Skip to Content

Easy Curly Hair Updos: 10 Stunning Styles That Take Just 5 Minutes [2025]

This site is supported by our readers. We may earn a commission, at no cost to you, if you purchase through links.

easy curly hair updosFor easy curly hair updos, start with a low ponytail as your base—perfect for messy buns or braided styles.

Twist small sections of your curls, pinning them around the ponytail for a soft, romantic vibe. Use bobby pins that match your curl type (jumbo for thick, mini for finer curls) and slide them in wavy side down for a no-slip grip.

Don’t forget a light-hold hairspray to keep your curls bouncy, not stiff. For something fancier, roll the twists into a loose chignon.

It’s quick, pretty, and makes it look like you tried—when really, you nailed it in five minutes flat with a loose chignon!

Key Takeaways

  • Start with a low ponytail as your base and twist small sections, pinning them around for quick and elegant styles.
  • Use bobby pins that match your curl type and always slide them in wavy side down for a secure hold.
  • Light-hold hairspray keeps your curls bouncy and natural, while anti-humidity sprays prevent frizz.
  • Add personal touches like tendrils, hairpins, or decorative accessories to elevate your updo effortlessly.

Essential Tools and Accessories

You’ll need a few trusty tools in your curly hair arsenal, just like a superhero needs their gadgets, including some sturdy bobby pins, hair ties, and the right hairspray to keep those gorgeous curls in place.

With these basics ready to go, you’re all set to transform your curls into a stunning updo that’ll make heads turn and stay put through whatever the day throws at you, with the help of the right tools and a bit of styling expertise to create a look that is truly gorgeous.

Bobby Pins and Hair Elastics

Bobby Pins and Hair Elastics
The secret to fabulous curly updos lies in your toolbox of tiny heroes – bobby pins and hair elastics! Here’s what you need to know:

  1. Pin Placement: Slide bobby pins in a crisscross pattern, with the wavy side down for maximum grip. Your curls will stay put all day!
  2. Hair Tie Options: Choose clear elastic bands for invisible hold, or scrunchies for gentle styling without breakage.
  3. Bobby Pin Hacks: Match pin size to your curl type – jumbo pins for thick coils, mini pins for fine spirals. You can find a variety of curly hair bobby pins online.
  4. Elastic Bands: Double up thin elastics for extra security without bulk.
  5. Quick Fix: Keep a stash of pins in your favorite metallic shade – they’re like jewelry for your hair!

Pro tip: Stock up on U-shaped pins – they’re your secret weapon for taming those wild curls in seconds.

Choosing The Right Hairspray

Choosing The Right Hairspray
Finding your perfect hairspray match can make or break those gorgeous curly updos. Your spray’s hold level matters big time – light hold keeps things natural and bouncy, while firm hold tells those curls to stay put all day long.

Consider your curl type and texture when selecting a hairspray. You’ll want to skip anything with alcohol (trust us, your curls will thank you!). Instead, look for sprays with panthenol that add moisture and shine.

If you’ve got fine hair, lightweight sprays with volumizing polymers are your best friends. Here’s a pro tip: spray from 12 inches away for that just-right coverage.

And if you’re battling humidity, grab a spray specifically designed to fight frizz – it’s like an invisible shield for your style! Remember, the right hairspray shouldn’t leave your curls feeling crunchy or stiff.

Preparing Your Hair

You’ll love how quick and easy it’s to prep your curls for these gorgeous updos, even if you’re still in your pajamas and running late.

Before you start styling, make sure your hair is slightly damp (not dripping wet) and detangled with your favorite leave-in conditioner, which will help your curls behave like well-trained puppies instead of going wild.

Sectioning for Control

Sectioning for Control
You’re about to master the art of sectioning for an easy curly updo! Splitting up your hair isn’t complicated, but smart parting techniques can make styling much smoother.

Proper sectioning, like when sectioning hair for dyeing, guarantees even product distribution and prevents a patchy look. Start by grabbing some sturdy sectioning clips.

Your curly masterpiece begins with three zones: two up top for twisting fun and one in the back for ponytail magic. Here’s how to part like a pro:

  1. Top-left section: Clip it neatly at the crown.
  2. Top-right section: Mirror the first, keeping both even.
  3. Back section: Sweep up curls for the foundation.
  4. Baby hairs: Clip them softly to maintain their natural charm.
  5. Middle part line: Make sure it’s clean for balance.

With these curl-clipping tricks, you’ll achieve simple, quick curly updos effortlessly!

Ponytail Foundation

Ponytail Foundation
Your ponytail base is like the foundation of a house—get it right, and everything stays fabulous!

