Image: MomJunction Design Team
Curly hair is attractive, full of life, and looks gorgeous when maintained properly. They can be made to look even more beautiful with unique curly hairstyles for girls. Curly hairstyles not only enhance natural beauty but also make way for self-expression. Some people feel it’s difficult to have beautiful curls because they either do not know the right maintenance techniques or are unsure of the different hairstyles they can use. Sophie Marie agrees with this sentiment. She says, “Every time I did a hairstyle, it didn’t look right or it looked frizzy, and all it did was make me want to straighten my hair (i).” However, creating a beautiful curly hairstyle does not require specific skills. A little time, patience, and good hair nourishment will do the magic.
If you want to flaunt your curly hair in style, read on. This post brings some easy and creative hairstyles to suit the needs of all girls.
Key Pointers
- You can easily style your curly hair with a simple high ponytail or a pretty knot.
- Curly hair maintenance is not as difficult as perceived and can look really pretty with minimal effort.
- From floral hairdos to beaded cornrows, there are plenty of options to steal.
Long Curly Hairstyles For Girls
Whether your face is oval-shaped, round, pear, or heart, there are hairstyles for every type. If you have long curly hair and are looking to experiment with a style, then try these hairdos. These are simple, chic, and always in vogue. Are you ready to try a few?
1. Layered curls
Simple and perfect for a day or night look, layered curls are easy to style and are ideal for girls who do not have naturally curly hair or layers.
How to style it:
- Brush your hair thoroughly from root to tip.
- Now use a curling iron, hair clips and a round brush to achieve this look.
- Part your hair into six sections. You can also increase the number of sections if you want to add more bounce and intensity to this look.
- You have to start from the first section in the front, and curl your hair from the middle reaching the tips of the hair.
- In the center portion of the hair, curl your hair from slightly below the middle length.
- As you reach the backside of the hair, curl the bottom 1/4th portion of the length.
- Once you finish curling all the sections, run your fingers through the hair and set with a setting spray.
Have an adult use the iron on your hair. Do not do it yourself.
2. Half up pony
Image: Shutterstock
This hairstyle is cool for school or a day outing with friends. Girls with naturally curly hair can totally rock this look.
How to style it:
- Detangle and brush your hair completely.
- Take a section of your hair from the crown of the head to the center and raise it all up.
- Now tease this section of the hair with a teasing comb.
- Secure it with a hair tie.
- Comb the remaining portion of the hair with a paddle brush to add a bounce.
Youtuber Kiana Davis does a variation of this hairstyle using a claw clip in place of a hair tie to secure the top section of the hair. She also twists up the top section before clipping it instead of leaving it down. She says, “I think that it is so cute, and this has been my go-to hairstyle. I don’t even know where I saw it or how I came up with it; I think it was honestly a mistake. But it works out (ii).”
3. Cornrows with a bun
Image: IStock
Try this cornrows hairdo on the days when you want your hair to stay calm and not disturb you.
How to style it:
- Make sure your hair is squeaky clean before trying this hairstyle, so shampoo and rinse well.
- Now part your hair into row-like sections.
- Starting from the center, divide the row into three parts and start braiding it like a stitch. Once you reach the tip, secure it tightly with a hairband.
- Repeat the same for all the rows.
- Now take all these portions and tie them up in a bun or a chignon. Secure the ends with bobby pins.
Did you know?4. Pretty knot
Image: Shutterstock
This hairstyle is for anyone whose hair texture is a little wavy or curly. Simple and beautiful, this is one of the hairstyles for school girls that will make you look extra pretty in just a couple of minutes.
How to style it:
- Brush your hair thoroughly using a fine comb or a paddle brush.
- Take two small sections of your hair, one each from the left and right sides. Twist them and bring them to the center and knot them gently. Do not pull your hair too much, as it may cause stress and breakage.
- Now once a knot is made, secure the hair with two bobby pins.
