10 Curly Hair Up Styles Every Beauty Lover Should Try Before They Go Viral 👩

📅 Last updated on August 27, 2025

Curls are magic. They frame your face, add instant charm, and make every style stand out. But wearing your curls down every day can feel repetitive.

That’s why curly hair up styles are so popular right now. They’re quick, chic, and versatile—you can wear them at brunch, weddings, or even on a lazy Sunday.

As a beauty expert, I’ll show you the top curly hair updos and up hairstyles that are trending. Each one is simple to try at home, no stylist required.

And yes, your natural curls will always be the star.

1. Messy Curly Bun

The messy curly bun is the definition of cute with no stress. It highlights the natural volume of curls and looks intentional, even if it only took you a few minutes.

How to do it (step by step):

1. Flip your head upside down and gather curls high on your crown.
2. Secure with a soft elastic, leaving the ends out for a messy effect.
3. Use pins to shape the bun but let a few curls fall naturally around your face.

Expert note: Don’t try to make it perfect. A little frizz makes the bun softer and trendier. Add curl cream to smooth edges but avoid over-styling.

The best for: Busy mornings when you want a quick but chic fix. Great for coffee runs, classes, or even casual workdays.

2. Low Curly Updo

This style gives elegance while keeping things simple. A low curly updo frames the face beautifully and can look both casual and formal depending on how you pin it.

How to do it (step by step):

1. Part your curls in the middle or side.
2. Gather them at the nape of your neck.
3. Twist into a bun or roll and secure with pins.
4. Pull a few small curls around your face for softness.

Expert note: A side part makes it more chic. For extra shine, spritz a light finishing spray.

The best for: Dinner dates, office meetings, or weddings where you need to look neat but not stiff.

3. High Curly Ponytail With Volume

The high curly ponytail is bold and playful. It works with both natural curls and styled curls, making it a versatile look.

How to do it (step by step):

1. Pull curls up into a high ponytail.
2. Tease roots lightly with a comb for more lift.
3. Wrap a strand of hair around the elastic for polish.
4. Fluff curls with your fingers to add bounce.

Expert note: A pick comb helps add volume at the crown. If your curls are tighter, separate them gently with oil on your fingers.

The best for: Gym days, shopping trips, or casual meetups when you want something fun but low effort.

4. Formal Curly Updo

When it’s time for a special event, this style turns heads. A formal curly updo uses curls to create dimension and texture that flat buns can’t match.

How to do it (step by step):

1. Divide your curls into sections.
2. Pin each curl into a structured bun at the back.
3. Add twists or braids for extra detail.
4. Smooth baby hairs with gel for a clean edge.

Expert note: Use a shine spray or lightweight serum for that red-carpet glow.

The best for: Weddings, prom nights, or black-tie events where you want your curls to be the statement.

5. Half-Up Curly Bun

If you can’t decide between wearing your curls up or down, this style gives you both.

How to do it (step by step):

1. Take the top section of your curls.
2. Twist into a small bun at the crown.
3. Leave the rest of your curls down.

Expert note: A velvet scrunchie keeps the bun soft and doesn’t cause breakage. Add a little oil to the curls left down to keep them glossy.

The best for: Brunches, shopping days, or anytime you want a mix of playful and chic.

6. Side Curly Updo

The side curly updo is soft, romantic, and works for both day and night. By pulling curls to one side, you frame the face in a flattering way and give a fresh twist to the classic bun.

How to do it (step by step):

1. Part your hair slightly to the side.
2. Gather curls to your chosen side, near your ear.
3. Twist into a low bun or soft roll, then pin securely.
4. Leave a few loose curls in the front to soften the look.

Expert note: Use color-matched bobby pins so they blend seamlessly. A spritz of light hairspray helps keep flyaways down without making curls stiff.

The best for: Engagement photos, weddings, or date nights when you want a dreamy, feminine vibe.

7. Curly Space Buns

Space buns are playful, fun, and totally social-media ready. With curls, they look full and bouncy, making them even better than straight hair versions.

How to do it (step by step):

1. Part your curls down the middle.
2. Gather each section high on either side of your head.
3. Twist each into a bun and secure with elastics.
4. Leave ends sticking out a little for extra volume.

Expert note: Add glitter pins, colored scrunchies, or clips for a festival vibe. To tone it down, use neutral pins and keep buns tighter.

The best for: Festivals, parties, or casual weekends where you want a fun, youthful style.

8. Curly Braided Updo

Braids and curls together make a stunning style that feels detailed without being hard to do.

How to do it (step by step):

1. Create a braid at the front or side of your head.
2. Pull the rest of your curls into a bun at the back.
3. Wrap the braid into the bun and pin in place.
4. Let a few curls fall free for softness.

Expert note: This style balances neatness and texture. The braid keeps the front sleek while the curls in the back give movement.

The best for: Office parties, graduations, or any event where you want to look polished but not too formal.

9. Crown Curly Updo

This style makes you feel like a queen. The crown curly updo wraps braids across the head like a halo, with curls gathered beautifully at the back.

How to do it (step by step):

1. Part curls in the middle.
2. Create two braids starting near each ear.
3. Cross them over the top of your head to form a crown.
4. Pin the back curls into a bun or roll.

Expert note: Decorate with pearl or gold pins for a chic touch. This detail elevates the look instantly.

The best for: Weddings, birthdays, or photoshoots where you want all eyes on you.

10. Easy Natural Curls Up

The easiest and most effortless of them all. This style works with the natural shape of your curls and takes under two minutes to do.

How to do it (step by step):

1. Gather curls loosely at the back or crown.
2. Secure with a large claw clip or big pin.
3. Let curls spill out naturally for volume.

Expert note: Wrap a silk scarf around the base for a trendy twist and added curl protection.

The best for: Everyday errands, lounging at home, or hot summer days when you need your curls off your neck.

When it comes to curly hair dos, the options are endless. From everyday hairstyles for curly hair updo looks to a chic formal curly updo, there’s a style for every moment.

Try playful curly hair styles updo, easy curly up hairstyles, or go bold with cute curly updos that highlight your natural texture. A simple curly up do or a polished curly hair updo easy can take you from day to night.

Even a relaxed natural curls up look has charm. With so many curly hairstyles to choose from, your curls will never feel boring again.

Expert Tips for Long-Lasting Curly Hair Up Styles

Curly hair up styles are not just about looking good for a moment—they’re about keeping your curls healthy and making each style last. The beauty of curly hair is its texture and bounce, and the right updo shows that off while keeping you comfortable.

To get the best results, always start with well-moisturized curls. A lightweight curl cream or leave-in conditioner helps your hair stay defined without feeling heavy.

When pinning curls, don’t pull too tight—loose holds keep curls fluffy and protect your scalp. At night, wrap your style with a silk scarf or sleep on a satin pillowcase to cut down on frizz.

Remember, each style works best for different moods and occasions: messy buns for casual mornings, crown updos for special events, ponytails for playful vibes, and natural clip-ups for everyday ease.

Switching between these styles keeps your look fresh while giving your curls a break from being worn the same way every day.

Most importantly, don’t overthink it—curly hair is meant to look full of life. These styles aren’t about hiding curls, they’re about celebrating them.

📌 And don’t forget to follow my Pinterest boards at pinterest.com/bymemonica for daily curly hair ideas, cute hairstyle tips, and easy styling inspo.

💕 Have fun trying your favorite curly hairstyles! 💕