Curly hair has a natural charm that shines in any special occasion. Styling it into an updo can transform your look instantly, making it suitable for weddings, parties, or formal dinners. With a few simple techniques and some creativity, you can achieve elegant styles without spending a fortune. This guide covers 26 curly hair updos that are practical, beautiful, and achievable at home. Each idea comes with tips for DIY styling, quick fixes, and ways to make your curls look polished and refined. Whether your curls are tight or loose, short or long, these looks can help you feel confident and graceful.
1. Classic Curly Bun
The classic curly bun is simple yet elegant. Start by gathering your hair into a high ponytail. Twist the curls loosely around the base to create a bun and secure it with bobby pins or a hair tie. Pull a few curls around your face for softness. For extra hold, use a light hairspray. This style works well with short or long curls. Budget-friendly tip: if your hair is thin, add a small sock bun or scrunchie inside for volume. A few decorative pins can instantly make it look polished. You can do this in less than ten minutes. The bun holds up well through dancing or long events. For a playful touch, leave a few spiral curls hanging naturally. Pair it with statement earrings to draw attention to your neckline and add elegance without needing any expensive accessories.
2. Side-Swept Curly Chignon
The side-swept chignon is romantic and flattering. Begin by parting your hair to one side. Twist and pin curls at the nape of your neck, letting some strands fall naturally for softness. Use bobby pins to secure the style without flattening the curls. For shine, lightly mist with curl-friendly hairspray. DIY tip: clip a few decorative combs or barrettes along the side for an elegant finish. This style works beautifully with medium-length curls. The side placement gives a modern twist while keeping the look formal. Loose curls at the front create a soft frame for your face. You can also wrap a small section of curls around your bun to hide pins and add texture. This look suits both casual evening events and black-tie occasions. Adding a touch of hair oil or serum on the curls before styling helps reduce frizz and gives a polished finish.
3. Twisted Crown Updo
The twisted crown updo is regal and eye-catching. Start by taking sections of hair from the front and twist them backward, pinning them toward the crown. Repeat on both sides until the twists meet at the back. Let some curls fall naturally for volume. This look is great for weddings or formal gatherings. Budget tip: you can use small elastic bands to secure twists before pinning. Medium-length curls hold the style best. For a softer look, gently tug on sections to loosen them. This hairstyle frames the face beautifully and gives the impression of effort without taking long to do. Adding subtle accessories like pearl pins along the twists can enhance elegance. Curl-friendly hairspray keeps the twists in place and prevents frizz. This style pairs well with strapless or off-shoulder dresses, highlighting your neckline. The combination of twists and loose curls balances sophistication and playful texture. It’s a versatile choice for any curly-haired individual wanting a standout style.
4. Messy Curly Updo
The messy curly updo looks effortless yet stylish. Pull hair loosely into a bun or twist, leaving curls to fall naturally. Don’t worry about perfect symmetry; the charm is in its relaxed feel. Secure with pins or clips. This style works with short or long curls and is great for both casual and formal events. DIY tip: use a texturizing spray to add volume before styling. You can leave some curls hanging at the nape or sides for a romantic touch. Accessorize with small hairpins to make it more formal. This style is forgiving if curls don’t cooperate perfectly. It’s perfect for outdoor events, garden weddings, or dinner parties. The messy effect gives a playful, lively energy to your look. To finish, lightly mist with hairspray to hold curls in place while keeping the natural bounce. It’s a go-to choice for quick styling that still looks intentional.
5. Low Curly Ponytail with Twist
The low curly ponytail with a twist is chic and easy. Gather hair at the nape of your neck. Take a small front section, twist it around the base, and pin it discreetly. Let the rest of the curls cascade freely. This works well for long or medium curls. Budget tip: use a thin scarf or ribbon to wrap the base instead of buying hair accessories. This adds elegance instantly. Pull out a few curls near the temples for softness. The twist around the base keeps the ponytail polished while maintaining natural volume. This style is perfect for work events, evening outings, or family gatherings. Light hairspray ensures curls stay bouncy. It’s a simple, practical way to style curly hair without needing hours in front of the mirror.
6. Half-Up Curly Twist
The half-up curly twist combines casual charm with elegance. Gather the top section of your hair and twist or braid lightly, securing at the back with pins. Leave the rest of the curls down for a relaxed look. This style works with all curl types and lengths. DIY tip: add small decorative clips to the twist for a formal touch. This is a great choice for weddings, parties, or date nights. Lightly mist with hairspray to hold the style without flattening curls. You can gently pull at the twists to make them appear fuller. This hairstyle keeps curls out of your face while maintaining softness. It’s perfect for anyone who wants a polished style without fully committing to an updo.