Whether you’re doing a sleek ponytail updo or a curly ponytail updo, focus on hair texture and height.

Here’s a quick guide:

Height Best For Styling Tips
High Ponytail Topknots or dramatic styles Use a strong ponytail holder.
Mid Ponytail Casual chic looks Add curl enhancement spray.
Low Ponytail Messy buns or braided updos Loosen strands for softness.

With these tips, easy curly updos are perfect for beginners, even when you’re rushed!

Twisting Techniques

Twisting Techniques
Twisting techniques are perfect for creating elegant and easy updos that look like you spent hours on them.

You’ll simply twist small sections of your curls, secure them to a ponytail, and enjoy a style that’s quick, pretty, and totally foolproof!

Creating The Twists

Now that your hair sections are ready, it’s time to create magic with some twist methods. Take each section and split it into two smaller parts. Gently twist them together while keeping your twist tension snug but not too tight—like pulling a sweater over your head without ruining your curls!

Your curl texture will decide the vibe: smaller twists pop for tight curls, while chunky twists add boldness to looser waves. Want to jazz it up? Try adding braid patterns near the scalp or a decorative pin.

Need ideas? Check out a twist and pin waves tutorial online or experiment with a twist and pin updo. This twisted updo for wavy hair is fun, quick, and stunning!

Securing Twists to Ponytail

You’ve created beautiful twists! Now, it’s all about securing them smoothly to your ponytail base.

To keep everything snug and stylish, pin like a pro with these quick tips:

  • Use bobby pins that match your curl’s thickness to avoid sliding.
  • Clear elastics work wonders for a polished look (and are nearly invisible).
  • Adjust twist placement to frame your face or add volume where needed.
  • Tuck and pin any loose ends for a clean finish.

With these quick tips, your twist and pin waves tutorial will look flawless—perfect for curly updos for beginners or special occasions!

Crafting The Chignon

Crafting The Chignon
A curly chignon is elegant, easy, and looks way more complicated than it is.

All you need is a few pins, a twist here, a tuck there, and you’ll have a stylish bun that stays put all day.

Rolling and Pinning

Let’s roll with this: start by gathering your curls into a ponytail at the desired height.

Now, gently form soft, elegant Curly Rolls by twisting sections upward, letting the natural bounce of your curls shine.

Use Pinning Techniques that work like magic—insert bobby pins in a crisscross pattern to lock in your masterpiece.

Follow the curl’s direction for smoothness.

This step-by-step twist-and-pin method creates stunning Bun Styles that feel secure and look effortless.

These curly updo hairstyles easy are perfect for any occasion.

Pro tip: Add a little humor—if it feels too tight, it’s definitely too tight!

Incorporating Extra Pieces

Understanding your natural hair’s porosity is essential for product selection and moisture retention.

Personalize your look with these steps:

  1. Sweep loose tendrils or front sections into the chignon for soft elegance.
  2. Pin a curly hairpiece to the side or experiment with clip-in extensions for volume.
  3. Mix functional bobby pins with stylish options like barrettes, brooches, or headbands.
  4. Weave in hair sticks, flowers, or decorative hair clips to elevate your updo.

For a polished finish, use humidity-resistant spray—it’ll keep your curly hair pin up hairstyle intact!

Setting With Hairspray

Setting With Hairspray
Hairspray is your secret weapon to keep curls in place and control frizz, even on busy or humid days.

Just a quick spritz locks in your style, so you can dance, twirl, or chase the bus without worrying about flyaways.

Achieving a Light Hold

A light hold keeps your curls bouncy and beautiful without feeling stiff. To master this, think “gentle but mighty” when choosing products.

Follow these Light Hold Tips for updos that last:

  1. Use mousse sparingly for Curl Enhancement.
  2. Add a root lifter to boost Hair Texture without adding weight.
  3. Pick alcohol-free spray for Gentle Styling and prevention of dryness.
  4. Try volumizing mist lightly for a Soft Finish.
  5. Test products to find what works for your unique curls.

Understanding hairspray effects is important for maintaining healthy hair while styling.

Your curls deserve support, not a crunchy prison—keep it natural and free!

Managing Humidity and Frizz

Humidity got your curls in a twist? Fight back with Frizz Control products like anti-humidity sprays and Curl Definers packed with ingredients such as Polyquaternium.

These powerful Humidity Fighters lock in Moisture Balance and form a protective shield, perfect for flawless curly hair updos for humidity. Fine curly hair types are particularly susceptible to frizz in humid conditions, so consider humidity’s impact on hair when choosing products.

