25 Natural Hairstyles for Coily and Curly Textures

3. Twist-Out

Save It

A twist-out is a protective style where you two-strand twist your hair while it’s wet (usually after washing), let it dry, and then untwist it to reveal beautiful defined waves or curls. The twists create a pattern that translates into gorgeous wave definition once released. It’s one of the most reliable ways to get consistent definition throughout your entire head.

Why Twists Create Such Defined Curls

Two-strand twists mold your hair into a specific pattern as they dry. When you untwist, your hair remembers that pattern and springs back into it. The tighter your twists, the smaller and tighter the resulting curl pattern. The looser your twists, the wavier the results. You’re essentially creating a heatless version of pin curls, which is why the results look so sculpted.

The Complete Twist-Out Process

• Wash your hair and apply leave-in conditioner while it’s still soaking wet
• Section your hair into manageable parts—usually 6-12 sections depending on thickness and length
• Two-strand twist each section, twisting tightly all the way down to the ends
• Let the twists air dry completely or sit under a hooded dryer (this can take 12-24 hours for thick hair)
• Carefully untwist each section by unwinding slowly from the bottom up
• Gently separate the curls with your fingers for more volume, or leave them as defined two-strand sections for a sleeker look
• Mist with a light refresher spray or curling cream to revive the pattern

Pro tip: Twist your hair at night, let it dry as you sleep with a bonnet on, and you’ll have defined curls ready by morning. This turns a long process into something that happens while you’re not thinking about it.

4. Braid-Out

Save It

A braid-out follows the exact same principle as a twist-out, except you use braids instead of twists to create the curl pattern. Box braids, French braids, cornrows, or even regular three-strand braids all work. The resulting curl pattern depends on the braid style and size—smaller, tighter braids create tighter, more defined curls.

How Braids Create Different Curl Patterns

Each braid style produces different results. Tight three-strand braids create a zigzag wave pattern. Larger, looser braids create bigger, softer waves. Cornrows create a wavy, rippled texture. The rule is: the smaller and tighter the braid, the smaller and tighter the curl when released. This is why you can create totally different looks from the same length hair just by changing your braid size and style.

Styling Your Braid-Out

• Braid damp or wet hair with products already applied (moisturizer, styler, gel)
• Create anywhere from 2-8 braids depending on how big or small you want the resulting waves
• Let the braids dry completely—overnight is ideal
• Gently unbraid each section slowly, working from bottom to top
• Use your fingers to separate and shape the curls into your desired volume
• For more definition, apply a little curl cream or edge control where needed
• For more volume and fluffiness, use a pick to gently lift at the roots

Insider note: The longer you leave braids in after they’re fully dry, the more they set the pattern—some people will rebraid wet hair, let it dry completely, and sleep in the braids an extra night before taking them down for extra-held waves.

5. Bantu Knots

Save It

Bantu knots are small knots created by twisting hair around itself, creating a coiled shape. When you take them down, you get spring-coil curls throughout your hair. This style is both protective and visually striking—you can wear the knots as an actual hairstyle for days, or take them down for big, bouncy curls.

The Visual Impact of Bantu Knots

Bantu knots have serious aesthetic power. The knots themselves look deliberate and beautiful on your head. When you release them, the curls are incredibly voluminous and springy because each knot was wound tightly. This is an excellent style if you want maximum curl definition and bounce. The knots can sit in your hair for 2-3 days, protecting your curls while you wear them as a statement style.

How to Create Bantu Knots

• Section your damp hair into small squares using clips or braids to separate sections
• Apply your styling product (leave-in, cream, or gel) to each section
• Starting at the root, twist the section of hair tightly and begin wrapping it around the base, creating a coiled knot shape
• Keep wrapping until you reach the end and tuck the ends underneath the knot
• Pin the knot in place with a bobby pin if it’s loose
• Repeat across your entire head, creating knots of equal size for a uniform look
• Let the knots dry completely (12-24 hours)
• Gently unravel each knot to reveal beautiful spiraling curls

Worth knowing: Smaller knots create tighter, more defined curls. Larger knots create looser, bouncier waves. The size of your section determines your final curl size.

