2 – 30 Easy Curly Hair Styles to Save Time

In this guide, you’ll find 30 easy curly hairstyles that are low-maintenance, budget-conscious, and quick to master. Perfect for students, moms, professionals, or anyone juggling a busy schedule, these styles will help you embrace your natural curls with less time and stress.

Let’s dive into some of the best time-saving styles for curly hair that won’t compromise your confidence or your schedule.

1. The Pineapple Updo

The pineapple updo is a lifesaver for curly hair, especially when you’re in a rush. This high ponytail gathers all your curls on top of your head, preserving their shape and minimizing frizz overnight. In the morning, a simple shake and spritz of water or leave-in conditioner can revive your look instantly.

This style is also perfect for reducing breakage since it prevents your curls from getting smooshed as you sleep. Plus, it’s ideal for second- or third-day hair.

Throw on a satin scarf or bonnet and you’re golden. Quick, easy, and curl-friendly!

2. Half-Up Bun

The half-up bun strikes a balance between casual and classy. You only need a few minutes and a good scrunchie to pull off this effortlessly cool look. It’s great for medium to long curly hair and keeps your curls out of your face without hiding them completely.

It’s perfect for Zoom calls, brunches, or just running errands. And it gives you that “I tried, but not too hard” vibe.

Pair it with a few face-framing curls or baby hairs for a little extra flair.

3. Side-Swept Curls

Side-swept curls are a classic and elegant option that doesn’t require much effort. Simply part your hair deeply on one side, let your curls fall naturally, and pin one side back for a more polished look.

This style adds volume and gives off a romantic, soft vibe. It’s great for evenings out or even date night, and all it takes is a wide-tooth comb or your fingers to guide the part.

You can also add a barrette or clip for a more dressed-up finish.

4. Curly Bangs + High Puff

The high puff with curly bangs is a go-to look for those who want both edge and ease. All you need is a strong hair tie and a bit of gel or edge control for the sides. The curls stay wild on top, and the bangs add that playful detail.

It’s youthful, expressive, and doesn’t require a full detangling session. Plus, the high puff lifts your face and keeps things cool in the summer.

This style flatters most face shapes and works well with any curl pattern.

5. The Wash-and-Go

One of the most iconic curly hairstyles, the wash-and-go, is as straightforward as it sounds. After washing, apply a leave-in conditioner and curl-defining product, then let your curls air dry or use a diffuser.

The key to making this work is understanding your curl type and using the right products. For some, gel and mousse are ideal. For others, creams work better.

It’s a great style for embracing your natural curl pattern without manipulation.

6. Low Curly Bun

The low curly bun is an understated yet chic look that can be dressed up or down. It keeps your hair neat and out of the way while still showing off your texture.

To create it, gather your curls at the nape of your neck and secure with a hair tie. Leave a few curls loose at the front or sides for a softer touch.

Add a scarf or wrap for a boho twist, or wear it sleek for a professional finish.

7. Space Buns

Space buns are playful and trendy—and surprisingly easy to do. Divide your hair into two sections and create buns on either side of your head. Fluff out the buns for volume and texture.

This style works for all curl types and lengths, and it’s great for festivals or casual hangouts. It’s also protective, especially if your ends are tucked in.

Try accessorizing with scrunchies or clips for added fun.

8. Classic Afro

Letting your curls do their thing is sometimes the best style of all. The classic afro is bold, beautiful, and all about embracing your natural texture.

To style, fluff out your hair with a pick or fingers. Use a light oil or cream to add shine and moisture.

The afro is timeless, powerful, and requires zero fuss beyond basic maintenance.

9. Messy Curly Bun

The messy bun isn’t just for straight hair. With curls, it takes on a life of its own—more volume, more character, and zero rules.

Just gather your hair loosely at the top or back of your head and secure it. Let curls fall out naturally. The less perfect, the better!

Ideal for errands, beach days, or lazy mornings.

10. Headband Tuck Style

This cute, vintage-inspired look is all about tucking your curls into a stretchy headband. It’s low-effort, elegant, and keeps your hair off your neck.

It’s perfect for warmer weather, formal events, or when you’re trying to stretch your wash days.

Bonus: It works great on day 3 or 4 curls that need a break.

11. Braided Crown

A braided crown is a protective and romantic hairstyle that works for weddings or just a cute picnic look. You can braid a section from each side and wrap it around your head like a halo.

Secure it with pins, and let the rest of your curls flow freely or tie them up.

It’s both polished and boho at the same time.

12. Twisted Half-Up Style

Take two front sections of your hair, twist them back, and pin them. That’s it. This style is gentle, fast, and gives your curls a fairy-tale vibe.

It’s also great for keeping hair out of your face without pulling on your roots.

Pair with a floral clip or pins for added charm.

13. Mini Puffs

Divide your hair into 4–6 sections and create small puffs. This style is especially adorable on shorter curls or kids but works for all ages.

It’s playful and nostalgic—and very Instagrammable.

Use colorful elastics for a fun touch or black bands for a cleaner look.

14. Sleek Edges + High Bun

This is where texture meets polish. Use gel or edge control to slick down the sides, then gather your curls in a high bun.

Style your edges into swirls or waves for added drama.

It’s great for work, parties, or just elevating your everyday look.

15. Faux Hawk

Create this edgy look by pinning up the sides of your hair and leaving the middle section voluminous and free. You can braid, twist, or slick the sides depending on your mood.

This curly hairstyle is bold, empowering, and perfect for making a statement.

