Homecoming season is here, and if you’re blessed with gorgeous curls, you’re probably wondering how to style them for the perfect HoCo look.
The beauty of curly hair lies in its natural texture and volume, making it ideal for creating stunning hairstyles that stand out on the dance floor.
Whether you have loose waves, tight coils, or anything in between, there’s a homecoming hairstyle that will make you feel like royalty.
This comprehensive guide to 30 Cute HoCo Hairstyles for Curly Hair That Totally Slay will help you discover the perfect style that complements your dress, face shape, and personal aesthetic.
From elegant updos to playful half-up styles, romantic side sweeps to bold accessories, we’ll explore every option to ensure your curls steal the spotlight at homecoming.
1. Classic Curly Updo
The classic curly updo remains a timeless choice for homecoming, offering elegance and sophistication that never goes out of style.
This versatile look works beautifully with all curl types and can be customized to match any dress style or personal preference.
- Gather your curls at the nape of your neck and secure with bobby pins, allowing some tendrils to frame your face
- Use a light-hold hairspray to maintain the shape while preserving your curls’ natural bounce
- Add decorative pins or a small tiara for extra glamour that catches the light
- This style works exceptionally well with strapless or off-shoulder dresses
- Perfect for medium to long curly hair lengths
2. Side-Swept Romantic Waves
Side-swept romantic waves create a dreamy, fairytale-like appearance that’s perfect for homecoming’s magical atmosphere.
This style emphasizes your curls’ natural movement while adding a touch of old Hollywood glamour.
- Part your hair deeply to one side and sweep the majority of your curls over one shoulder
- Use a curl-enhancing cream to define individual curls and reduce frizz
- Secure the swept side with decorative bobby pins or a jeweled hair clip
- Allow the curls to cascade naturally over your shoulder for maximum romantic effect
- Ideal for those with medium to long curly hair who want a softer, more feminine look
3. Braided Crown with Loose Curls
The braided crown with loose curls combines the best of both worlds – structured braiding and free-flowing curls.
This ethereal style creates a bohemian princess vibe that’s both trendy and timeless.
- Create a loose braid along your hairline from ear to ear, forming a crown effect
- Leave the rest of your curls to flow naturally down your back
- Gently tug at the braid to create a fuller, more voluminous appearance
- Secure the braid ends with clear elastic bands to maintain the seamless look
- Enhance with small flowers or pearl pins for added whimsy and charm
4. High Curly Ponytail
The high curly ponytail is a modern, youthful choice that showcases your curls’ full volume and texture.
This style is both practical and stunning, keeping hair away from your face while making a bold statement.
- Gather all your curls at the crown of your head and secure with a strong elastic band
- Wrap a section of hair around the elastic to hide it and create a polished finish
- Use a pick or wide-tooth comb to gently lift and separate curls for maximum volume
- Apply anti-frizz serum before styling to ensure smooth, defined curls
- Perfect for dancing as it keeps hair secure while still looking glamorous
5. Twisted Side Bun
The twisted side bun offers an asymmetrical elegance that’s both sophisticated and modern.
This style works particularly well for those who want an updo with a contemporary twist.
- Part your hair to one side and begin twisting sections from the heavier side toward the opposite ear
- Gather the twisted hair into a low bun positioned behind one ear
- Allow some curls to escape the bun for a softer, more romantic appearance
- Secure with bobby pins that match your hair color for a seamless look
- Add a decorative comb or vintage brooch for extra sparkle and personality
6. Half-Up Twisted Crown
The half-up twisted crown creates a regal appearance while keeping the styling simple and manageable.
This versatile style works beautifully for homecoming and allows you to show off your curls’ natural texture.
- Take sections from both sides of your head and twist them back toward the crown
- Secure the twisted sections together at the back of your head with bobby pins
- Leave the remaining curls to flow freely for a balanced, proportioned look
- Gently tease the crown area for added height and drama
- This style photographs beautifully and works with most face shapes
7. Curly Chignon
The curly chignon is a sophisticated updo that transforms your natural curls into an elegant, refined hairstyle perfect for formal occasions like homecoming.
- Gather your curls loosely at the nape of your neck, allowing for natural volume
- Twist the gathered hair and pin it up to create a low, full bun
- Pull out a few face-framing curls to soften the overall look
- Use texturizing spray to enhance your curls’ definition before styling
- Finish with a flexible hold hairspray to maintain the style throughout the evening
8. Bohemian Braided Headband
The bohemian braided headband style creates a carefree, festival-inspired look that’s perfect for those who want something unique and eye-catching for homecoming.