7. Curly Faux Hawk Updo
The curly faux hawk is bold and playful. Gather curls toward the center of your head, pinning or twisting them upward, leaving sides sleek or loosely pinned. This style works with medium to long curls. DIY tip: use small elastics to create mini twists that form volume in the center. Light hairspray holds the look. It’s great for evening events or festive occasions. Loose strands along the forehead create softness. The faux hawk adds height and drama while keeping curls intact. Accessories like small rhinestone pins can make it more festive. It’s an attention-grabbing style that balances elegance and edge.
8. Curly Braided Updo
In a curly braided updo, braids mix with curls for a romantic look. Start by braiding small sections along the crown or sides. Gather remaining curls into a low or mid bun. Pin securely. This works for medium to long hair. DIY tip: braid loosely to avoid tension on curls. A light curl spray adds shine. Braids add detail without complex styling. This updo suits weddings or formal dinners. Pull some curls loose for softness. Add pins or decorative clips along braids to increase charm. It’s an easy way to combine curls and braids for an elegant finish.
9. Curly French Twist
The curly French twist is classic and sophisticated. Sweep hair to one side and roll it upward, securing with pins. Leave small curls peeking at the front. Medium-length hair works best. DIY tip: use a tail comb to smooth sides gently without flattening curls. This style is perfect for formal occasions or dinner parties. Hairspray ensures the twist holds through long events. The combination of twists and curls creates a refined, graceful appearance. A few decorative pins or combs along the twist add charm without extra cost.
10. Curly Bun with Side Bangs
A curly bun with side bangs frames the face beautifully. Pull hair into a high or mid bun while letting side curls fall naturally as bangs. Secure the bun with pins. This works with medium to long hair. DIY tip: curl side bangs with a small curling iron for better control. The style suits weddings or casual parties. Hairspray keeps curls in place while maintaining softness. Loose curls around the face add charm and balance the bun. This style highlights facial features and can be paired with statement earrings.
11. Double Curly Twist
The double curly twist involves creating two twisted sections from the front and pinning them at the back. Let remaining curls flow naturally. Medium to long hair works best. DIY tip: use bobby pins matching your hair color to hide the twists. Light hairspray adds hold. This updo is perfect for formal or semi-formal events. Loose curls soften the overall look. You can add small decorative pins along twists to enhance elegance. The style creates a balance between casual charm and formal sophistication.
12. Low Curly Twisted Bun
The low twisted bun gathers hair at the nape with subtle twists for texture. Secure with pins. Medium-length curls are ideal. DIY tip: add a thin scarf or ribbon at the base for a polished look. Light hairspray holds curls without stiffness. This style works for evening dinners or casual weddings. Loose curls around the face soften the bun. Accessories along the bun add charm. The simplicity of this style makes it achievable for anyone at home.
13. Curly High Ponytail with Volume
A high ponytail works beautifully with curls. Pull hair up, secure with a strong elastic, and gently tease curls for volume. Short or long curls can work. DIY tip: wrap a small section of hair around the elastic to hide it and add polish. Hairspray keeps curls bouncy. Perfect for cocktail parties or evening events. Loose strands around the temples soften the look. Adding clips or a small comb along the base adds charm. High ponytails accentuate cheekbones and create a youthful look.
14. Curly Top Knot
The curly top knot is practical and elegant. Gather all curls at the crown and twist into a knot. Secure with pins. Short to medium curls work best. DIY tip: add a small hair donut to create more volume. Light hairspray holds curls. Ideal for formal or casual occasions. Pull out a few curls to frame the face. Top knots highlight facial features and work well with statement earrings. Accessories like pins or barrettes make it look polished without extra effort.
15. Curly Bun with Braided Accent
Add a braid around your curly bun for elegance. Pull hair into a bun, braid a small section, and wrap it around the base. Secure with pins. Medium to long curls work best. DIY tip: braid loosely to maintain volume. Hairspray ensures hold. This style suits weddings or dinner parties. Loose curls soften the bun. A small decorative pin at the braid’s start enhances the look. The braid adds sophistication without complex styling.
16. Curly Side Bun
A side bun is elegant yet simple. Gather curls to one side and twist or roll into a bun. Secure with pins. Medium-length curls hold well. DIY tip: add a scarf or ribbon along the bun for extra flair. Hairspray keeps curls intact. Perfect for parties or weddings. Pull a few curls around the face for softness. Accessories like small floral pins add charm. The style is feminine and flattering from all angles.
17. Curly Halo Updo
The halo updo involves creating a circular twist or braid around your head, letting curls flow inside or outside the circle. Medium to long curls work best. DIY tip: use pins to secure the halo gently. Hairspray holds curls without stiffness. Perfect for outdoor events or weddings. Loose curls soften the look. Small decorative pins or pearls along the halo enhance elegance. The halo updo highlights the face and adds a regal touch without overcomplicating styling.