16. Curls with Claw Clip

The claw clip is back, and it’s perfect for curly hair. Just gather your curls at the back of your head—loosely or tightly, depending on your mood—and clip them up. The best part? You don’t need to be precise.

Claw clips are gentle on your strands and work especially well with thick, voluminous curls. They give you a quick, retro-inspired updo that takes seconds to achieve.

Pair with gold hoops or a printed scarf for an effortlessly stylish look.

17. Rope Twists

Rope twists are an elegant yet simple protective style for curly hair. Part your hair into sections, twist each one around itself, and then twist two strands together like a rope. Secure with bands or pins.

This style keeps your hair stretched and protected from breakage, especially if you’re trying to retain length.

Wear it out as a full style or unravel for soft, defined waves the next day.

18. French Braided Crown

A step up from the braided halo, the French braided crown offers a neater, more secure style for long curly hair. Begin at one side of your head and braid around, tucking the ends in and securing them discreetly.

This look is refined and ideal for weddings, work events, or any time you want to keep your curls tucked away in style.

It’s protective, elegant, and can last a couple of days with minimal upkeep.

19. Bandana Wrap

There’s something timeless about a bandana wrapped around curls. It adds personality while keeping your hair neat and contained. Whether you go full Rosie the Riveter or a simple headband style, it works with almost any curl type.

Use a satin-lined scarf to prevent frizz, and tuck in your ends for a protective effect.

It’s budget-friendly and a great fix for bad hair days—or when you just want something bold and fun.

20. High Pony with Defined Curls

This elevated ponytail showcases the beauty of your curls while keeping everything secure and off your face. First, smooth your edges and crown, then gather your hair at the top of your head. Define your ponytail curls with a bit of gel or curl cream.

It’s high-impact with low effort and works great for both casual days and formal events.

Add a scrunchie or silk ribbon to complete the look.

21. Curly Faux Bob

Want the look of a bob without the scissors? The faux bob lets you tuck and pin longer curls to create the illusion of a shorter cut. Start by braiding or rolling your hair under, securing it at the nape of your neck.

This style is fun for a night out or when you’re itching for a new look without commitment.

It’s also a great way to test-drive a curly bob before making the cut.

22. Finger Coils

If you want well-defined, springy curls, finger coils are the way to go. All it takes is curl cream and a little time. Take small sections of hair and twist them around your finger, letting them spring into perfect spirals.

This style lasts for several days and can be fluffed out for a fuller look or worn as-is.

Perfect for special occasions or when you just want your curls to really pop.

23. Loose Side Braid

The loose side braid is romantic and relaxed—a great choice for wavy or curly hair. Pull all your hair to one side, create a soft braid, and secure it with a tie or ribbon.

You can pull out a few curls around your face for a whimsical, undone look.

It’s great for brunch, date night, or even lazy Sundays when you want a cute but comfy style.

24. Top Knot

Top knots are a go-to for days when you’re in a hurry but still want to look put together. Simply gather your curls at the crown of your head, twist into a bun, and secure.

This works on all hair lengths and textures and is a solid choice for the gym, errands, or a casual day out.

Add accessories or edge styling for a fancier version.

25. Bantu Knots

Bantu knots are a versatile curly hairstyle that can be worn as a look or used as a setting style for curl definition. Part your hair into even sections, twist each one tightly, then wrap it into a small bun and secure.

Wear them overnight and unravel the next day for beautifully defined, heat-free curls.

They’re protective, cute, and rooted in rich cultural history—wear them with pride!

26. Flat Twists

Flat twists are a sleek protective style that also works beautifully on curly textures. Similar to cornrows but less tension-heavy, flat twists involve twisting two sections of hair close to the scalp.

You can twist straight back, in zigzags, or create side patterns for more flair.

They’re perfect for work weeks or keeping your curls stretched between wash days.

27. Curly Mohawk

This bold look involves styling the sides of your hair (either braided or pinned) while letting the curls run free down the middle. It’s expressive, fierce, and totally on-trend.

You can customize it endlessly—twists on the sides, braids, or just bobby pins.

Ideal for concerts, festivals, or days when you’re feeling extra confident.

28. Bubble Ponytail

The bubble ponytail adds a playful twist to a basic style. Secure your curls in a high ponytail, then add elastic bands down the length of the ponytail every few inches. Puff out each section to create “bubbles.”

It’s cute, quirky, and takes less than five minutes.

Use clear elastics or colored ones depending on your vibe.

29. Middle Part with Volume

Sometimes, simplicity is everything. Part your curls down the middle and fluff for volume. Use a pick or your fingers to lift your roots and define the part with a bit of gel or oil.

This look is naturally glamorous and draws attention to your face.

It’s perfect for showcasing curl definition without much manipulation.

30. Bonnet-Ready Style

For the ultimate lazy-day or nighttime look, try a low puff, pineapple, or two chunky braids—styles that are easy to wrap in a satin bonnet before bed.

These styles maintain your curl pattern overnight while still looking cute if you need to run a quick errand.

Add a decorative bonnet or satin-lined cap and turn bedtime into a beauty statement.

Conclusion

Curly hair doesn’t have to mean complicated routines or spending hours in front of a mirror. With these 30 easy curly hairstyles, you now have a toolkit of time-saving, stylish, and affordable options that work with your natural texture—not against it.

From bold faux hawks to soft side braids, these styles honor your hair’s unique shape while fitting neatly into your busy schedule. Whether you’re rushing out the door, dressing up for a party, or just lounging at home, your curls deserve love, attention—and the right style to shine.