Embracing your natural curls is all about celebrating texture, volume, and personality. But having gorgeous curls doesn't mean you're limited in styling. This guide offers easy updos and other looks that work with your hair, not against it.
The Foundation: Prepping Your Curls
The secret
to a great curly style often lies in the prep work. Before attempting any updo, ensure your hair is properly moisturized to prevent frizz and enhance definition. Start with a hydrating leave-in conditioner applied to damp hair. If you're working with second or third-day curls, a light mist of water mixed with a bit of curl cream can revive their bounce. For updos, having slightly stretched curls can make styling easier. However, the goal is never to fight your natural pattern but to work with it. Using a diffuser on a low setting can provide volume at the roots, creating a great base for any look you choose.
Effortless Updo: The Pineapple
The pineapple is arguably the most iconic and simple updo for curly hair. It’s perfect for protecting curls while you sleep, but it's also a chic, effortless daytime look. To achieve it, flip your hair forward and gather it into a very high, loose ponytail at the crown of your head. Secure it with a gentle, snag-free hair tie or a silk scrunchie to prevent breakage and tension. The curls should spill forward and over the top, resembling the leaves of a pineapple. You can pull a few tendrils out to frame your face for a softer finish. This style is fantastic for keeping hair out of your face while showcasing your volume and texture.
Elegant Updo: The Twisted Crown
For a look that appears intricate but is surprisingly simple, the twisted crown is a perfect choice. It works beautifully on most hair lengths and textures. Start by parting your hair to one side. Take a two-inch section near your part and split it into two. Twist these sections toward your face, then cross them over each other toward the back of your head. As you continue along your hairline, incorporate new pieces of hair into the twists. Once you’ve twisted all the way around, secure the end with bobby pins. This style keeps hair neatly tucked away while creating a beautiful, halo-like effect that highlights your face.
Chic Updo: The Low Messy Bun
The low messy bun is a classic for a reason: it's versatile and effortlessly stylish. For curly hair, this style allows your natural texture to be the star. Gather your hair loosely at the nape of your neck, as if making a low ponytail. Twist the hair and wrap it into a bun, securing it with a hair tie or bobby pins. The key to making this look work for curls is not to pull too tightly. Allow some curls to pop out of the bun and frame your face for a romantic, undone feel. This style is perfect for both casual days and more formal events where you want a polished but relaxed look.
Texture Forward: The Half_Up Style
When you want to keep your hair down but need it out of your face, the half_up style is your best friend. This look allows you to show off the length and definition of your curls while adding a touch of elegance. Simply gather the top half of your hair, from your temples up, and secure it at the back of your head. You can use a decorative clip, a claw clip, or a hair tie. For extra flair, you can create a small bun or a twist with the top section. This style works well on hair that might be a little flat at the roots, as it adds volume to the crown.
Texture Forward : The Deep Side Part
Sometimes, the simplest change makes the biggest impact. Creating a deep side part is a quick way to add instant volume and drama to your natural curls without much effort. After applying your styling products to wet hair, use your fingers or a comb to create a part far to one side. Gently arrange your curls, allowing them to fall naturally. You can use a diffuser to dry the roots and lock in the volume. For a more secure style, you can pin back the hair on the less voluminous side, which accentuates the height and texture on the other.
