Tousled and Elegant Updo
Instagram @karvahiukset
Q&A with the style creator, Givini E. Vega
Texture Master and Hairstylist at Willow Organic Salon & Day Spa, Jacksonville, FL
How would you describe this look?
It’s a tousled, elegant updo, perfect for a carefree, boho bride who lets her curls do all the work. Without a doubt, I love how natural and effortless this style looks.
Any advice for someone considering it?
For this look we started with freshly washed curls using Aveda Be Curly CoWash. I styled them with BeCurly Style Prep and Curl Enhancer, plus a few spritzes of Aveda Texture Tonic for volume and texture. I dried her hair that same day with the CurlyCo diffuser, which allowed her fine texture to gain all possible volume with minimal backcombing.
If anyone wants to try this style, I strongly recommend spin or spiral pins: they hold a lot of hair with very few pins. You’ll definitely slay with this secure style.
Romantic Chic Updo with Curls
Instagram @abbietko
Q&A with the style creator, Abbie
Director / senior stylist at Total Knockout Salon & Spa, Canandaigua, NY
How would you describe this look?
It’s a chic, romantic updo. I love it because it’s one of those looks that seems very elaborate, but didn’t take forever to create. What I like most are the loose curls falling in front and the overall frizzy texture that brings out the romantic feel.
Any advice for someone considering it?
For this look you need a 2C or 3A curl type and roughly medium-length hair. Second-day hair is good for a slightly more muted, natural finish, so a little frizz is OK!
If you’re someone who doesn’t do very dressed up but loves to wear your hair a little done up, this look is great for you!
Effortless and Natural
Instagram @danipiszczek
Q&A with the style creator, Danielle Piszczek
Hairstylist at Lovely Salon & Spa, Milwaukee, WI
How would you describe this look?
I love this look and would describe it as effortless and natural. Her hair was made for this style! I’m not a fan of forced updos, so when this one fell into place, it was because it was meant to be.
Any advice for someone considering it?
My advice for anyone wanting this style is that they need natural texture. It could work on naturally straight hair, but achieving this look would require much more preparation.
Curls are fun and wild, so if you’re lucky enough to have this hair texture, go with the natural movement of your mane.
Soft Updo for Tight Curls
Instagram @kelleygingerhair
Q&A with the style creator, Kelley
Hair Artist and Colorist at Vincent Salon, Eagan, MN
How would you describe this look and what do you like most about it?
It’s a great updo for a bride, bridesmaid, or any special event.
What I like most about this look is the softness. With a small curling iron (approximately the size of the curl pattern) over the client’s natural curl, we were able to create a more polished finish without losing her authenticity.
What tips or products do you recommend to recreate this look?
To achieve this look, a curl-enhancing line was used: shampoo, conditioner, and mousse. I love Living Proof’s curl line because it works wonders on this type of fine but abundant hair. Before curling, I applied Living Proof Dry Volume Blast hairspray and Living Proof Control hairspray; if humidity is a factor, also add Living Proof Humidity Shield.
To finish I added one or two more passes of Control hairspray. TIP: for a softer finish use more hair pins than bobby pins. Plus, they don’t disturb the curls as much!
What type of client would you recommend this look for?
Since I believe in enhancing natural beauty, I think it’s a great, flattering look for natural curly girls. The curling iron size should vary depending on the curl pattern, and the hair should always be wrapped around the barrel to look more authentic.
The final result is in the details. Taking into account the client’s features and face shape, we created softness by framing her face with curls that graze the cheekbones and broken pieces at the nape.
Relaxed, Textured Messy Updo
Instagram @tanssilaakso
Q&A with the style creator, Stacie Goodwin
Mobile Bridal Hairstylist at Stacie Goodwin Hairdresser, Suffolk, England
How would you describe this look and what do you like most about it?
It’s a relaxed, textured updo. My favorite thing is that it’s a very versatile style: it can be worn alone or with various accessories. You can try a ribbon like in the photo, a hair vine, small decorative pins, or even fresh flowers: everything goes with this type of updo.
What tips or products do you recommend to recreate this look?
This look was created using mostly the client’s natural curls. I used a combination of products, including Redken All Soft Argan-6 Oil and Kenra Matte Texture Putty; I mixed them and applied them to define the curls.
My advice is not to make it too sleek or structured when creating this style: it should look effortless, as if it was done in a couple of minutes. Another tip: if you need to better define the curls, a small curling iron is a great tool because it curls the hair while maintaining a natural effect.
What type of client would you recommend this look for?
I recommend this hairstyle to anyone looking for a soft, relaxed style. It suits a bride with fresh flowers and veil, but works just as well without accessories for dinner with friends.
Although this client has naturally curly hair, it can easily be created with a curling iron on most hair types. I recommend shoulder-length or longer. I think this look flatters almost all face shapes because the style is relaxed and messy.
