Hair inspo that’ll make your curls the main character
Long, curly hair can feel like a blessing and a challenge wrapped into one. One day it’s a crown of sculpted spirals; the next, it’s a jungle you can’t tame. If your hair care routine feels like a battle of the brushes (heads up: you shouldn’t be brushing those curls), we’ve got you.
These 20 hairstyles are easy, stylish, and perfect for showing off your curls without turning your morning into a marathon. No matter if you want something low-key or something more red-carpet-worthy, these ideas will have you falling in love with your curls all over again.
Casual hairstyles for long, curly hair
The pineapple updo
For those mornings when you can’t even, the pineapple updo is a no-brainer. Gather your curls high on the crown of your head and secure them loosely with a satin scrunchie—no pulling or yanking! Let your curls spill forward for maximum bounce. Bonus tip: Use a silk scarf to keep frizz at bay while adding some extra personality.
The high bun
Need to look put together—STAT? The high bun’s got you. Scoop your curls into a bun right on top of your head, secure with a sturdy scrunchie, and let the messy texture shine. To avoid looking a little bit like Ms. Trunchbull (no shade), slick down your edges with a styling gel and add a quick spritz of shine spray.
Messy half-up ponytail
This style says “woke up like this” in the best way possible. Section off the top half of your curls and secure it into a ponytail at the crown. Leave a few curls loose at the front to frame your face. For extra definition and hold without crunch, add a touch of curl cream before styling.
Loose side braid
The loose side braid is your go-to for an effortless, off-duty aesthetic. Sweep your curls to one side and loosely weave them into a braid, letting a few strands fall free for that laidback look. Pro tip: Spritz your hair with a texturizing spray before braiding to keep it from unraveling while still looking soft and natural.
90s-inspired tendrils
Channel your inner ‘90s icon with this face-framing trend that’s making a big comeback. Pull your curls into a messy updo or half-up ponytail, leaving two loose tendrils at the front to steal the show. Want to keep it cute all day? Use a lightweight curl gel to define the tendrils and lock in the throwback magic.
Formal hairstyles for curly long hair
Sleek low ponytail
For a polished, runway-ready vibe, the sleek low ponytail is your best bet. Smooth your roots with a fine-tooth comb and apply a dab of styling gel for a flawless, flyaway-free finish. Gather your curls at the nape of your neck and secure them with an elastic. For a touch of glam, wrap a small section of hair around the base to conceal the band and pin it discreetly.
Braided crown
Now this one requires a little more effort, but it’s worth it! Part your hair in the middle and create two Dutch braids along each side of your head. Wrap the braids around the crown and pin them in place, leaving some curls loose for a soft, romantic finish. Mist with a flexible-hold hairspray to keep it secure through the night.
Elegant twisted chignon
Think Bridgerton meets Beyoncé—this romantic chignon is all about effortless class with a modern twist. Gather your curls low at the nape of your neck, twist them into a bun, and secure them with bobby pins that actually hold (you know the ones). Layer a few tendrils around your face for a soft, royal-core look. Add a pearly hair pin or glittery accessory for the TikTok-worthy finish.
Voluminous side-swept waves
For a glam effect, sweep your curls to one side and pin them in place with bobby pins. This style works best when your curls are super-defined, so use a curl-defining cream before styling. It’s all about drama and volume, making it ideal for formal events or that one photo where you’re “accidentally” caught laughing.
The wet look
It’s giving Bella Hadid at the Met Gala. This high-fashion favorite is all about sleek simplicity. Start with damp curls and work a strong-hold gel evenly through your hair, smoothing it back with your fingers or a comb. The result? A glossy, just-out-of-the-shower impression that’s both edgy and polished. Pair it with bold makeup or minimalist jewelry for a modern, statement-making look.
Wedding Hairstyles for Long Curly Hair
Cascading waterfall braid
The cascading waterfall braid is a fairytale come to life. Perfect for bridesmaids or the bride herself, this intricate braid weaves through your curls, leaving the rest to fall freely down your back. Keep the vibe soft and romantic by curling the loose strands for definition. Tip: Add tiny pearl pins for a touch of magic.
Twisted low bun with accessories
Go full classic elegance with a twisted low bun, but don’t stop there—this style begs for embellishment. Think delicate pearls, dainty florals, or even a sparkly hair vine. Secure your curls into a bun at the nape of your neck and twist sections for added texture. It’s timeless, regal, and totally wedding-ready.
Half-up, half-down with loose curls
If you’re looking for curly hairstyles for long hair half up, this style is equal parts dreamy and effortless. Sweep the top half of your curls into a loose twist or ponytail, letting the rest tumble naturally for a soft, face-framing effect. Ideal for breezy beach weddings—just lock it in with shine hairspray to keep those curls picture-perfect, even in a sea breeze.
Braided updo with loose tendrils
This one’s for the bride who’s not afraid to serve main-character energy. Start with two goddess-worthy braids framing your head and meet them at a twisted bun in the back—a crown fit for a queen. Let a few delicate tendrils fall loose because drama and softness can absolutely coexist. FYI, this look pairs effortlessly with a statement earring or an heirloom pin.
Floral crown with loose waves
If “ethereal forest goddess” is on your wedding mood board, look no further. Let your curls tumble into loose, beachy waves and top them with a floral crown for boho perfection. Go wild with fresh blooms or keep it refined with delicate baby’s breath. Either way, this look is practically begging for golden hour selfies.
Cute, easy hairstyles for curly long hair
Double space buns
Channel festival vibes or just add a little fun to your day with double space buns. Part your hair down the middle and twist each section into a bun at the top of your head. Secure with clear elastics or colorful scrunchies for extra flair. Leave a few curls out in the front for a playful, face-framing touch. Extra points if you rock this look with glittery makeup or oversized hoops.
Bubble ponytail
Take your basic ponytail to the next level with a bubble ponytail that’s all about texture and bounce. Secure your curls into a high ponytail, then add elastics every few inches down the length, gently tugging at each section to create that “bubble” effect. This style keeps it cute and cool, perfect for busy days or casual hangs.
Headband curls
When time is tight but your look is important, grab your favorite headband and let it do the work. Pull your curls back into place and pop on a bold, embellished headband for an effortlessly chic look. From pearls to rhinestones, or a funky print, this quick fix transforms bedhead into a head turner.
Double braided half updo
This style adds just the right amount of detail to elevate a simple half-up look. Braid two small sections of hair from each side of your head, then pull them back and secure them with a clip or elastic. The mix of sleek braids and natural curls strikes a perfect balance between polished and casual. Use a curl-defining cream to keep the rest of your curls soft and bouncy.
Curly bangs with a high puff
Take the classic high puff up a notch by teaming it with soft, curly bangs. Gather your curls into a voluminous puff using a silk scrunchie to protect against breakage, leaving the bangs free to frame your face. Use your fingers to fluff the puff and a touch of curl cream to define the bangs for a cute, head-turning finish. It’s a match made in heaven: big hair and minimal effort.
Finish with flawless curls
Your long, curly hair deserves styles that celebrate its texture and beauty. Whether you're enhancing natural curls or transforming them with tools, the right techniques and products make all the difference. Ready to explore even more options? Check out TYME’s innovative styling tools to add versatility to your curls.
