5 Easy Curly Hair Styles to Save Time
Ever Feel Like Your Curls Take Too Much Time? You’re Not Alone.
As someone with naturally curly hair, I used to dread rushed mornings. Between trying to tame frizz, define curls, and get out the door on time—it was a daily struggle. Sound familiar?
If you’re like me, you’ve probably Googled easy curly hairstyles more times than you can count. The truth is, curly hair doesn’t have to be high-maintenance. With a few smart tricks and go-to styles, you can save time without sacrificing style.
In this post, I’m sharing 5 easy curly hair styles to save time, perfect for busy mornings, last-minute Zoom calls, or those “I just can’t deal” days. These looks are quick, cute, and curly-girl approved.
Why Quick Curly Hairstyles Are a Game Changer
Taking the time to style your curls doesn’t have to mean spending hours. These benefits prove that easy curly hairstyles are a must:
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Save time in the morning so you’re not late for school, work, or errands
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Protect your curls with low-manipulation styles
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Look polished even on messy hair days
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Feel confident and in control of your natural texture
5 Easy Curly Hair Styles to Save Time
Whether you’re working with coils, spirals, or loose waves, these styles are designed for minimal effort and maximum impact.
1. The High Puff
The high puff is a curly girl classic—and for good reason. It takes under 5 minutes and instantly lifts your look.
Why It Works:
It pulls curls up and away from your face, making you look put together (even if your hair’s on day 3 or 4).
How To Style:
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Lightly mist your roots with water or a leave-in conditioner.
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Use a soft brush to gently smooth edges.
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Secure curls on top of your head with a non-damaging elastic band or puff cuff.
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Fluff out the puff and go!
Beginner Tip: Not great with slicking edges? Skip it! A soft, natural look is just as cute.
Advanced Tip: Use edge control and a toothbrush to style baby hairs for extra polish.
2. Pineapple Bun
The pineapple bun is ideal for next-day curls and quick errands.
Why It Works:
This style preserves your curl pattern, stretches your roots, and keeps hair off your neck—especially helpful on hot or humid days.
How To Style:
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Flip your head over and gather curls at the top.
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Gently tie them into a loose bun using a satin scrunchie.
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Let some curls fall naturally for a fun, carefree vibe.
Bonus: It doubles as a protective sleep style, so you can literally roll out of bed and go.
3. Half-Up, Half-Down with a Twist
This look adds flair while letting your curls shine. It’s great for video calls, date nights, or any time you want that effortless but elevated vibe.
Why It Works:
It frames your face and gives structure to your hair without hiding your texture.
How To Style:
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Section the top half of your curls.
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Twist both sides back toward your crown.
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Secure with a small clip, barrette, or scrunchie.
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Fluff the rest for volume.
Beginner Version: Skip the twist and just clip the top section back.
Advanced Version: Add small braids to the twisted pieces for a boho look.
4. Curly Space Buns
Yes, grown-ups can rock space buns too! This playful style works with any curl type and looks amazing with bold earrings or a pop of lipstick.
Why It Works:
It’s a fast way to keep curls controlled and off your face—great for gym days or creative moods.
How To Style:
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Part hair down the middle.
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Gather each side into two high ponytails.
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Twist or wrap each pony into a mini bun and secure with bobby pins or soft elastics.
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Fluff and pin any stray curls.
Tip: Add a little gel or edge control for a sleeker finish—or leave it wild and free!
5. Wash-and-Go with a Curl Refresher
Let your natural texture shine! With the right method, a wash-and-go can be the fastest style you do all week.
Why It Works:
It celebrates your curls in their purest form—and with the right prep, it can last for days.
How To Style:
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Apply a leave-in conditioner and curl cream to soaking-wet hair.
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Scrunch curls upward using a microfiber towel or t-shirt.
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Let air-dry or use a diffuser.
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On Day 2 or 3, revive with a curl refreshing spray or water + leave-in mix.
Pro Tip: Don’t touch your curls while they’re drying—this cuts down on frizz and boosts definition.
Weekly Curly Style Plan to Save Time
Here’s a simple plan to get you through the week without repeating a style or washing daily:
| Day | Style | Tools Needed |
|---|---|---|
| Monday | Wash-and-Go | Curl cream, diffuser |
| Tuesday | Pineapple Bun (refresh) | Satin scrunchie, spray bottle |
| Wednesday | Half-Up, Half-Down Twist | Small clip or scrunchie |
| Thursday | Space Buns | Soft elastics, edge brush (optional) |
| Friday | High Puff | Puff cuff or headband |
| Saturday | Deep Condition + Restyle Day | Conditioner, shower cap |
| Sunday | Scalp Oil + Protective Bun | Oil, satin scarf |
Expert Tips to Make Styling Even Easier
Sleep with a satin pillowcase or bonnet – It protects your curls and saves styling time.
Use a curl refresher spray – Especially helpful for dry or frizzy curls on Day 2+.
Trim regularly – Keeps your curls healthy and easier to manage.
Don’t over-manipulate – Too much combing or touching causes frizz.
Real Talk: It’s Okay to Keep It Simple
You don’t need to reinvent your hairstyle every day to look great. Sometimes, less really is more—especially when it comes to curly hair care.
Remember, your curls are already beautiful. These easy styles aren’t about changing your look—they’re about enhancing what you already have and making your mornings easier.
FAQs About Easy Curly Hairstyles
1. How can I style curly hair quickly in the morning?
Try the high puff, pineapple bun, or half-up twist. All take less than 5 minutes and require minimal tools.
2. What are the best products for easy curly hairstyles?
A good leave-in conditioner, curl cream, and curl refreshing spray can simplify your routine.
3. Can I do these styles on dry hair?
Yes! Most of these styles work great on dry or next-day curls. Just use a bit of water or spray to revive them.
4. How often should I wash my curly hair?
Every 3–7 days works for most curly types. In between, use a refresher or co-wash if needed.
5. What’s the easiest protective style for curly hair?
A loose bun, braid, or pineapple style with a satin scarf can protect your curls with minimal effort.
Final Thoughts: Love Your Curls, Simplify Your Routine
Whether you’re a busy student, a mom on the go, or just someone who loves efficiency, these 5 easy curly hair styles to save time are here to help. You don’t have to spend hours styling your hair to feel confident and look amazing.
Your curls are powerful—and so are you. Try one of these looks this week and see just how simple and stunning curly hair can be.