Embracing your natural curls means finding styles that are both beautiful and practical. These simple updos and styles are designed to protect your delicate texture while offering chic, low-manipulation options for any occasion.
The Classic High Puff
A staple in the natural
hair community, the high puff is celebrated for its simplicity and style. It's an ideal look that lifts your curls, creating volume while keeping hair off your face. To achieve it, start by lightly misting your hair with water or a leave-in conditioner to make it pliable. Gather your curls to the crown of your head as if making a high ponytail. Instead of a tight elastic, use a gentle option like a shoelace, a stretchable headband, or a satin scrunchie to secure the puff. This reduces tension on your edges and prevents breakage. Once secured, you can gently fluff the curls for more volume, allowing them to cascade forward or to the sides. This style works beautifully on second or third-day hair and can be as sleek or as voluminous as you like.
The Elegant Twisted Crown
For a look that feels both romantic and regal, the twisted crown is a perfect choice. This style involves creating twists along your hairline and pinning them up, framing your face beautifully. Start by parting your hair as desired; a center or side part works well. Take a small section of hair at the front and divide it into two. Begin twisting the two pieces, gradually adding more hair to each section as you work your way along the hairline toward the back of your head, similar to a French braid. Once you reach the back, secure the twist with a pin. Repeat on the other side. You can then cross the two twisted ends at the back and pin them securely, or gather the remaining loose hair into a low bun. Don't worry about perfection; slightly loose and soft twists add to the charm of the style.
The Simple Half-Up, Half-Down
When you want to show off your curl length while keeping hair out of your face, the half-up, half-down style is the perfect compromise. This versatile look can be achieved in minutes. Simply gather the top half of your hair, from your temples upwards, and secure it at the back of your head. You can create a small bun, a mini ponytail, or use a claw clip for a trendy finish. For extra flair, you can twist or braid the top section before securing it. This style highlights your facial features and lets the rest of your gorgeous curls flow freely. To keep the loose curls looking fresh, a light mist of a curl refresher spray can add bounce and definition.
The Chic Low Bun or Puff
A low bun or puff gathered at the nape of your neck is an effortlessly elegant style that is perfect for both casual and formal settings. It's a great protective option that keeps your ends tucked away and moisturized. To create a sleek look, you can apply a styling cream or gel to damp hair before brushing it back. For a softer, more voluminous puff, simply gather your dry curls loosely at the nape and secure with a gentle hair tie. Leaving a few tendrils out to frame your face can soften the look and add a touch of romance. This style pairs beautifully with statement earrings or hair accessories.
Playful Double Buns
Also known as space buns, this fun and youthful style works wonderfully for curly hair of all lengths. Part your hair down the middle into two even sections. Smooth your edges with a bit of gel or oil if you desire a sleeker base. Gather each section into a high pigtail, then wrap the hair around the base to form a bun, securing it with a hair tie or pins. You can make them as neat or as messy as you like. For a variation, you can braid each pigtail before wrapping it into a bun, which adds interesting texture and extra hold.
The key to successfully wearing updos without damaging your curl pattern is preparation and maintenance. Always start with wellstmoisturized hair, as dry hair is more prone to breakage. Use curlfriendly accessories like satin scrunchies, spiral hair ties, or claw clips that won't snag or create harsh creases. When creating sleek styles, use a gentle brush and avoid pulling your hair too tightly, which can cause tension and stress on your hairline. At night, protecting your updo with a satin scarf or bonnet, or sleeping on a silk pillowcase, will help reduce frizz and keep the style looking fresh for longer.
