You wake up, look in the mirror, and your curls have decided to do their own thing. It happens to all of us, and some mornings you just want your hair out of the way without losing the personality that makes curls so fun. That’s where a good bun comes in. Curly bun hairstyles let you keep the volume, texture, and shape you love while giving your look a purposeful finish.
This guide covers eighteen ideas, from playful double buns to sleek high styles, with plenty of detail on how to wear and maintain each one. You’ll find tips on products, placement, accessories, and the small tweaks that make a bun look polished rather than rushed. Whether you’re heading to class, the gym, a wedding, or brunch with friends, there’s a style here that fits your plans. Curl patterns vary a lot, so treat each idea as a starting point and adjust it to your own hair.
A few things help every style on this list. Start with hydrated curls, because dry hair frizzes and refuses to hold its shape. Use a soft hair tie or scrunchie instead of a thin elastic that can snag and break strands. And give yourself a little grace on the first try, since most women need a couple of attempts before a bun sits exactly where they want it.
1. Playful Curly Double Bun Hairstyle
Two buns on top of your head give you an instant lift in mood. The double bun look feels youthful and fun, and it works beautifully with curls because the texture creates natural fullness. Each bun looks like a soft cloud of coils, and the symmetry makes the whole style feel balanced. It’s a great pick for concerts, weekend errands, or any day you’d like a little extra cheer.
To build it, part your hair down the center and gather each side into a high or mid-height section. Twist each section loosely around its base and secure it with a scrunchie so the curls stay soft. Pull a few strands free around the front for a relaxed finish. If one bun looks bigger than the other, gently stretch the smaller one with your fingers until they match.
2. High Curly Bun with Defined Volume
A high curly bun is one of the most dependable curly bun hairstyles you can learn. It sits near the crown, shows off your neck and cheekbones, and keeps everything neatly out of your face. The defined volume comes from curls that look clumped and bouncy rather than frizzy or flat. It’s a favorite for busy days when you want to look put together in about five minutes.
The secret is starting with well-defined curls. Work a curl cream or light gel through damp hair, scrunch upward, and let it dry before you gather it up. Use a wide scrunchie rather than a skinny band, which keeps the bun round and full. Then fluff the top with a wide-tooth pick or your fingers, working gently so you don’t break up the definition.
3. Half-Up Curly Bun with Loose Ringlets
This one is perfect when you can’t decide between wearing your hair up or down. You gather the top section into a bun and let the rest fall in loose ringlets around your shoulders. It feels romantic and relaxed, and it frames the face without covering it. Many women reach for it on dates, birthday dinners, and spring outings.
For the best result, start with your curls fully dry so the ringlets keep their shape. Section off the top third of your hair, twist it into a bun at the crown, and secure it gently. The loose curls below should stay untouched, so resist the urge to brush them. A light mist of water mixed with leave-in conditioner can revive any ringlets that have started to droop.
4. Defined Curly Double Bun Hairstyle
If the first double bun was playful, this version is the polished cousin. Here the curls are crisp and clearly separated, which makes each bun look sculpted. The definition gives it a clean, intentional feel, so it works for school, work, and weekend plans alike. It also photographs well, since the individual curl patterns stand out.
Achieving that crispness comes down to product and patience. Apply a styling gel to soaking-wet hair, then smooth it in with a praying-hands motion before scrunching. Let your hair air dry or use a diffuser on low heat, and avoid touching it until it’s fully dry. Once you break the gel cast gently with your fingers, you can gather each side into a bun without losing any shape.
5. Playful Curly Pony Bun Hairstyle
Think of this as the meeting point between a ponytail and a bun. You gather the curls high on your head, wrap them partway around the base, and let the ends spring out like a pom-pom. The result is bouncy, casual, and surprisingly flattering. It’s a great choice if you like height but don’t want a tight, sleek bun.
This style is especially friendly for women with medium to long hair, since there’s plenty of length to play with. Pull your hair into a high ponytail using a stretchy scrunchie, then twist the ponytail around itself once or twice and secure the ends with a second tie. Fluff the curls outward so they fan into a rounded shape. If you work out or run errands in warm weather, this keeps your neck cool without flattening your texture.
6. Elegant High Curly Bun Hairstyle
When you want curly bun hairstyles that feel dressed up, an elegant high bun is a reliable choice. It lifts the whole look, lengthens the neck, and shows off earrings, necklines, and makeup. The curls add softness, so it looks refined rather than stiff. It suits weddings, graduations, formal dinners, and any evening when you’d like to feel a little glamorous.
For an elegant finish, take your time with placement. Aim for the crown or slightly above it, and make sure the bun sits centered. Smooth the sides lightly with a bit of gel or cream, but keep the bun itself full and textured. Add a pearl pin, a small barrette, or a thin headband to complete it, and let one or two curls fall by your ears for a soft touch.
7. Curly Double Bun with Bold Accessories
Accessories can turn a simple double bun into the star of your outfit. Think oversized scrunchies, colorful claw clips, sparkly pins, ribbons, or chunky barrettes. Curls hold these details well because their texture gives accessories something to grip. It’s an easy way to match your hair to your mood without changing the style itself.