5. Pretty braided knot
Image: IStock
Similar to a pretty knot, this is one of the easiest hairstyles for teenage girls also can be mastered in a few minutes.
How to style it:
- Comb your hair thoroughly and take two sections from the left and right sides of the crown.
- Braid them loose and bring them to the center.
- Gently tie a knot and secure them from the center of the knot using bobby pins.
6. Three braids
Image: Shutterstock
Not one or two, this interesting hairstyle will have three simple braids. Let’s have a look at how to style them.
How to style it:
- Brush your hair from root to tip.
- Take one section of the hair from the center of the crown. French braid this portion until the bottom and secure it with a hair-tie.
- Now make two regular braids on the left and right side. Loosen the braids a little, giving it a curvy appearance and secure the ends with hair-ties.
- Now set the hairdo with a setting spray.
7. Greek bun
Image: IStock
Turn yourself into a Greek goddess with this easy and elegant bun hairstyle. It is perfect for dinner dates, parties, or evening outs.
How to style it:
- If you have natural curls, begin the styling from the next step. For girls with straight hair, curl your locks with a curling iron or any no-heat method.
- Now wear a hairband like a crown.
- Start tucking the hair into the elastic band from one side of the head and continue till the other corner. Repeat the same process until all the hair is secured like a bun
- You may also adorn it with accessories and secure any loose ends with bobby pins.
Have an adult use the iron on your hair. Do not do it yourself.
8. High ponytail
Image: Shutterstock
Tie your hair up in a high pony and your favorite hairband, in this classic hairstyle perfect for school, shopping, sports or just for anything.
How to style it:
- Detangle and neatly brush your hair.
- Use a teasing comb and lift all the hair up in a high pony; secure it with a hair-tie.
- Add a pretty bow or hairband to style it or match with your outfit of the day.
However, most girls complain that a high ponytail gives them a headache. A variation of the high ponytail can be achieved with a banana clip. This hairstyle elevates the ponytail, gives it more volume, and makes it look fuller. Sophie Marie says, “I tie my hair up in a loose ponytail with a hair tie. This is the hack I can give you. Gather the tied-up hair into the banana clip and fasten it. The magical bit happens when I take off the hair tie I used initially. It gives my ponytail so much volume and makes my hair look longer.”
9. Messy space buns
Image: IStock
Whether or not you are an Ariana Grande fan, this hairstyle will make you fall in love with the messy space buns look.
How to style it:
- Brush your hair from root to tip and detangle it thoroughly.
- Part your hair from the middle and divide into two sections.
- Using a tail comb, comb from the center of the crown go backward and pick a small portion of the hair up to form a pony. Secure it with a hair-tie. Leave the remaining hair on this side loose.
- Wrap this pony around the hair-tie and secure the end with a bobby pin.
- Repeat the same steps on the other side of the hair too.
- Once again brush the remaining hair, and you are good to go.
10. Side curls
Image: IStock
This hairstyle will make heads turn even on those days when you just want to hide under your pillow. And the best part is it requires minimal effort.
How to style it:
- If you don’t have natural curls, then use your favorite hair curling method to get bouncy curls.
- Using a paddle brush, bring all the hair from the root to tip, to one side.
- Take some of the front portion of the hair, twist it until the ear and secure it using a cute little hair clip. Isn’t this easy peasy, lemon squeezy?
11. Semi braid with a high pony
Image: Shutterstock
Oh, you want to try braided hairstyles for girls that look effortless and stylish at the same time? This is the one for you, then.
How to style it:
- Brush your hair.
- Curl your hair from the middle of the length to the tips.
- Now take three small sections from the front center of the forehead and start braiding. Alternatively, make a French braid. Once you reach the center of the head, secure it with a hair-tie.
- In this step, comb your hair from the nape of your neck upwards. Make a high pony and join it with the braid.
- Secure this entire pony with a colorful hair-tie.
