When it comes to curly hair, styling doesn’t have to mean hours of effort and endless products. In fact, some of the most stunning prom hairstyles are surprisingly simple to achieve—especially when you’re working with your natural texture. Whether you’re rocking loose waves, tight coils, or anything in between, these 12 curly hairstyles prove that gorgeous doesn’t have to mean complicated.
From effortless updos and half-up styles to braided accents and sleek ponytails, each look is designed with ease and elegance in mind. Plus, we’ve included tips and product recommendations to help you enhance your curls while keeping them defined, frizz-free, and full of life—all night long.
So if you’re looking for a stress-free way to shine bright on your big night, look no further. These unexpectedly easy curly hairstyles will have you walking into prom feeling confident, beautiful, and completely ready to dance the night away.
Hairstyles for naturally curly, short hair
Short curly hair is all about embracing your natural texture and making a statement with all that volume. If your hair is short or above shoulder length, you’ll love these easy curly hairstyles!
Mini twists and butterfly clips
Source: Pinterest
Have fun with your short curls by styling them in mini twists and adding colorful accessories. To achieve this hairstyle for natural curls, begin by twisting small sections of hair tightly at the crown. Then, secure them with mini claw clips or butterfly clips for a flirty touch. Go over the twists with a light touch of our to secure hair even in the most humid of conditions.
Half-up top knot
Source: Pinterest
For a blend of simplicity and ease, try a half-up top knot with your short curls. Gather the top section of your hair and twist it into a bun at the crown, securing it with a tie. Then, leave the bottom curls loose for a relaxed look and adjust the knot to your desired height.if you really want your curls to pull in all the compliments.
Half-up space buns
Source: Pinterest
Infuse your short curls with a playful vibe by styling them into half-up space buns. Part your hair down the middle, twist sections into buns and Fluff the buns for added fullness and let the remaining curls frame your face for a youthful finish.
Half-up Dutch Braids
Source: Pinterest
Style your naturally curly hair with half-up Dutch braids for a touch of boho vibes. To style this look, part your hair, start braiding and secure the ends when you reach your crown. To finish, “pancake” the braids, a method in which you gently pull apart the braids to flatten and widen them.
Medium-length curly hairstyles
Medium-length hair is the middle ground — it’s not too short and not too long, giving you tons of styling options to play with! Whether you’re heading to school or a night out, these medium-length curly hairstyles will give a touch of fun to your everyday look.
Pulled back with twists
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Create a stylish pulled-back look with twists of curls framing your face. Gather two small sections of hair from the front and gently twist them. Then, take these strands and twist securing them in the back with bobby pins or your favorite claw clip. Also, instead of twists, you can similarly try clipping back braided strands.
Pineapple updo
Source: Pinterest
Achieve a cute and effortless pineapple updo by flipping your curls forward and gathering them into a high ponytail on top of your head. Secure the ponytail with a hair tie . Gently fluff out the curls to create a fuller and more voluminous “pineapple” bun. Additionally, have fun with this curly hairstyle and let your personality come through! Try using your favorite scarf, adding a few braids or slicking it back.
Space buns
Source: Pinterest
Add a playful touch to your look with space buns. Simply, part your hair down the center and twist each section into a bun at the temples. Secure the buns with bobby pins and hair ties, ensuring they sit close to your scalp. To pump up the volume and put a spotlight on your natural texture, gently fluff out the buns for a carefree finish.
Two strand twists
Source: Pinterest
This curly hairstyle is a protective style that works great for Type 4 curls. Plus, it can be further transformed into many of the other looks in this post! But to create the twists, start by sectioning your hair and then twisting each section tightly. Allow the twists to air dry or sit under a hooded dryer for defined and moisturized curls that can help showcase your natural texture beautifully.
Curly hair hairstyles for long hair
Long curly hair that flows in waves is always something we love to see! With all that length and bounce, you’ve got a world of styling possibilities waiting for you. Here are some of our favorite curly hairstyles for naturally long hair.
Elastic curly twists
Elevate your curls with a headband of twists for a chic and sophisticated look. You can check out the video above to see how it’s done! To create this look, start by twisting small sections of hair near your hairline and pinning them back one by one to create a stylish frame for your face, just like a headband. Then, let the rest of your curls fall naturally
Thick box braids
Source: Pinterest
Transform your textured curls with thick box braids for a versatile statement. Divide your hair into sections and braid tightly from the roots to the ends, ensuring each braid is uniform in size and thickness. Seal the ends of the braids with heat or by dipping them in hot water for the finished look.. And similar to the two-strand twists, this protective hairstyle can be styled into other looks such as thick braids or top knots.
Top knot with split bangs
Create a trendy top knot with split bangs for a modern and chic hairstyle. Gather your hair into a high ponytail and twist it into a bun, securing it with bobby pins. Leave out a front section of hair for bangs, splitting and styling them into curls as desired.
Low ponytail with French braids
Source: Pinterest
For longer curly hair, a low ponytail with French braids is such an elegant and polished look and super easy! Begin by French braiding your hair from the temples to the nape of your neck on both sides, securing the braids with small elastics. Then, gather the remaining hair into a low ponytail for a curly hairstyle ready for any occasion. Feel free to pancake the braid or pull pieces out on the front for a more tousled look.