When you add bold accessories, keep the rest of your look balanced. If your scrunchies are bright and loud, you might skip heavy earrings and let the hair do the talking. Place each accessory where it can be seen, such as at the base of the bun or tucked into the curls on the sides. And check the weight of any clips, since heavy ones can slip out of curly hair by the end of the day.
8. Sleek High Curly Bun Hairstyle
A sleek high bun gives curly hair a smooth, polished frame while still letting the curls take center stage. The sides and front lay down neatly, while the bun on top keeps its natural spring. It’s a look that works in offices, interviews, and formal events, and it pairs well with minimalist outfits. Many women love it because it feels organized without hiding their texture.
To get that smooth finish, start with a hydrating gel or edge control and a soft bristle brush. Slick the hair back from the front and sides, gather it into a high ponytail, and then twist it into a bun. Secure the bun with a hair tie and tuck in any stray ends with a few pins. A silk or satin scarf tied around the hairline for ten minutes helps set the sleek sides without causing frizz.
9. Curly Double Buns with Face-Framing Tendrils
Face-framing tendrils soften the double bun and bring out your features. These are the little curls you leave loose by your temples and cheeks, and they add a flirty, romantic touch. The style works well for women who want their hair away from their neck but still love a soft outline around the face. It’s a great pick for festivals, picnics, and relaxed dates.
To place the tendrils, pull out a few small sections near your hairline after you’ve secured both buns. Choose pieces that already curl nicely, since they’ll hold their shape better. A bit of curl cream on your fingertips can define each strand without weighing it down. Keep them to a few strands on each side, because too many can make the look feel messy rather than intentional.
10. Curly Double Buns with Loose Tendrils
This variation leans a little more casual and carefree. Instead of a few carefully chosen curls, you let more strands fall loose around the face and the nape of the neck. The overall effect feels lived-in, like you threw your hair up and happened to look great. It’s perfect for lazy weekend mornings and casual summer plans.
Because the look depends on a relaxed feel, it’s more forgiving than neater styles. You can build the buns in a minute or two, then tug at the front to loosen them. If your tendrils look frizzy, a quick dab of leave-in conditioner on your palms can calm them. And on humid days, this style tends to look even better, since a little frizz only adds to the effortless mood.
11. Playful High Curly Double Buns
High double buns sit near the top of the head, almost like curly ears. They draw attention upward and give the look a bouncy, youthful energy. The height makes the buns the focal point, so the style pairs well with simple tops and minimal jewelry. It’s a go-to choice for game days, theme parks, and festivals.
For this style, aim to place each bun at about the same height as the top of your ears or slightly above. Part your hair down the middle, gather each side into a high ponytail, and twist the curls into rounded buns. Use strong, stretchy ties so the buns don’t droop as the day goes on. If your hair is very thick, divide each section in two and pin the pieces together to keep the shape neat.
12. Bold Yellow Curly Double Buns
Yellow is a cheerful, high-impact color, and it looks striking against curly texture. You can wear it through dyed hair, clip-in color extensions, or bright accessories like yellow scrunchies and ribbons. The double bun shape makes the color easy to show off, since it creates two clear spots of brightness. It’s a lively choice for women who like to experiment and stand out.
If you’re considering a dye, talk to a stylist who understands curly hair, because lighter shades often require lifting and can leave curls dry. Clip-in pieces or temporary color sprays are gentler ways to test the look first. After wearing any color, moisturize your curls well and use a deep conditioner regularly. And if you’d rather keep things low-commitment, bright yellow accessories deliver much of the same effect.
13. Chic Curly Double Buns with Sleek Edges
Here the buns are fluffy and full, while the front and sides stay smooth and neat. That contrast gives the style a fashion-forward, put-together feel. The sleek edges frame the face in a crisp way, which makes the look suitable for school, work, and dinner out. It also works nicely if you like to show off your hairline or wear makeup that highlights your features.
To get the contrast right, start by smoothing your edges with a small amount of gel and a soft brush. Lay them gently along your hairline, then secure them with a satin scarf for a few minutes. Once the edges are set, gather each side into a bun and fluff the curls for volume. The trick is not to over-smooth, because baby hairs that look natural are more flattering than ones that look plastered down.
14. Messy Curly Double Buns with Fringe
If you love a more undone mood, messy double buns with a fringe might be your favorite among curly bun hairstyles. The buns are casual and slightly uneven, and the fringe adds a youthful, playful frame. It’s a style that feels spontaneous and relaxed, and it suits women who prefer a lived-in look. The fringe also gives your forehead and face a soft border.
Curly fringe needs a little care. Cut it when it’s dry so you can see how the curls spring up, and leave it a bit longer than you think you need. When styling, use a small amount of curl cream and let the fringe dry naturally to keep the curl pattern intact. For the buns, don’t aim for symmetry, because the loose, slightly off-balance shape is what makes the style charming.