12. Messy bow
Image: Shutterstock
If your hair is curly and you want a messy bow, this hairstyle is ideal for you.
How to style it:
- Brush your hair thoroughly and remove any knots or tangles.
- Using a fine-toothed comb, pull your entire hair up into a high and looped bun, ensuring it is on the top and center of the head.
- Now split this bun into two halves, without disturbing it.
- Pull a small section of the hair from this bun and divide it into two parts. Wrap these sections from under the bun and circle it around a couple of times.
- Secure any loose ends with a bobby pin.
- Do not tame any baby hair sticking out, as the messy bow looks better with such imperfections.
13. Topknot bun
Image: Shutterstock
Easy and elegant, try this hairstyle now.
How to style it:
- Detangle the hair and brush it thoroughly.
- Pull the hair up into a high pony and secure it with a hair-tie.
- To add volume, use a teasing comb and run it through the pony.
- Now divide the pony into two sections and twist them with each other till the tips.
- Wrap this around the pony and secure the end with a bobby pin.
Tip: You may also use a hair-donut to add a dramatic volume to the bun.
14. Curly high ponies
Image: IStock
You can rock high ponies at any occasion if you can carry them off well.
How to style it:
- If you have a wavy texture to your hair, then your job is half done. For girls with straight hair, curl the hair giving them a wavy appearance.
- Now use a tail comb to part your hair into two sections starting from the center of the forehead to the nape of the neck.
- In this step, take one side of the partition and pull it all up into a high pony, securing with a hair tie. Repeat the same on the other side.
- You may add bow hair clips to make the ponies look extra cute.
15. Twisted bun
Image: IStock
Curly hair just doesn’t behave at times. Tame them with this super fun hairdo.
How to style it:
- Grab a couple of hair-ties and bobby pins before you get started. Brush your hair to remove any knots or tangles.
- Use a tail comb and make various sections of the hair, randomly. Doesn’t have to be perfect. Now secure each of these sections with hair-ties.
- Twist the first section on the crown, bring it to the bottom and secure it with a bobby pin.
- Take another section from the left side of the hair, repeat the twisting and secure it with the first bobby pin.
- Repeat the same with all the sections of the hair.
- The result will be a beautiful twisted bun hairdo. You may add flowers or accessories to make it prettier.
16. Rose braided bun
Image: IStock
Try this hairstyle when you have ample time and prep for a big event. Hint-hint, this would look great with a prom gown.
How to style it:
- Brush your hair thoroughly and remove knots, if any.
- Now use a tail comb to diagonally part your hair from one side, going down to the corner of the nape on the other side. Secure these two sections with a hair-tie.
- Now braid both the sections, as shown in the image.
- Slowly pull out the hair from the braid in order to loosen it. Make sure you are not untying the hair fully, disturbing the braids.
- Now take one braid to the other corner of the head and secure it with a U-pin. Repeat the same with the other braid too.
- Once the bun is completed, secure any loose ends with U-pins. Pretty, isn’t it?
Quick tip17. Floral hairdo
Image: IStock
Flowers look pretty as an accessory on the hair, and when you are heading to a wedding, beach party or just in the mood for it, go for this hair-do.
How to style it:
- Brush all your hair neatly and detangle it thoroughly.
- Apply a leave-in conditioner to tame any flyaways.
- Adorn the hair with natural or faux flowers as per your liking.
18. Big voluminous curls
Image: IStock
Curls run the world! Block everyone’s view with these big voluminous curls.
How to style it:
- If your hair is naturally curly, then apply a little mousse or hair setting spray to make the hair appear bouncy.
- Girls with fine or straight hair may use a curling iron to achieve this look.
- Take smaller sections of the hair and curl them from root to tip.
- Once the entire hair is curled, just run your fingers through the hair and set it with a mousse or setting spray. Do not use a brush after applying a setting spray.
Be careful while using the curling iron and have an adult to do it for you.
