14 Chic Updo Hairstyles For Curly Hair

From voluminous spirals to tighter coils, curls have a mind of their own, making every style a little different from the day before. While those gorgeous curls are the subject of envy, styling them into an updo can sometimes feel challenging. But with the right techniques and tools, there are so many easy ways to style your curls into fabulous updos. 

In this guide, we focus on two curl types: type 3 and type 4. Each type has a unique texture, so to make sure you’re getting the best guidance, we’ll break it down into styles that suit each curl type best.  Type 3 curls are looser, bouncy curls, while type 4 curls are tighter, more defined coils and their texture is often referred to as ‘afro.’ If you’re not sure of your curl type, check out the CLOUD NINE guide to finding your hair type. 

The looks in this guide are tailored for natural curls but also work beautifully with hair that’s been curled with a curling wand or straighteners.

HOW TO PREP YOUR CURLS FOR AN UPDO

Type 3 curls are perfect for creating volume and texture in updos. To prepare for styling, set your curls with a gentle blow-dry. Start with a few spritzes of a heat protectant like the CLOUD NINE Magical Quick Dry Potion to nourish and protect your curls. Then, use a hair dryer with a diffuser attachment like the CLOUD NINE Airshot Pro, which dries curls evenly for maximum shine. Take a look at our guide for using a diffuser for tips on how to achieve shiny, defined curls.

GORGEOUS UPDOS FOR TYPE 3 CURLY HAIR

1. High bun with a curly fringe

This look is effortlessly chic and perfect for any occasion, whether you’re off to the gym or a big night out. To achieve it:

1. Gather your hair into a high ponytail, leaving a few curls loose at the front to create a playful fringe. Tease out some strands to create more volume.
2. Twist the ponytail into a bun, securing it with a hairband and bobby pins if needed.
3. For any stray curls that need a little extra definition, use the Curling Wand to create perfect springs.
4. Let your fringe fall naturally across your forehead for a relaxed finish.

2. Updo with a claw clip

Claw clips are back, and they’re perfect for curly hair. This updo is super easy and has a cool ‘undone’ vibe.

1. Gather your hair and twist it at the back of your head, leaving some loose curls at the side or front.
2. Secure with a claw clip, allowing the ends to fan out naturally.
3. Adjust any stray curls to enhance the messy look. Use the Curling Wand to define any errant strands after a few spritzes of our Magical Quick Dry Potion to help protect your curls.

3. High ponytail

A high ponytail is an easy classic that is both practical and gorgeous. Follow these steps to master it:

1. Gently pull your curls into a ponytail at the crown (the very top) of your head.
2. Use a soft scrunchie to secure it, keeping the ponytail voluminous. For thicker curly hair, you may need a slightly more elasticated band or try tying your scrunchie around an extra time.
3. You can keep it simple or add a few twists at the base of your head for a more intricate look – perfect for showing off highlights or the different colours in your hair.

4. Simple ponytail

For days when you want to keep things simple, a classic ponytail is always a winner. This look is even achievable on the go.

1. Gather your hair loosely at the nape of your neck (where your head meets the top of your neck).
2. Tie with a scrunchie or snag-free hair bobble, allowing the curls to cascade down naturally.
3. Gently tug a few curls loose around your face for a softer, more relaxed look. 

5. Half-up messy bun

For a playful and relaxed look, the half-up messy bun is perfect for day-to-day wear.

1. Start by sectioning off the top half of your hair and gently pulling it into a bun. Either secure it with bobby pins or use a hair bobble to secure it.
2. Leave the rest of your curls down for an effortlessly messy look.
3. For added texture, tease a few curls around your face. As always, reach for the Curling Wand to add extra definition to curls that need it. Make sure you add a heat protectant like our Magical Quick Dry Potion first – this helps to protect your hair during heat styling.

6. Classic bun

A classic bun has an elegance that works for any occasion, especially all-day or all-night events where you need your hair away from your face.

1. Pull your hair back into a ponytail, then twist it into a bun.
2. Secure it with bobby pins or a hair scrunchie, depending on the finish you’re after.
3. Add some sparkle with a silk scarf, hair accessory, or a pair of bold earrings.