15. Voluminous High Curly Bun Hairstyle
Big hair has a way of making an entrance, and a voluminous high bun does exactly that. The bun sits tall and round, with curls piled into a generous shape that draws the eye upward. It feels confident, glamorous, and a little theatrical. It’s an excellent option for birthdays, photoshoots, and nights out.
Volume starts at the root and continues through the length. Use a wide-tooth pick to lift your curls before gathering them, and consider a donut-shaped bun maker or a large scrunchie to add fullness. Pin the bun securely so it doesn’t tilt under its own weight. If you want even more height, tease the crown lightly with your fingers rather than a fine comb, which can cause breakage.
16. Curly High Bun with Face-Framing Strands
This style combines the clean line of a high bun with a few loose curls near the face. It gives you the best of both worlds: your hair is up and out of the way, but the framing strands soften the shape. The effect is flattering for most face shapes. It works for office days, parties, and everything in between.
Choose strands that are long enough to show their curl pattern but short enough to stay out of your eyes. A small amount of defining cream on those pieces keeps them springy. If your face-framing curls are very tight, they may look shorter once they dry, so you might leave a bit more length than seems necessary. A tiny bit of hair spray at the roots will help the bun stay put through a long day.
17. Curly Mohawk Bun Style
The curly mohawk bun is a bold, edgy option that celebrates texture and height. The style runs along the center of your head in a ridge of curls, ending in a bun or a rounded cluster at the crown. It feels creative and powerful, and it often draws compliments. It’s well-suited to concerts, parties, and any day you want your hair to make a statement.
Because this style is more architectural, plan some time for setup. Part your hair in a clean line on each side, smooth the sides down, and gather the center section into a high bun. Use extra pins to keep the shape secure, and fluff the curls into a rounded crest. If you like a softer take, leave a few strands loose near the temples to avoid an overly severe look.
18. High Curly Bun with Sleek Edges
Closing out our list is a style that blends simplicity with polish. A high curly bun with sleek edges pairs a soft, springy top with neat, smooth sides. It looks professional enough for the office but still feels fresh and stylish for weekend outings. If you’re new to curly bun hairstyles, this one is a friendly place to begin.
For this style, define the curls first and set the edges second. Use a gentle gel on the hairline, smooth it back, and tie a satin scarf around your head while you finish getting ready. Once the edges are flat and polished, gather the rest into a high bun and fluff it lightly. A few pins and a favorite scrunchie complete the look.
FAQs
How do I keep a curly bun from looking flat?
Volume starts with healthy, moisturized curls and a little lift at the roots. Use a wide-tooth pick or your fingers to gently pull the curls outward after you gather them. A large scrunchie or a bun maker can also add fullness without extra effort. Avoid wrapping the hair too tightly, since tension can squash the curl pattern.
What’s the best hair tie for curly hair?
Soft, wide options such as scrunchies, fabric-covered bands, and spiral ties tend to work well. They hold the hair securely without pulling or snagging individual curls. Thin elastic bands can cause breakage, especially around the edges. If you notice any damage near your hair ties, switch to a gentler type and change the position of the bun now and then.
Can I wear a curly bun on second or third day hair?
Yes, and many women find that these styles look even better on day two or three. The curls often settle into a more relaxed shape, and the texture gives the bun some grip. Refresh your hair with a light mist of water and a little leave-in conditioner before styling. If your scalp feels oily, a gentle cleanse at the roots can help before you restyle.
How do I protect my curls when sleeping after wearing a bun?
Loosen the bun before bed, or move your hair into a high, loose pineapple with a soft scrunchie. A satin bonnet or a silk pillowcase reduces friction and helps keep frizz down. Avoid sleeping in tight styles, because they can cause tension and breakage over time. In the morning, shake out your curls and refresh them with water or a little styling cream.
Are curly bun hairstyles suitable for short curly hair?
Many of them can be, especially a pony bun, a small high bun, or a half-up style. Short hair may need extra pins and a thin, strong tie to hold the shape. You can also use clip-in extensions or a curly bun piece to add fullness. If your hair is very short, mini buns or twisted sections near the crown can create a similar effect.
How often should I wear a bun without giving my hair a break?
There’s no single rule, but it helps to vary your style and avoid tension in the same spots. Switching between buns, loose curls, and protective styles gives your hair and scalp some relief. If you feel soreness or see thinning near your edges, loosen up your styling and talk to a professional. Keeping your curls hydrated and your ties gentle goes a long way toward long-term health.
Conclusion
Curls bring natural shape, volume, and personality, and a well-chosen bun lets you show them off in a fresh way. From playful double buns to sleek high styles, there’s a lot of range among these curly bun hairstyles, and most of them take only a few minutes once you’ve practiced. The best look is the one that feels comfortable, suits your lifestyle, and makes you smile when you check the mirror.
If you’re not sure where to start, pick one style for everyday wear and one for a special occasion, and try them both this week. Pay attention to how your curls behave, which products work best, and which tie keeps everything in place. A little hydration, gentle handling, and a satin bonnet at night will keep your curls healthy for every style that follows. Your next favorite bun may be waiting in your hands right now.