Short Curly Hairstyles For Girls
Short hair, no care. Add that extra oomph to your lovely mane with these short curly hairstyles for girls. Grab your hairbrush, some bobby pins, hair ties, a teasing comb, and you are good to go.
19. Noodle/ crochet curls
Image: IStock
When your hair is short or you have a bob cut and you are bored with the existing hairstyle, try noodle curls.
How to style it:
- Noodle curls can be easily achieved with a pencil and a flat iron.
- Starting from the nape of the neck, take a very tiny section of the hair and wrap it around a pencil. Use foil paper to cover the pencil and hair.
- Now using a flat iron, press the foil paper. Once done, open the foil paper and remove the pencil from the hair. Your noodle curl is ready.
- Use the pencil and foil paper for the rest of your hair as well and continue the process till each and every strand of the hair looks like noodles.
Have an adult use the flat iron on your hair. Do not do it yourself.
20. Beaded cornrows
Image: IStock
One of the great hairstyles for black teenagers, beaded cornrows look chic and edgy.
How to style it:
- Shampoo and condition your hair thoroughly and let them dry.
- Brush and detangle the hair leaving no knots.
- Part your hair into as many rows as you desire. Divide each of these rows into three sections each and stitch them in a braid.
- Add colorful beads to the braid and cover it fully.
21. Stretched afro
Image: IStock
This look is perfect for African girls with natural curls or twist outs.
How to style it:
- Stretched afro can be achieved in two ways.
- One is the natural wash-and-go method, wherein no brushing is to be done after shampooing your hair.
- Another way is to try the Bantu knots first, and once you open these knots, your hair will be naturally styled in a stretched afro look.
22. Faux hawk/ Pineapple
Image: IStock
This hairstyle takes edgy updo to a whole new level. Try it to believe it!
How to style it:
- Brush your hair throughout and detangle them.
- Now gently gather your hair on top of the head, not leaving any strand.
- Secure it with a scrunchie tightly so that the end result looks like a pineapple.
- Apply mousse on the bottom part of the hair to tame any baby hair.
23. Spider braids
Image: IStock
Sounds funny? Well, the hairstyle looks like spider legs.
How to style it:
- Comb your hair and detangle the knots.
- Divide the hair into eight equal parts and separate them with hair clips.
- Start with the first section and braid them down to the bottom. Secure the end firmly with a hair-tie.
- Repeat the same with the remaining seven sections.
- Voila, your spider braids are ready.
24. Soft natural curls
Image: Shutterstock
Add a bouncy volume to your flat hair with this easy look.
How to style it:
- Comb your hair thoroughly.
- Use a curling iron to curl the hair. Make sure the hair is not too close on the rod, to achieve a natural look.
- Now use a paddle brush to brush the hair gently.
Have an adult use the iron on your hair. Do not do it yourself.
25. Bandana style
Image: IStock
The best part is you can add as many variations to this hairstyle as you desire.
How to style it:
- Brush your hair and pull it up into a high pony.
- Take a cute and stylish bandana to tie it across the crown.
- Now pull some strands out and loosen the pony to give it a messy yet stylish appearance.
Quick fact26. Curly mohawk
Image: Shutterstock
Creating a curly mohawk hairstyle for short hair can be a stylish and bold choice.
How to style it:
- Wash and completely dry your hair before styling. Divide your hair into sections, focusing on the top portion.
- Ensure your hair is cut short on the sides and slightly longer on top.
- Use a curling iron or wand to curl the top section of your hair. Start from the back and gently move towards the front. You can use your fingers to separate and define the curls or a wide-tooth comb for a softer look.
- Apply a small amount of styling product, such as gel or wax, to the sides of your hair. Use your fingers or a comb to shape the sides into a mohawk style.
- You may even consider using accessories—hairpins, bands, or hair jewelry to enhance the style.
