1- 15 Easy Curly Hair Styles to Save Time

In this article, I’m sharing 15 easy curly hair styles to save time—from the classic wash-and-go to chic braids and effortless updos. Whether you’re rushing out for work, school, or just want a quick style that holds all day, these hairstyles are your new best friends. Plus, I’ll sprinkle in helpful tips on curl care and product recommendations to keep your hair healthy and bouncy.

Ready to make your curly hair routine easier and more enjoyable? Let’s dive in!

1. Wash-and-Go Curls

The wash-and-go is a staple for many curly-haired folks—and for good reason! It’s simple, fast, and showcases your natural curl pattern beautifully. The key to a great wash-and-go is prepping your hair correctly right after washing.

Start by applying a leave-in conditioner or curl cream while your hair is soaking wet to lock in moisture. Then, scrunch your curls gently upward to encourage definition without disrupting the curl pattern. Avoid rough towel-drying; instead, opt for a microfiber towel or a cotton T-shirt to reduce frizz.

To finish, air dry or use a diffuser on low heat to speed up drying without damaging your curls. The wash-and-go lets your curls shine with minimal effort and is perfect for days when you want your hair routine to be as low-maintenance as possible.

2. High Puff

If you’re in a rush but want to keep your curls looking lively, the high puff is your go-to. Think of it as a playful, stylish ponytail that puts your curls on display without much fuss.

To create a high puff, gather your curls at the crown of your head using a soft hair tie or scrunchie. Be gentle to avoid pulling or breaking strands. This style works well for all curl types, from tight coils to loose waves.

Not only does the high puff keep hair out of your face, but it also looks effortlessly chic. It’s great for casual days or even a quick trip to the grocery store when you want to look put-together without spending extra time.

3. Half-Up, Half-Down Style

When you want the best of both worlds—hair off your face but curls still flowing—the half-up, half-down style shines. This versatile look frames your face beautifully while giving your curls some room to bounce.

Simply section off the top half of your hair and secure it with a clip or hair tie. For extra flair, you can tease the roots slightly to add volume or curl the ends of the loose hair for a polished finish.

This style is perfect for those who love volume and want to show off their curls without full commitment to an updo. Plus, it takes just minutes, making it ideal for busy mornings.

4. Pineapple Updo

Curly hair lovers know the struggle of preserving curl definition overnight. Enter the pineapple updo—an overnight savior that doubles as a cute daytime style!

To pineapple, gather your curls loosely at the very top of your head and secure with a silk or satin scrunchie. This technique protects curls from flattening and friction while you sleep, keeping them bouncy and fresh.

The next morning, you can wear your pineapple updo as is for a fun, high-fashion look, or take it down for a refreshed wash-and-go. It’s a two-in-one time saver that you’ll want to incorporate into your routine ASAP.

5. Side Part with Defined Curls

Sometimes, all you need is a simple shift in parting to refresh your curly hairstyle and add a touch of sophistication. A side part with defined curls instantly gives your look a polished edge without extra styling.

To achieve this, use a comb or your fingers to create a deep side part on freshly styled curls. Apply a curl-defining cream or gel to enhance the shape and reduce frizz.

This subtle change works well for both casual and formal settings, making it a versatile option for anyone wanting quick, stylish curls that stay defined all day.

6. Twist-Out Style

The twist-out is a classic curly hairstyle that offers beautifully defined curls with lots of texture. The best part? It’s a low-effort way to achieve volume and curl definition without daily styling.

Start by sectioning your damp hair and applying a curl cream or moisturizer. Then, twist two strands around each other, working through your entire head. Let your hair dry fully—either overnight or with a diffuser—before unraveling the twists carefully.

The result? Soft, springy curls that look stunning and can last for days, saving you time on styling every morning.

7. Low Bun with Curly Edges

If you want a sleek yet curly style that’s quick to do, the low bun with curly edges is your answer. This look is elegant, neat, and perfect for both professional and casual occasions.

Gather your curls into a low bun at the nape of your neck using a hair tie or pins. Leave some curls out around your face or style your edges with a light gel or edge control for a polished finish.

This style protects your hair while showcasing your curls beautifully and takes just minutes to achieve, making it a fantastic option for time-saving styling.

8. Curly Bangs with Loose Curls

Curly bangs can be intimidating, but when styled well, they add a fun, youthful vibe to your look. Pair them with loose curls for an effortlessly cool style.

To keep bangs defined and soft, apply a curl cream or light gel to damp hair and finger-coil small sections of bangs. Let them air dry or use a diffuser to maintain bounce without frizz.

Trim bangs carefully to avoid damage and maintain shape. This style works well for those wanting a fresh twist on curly hair without complicated routines.

9. Braided Crown with Curls

The braided crown is a romantic, elegant hairstyle that beautifully showcases curly hair’s versatility. It’s easier to do than it looks and adds instant flair to any outfit.

Simply braid sections of hair along the front or sides of your head and pin them around the crown, letting the rest of your curls cascade naturally.

This style keeps hair controlled but soft, great for special occasions or days when you want a fuss-free yet stunning look. Bonus: it protects your hair while looking fabulous!

10. Messy Curly Ponytail

When in doubt, a messy ponytail is always a great choice. It’s quick, easy, and embraces curls in their natural, carefree glory.

Use a soft scrunchie to pull your curls back loosely at the mid or high point of your head. Let a few curls fall naturally to frame your face for a relaxed vibe.

The messy ponytail works well for casual outings, workouts, or lazy days when you want your hair out of your way but still stylish.

11. Curly Space Buns

Want a playful, trendy hairstyle? Curly space buns are fun, youthful, and surprisingly simple.

Divide your hair into two sections and twist or coil each into buns on either side of your head. Secure with hair ties or bobby pins, making sure not to flatten your curls too much.

Space buns work great for keeping curls off your neck and face while adding a quirky twist to your look. Perfect for festivals, casual weekends, or anytime you want a bit of fun.

12. Defined Ringlets with Curl Enhancer

For those blessed with natural ringlets, enhancing them with the right products can make your curls pop effortlessly.

Apply a curl-enhancing cream or gel on damp hair, section by section, to define your ringlets. Use a diffuser or air dry to maintain shape and avoid frizz.

Defined ringlets look polished and vibrant, turning heads with their natural beauty. This method takes minimal effort once you find the right products for your hair.

13. Curly Mohawk Style

For an edgy and bold look, the curly mohawk style is perfect. It highlights texture while making a statement.

Push curls upward and toward the center of your head using styling gel or mousse. Keep the sides more controlled or slicked back for contrast.

This look is trendy and practical, requiring less time to style than you might think, and it’s a great way to switch up your curly hair routine.

14. Half Braided Style

If you want to add some texture and interest to your curls quickly, try a half braided style.

Braid a small section of hair along one side and secure with a pin or elastic. Let the rest of your curls flow freely for a balanced look.

This simple style is elegant yet easy to do, perfect for when you want to elevate your curly look without extra time.

15. Finger Coils for Defined Curls

Finger coils are a fantastic technique for those who love super-defined curls.

Take small sections of damp hair and twist them around your finger to create coils. Use a light gel or curl cream for hold and shine.

This style takes some time initially but saves you effort during the week, as coils stay defined and frizz-free for days.

Conclusion

Managing curly hair doesn’t have to be a time-consuming challenge. With these 15 easy curly hair styles to save time, you can embrace your natural curls while keeping your routine simple and stress-free. From the effortless wash-and-go to playful space buns and elegant braids, there’s a style here for every occasion and mood.