7. Braided updo with curls

For something a little bit special, a braided updo could be the perfect way to show off your curls. This works perfectly on mid-length or long hair, but it can be done on short hair too.

1. Start by creating two or three small braids along the sides of your hair, running from the front to the back, or along the side of your face.
2. Secure the braids discreetly with bobby pins or small hair bands that match your hair colour.
3. Bring the rest of your curls together in a low bun, chignon, or side ponytail. For an extra elaborate touch, gently tease out some of the curls so they frame your face or neck.

STYLISH UPDOS FOR TYPE 4 COILY HAIR

Coily hair can be shaped into gorgeous, bouncy updos that celebrate its natural texture. Try these go-to styles to show off your coils – whatever the occasion.

8. High bun

If you’re searching for a look that’s stylish and easy to pull off, a classic high bun is the one for you.

1. Gather your coils at your crown (the top of your head) and secure it with a sturdy hair band.
2. Twist your hair into a bun and pin it in place using bobby pins, letting the bun take the shape of your coils’ natural volume.
3. You can smooth down the edges if that’s the look you want or leave a few coils loose for a more carefree ‘lived-in’ look.

9. Half-up bun

Practical and playful, a half-up bun gives you the best of both worlds. It’s a way of keeping the volume and showing off your coils but keeping your hair off your face.

1. Start by sectioning off the top half of your hair and tying it with a hair bobble.
2. Twist that section into a bun at the top of your head and use bobby pins to secure it in place.
3. Let the remaining coils hang free to frame your face. For extra definition, run a light oil or serum through your curls.

10. Space buns

If you’re in the mood for something a little different, space buns are a fun way to mix it up while keeping your hair well and truly away from your face.

1. Part your hair down the middle to create two even sections. The end of a tail comb can be a useful tool for getting that perfect straight line down the back of your head.
2. Gently twist each section into a high bun, one on each side, and secure with hair bobbles and bobby pins.
3. Experiment with a half-up half-down version of this look – great for mid-length or long hair.

11. Braided updo

If your hair is box braided or you’re wearing braided hair extensions, the braided updo is a practical and elegant look.

1. Gather your braids together at the top or back of your head and secure with a sturdy hair bobble. Make sure you’re not pulling any of your braids too tight.
2. Wrap the braids around the hair bobble and secure with a hair scrunchie or bobby pins.
3. Add a silk scarf or band around the bun to give the look an extra edge, perhaps to match your outfit or handbag.

12. Piled-up updo

For a look that’s both bold and beautiful, a piled-up updo lets your coils take the spotlight. This look is perfect for mid-length and longer hair, giving you an edgy silhouette.

1. Gather sections of your hair at the top of your head, fluffing them for added height using your hands or our Luxury Texture Comb.
2. Use bobby pins to secure each section in place, creating a soft, stacked effect.
3. Gently tease out some coils to one side so they frame your face.

13. Scarf updo

When you’re in between hair washes or colour appointments, adding a scarf to an updo is a quick way to add some ‘zhuzh’ to your look, hide your roots, and protect your hair at the same time.

1. Start by creating a loose bun or ponytail at the top of your head.
2. Secure the bun or ponytail with a hair bobble.
3. Next, you have two options. Either wrap a silk scarf around the base of the bun or ponytail, tying it securely, or wrap the scarf around the front of your head, like a headband.

14. High puff

The high puff is an easy, eye-catching look that’s both stylish and low maintenance. This works best on mid-length hair – you need enough to make a ‘puff.’ Perfect for any occasion, this style lets you show off the volume and shape of your type 4 coils.

1. Gather your hair at the crown, then tie it with a bobble.
2. Let your coils fan out naturally for a soft, rounded puff.
3. Use our Luxury Texture Comb to add some extra volume, if needed.

If you have type 4 hair, r it thrives on hydration and protection. Take a look at our type 4 care guide for tips on keeping your coils healthy and happy. 

For more easy styles you can achieve at home, check out our guide to low maintenance looks.

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