Tips To Manage Curly Hair
Curly hair is naturally more prone to dryness and frizz, requiring extra care to stay healthy and defined. Here are some simple tips to help your curls look their best:
- Use sulfate-free shampoos and conditioners: Sulfates can remove natural oils from hair, leading to dryness. Opt for sulfate-free products to retain moisture.
- Deep condition often: Use deep conditioning treatments once or twice a week to keep your curls soft and nourished.
- Limit heat styling: Too much heat from blow dryers and straighteners can cause breakage. Whenever possible, air-dry your hair or use heat protectants if styling is needed.
- Detangle with a wide-tooth comb: Wet hair is more delicate, so gently work through tangles with a wide-tooth comb, starting from the ends to avoid breakage.
Caring for curly hair is all about keeping it moisturized and protected. With a little extra care and the right routine, your curls will stay healthy and beautiful.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Does curly hair look better, short or long?
Whether curly hair looks better, short or long, is a matter of personal preference, hair type, and face shape. Curly hair may look gorgeous in short and long hairstyles when done and maintained properly. While shortcuts can help clarify curls and reduce frizz, longer haircuts can emphasize curls’ natural volume and texture. However, to get a style that highlights your unique qualities, it is advisable to consult with a stylist who has experience cutting and styling curly hair.
2. How do I sleep with curly hair?
To sleep with curly hair, gather your curls on top of your head in a “pineapple” or braid them loosely. Use a silk or satin pillowcase, and consider wearing a silk or satin hair wrap or bonnet to protect your curls from friction and maintain their shape. Avoid sleeping on cotton sheets, which can cause frizz.
3. How often should I wash curly hair?
Each person has a varied ideal interval between every hair wash. The frequency at which you should wash curly hair depends on a variety of factors, including hair type, porosity, and lifestyle. However, in general, curly hair can benefit from a more infrequent washing routine, as daily washing can strip the hair of its natural oils and cause dryness and frizz.
4. How to choose a curly hairstyle that suits me?
Creating beautiful curly hairstyles can enhance your overall look and show off your personality. To find the best curly hairstyle for you, look into curl types that fit your face shape. Begin with clean, dry hair, and use lightweight products so your curls don’t get weighed down. Try out different curl patterns to see what works best, and add fun touches like hairpins or bands to give your style some extra flair.
5. What products are best for curly hair?
For curls, it is important to pick products that bring out and maintain their natural texture. Invest in curl creams, leave-in conditioners, and styling gels that add moisture without making your curls heavy. Apply silicone-free and sulfate-free shampoos to retain the vitality and bounce of your curls.
Hairstyles for girls with curly hair may take some time to master, but you might just become a pro with a bit of practice and dedication. So, if you have an upcoming event or big day and want to be the center of attention, you can try some curly hairstyles for girls with both long and short curly hair. If you have straight hair and want to try curly hairstyles, use a curling iron to create layered or noodle curls, or try hairstyles such as a half-up pony or topknot bun to make your hair look bouncy. So, pick your favorite hairstyles and start practicing.
Infographic: Simple Hairstyles For Girls With Curly Hair
Curly hair has its charm, and there are a wide range of hairstyles to try. The hairstyles can vary based on the volume of the curls. Check out the infographic below for some easy-to-do hairstyles for curly hair you can explore. Knowing these hairstyles will help you style your hair differently every day.
Illustration: Momjunction Design Team
Illustration: Easy Curly Hairstyles For Girls
Image: Stable Diffusion/MomJunction Design Team
Women with curly hair have many options for styling their looks. Here are some unique hairstyles for women with curly hair.
Personal Experience: Source
MomJunction articles include first-hand experiences to provide you with better insights through real-life narratives. Here are the sources of personal accounts referenced in this article.
i. 5 easy curly hairstyles │ For school and work;https://youtu.be/z1udljXTc6I?feature=sharedii. Favorite curly hairstyles! | Vlogmas 5;
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=a_7jCKsSBDE&ab_channel=KianaDavis
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