6. Claw Clip Curls

Save It

This is a surprisingly simple style where you use claw clips to clip your curls up on top of your head, letting the curls sit naturally within the clip rather than pulled taut. It’s a five-minute style that looks intentional and cute, and it actually protects your curls from air friction during the day.

Why Claw Clips Are Perfect for Texture

Claw clips hold curls in place without smoothing them down the way a regular clip or comb does. Your curls stay bunched and clumped inside the clip, maintaining their shape. The gentle grip doesn’t create tension at the root the way bobby pins or tight hair clips do. This means your hair stays healthy while looking intentionally styled.

Making Claw Clip Curls Look Polished

• Start with refreshed curls that have been misted with a little water or refresh spray
• Gather curls on top of your head loosely
• Clip into place with a tortoiseshell or metallic claw clip positioned at an angle
• Let some face-framing pieces fall naturally around your face
• You can pin wispy pieces back with bobby pins, or leave them loose for a softer look
• For extra hold and to define your clump, you can apply a tiny bit of edge control or mousse before clipping

Pro tip: Experiment with clip placement—centered on top looks playful, off-center looks more sophisticated, and a low clip at the nape creates an entirely different vibe.

7. Slicked-Back High Bun

Save It

For a sleek, polished look that works for work, gym, or going out, a high bun with slicked-back edges reads as intentional and professional. This style uses edge control or a smoothing gel to tame your hairline and create definition, then gathers curls into a tight bun at the crown.

How to Slick Your Curls Without Damage

Using edge control on your hairline is fine—it’s meant for that purpose and won’t hurt your overall curl health. The key is applying it only to the hairline and edges, not throughout your entire head. The rest of your curls stay natural and defined inside the bun. You get the sleekness you want without sacrificing your curl definition.

Creating a Polished High Bun

• Apply a leave-in conditioner and a light styling cream throughout your hair
• Use a fine-tooth comb or brush to gently smooth your edges back from your hairline
• Apply edge control to the hairline and temples, smoothing as you go
• Gather your curls into a high ponytail at the crown, securing with a smooth elastic
• Twist or coil your ponytail and wrap it around the base of the ponytail, securing with bobby pins
• Smooth down any baby hairs with the edge control and a soft brush or toothbrush
• Mist with light hairspray for hold

Worth knowing: This style works beautifully on day-two or day-three hair, not just fresh curls. In fact, slightly drier hair is easier to slick back.

8. Soft Puff with Face-Framing Pieces

Save It

A puff is when you gather your curls on top of your head into a full, rounded shape, leaving pieces loose around your face. It’s softer than a bun and more intentional than just throwing your hair up. The face-framing pieces add dimension and make the style wearable for many occasions.

Why Puffs Are So Versatile

A puff can look sporty and athletic when your hair is wet with product still in it and you’re wearing gym clothes. The same puff looks feminine and cute when you’ve added face-framing pieces and paired it with a nice outfit. It can look polished with slicked edges for professional settings, or relaxed and natural for casual wear. The style adapts to your vibe.

Building a Balanced Puff

• Start with refreshed curls that have product and moisture in them
• Leave two sections unclipped at the front—these will be your face-framing pieces
• Gather the rest of your curls into a loose, high ponytail at the crown
• Secure with a soft elastic, being careful not to pull too tightly
• Fluff the ponytail by pulling gently at the curls to create volume and roundness
• Pull down and shape the two face-framing sections to frame your face
• For polish, apply a tiny bit of curl cream to the face-framing pieces and define them

Pro tip: The fuller and rounder your puff, the younger and more playful it looks. A tighter, sleeker puff reads as more mature and professional.

9. Braided Crown

Save It

A braided crown sits across the top of your head like a halo, with your curls flowing down around it. It’s romantic, feminine, and surprisingly easy to execute. You can use regular braids, cornrows, or even twists as your crown, and you can wear it for everything from a date to a wedding.

Creating a Royal Look with Texture

A braided crown leverages your natural volume and texture beautifully. Instead of trying to create smooth, straight hair for a crown braid, you’re starting with curly, voluminous hair, which makes the crown look fuller and more textured. The contrast between the defined braid and the loose curls below is what makes this style so visually interesting.

