16 – 20 Easy Curly Hair Styles for All Curl Types

The good news is that embracing your natural texture doesn’t mean giving up on ease or style. In fact, with the right hairstyles, curly hair can be low-maintenance and fabulous. Whether your curls are loose and beachy or tight and springy, we’ve rounded up 20 easy curly hairstyles that cater to all curl types. These styles are practical, cute, and perfect for everyday wear or special occasions.

According to a survey by NaturallyCurly, over 60% of the world’s population has some type of textured hair. Yet many curlies struggle with frizz, time-consuming routines, and a lack of curl-friendly style inspiration. That ends today. Ready to fall in love with your curls again? Let’s dive in!

1. Pineapple Updo

The pineapple updo is a classic go-to for curly girls everywhere. It’s not just for bedtime anymore—this style is cute enough to wear out and about.

Simply gather your curls on top of your head and secure with a scrunchie. Leave a few curls loose at the front for a playful finish. The high placement prevents frizz and protects curl definition. Best of all, it takes less than two minutes.

Perfect for second or even third-day curls, this style helps you stretch wash days while keeping your hair cute and functional. It’s also great for avoiding tangles and reducing breakage overnight.

2. Curly High Puff

The curly high puff is a bold, voluminous style that’s super easy to pull off. Think of it as the afro’s fun cousin with a bit more structure.

To achieve this look, gather your curls at the crown and secure with a wide headband or soft hair tie. Use your fingers to fluff and shape the puff to your liking. The results? A high-impact style with zero heat and minimal effort.

This style works best on kinky and coily hair types but can be adapted for looser curls with a little extra product. It’s especially handy for hot weather when you want your hair off your neck.

3. Loose Curly Bun

Looking for something elegant yet casual? The loose curly bun is your answer. It gives off effortless vibes without sacrificing style.

Simply gather your curls into a low or mid-height bun. Allow a few tendrils to fall naturally to frame your face. This style is particularly flattering on oval and heart-shaped faces.

It works for everything from brunch with friends to an impromptu Zoom meeting. Bonus: it’s also a protective style that minimizes breakage and tangling.

4. Half-Up Half-Down Curls

One of the most versatile curly hair styles, the half-up half-down look allows you to show off your curls while keeping them out of your face.

Use a cute clip, barrette, or scrunchie to pull the top half of your curls back. Let the bottom half cascade freely. This style plays well with volume and works for all curl types.

Add in a few accessories like pins or beads, and you’ve instantly elevated the look. It’s also great for second-day hair that needs a little freshening up.

5. Defined Wash and Go

The wash and go is a staple in every curly girl’s routine. It highlights your natural texture and delivers maximum definition with minimal styling.

Start with freshly washed and conditioned hair. Apply your favorite curl cream or gel while hair is wet, then let air dry or diffuse. The key is using the right products for your curl pattern.

It might take a bit of trial and error, but once you find your perfect combo, the wash and go becomes an easy, reliable go-to. Plus, it sets the stage for multiple styles over several days.

6. Curly Bangs

Curly bangs are trending, and for good reason. They add a touch of personality and flair to any look.

Whether you opt for soft fringe or bold, face-framing curls, bangs can transform your haircut. They require a bit of maintenance but are worth the effort if you’re craving something fresh.

Pro tip: always cut bangs dry when dealing with curls to avoid shrinkage surprises. A curl specialist can help shape them to suit your face.

7. Side-Swept Curls

Side-swept curls are effortlessly glamorous. Whether you’re attending a wedding or just want to add a little drama to your everyday look, this style delivers.

To create this look, part your hair deeply to one side and pin the smaller section behind your ear. Add volume with a pick or finger combing on the fuller side.

This style works beautifully with layered cuts and adds a romantic flair, especially when paired with a bold lip or statement earrings.

8. Braided Crown

The braided crown is as functional as it is elegant. It keeps curls in place while creating a regal look.

Part your hair down the middle and create two braids on each side. Wrap them across the top of your head and secure with bobby pins.

This protective style is perfect for longer curls and helps minimize tangles and breakage. It also works beautifully for special occasions like weddings or festivals.

9. Twist-Out

A twist-out is a two-for-one: it’s both a protective style and a way to stretch your curls.