18. Curly Rope Twist Bun
Create a rope twist bun by twisting two sections of hair and wrapping them into a bun. Secure with pins. Medium to long curls work best. DIY tip: twist loosely to maintain volume. Light hairspray helps maintain the style. This look works for formal dinners or semi-formal events. Pull a few curls around the face for softness. Accessories along the twist add sophistication. The rope twist provides texture and a polished finish without extra effort.
19. Curly Vintage Updo
A vintage curly updo channels retro elegance. Curl hair first if needed, then pin curls strategically to create waves and volume. Medium to long hair is ideal. DIY tip: use bobby pins to shape curls into soft waves. Hairspray secures the style. This updo is perfect for formal events, themed parties, or weddings. Loose curls around the face soften the look. Small decorative clips enhance the vintage vibe. The style combines curls with classic elegance, creating a timeless appearance.
20. Curly Messy Low Twist
A messy low twist combines casual charm with elegance. Gather hair at the nape, twist loosely, and pin in place. Medium-length curls work well. DIY tip: pull a few curls out for softness. Light hairspray holds the look. Ideal for weddings, parties, or dinners. The messy twist adds texture and volume naturally. Accessories like small clips can enhance charm. It’s an effortless way to create a refined curly updo at home without spending much.
21. Curly Bubble Updo
The bubble updo separates the ponytail into sections tied loosely to create a bubble effect. Medium to long curls work best. DIY tip: use elastics matching hair color and tease lightly for volume. Hairspray secures the style. Perfect for parties or weddings. Pull a few curls around the face to soften the style. Accessories like small pins or bows can enhance elegance. This style creates playful texture while keeping curls polished and controlled.
22. Curly Side Twist with Bun
The side twist with a bun is elegant and balanced. Twist a front section toward the back, then gather the rest into a low side bun. Medium-length curls hold well. DIY tip: pin twists loosely to avoid tension on curls. Light hairspray keeps everything in place. Ideal for weddings or formal dinners. Loose curls soften the look. Add pins or small flowers along the twist to enhance elegance. This style frames the face while keeping curls intact and stylish.
23. Curly Pin-Up Updo
The pin-up updo channels retro glamour. Roll and pin curls strategically to create height and shape. Medium to long hair works best. DIY tip: use bobby pins matching your hair color. Hairspray holds curls without stiffness. Perfect for themed parties or weddings. Loose curls around the face soften the look. Accessories like vintage clips enhance elegance. This style combines curls with classic retro charm for a timeless appearance.
24. Curly Twisted Half Bun
The curly twisted half bun keeps hair out of your face while showing off curls. Twist the top section and pin into a bun, leaving bottom curls free. Medium to long curls are ideal. DIY tip: add pins or a ribbon for polish. Light hairspray holds the style. Perfect for semi-formal events or casual dinners. Loose curls soften the look. This style is quick to achieve yet looks intentional and elegant.
25. Curly Side Swept Rope Braid
The side rope braid combines structure with curls. Twist two sections along one side, then gather curls into a low ponytail or bun. Medium to long curls work best. DIY tip: twist loosely to maintain volume. Hairspray ensures hold. Perfect for weddings or outdoor events. Loose curls around the face soften the braid. Decorative pins enhance charm. This style mixes braiding and curls for a playful yet elegant appearance.
26. Curly Elegant Updo with Twists
The elegant updo with twists is refined and versatile. Twist several sections of hair from different angles and pin them at the crown or nape. Medium to long curls are ideal. DIY tip: twist loosely for volume, and use bobby pins to hide ends. Hairspray keeps curls controlled and bouncy. Perfect for weddings, parties, or formal dinners. Loose curls frame the face for softness. Small decorative pins enhance the style. This updo combines twists and curls for a balanced, polished appearance that’s practical to achieve at home.
Conclusion
Curly hair offers natural beauty that shines with the right updo. These 26 curly hairstyles provide options for every occasion, from weddings to casual parties. Each style is achievable at home with minimal tools, inexpensive accessories, and a little creativity. Simple twists, braids, buns, and ponytails can make curls look polished and elegant without professional styling. Experimenting with different updos helps you discover what suits your face shape and curl type. Add small accessories or pins to make any look more formal, and always use light hairspray or curl-friendly products to maintain shape and shine. With these ideas, you can create elegant, charming, and budget-friendly curly updos that let your natural texture take center stage. Whether you prefer messy, relaxed styles or structured, sophisticated looks, these updos offer practical inspiration and easy steps to look stunning for any special event. Curly hair has never been easier to style beautifully, and these options make every occasion feel extra special.
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