Executing a Braided Crown

• Start with refreshed curls that have product and definition
• Begin braiding at one side of your head, starting near your temple
• Braid across the top of your head toward the opposite side, using the basic three-strand braid
• Keep the braid slightly loose rather than tight—it should look soft and intentional
• Secure the end of the braid at the opposite temple with bobby pins
• Leave your hair down below the crown braid, fluffing your curls for volume
• You can add a decorative hair clip or small flowers into the braid for special occasions
• For refinement, use a curl cream or mousse to define individual curls around your face

Worth knowing: This style works on both freshly washed curls and second-day curls, though slightly drier hair is actually easier to braid.

10. Mohawk with Side Curls

Save It

A coily or curly mohawk looks more like a voluminous strip running down the center of your head rather than the sharp, shaved sides of a traditional mohawk. This style gathers your side and back curls down and slightly back, while the center strip stays full and stands at maximum height.

How to Create a Textured Mohawk

Your curls are already voluminous, so a mohawk looks natural and intentional on you. You’re essentially controlling where your volume sits by using braids or twists on the sides to create definition, while leaving the center section free and fluffy. It’s a bold style that looks incredible for festivals, nights out, or just when you want to feel confident.

Building Your Textured Mohawk

• Apply your styling products throughout your entire head
• Create two sections: the center strip (from hairline to nape) and the sides
• Braid or twist each side section loosely, starting at the temple and working back
• Secure the braids or twists at the back of your head with bobby pins
• Leave the center strip completely free, fluffing with your fingers or a pick for maximum volume
• Define individual curls in the center section with curl cream or mousse
• Optional: apply edge control to your sides and hairline for a sleeker, more polished look

Pro tip: The wider your center strip, the more dramatic and modern the look. A narrower center strip reads as more edgy and punk.

11. Pigtails with Curls

Save It

Pigtails get an upgrade when your hair is curly—instead of looking childish, they look fun and intentional. Two pigtails positioned at medium height on either side of your head, made from gathered curls or curly ponytails, create a playful, youthful look that’s perfect for casual settings or any time you want to feel cute and put-together.

Elevating Pigtails for Curly Hair

Pigtails on textured hair automatically read as more mature because of the inherent volume and dimension in your curls. The looseness of curls prevents pigtails from ever looking too young or too simple. You’re working with movement and shape rather than sleek, straight sections, which elevates the entire aesthetic.

Creating Statement Pigtails

• Apply your styling product throughout your hair
• Section your hair into two equal parts with a center part
• Gather each section loosely into a ponytail at medium height on either side of your head
• Secure with soft elastics, leaving some curls loose at the roots for softness
• Fluff each ponytail by gently pulling at the curls to create volume
• Take individual curls from each ponytail and wrap them loosely around the base elastic (optional)
• Define curls with a curl cream for polish, or leave them wild and textured for a casual vibe

Worth knowing: The higher your pigtails, the younger they look. Medium height reads as playful but not juvenile. Low pigtails at the nape look more sultry and sophisticated.

12. Double Buns (Posh Buns)

Save It

Two buns positioned on either side of your head at the crown, sometimes called “posh buns,” create a cute, intentional look that’s perfect for casual days. Each section of curly hair is twisted and coiled at the top, creating two distinct shapes that sit symmetrically on your head.

Why Double Buns Flatter Curly Texture

Two buns create balance and draw attention to your face. The roundness of the buns mirrors the roundness of your curls, creating visual cohesion. Unlike some styles that require very specific hair thickness, double buns work beautifully whether your hair is fine or dense—the fullness of the curls fills in the space.

Building Double Buns

• Apply your styling products throughout your damp hair
• Create a center part from your hairline to your nape
• Clip one side out of the way
• Gather the other side into a high ponytail at the crown using a soft elastic
• Twist the ponytail tightly and wrap it around the base, securing with bobby pins
• Release the other side and repeat
• Fluff both buns gently by pulling at individual curls for volume and shape
• Use a curl cream to define any flyaways or separate the buns if they’re too chunky

Pro tip: The fluffier and rounder your buns, the cuter they look. Resist the urge to smooth them down—you want volume and texture.

