4 – 15 Easy Curly Hair Styles for Busy Days

According to a survey by NaturallyCurly, curly-haired folks spend over $200 more annually on haircare compared to straight-haired individuals. That’s a lot of time and money! So today, we’re cutting the cost and saving your precious time. Below are 15 effortless, easy-to-do curly hairstyles that can transform your curls in minutes—without breaking the bank or your schedule.

Let’s dive in!

1. The High Puff

The high puff is a holy grail style for many curlies. It’s quick, flattering, and shows off your texture with zero heat or hassle. All you need is a soft hairband, a little edge control (optional), and five minutes max.

This style lifts your curls upward, creating a voluminous crown that makes a statement. Not only does it highlight your curl pattern, but it also gets hair off your neck—ideal for warm days or gym time. Bonus? It’s perfect for both 3C and 4C curls.

Keep a satin scrunchie or a stretchy headband handy in your purse or drawer. It’s the fastest fix on days you just don’t have the time.

2. Half-Up, Half-Down Bun

A hybrid between carefree and controlled, the half-up, half-down bun gives you the best of both worlds. You’ll look put together without trying too hard—and it works on all curl types and lengths.

To create the look, gather the top section of your hair and twist it into a bun, securing it with a clip or hair tie. The bottom curls fall freely, showcasing your natural volume. It’s a great style when your curls are cooperating, but your roots need a little love.

This one is also super versatile: dress it up with a few bobby pins or down with a cute headband. Either way, it’s effortlessly chic.

3. Curly Pineapple

You’ve probably heard of the “pineapple” technique for sleeping, but did you know it’s also a go-to daytime style? Especially when you’re in a rush or trying to preserve yesterday’s twist-out.

Simply gather your curls at the highest point of your head and loosely secure them. Let the curls cascade forward, creating a fun, bouncy halo. It’s not just cute—it preserves your curl definition while keeping your ends protected.

A satin scrunchie is your best friend for this one. The less tension, the better. It’s also great for second-day or third-day curls when you don’t want to start from scratch.

4. Side-Swept Curls

If you’ve got five minutes and a comb, side-swept curls are your ticket to glam on the go. Just flip your curls to one side and secure them with a pin, comb, or hair accessory. It’s dramatic, face-framing, and super easy.

This style works beautifully for medium to long curly hair. It adds instant elegance without heat styling. Want to elevate it for a night out? Add a sparkly barrette or a bold red lip.

And the best part? You don’t have to manipulate your curl pattern at all—just work with your natural texture.

5. Messy Low Bun

The messy low bun is basically the curly girl’s lifesaver. Ideal for day-three curls that are doing their own thing, this style hides frizz and still looks polished—well, perfectly imperfect.

Gather your hair into a low bun at the nape of your neck. Leave out a few tendrils to soften the look. You can go with a center part, side part, or no part at all—whatever feels right.

This bun pairs well with headbands, scarves, or statement earrings. It’s the ultimate balance between minimal effort and maximum style.

6. Braided Crown

Elegant yet casual, the braided crown takes a little more effort—but the result is totally worth it. This style involves braiding the front sections of your hair and pinning them back to create a “crown” effect.

It’s particularly useful for keeping curls out of your face on hot or humid days. Plus, it gives major romantic vibes without needing heat or fancy tools.

You can rock this style with a wash-and-go, twist-out, or even stretched curls. It’s incredibly versatile and perfect for workdays, dates, or casual brunches.

7. Mini Twists

If you’re craving a protective style that still allows versatility, mini twists are your best bet. These tiny two-strand twists tuck away your ends and can last up to a week or more.

They’re low-maintenance, reduce breakage, and offer a break from daily manipulation. Plus, they’re budget-friendly and easy to do at home—no salon visit required!

Once installed, you can style them into buns, ponytails, or even half-up styles. It’s a two-for-one deal: stylish and protective.

8. Space Buns

Feeling playful? Space buns are perfect for weekends, workouts, or festival days. Just part your hair down the middle and create two buns on either side of your head.

You can leave out a few curly bangs or twist the front pieces for added texture. This style works great on both short and long curly hair.

It’s one of those styles that says, “I’m fun, but I didn’t try too hard.” Bonus: It keeps hair out of your face when you’re busy running errands or breaking a sweat.

9. Sleek Curly Ponytail

Need something that screams “put-together” in five minutes? The sleek curly ponytail is a game-changer. Slick your curls back with some gel or edge control, secure with a band, and fluff out the ponytail for volume.

It’s clean, classy, and works for everything from job interviews to date nights. Just make sure to protect your edges with a satin scarf if you’re going for a really sleek finish.

The best part? It’s low effort but looks like you spent a lot more time than you actually did.

10. Headwrap Style

Sometimes the curls just don’t want to cooperate—and that’s totally okay. On those days, a headwrap or scarf is your best styling tool. Not only does it hide frizz or dry ends, but it also adds flair and color to your look.

Choose a bold print for personality or a solid color for a minimalist vibe. You can tie it turban-style, create a knot at the top, or let some curls peek out for volume.

It’s a style rooted in culture and creativity—and one of the most affordable curly hair hacks you’ll ever love.

11. Twisted Front Bangs

Need a quick fix to tame your front curls or grown-out bangs? Twisting the front section and pinning it back is both practical and cute. It’s a small detail that makes a big impact.

This style keeps hair out of your eyes while adding texture and interest to your look. It’s great for workdays, school, or quick errands.

You can pair it with a ponytail, bun, or let the rest of your curls flow freely. Talk about low effort, high reward!

12. Bantu Knots

Bantu knots are both a protective style and a styling tool. You can wear them as-is for an edgy, sculpted look or unravel them later for a beautiful heat-free curl pattern.

Divide your hair into sections, twist each piece, and coil it into a knot. Secure with pins or small elastics. It’s ideal for 3B to 4C textures but can work on looser curls too.

And when you take them down? Hello, defined curls without heat damage. It’s like getting two styles in one!

13. Afro Picked-Out Style

Want to go bold and beautiful? Pick out your curls and wear your fro with pride! This style celebrates volume, shape, and natural beauty—no added flair needed.

Start by gently fluffing your hair with a wide-tooth comb or pick. Focus on the roots to build lift and volume while keeping your ends defined.

This is the ultimate style for confidence and self-expression. It’s timeless, empowering, and requires zero product.

14. Claw Clip Updo

Yes, the 90s are back—and we’re loving it. The claw clip updo is the go-to for quick styling that looks elevated. It works especially well with mid-length or long curly hair.

Gather your curls loosely and twist them upward, securing with a large clip. Let some curls fall naturally for that soft, romantic finish.

It’s stylish enough for work and casual enough for errands. Keep a claw clip in your bag—you’ll use it more than you think!

15. Curly Bangs with Defined Ends

If you’ve got curly bangs, let them shine! Refresh your bangs with a little water and curl cream, then diffuse or air dry for a defined, bouncy look.

This style adds instant character to your overall look and works even when the rest of your curls are in a simple bun or ponytail.

Don’t have bangs? No problem—fake it by sectioning off the front and twisting or fluffing it forward. It’s cute, quick, and effortlessly stylish.

Conclusion

Having curly hair doesn’t have to mean sacrificing your time, money, or sanity. These 15 easy curly hairstyles prove that with the right approach, you can style your curls in minutes while still turning heads.

Remember: your curls are unique. Embrace the frizz, flaunt the volume, and celebrate the shape that’s all your own. Keep your go-to tools—scrunchies, pins, curl cream, and a wide-tooth comb—within arm’s reach. The next time life’s moving fast and you need to move faster, you’ll know exactly what to do.