17 – 7 Easy Curly Hair Styles for All Curl Types

Well, you’re not alone. A report from NaturallyCurly.com revealed that over 65% of women have some form of textured or curly hair. The top concern? Finding easy, stylish, and practical hairstyles that don’t take all morning. Whether your curls are loose waves or tight coils, we’ve got your back.

In this guide, we’re breaking down 7 super easy curly hair styles that work for all curl types. They’re low-effort, totally cute, and ideal for busy mornings or lazy Sundays. Best of all? These styles enhance your natural texture without requiring a ton of heat, product, or time. Ready to fall in love with your curls all over again? Let’s get started!

1. The Pineapple Updo

The pineapple updo is a curly hair classic. It’s perfect for preserving your curls overnight or when you need a quick and casual style for daytime errands.

To create the look, gather all your curls at the top of your head and secure them loosely with a silk scrunchie. Avoid tight elastics—they’ll cause breakage and frizz. The result? A playful, voluminous puff that shows off your texture.

This style works best on medium to long curls and all curl patterns from 3A to 4C. It also protects your curl definition by minimizing friction, especially when paired with a satin pillowcase. You can even jazz it up by tying a printed scarf around the base for a more styled look.

Great for sleep, workouts, or lazy hair days, the pineapple updo is the go-to style every curly girl should have in her arsenal.

2. Wash-and-Go Style

Some days, less really is more. The wash-and-go is the holy grail for curl lovers who want to embrace their natural texture with minimal fuss.

Start with freshly washed hair. Apply a hydrating leave-in conditioner, followed by a curl-defining cream or gel. Use your fingers or a wide-tooth comb to distribute the product evenly. For extra volume and definition, flip your head upside down while scrunching.

Air dry if you have time, or use a diffuser on low heat to speed things up without causing frizz. The result is bouncy, well-defined curls that last for days. This style is especially great for type 2C to 4B curls, though anyone can adapt it with the right products.

Wash-and-go styles are perfect for showing off your natural curl pattern while keeping things simple, stylish, and free from heat damage.

3. Half-Up Half-Down Bun

This one’s a lifesaver when you’re torn between wanting your curls free and needing them out of your face. The half-up half-down bun is both playful and polished.

Start by sectioning the top half of your hair, from temple to crown. Gather it into a loose bun, using a satin scrunchie to avoid frizz. You can go messy and fun or sleek and smooth—it’s totally up to you.

Leave the bottom half of your curls to cascade down your shoulders. This creates volume and texture while keeping the style manageable. It works wonders for day-two curls that need a quick refresh. Add accessories like clips or pins for a fun twist.

This look suits every curl type and is particularly useful on hot days or when you’re on the move. It’s casual enough for coffee runs and cute enough for Zoom calls.

4. Bantu Knots

Bantu knots are both a style and a technique that gives you two looks in one. They’re especially popular among type 3C to 4C curl types, but can be adapted for looser curls as well.

To create Bantu knots, section your hair into small parts and twist each section tightly. Coil the twist into a small bun and secure it with a bobby pin or elastic. Repeat across your head. The result is a bold, regal style that’s protective and stylish.

Wear your Bantu knots for a day or two, and then unravel them for beautiful, defined curls with amazing stretch. It’s a great way to get heatless curl definition while also giving your hair a break from daily manipulation.

Use a light oil or styling butter for extra moisture. Bantu knots are not just practical—they’re eye-catching and deeply rooted in Black cultural heritage.

5. Braided Crown

Want to feel like a literal queen? The braided crown is an elegant, romantic style that works for medium to long curls and all textures.

Part your hair down the middle and braid each side into two long braids. Pull them over the top of your head like a headband and secure with bobby pins. Don’t worry if some curls peek through—it adds charm and softness to the look.

This style keeps your hair off your face and neck, which makes it ideal for warmer months. It’s also great for semi-formal occasions or just when you want to dress things up a bit. Add floral clips or decorative pins for a fairytale finish.

Bonus: This style can double as a protective option, reducing breakage and tangling throughout the day.

6. Low Puff or Curly Ponytail

When in doubt, puff it out! The low puff or curly ponytail is a lifesaver when your curls are a little wild but you still want to look put-together.

Start by smoothing your hair back with a boar-bristle brush and a bit of gel or edge control. Gather your curls at the nape of your neck and secure them with a curl-friendly elastic. Fluff the puff to add volume.

This look is great for type 3B to 4C curls and works beautifully with both freshly washed and second-day hair. The low placement of the puff minimizes tension on your edges and gives a more relaxed vibe than a high ponytail.

You can jazz things up with a sleek middle part, bold earrings, or a scarf wrap. It’s polished, quick, and perfect for school, work, or casual outings.

7. Twist-Out or Braid-Out

If you’re after defined curls with volume and longevity, twist-outs and braid-outs are your best bet. They’re easy to do and create gorgeous, heat-free curl definition.

Begin by sectioning damp, detangled hair and applying a moisturizing curl cream. Twist or braid each section, then allow your hair to dry completely—either air dry or use a hooded dryer.

Once dry, gently unravel each twist or braid. Use a bit of oil on your fingers to minimize frizz. Fluff at the roots with an afro pick for extra volume. The result? Uniform, springy curls that last several days.

This technique works across all curl types but is especially loved by those with tighter coils. It gives you control over curl shape and is a great way to stretch your hair naturally.

Conclusion

There you have it—seven simple, chic, and curl-friendly hairstyles that work across the full curl spectrum, from gentle waves to tight coils. With a little creativity and a few curl-friendly products, these styles can elevate your routine, save you time, and help you fall in love with your texture all over again.

Whether you’re looking for a protective style, something cute for date night, or a no-fuss look for Monday mornings, there’s a curly hairstyle here that fits the bill. Remember, the key is to work with your natural curl pattern—not against it. Moisture, gentle handling, and the right techniques will keep your curls happy and thriving.