13. Side Swept Waves

Save It

A side sweep gathers your hair toward one side of your head, creating an asymmetrical silhouette with waves cascading over one shoulder. It’s feminine and sophisticated, perfect for dates, special events, or any time you want to feel elevated but still natural.

Why Side Sweeps Enhance Curls

Curls have natural movement and flow, which makes a side sweep look effortless. You’re not trying to create drama with heat styling—your curls already have it built in. By directing them to one side, you’re emphasizing their natural beauty and showcasing the definition and movement your texture provides.

Creating a Swept Side Style

• Apply your styling products to refreshed curls
• Use your fingers to brush your curls gently toward one side of your head
• If you want more definition, use a curl cream or mousse on each curl
• Secure the hair on the opposite side with small bobby pins tucked behind your ear, or use a decorative clip
• Let the majority of your curls fall over the opposite shoulder in their natural pattern
• You can leave your hair down at the back, or create a low side ponytail for more polish
• Add a decorative comb or clip to the secured side for elegance

Worth knowing: You can wear this style on day-one curls or refresh it on day-two or day-three curls by misting with water and resculpting.

14. Half-Up, Half-Down with Defined Curls

Save It

A half-up style gathers half of your hair on top while leaving the bottom half down. This is the Goldilocks of hairstyles for curly hair—it’s not too casual, not too formal, but perfectly polished. You get the visual interest of an updo with the beautiful texture and movement of down curls.

Why Half-Up Works for Every Setting

A half-up style on curly hair reads as intentional and put-together without looking overly done. It works for casual office settings, coffee dates, workouts, and nights out. You can dress it up with a decorative clip or keep it simple with a clear elastic. It’s one of the most versatile styles you can wear.

Styling Your Half-Up, Half-Down

• Apply your styling products throughout your curls and refresh them if needed
• Use your fingers or a wide-tooth comb to gather the top half of your hair
• Create a ponytail at the crown or slightly lower on your head, depending on the look you want
• Secure with a soft elastic or decorative clip
• Leave the bottom half of your hair down in its natural curl pattern
• Gently pull and shape the curls in your ponytail for volume and definition
• Define individual curls in the down section with a curl cream for polish
• Optional: wrap a small section of hair from the ponytail around the elastic to hide it

Pro tip: The lower you position this half-up section, the more casual and soft it looks. The higher you position it, the more playful and cute it reads.

15. Wash-and-Go with Elongated Curls

Save It

An elongated wash-and-go emphasizes length and definition by using products and techniques that encourage your curls to stretch and elongate slightly, rather than bunching into tight coils. You’re still doing a true wash-and-go (applying products and letting them dry untouched), but you’re using styling methods that create a different curl shape.

How to Elongate Your Natural Curl Pattern

Using the “plopping” method or a microfiber towel to dry your curls in a stretched position, then leaving them to dry while stretched, will create a more elongated curl. Using products with lighter hold (creams instead of gels) also encourages curls to stretch slightly. The downside is less hold and definition; the upside is a different silhouette that can look incredibly sophisticated.

Achieving Elongated Curls

• Wash and condition your hair thoroughly
• Apply a lightweight leave-in conditioner and curl cream while your hair is soaking wet
• Use praying hands to apply products smoothly along each curl
• Plop your hair in a microfiber towel or t-shirt for 10-15 minutes to remove excess water while stretching
• Take your hair down and let it air dry completely without any touching or reshaping
• Avoid touching your curls while they dry—this is essential
• Once completely dry, you can gently shake out or finger-comb for any separations you want
• Apply a light oil or shine spray to finish

Worth knowing: This style can look a bit stringier and less voluminous than other styles, but it’s incredibly elegant and sometimes reads as more mature or sophisticated.

16. Clip-In Pieces for Added Length or Volume

Save It

If you want to experiment with different styles or add extra volume and length without committing to extensions, clip-in pieces designed for curly hair are a game-changer. You can add texture, volume, or create an entirely different silhouette for one day, then take them out and have your normal hair back.

Why Clip-Ins Work for Curly Hair

Clip-in pieces designed for curly and coily hair are actually curly—they match your texture instead of being straight and obvious. This means when you add them, they blend seamlessly with your natural curls. You can add volume at the roots, fullness at the ends, or use them to create a style you couldn’t do with your natural length.