Soft and Timeless Updo
Instagram @brandy_hairstylist
Q&A with the style creator, Brandy Godden
Hairstylist at Studio 62 Salon, Victoria, BC
How would you describe this look and what do you like most about it?
I think it’s a soft, romantic, timeless updo that embraces her beautiful natural curls. It’s delicate yet elegant, gorgeous for a wedding or graduation.
I love texture in hair because it adds softness. I also enjoyed working with her: I used her for the first time and found she gave lots of room for creativity.
What tips or products do you recommend to recreate this look?
I asked her to come with her natural curls dry and styled with her usual curl cream. I love Redavid Orchid Oil and used it to smooth her dry hair. I also used Sexy Hair 450 Protect and wrapped each curl around a 1/2-inch curling iron, alternating directions.
I made a low bun as a base and pinned the loops on top. I finished by pinning a decorative vine and spraying shine spray.
What type of client would you recommend this look for?
This look is for anyone with curly hair who wants to enhance their natural texture. It would be a great look for any formal event: the perfect way to feel elegant while still being yourself for those who love to embrace their curls.
Romantically Braided Curly Updo
Instagram @Kauppalehti.fi
Q&A with the style creator, Jessica Aguilar
Stylist / Colorist at The Style Bar, Stamford, CT
How would you describe this look and what do you like most about it?
I would describe this look as a romantic look. My favorite is how the curls give it a soft yet very elegant finish.
What tips or products do you recommend to recreate this look?
Start by prepping the hair with a light oil for shine; I used a small amount of Bumble and Bumble Hairdresser’s Invisible Oil. To finish, set with a light hairspray so the curls stay in place without looking crunchy or stiff. With her I used Bumble and bumble Does It All hairspray because she has fine hair, but you can always use something with more hold depending on your hair type.
What type of client would you recommend this look for?
I love this look because it’s very versatile and any woman can wear it: it looks beautiful with any face shape. I always pin the hair around the face last to frame it in the most flattering way for each person. This look is great for any formal event!
Curly Top Knot
Instagram @justinemarjan
This high bun, messy but very well done, is a true feast for the eyes! You can leave some soft curls around your face for a flirty, framing effect.
Shiny Curls
Glamorous curls combined with red highlights make this a hairstyle that you and all your friends will adore!
How to Style:
- Apply a curl defining cream to towel-dried hair.
- Dry the hair completely with a diffuser blow dryer, making sure to use low or medium heat.
- Backcomb the hair near the scalp and just above the forehead area.
Smooth the hair from the hairline back so the backcombing doesn’t show.
- Gather the hair up and slightly to one side in a ponytail.
- Spray a curl enhancing spray over the hair you’re going to curl.
- Use a 1-inch or 3/4-inch curling iron to add curls (or define yours) in the ponytail.
- Pin the curls near the base of the ponytail to hide the elastic.
- Spray medium or strong hold hairspray so it lasts all night.
Recommended Products:
Try Bed Head Foxy Curls Mousse, a mousse for extreme curls designed to treat and smooth hair while maintaining shape and style.
Best Face Shape and Hair Type:
This style flatters those with oval, heart-shaped, round, or square faces and thick, naturally wavy, or curly hair.
Messy Bun
Instagram @curlmaestro
Simple, natural, and spectacular! This frizzy updo is ideal for women who aren’t afraid to embrace the beauty gifts nature gave them.
Subtle Curls
Soft curls complement this flowing style and its two-tone blonde color to perfection!
How to Style:
- Apply styling cream to towel-dried hair.
- Make a side part.
- Dry the hair completely and smooth it with a paddle brush.
- Add an inverted French braid about two inches from the hairline. Start the braid behind one ear and bring it across the top of the head to behind the other ear.
- Spray heat protectant over the rest of the hair.
- Use a 1-inch barrel curling iron to add curls in the front, curling away from the face for a relaxed yet mature style.
- Gather the loose hair to one side with bobby pins.
- Finish with a medium or high hold hairspray to set the style.
Recommended Products:
Try Healthy Sexy Hair Soy Touchable, a light hairspray that hydrates, nourishes, and repairs hair while offering UV and thermal protection.
Best Face Shape and Hair Type:
This hairstyle works best with naturally wavy or straight hair and oval, square, diamond, or heart-shaped faces.
Braided Bun
Instagram @hairdesignbyabigail
Start by creating loose braids and coil them at the nape, finishing with a goddess-worthy bun.
Curly French Twist
Instagram @perfectscentsutah
A gorgeous updo for naturally curly hair is all you need to slay during the day. Play with your hair’s natural texture and definition for a spectacular result.
Sweet and Simple
This style may look difficult, but it’s really just about braiding and pinning!
How to Style:
- Apply styling cream to towel-dried hair.
- Make a side part.
- Dry the hair completely with the blow dryer.
- Starting from the center back, use a 3/4 or 1-inch barrel curling iron to add curls throughout the hair.
- Braid the curls inward and