To create it, start with damp hair, apply a curl cream, and section your hair into twists. Let them dry completely before unraveling. The result? Soft, defined curls with extra length.

It’s ideal for type 3 and type 4 curls and lasts for days with the right maintenance. Nighttime pineapple-ing can help extend the life of this style.

10. Bantu Knots

Bantu knots are both a style and a curl-enhancing technique. They give off a bold, edgy vibe while protecting your natural texture.

Divide your hair into sections, twist each one tightly, and coil it into a small knot. Secure with pins or hair ties. Let them set overnight or wear them as-is for a striking look.

When taken down, they also create beautiful, heatless curls. Win-win!

11. Curly Top Knot

Need a quick style that looks put together? Enter the curly top knot.

Gather your curls into a high ponytail, twist loosely into a bun, and secure. Let a few curls fall out for that laid-back vibe.

It’s ideal for third-day curls or when you’re heading to the gym. This look pairs well with hoops and high-neck tops for an effortlessly stylish appearance.

12. Slicked Back Puff

This style mixes sleek edges with voluminous curls—the best of both worlds.

Apply gel or edge control to your hairline, brush hair upward, and secure with a band. Fluff out the puff and define curls as needed.

It’s great for all occasions and provides a clean, polished look while still showcasing your natural volume.

13. Afro Pick-Out

The afro pick-out is a celebration of full-volume texture. It’s bold, beautiful, and unapologetically natural.

Use a wide-tooth comb or afro pick to gently lift your curls from the roots. Focus on volume, not definition.

Perfect for making a statement, this style also works wonders for enhancing your curl shape and silhouette.

14. Bubble Ponytail

The bubble ponytail is fun, easy, and a creative twist on a classic style.

Tie your curls into a ponytail and add elastics down the length, spacing them out evenly. Puff out each section to create “bubbles.”

This style works best on medium to long curly hair and adds a playful, youthful flair to any outfit.

15. Two-Strand Twists

Two-strand twists are a protective style favorite that also doubles as a twist-out base.

Section your hair and twist two strands together. Let them dry or wear them for a few days as-is before unraveling.

They’re great for reducing breakage, retaining length, and giving your hair a stylish break from manipulation.

16. Space Buns for Curls

Space buns are quirky, fun, and incredibly easy to do.

Divide your curls into two sections, twist or wrap them into buns on either side of your head, and secure.

Perfect for festivals, lazy days, or when you just want to stand out. Add glitter or accessories for extra flair.

17. Curly Faux Hawk

The faux hawk is edgy, stylish, and surprisingly simple.

Pin or braid the sides of your hair toward the center to create a mohawk effect with your curls. Tease the crown for added volume.

It’s a great way to experiment with bold styling without a permanent cut.

18. Wet Look Curls

For a sleek, runway-inspired look, try the wet look.

Apply gel or curl custard to damp hair, slicking it back evenly. The goal is a glossy, defined finish with hold.

This style works best for short to medium curls and pairs well with high-fashion outfits or evening events.

19. Scarf Style Wrap

Scarves are a curly girl’s best friend. Not only are they stylish, but they also protect your hair.

Wrap a satin scarf around your head and tie it into a knot or bow. Tuck in loose curls or let them peek out for a casual-cute finish.

Great for bad hair days, low-effort looks, or just adding a pop of color to your outfit.

20. Curly Shag Cut (With Style)

The shag cut is making a major comeback—especially for curly hair.

Layers add movement and volume while reducing bulk. To style, use a diffuser or let your curls air dry for a lived-in texture.

Ask your stylist for face-framing pieces to elevate the shape. This cut pairs beautifully with curtain bangs or a bold lip.

Conclusion

Curly hair is incredibly diverse, and with the right styles, it’s also incredibly easy to manage. Whether you prefer protective looks, bold volume, or effortless chic, there’s something in this list for every curl type and every lifestyle.

These 20 easy curly hairstyles offer flexibility, style, and functionality—without sacrificing your time or your curls’ health. Try one, try them all! Remember, curls are not just hair—they’re an expression. Rock them with pride, confidence, and a bit of creativity. Your curl journey is uniquely yours, and every twist and coil deserves to shine.