Using Clip-Ins Effectively

• Section your hair and backcomb slightly at the roots where you want to clip pieces
• Clip pieces in carefully, ensuring they’re secure and not pulling on your natural hair
• Blend your natural curls with the clip-in pieces by finger-combing and using curl cream
• Style your combined natural hair and pieces as you would your regular hair
• Remove clips gently by loosening the clip mechanism and sliding out slowly
• Use a gentler method than clip-ins for wearing these multiple days in a row

Pro tip: Invest in quality clip-ins made specifically for curly and coily hair—cheap, straight clip-ins will never blend properly and will look obviously fake.

17. Locs or Loc-Like Twists

Save It

If you’re considering locs but want to test the look first, creating loc-like twists is a beautiful way to see how locs would frame your face and suit your aesthetic. Unlike actual locs, you can take these down anytime, making them a low-commitment way to try the style. Even as a permanent choice, locs are an elegant protective style for coily and curly hair.

The Beauty of Locs for Texture

Locs are one of the most protective hairstyles available for coily and curly hair because they require minimal manipulation and styling. Your hair sits in the locs, protected from friction, breakage, and the need for daily styling. Locs also age beautifully—they can be worn the same way for months or years, yet they look intentional and put-together every single day.

Creating Temporary Loc-Like Twists

• Section your hair into the size you want your locs to be
• Two-strand twist each section tightly from root to tip
• Secure the ends with small elastics or by tucking them into the twist itself
• You can wrap thread around the twists for a more loc-like appearance
• These will last anywhere from a few days to a couple of weeks, depending on how tightly you twist
• To remove, simply untwist carefully, starting from the bottom
• For permanent locs, you’ll need professional installation (usually using the two-strand twist method or crochet method)

Worth knowing: Even temporary twisted locs are protective—they prevent manipulation and breakage while looking intentional and beautiful.

18. Messy Bun with Definition

Save It

A messy bun is intentionally undone, not actually messy or careless. On curly hair, a messy bun that celebrates your texture and curl definition reads as effortless rather than neglected. This is perfect for lazy days, working from home, or casual hangouts where you want to look cute without trying hard.

Making Messy Buns Look Intentional

The trick to a good messy bun on curly hair is leaving defined curls showing—you’re not trying to smooth everything down. You want texture, dimension, and individual curl separation showing throughout the bun. It should look like you grabbed your hair up in a deliberate way that showcases your texture, not like you just rolled out of bed.

Styling Your Messy Bun

• Apply styling products to refreshed curls
• Gather your hair loosely into a high or mid-height ponytail, leaving some curls around your face and nape
• Twist the ponytail loosely and wrap it around the base, tucking ends in but letting them stick out slightly
• Pull individual curls out and separate them for texture and volume
• Don’t try to hide flyaways—let them show and define them with a little curl cream
• Apply a light mousse or sea salt spray for textured hold
• Secure with bobby pins, letting them sit visibly for an even more intentional, undone vibe

Pro tip: The less you try to make this look polished, the better it looks. Embrace the slightly undone aesthetic.

19. Curved Side Part with Volume at Roots

Save It

A curved side part creates an elegant silhouette, especially when you have volume at your roots from your natural curl pattern. Instead of a straight line, your part curves gently, and your curls sit with lots of height and dimension at the crown and sides.

Why Side Parts Flatter Curly Textures

A side part creates asymmetry, which is flattering and interesting. Curly hair naturally has volume at the roots due to your curl pattern, so a side part that emphasizes that height and volume is incredibly flattering. The curve of the part mirrors the movement in your curls, creating visual harmony.

Creating a Curved Side Part

• Start with refreshed, product-filled curls
• Use a spray bottle and brush or your fingers to gently brush your curls to one side
• Create your part line by using a rattail comb or your finger to separate hair from hairline down the back
• Let the part curve naturally as it follows the shape of your head
• Don’t force it to be perfectly straight—the slight curve is what makes it elegant
• Use a tiny bit of edge control along the part line for definition
• Fluff the side with more volume with your fingers or a pick
• Use curl cream to define individual curls and show movement

Worth knowing: A curved part looks more modern and sophisticated than a perfectly straight part, especially on textured hair.