For Frizz Prevention, use lightweight curl creams that won’t weigh you down. Whether you’re rocking everyday natural curly hair updos or trying easy updos for curly hair, these tricks keep you looking Instagram-ready all day with a Moisture Balance that lasts.

Final Touches for Lasting Style

Final Touches for Lasting Style
You’re almost done, but the final touches make all the difference.

Add a bit of texture to your curls and smooth any flyaways, so your updo looks polished and lasts all day—no renegade strands to ruin the vibe!

Adding Texture to Curls

Adding texture is your secret weapon for updo perfection!

Work a curl-enhancing product into damp hair by scrunching—it’s like giving your curls a pep talk.

A texture spray boosts grip while volumizing mousse adds hair volume without the weight.

Focus on curl definition by layering lightweight products sparingly.

Think of your curls as stars in their own spotlight; celebrate their natural bounce.

Frizz control? That’s just the bonus on your journey to Instagram-worthy natural curly hair updos, with natural curly hair being the ultimate goal!

Smooth Finish Without Flyaways

Smoothing stubborn flyaways can turn your curly updo into a sleek, red-carpet-ready style. A small dab of hair serum or smoothing cream works wonders—think of it as a flyaway tamer for instant frizz control.

Consider a flyaway tamer product specifically designed for curls. For a silky finish, lightly mist a humidity-resistant hairspray, like Tresemmé, keeping your curls secure without stickiness.

Got wild strands near the crown? Glide your fingertips (or even an old toothbrush with hairspray) over them for quick touch-ups. Don’t overdo it; less product equals natural vibes. Curlies unite—easy curly hairstyles up can be simple and gorgeous with these tricks. You’ve got this down, like a pro stylist!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How to easily put up curly hair?

Taming curls is like herding cats, but way more rewarding!

Start with a high puff or messy bun.

Use bobby pins for loose strands, add a headband or scarf, and embrace those curls confidently!

How do you make curly hair go up?

Grab some bobby pins, elastic bands, and a little patience.

Twist sections of curls, pin them up, or go for a messy topknot.

Let a few curls frame your face — instant charm!

How to tie up curly hair without ruining it?

Loosely gather your curls into a pineapple at the crown with a soft scrunchie—no pulling tight!

Flip out a few strands to frame your face.

You’ll secure your style, save your curls, and stay fabulous!

How do you make a cute messy bun with curly hair?

Twist your curls into a high ponytail, but don’t pull the ends fully through—leave a loop.

Wrap stray pieces around the base, secure with bobby pins, and let some curls hang loose for charm.

Reorganizing the hair in this manner will create a visually appealing style.

How do I prevent my curls from getting frizzy?

Did you know 90% of curl frizz comes from dryness?

Keep your curls hydrated with a sulfate-free shampoo, use a microfiber towel to dry, and finish with a lightweight gel.

Humidity-proof, happy curls await!

Can I do an updo on short curly hair?

You can rock an updo on short curly hair.

Try a mini messy bun or twisted tendrils pinned back.

Add cute clips for flair. It’s quick, fun, and perfect for any occasion!

What hairstyles work best for thin curls?

For thin curls, try a high puff with bangs or a curly top knot.

These styles add volume and look super chic.

Use lightweight styling products to avoid flattening and let your curls shine!

How long will my curly updo last?

Your curly updo can last several hours to all day, depending on products and hair type.

Use strong-hold pins and sprays, avoid excessive touching, and embrace a little mess—life’s curveballs can actually improve the style!

Are updos damaging for naturally curly hair?

Updos can be safe for naturally curly hair if you’re gentle.

Avoid pulling too tight, use soft bands, and skip styles that stress your scalp.

Treat your curls with care, and they’ll love you back!

How can I style curls for short hair?

Did you know 70% of people with short hair think styling curls is hard?

Try a curly half bun! Gather the top curls, twist into a bun, pin it—boom, trendy and easy!

Conclusion

Think of these easy curly hair updos as your secret weapon for busy mornings or last-minute events.

With just a low ponytail, some twists, and a few bobby pins, you can create styles that look chic but take barely five minutes.

Don’t stress if a curl pops out—it’s part of the charm! Grab your favorite hairspray, keep it light, and let those curls shine.

You’ll turn heads while looking like you didn’t even try, with a style that’s effortlessly easy.

Avatar for Mutasim Sweileh

Mutasim Sweileh

Mutasim is a published author and software engineer and beard care expert from the US. To date, he has helped thousands of men make their beards look better and get fatter. His work has been mentioned in countless notable publications on men's care and style and has been cited in Seeker, Wikihow, GQ, TED, and Buzzfeed.