20. Straw Sets for Lasting Waves

Save It

A straw set involves wrapping damp curls around drinking straws or flex rods, letting them dry completely, and then unwrapping them to create defined, long-lasting waves. It’s a heatless method that creates a very specific look—sleek, defined waves that last for days.

How Straw Sets Create Definition

Wrapping your hair around a straw creates a wave pattern that’s tighter and more defined than if you simply let your curls air dry. The straw acts as a mold, shaping your hair as it dries. The resulting waves are shinier, more polished, and longer-lasting than your natural curl pattern, which makes this an excellent choice for special events or when you want a sleek, dressed-up look.

The Straw Set Process

• Wash and condition your hair thoroughly
• Apply a leave-in conditioner and lightweight styling gel to damp hair
• Section your hair and wrap each section loosely around a drinking straw or flex rod
• Secure the straw or rod in place by tying the ends or clipping them
• Let your hair dry completely under a hooded dryer or overnight (this takes 12+ hours)
• Carefully unwind each straw or rod slowly from the bottom up
• Gently separate the resulting waves with your fingers
• Use a lightweight mousse or edge control for polish and hold

Pro tip: Smaller straws create tighter waves. Larger straws or flex rods create looser, bigger waves. The size you choose determines the final look.

21. Curved Bangs with Curls

Save It

Adding curved bangs to your curly style creates a youthful, trendy look that frames your face beautifully. Curved bangs follow your forehead shape rather than being blunt, and they work with curly hair naturally because your curls already have dimension and movement.

How Curved Bangs Enhance Your Features

Curved bangs create a soft frame around your face, drawing attention to your eyes and cheekbones. They’re less dramatic than blunt bangs and work with your curl pattern rather than fighting it. On curly hair, bangs almost always look cute because the slight texture and movement prevents them from ever looking too severe or harsh.

Styling Curved Bangs

• If you have bangs, apply your styling products and define them with the rest of your curl pattern
• Use a curl cream or mousse on your bangs to encourage curl and prevent frizz
• Avoid blow-drying your bangs straight—let them dry naturally with your curl pattern
• You can use a small brush to direct them slightly as they dry, but don’t fight your curl
• On non-wash days, refresh your bangs with a light mist of water and your styling product
• Use a comb to tease and separate your bangs for more texture and volume
• Keep bangs trimmed every 4-6 weeks so they don’t grow too long and become harder to manage

Worth knowing: If you’re considering getting bangs, ask your stylist for curved or wispy bangs rather than blunt—they’ll work infinitely better with your curl pattern.

22. Flat Twist Updo

Save It

Flat twists are like cornrows but with only two strands of hair rather than three. Creating an updo entirely from flat twists is intricate, elegant, and incredibly protective. This style showcases your curls at the crown while protecting the majority of your hair from manipulation and friction.

The Protective Power of Flat Twist Updos

Flat twists are protective because they eliminate the need for styling or manipulation. Your hair sits in the twists, protected and contained. The updo version allows you to wear your style up or let your twists down, giving you flexibility. This is an excellent style if you want to protect your hair for a period while still looking polished and intentional.

Creating a Flat Twist Updo

• Wash your hair and apply leave-in conditioner
• Blow-dry on low or air dry your hair until it’s about 80% dry
• Create flat twists from your hairline toward the crown, incorporating more hair as you go
• Gather the ends of your flat twists into a ponytail or bun at the crown
• Secure with pins and a smooth elastic
• Leave a few curls down around your face for softness, or pull all your curls up for a completely sleek look
• Apply edge control and use a soft brush to finish your hairline

Pro tip: Flat twists stay fresh for much longer than regular styling, so this is an excellent style to do once and wear for multiple days in a row.

23. Spiral Curls with Finger Coils

Save It

Finger coils are created by coiling small sections of hair around your finger, then sliding your finger out to leave the coil in place. If you do this across your entire head, you create a specific spiral curl pattern that’s defined, bouncy, and absolutely stunning. This is a time-intensive style, but the results are incredible.

Why Finger Coils Create Perfect Spirals

Coiling your hair around your finger creates a perfect spiral shape that holds as your hair dries. The resulting curl is springy, defined, and bouncy in a way that even your natural curl pattern might not be. This is one of the most deliberate, intentional-looking styles you can create, which makes it perfect for special occasions or when you want to feel absolutely stunning.

The Finger Coil Process

• Wash and condition your hair and apply a rich styling cream or gel while it’s soaking wet
• Section your hair into small, manageable parts
• Take a small subsection and wrap it tightly around your index finger, starting at the root
• Slide your finger out slowly, leaving the coil in place
• Let the coil dry completely—you can sit under a hooded dryer or air dry (this takes 12-24 hours for full hair)
• Once dry, you can leave the coils as they are for a boho look, or gently separate them for more volume
• This style lasts beautifully for several days

Worth knowing: Finger coils are labor-intensive and time-consuming, but they’re protective and the results are stunning. Many people do them on a day off when they have time.

24. Loose Tendrils with a Comb-Out

Save It

This style celebrates the length and looseness of your curls by gently combing them out while wet, then letting them dry in a more separated, elongated state. Instead of defined coils or tight curls, you get looser waves and tendrils that emphasize length and dimension.

How to Create Loose, Defined Tendrils

Using a wide-tooth comb or your fingers to gently comb your curls while they’re wet will stretch and separate them. The more you comb, the looser and more tendrilled the final result. Applying a lighter styling product (a cream rather than a gel) also encourages looser, more separated curls. This is perfect if you want a romantic, soft, bohemian aesthetic.

Achieving the Tendril Look

• Wash and condition your hair and apply a lightweight leave-in conditioner and curl cream while soaking wet
• Use a wide-tooth comb to gently comb through your curls from roots to tips, using praying hands motion
• Comb multiple times, separating curls further with each pass
• Apply additional curl cream if needed for definition
• Let your hair air dry completely in this combed-out, separated state
• Avoid touching your hair while it dries
• Once dry, you can add more tendrils or separate further with your fingers
• Use an oil to define individual tendrils and add shine

Pro tip: The more you comb, the looser and wavier your final result will be. Start with less combing and work up to find your preferred level of looseness.

25. Crown of Curls with Pulled-Back Sides

Save It

This sophisticated style gathers the sides and back of your hair loosely back, while leaving a crown of curls on top of your head that stands tall and voluminous. It’s feminine, elegant, and works beautifully for formal occasions, weddings, or any time you want to feel glamorous.

Why This Style Exudes Elegance

By pulling the sides and back away from your face while leaving the crown full, you’re creating the illusion of a halo of curls around your head. It’s romantic, intentional, and incredibly flattering. The height at the crown makes your face look smaller and more angular, and the openness of your face draws attention to your features.

Creating Your Crown of Curls

• Apply your styling products to refreshed, defined curls
• Use a wide-tooth comb or your fingers to gather the sides of your hair loosely back from your face
• Secure the sides at the back of your head with bobby pins or a decorative clip
• Leave the crown section completely free and fluffy on top
• Use a pick or your fingers to gently lift and fluff the crown for maximum volume
• Define individual curls in the crown with a curl cream or mousse for polish
• Optional: add a decorative headpiece, comb, or small flowers into your crown for special occasions
• For refinement, apply a tiny bit of edge control along your hairline

Pro tip: This style looks most elegant when your face-framing pieces are intentionally left down and defined. Don’t try to slick everything back—soften it with some texture at your temples.

Final Thoughts

Save It

Your curls and coils are genuinely versatile. You’ve got enough natural movement, volume, and texture built right in that you can create dozens of completely different looks depending on what you need and what you’re feeling. The key is choosing styles that work with your texture, not against it—that means protective styling when you need to protect your hair, refresh-friendly styles for on-the-go, and intentional styling when you want to feel confident and polished.

The best part about having curly or coily hair? You don’t need heat tools, expensive equipment, or complicated techniques to look amazing. You need the right products for your specific curl pattern, a basic understanding of how to apply them, and honestly, permission to have a good hair day without feeling like you have to fight for it every single morning. Your curls are a feature. Use these styles to show them off.