- Create a loose braid using curls from one side of your head, starting at the temple
- Bring the braid across your forehead like a headband and secure behind the opposite ear
- Allow the rest of your curls to cascade naturally for a effortless appearance
- Gently pull apart the braid to create texture and fullness
- Add small flowers or beads to the braid for extra bohemian flair
9. Vintage Hollywood Curls
Vintage Hollywood curls bring old-school glamour to your homecoming look, creating waves that are perfectly sculpted and polished for maximum sophistication.
- Use a large barrel curling iron to create uniform, structured curls throughout your hair
- Brush out the curls gently with a boar bristle brush to create smooth waves
- Set the style with strong-hold hairspray and finish with shine spray for glossy locks
- Part your hair deeply to one side for authentic vintage appeal
- This style pairs beautifully with red lipstick and classic makeup looks
10. Messy Curly Top Knot
The messy curly top knot combines casual chicness with formal elegance, creating a effortlessly beautiful style that’s perfect for modern homecoming looks.
- Flip your head upside down and gather curls loosely at the very top of your head
- Secure with an elastic, leaving the ends to create a messy, voluminous bun
- Pull out face-framing pieces and gently tease for added texture
- Allow some curls to fall naturally around your face and neck
- This style works especially well with statement earrings and off-shoulder dresses
11. Waterfall Braid with Curls
The waterfall braid with curls creates a stunning cascading effect that looks like your hair is flowing like water, making it a show-stopping choice for homecoming.
- Begin a regular braid at one temple, but drop the bottom strand each time you cross over
- Pick up new sections as you work around the back of your head
- Let the dropped strands fall naturally with your curls for the waterfall effect
- Secure the braid behind the opposite ear with a clear elastic
- This intricate style looks complex but is surprisingly manageable with practice
12. Curly Mohawk Updo
The curly mohawk updo is a bold, edgy choice that makes a statement while still maintaining elegance suitable for homecoming festivities.
- Part your hair into three sections: two sides and one middle section
- Slick the side sections back with gel or pomade and secure them low
- Tease and style the middle section into a voluminous mohawk shape
- Use bobby pins to secure the mohawk section while maintaining its height
- This daring style pairs well with dramatic makeup and bold accessories
13. Romantic Curly Side Chignon
The romantic curly side chignon offers asymmetrical elegance with a soft, feminine touch that’s perfect for those who want sophisticated charm for their homecoming night.
- Part your hair deeply to one side and gather all curls toward the opposite side
- Create a low side chignon, allowing curls to maintain their natural texture within the style
- Leave a few tendrils loose around your face for a softer, more romantic appearance
- Secure with bobby pins and finish with a light misting of hairspray
- This style complements vintage-inspired dresses and pearl accessories beautifully
14. Dutch Braid Crown with Loose Curls
The Dutch braid crown with loose curls creates a majestic, princess-like appearance that’s perfect for making you feel like homecoming royalty.
- Create a Dutch braid (reverse French braid) around your hairline from ear to ear
- Allow the braid to sit like a crown while leaving the rest of your curls free
- Gently tug at the braid sections to create fuller, more voluminous appearance
- Secure the braid ends behind your ears with bobby pins
- This regal style works beautifully with tiaras or decorative hair accessories
15. Curly Gibson Tuck
The curly Gibson tuck is a vintage-inspired updo that creates sophisticated elegance while accommodating your curls’ natural texture and volume.
- Gather your curls loosely at the nape of your neck and secure with an elastic
- Create a small opening above the elastic and flip the ponytail through it
- Tuck the remaining length up into the created space and secure with bobby pins
- Gently pull at the sides to create softness and accommodate your curls’ volume
- This timeless style works well with pearl accessories and classic makeup looks
16. Twisted Halo Braid
The twisted halo braid creates an angelic, ethereal look that’s perfect for homecoming while showcasing your curls’ natural beauty and texture.
- Part your hair in the middle and create loose twists from both temples
- Bring the twists around the back of your head, creating a halo effect
- Secure the twisted sections together and allow remaining curls to flow freely
- Gently pull at the twists to create fuller, more voluminous appearance
- Add small pearl pins or flowers along the twisted halo for extra elegance
17. Curly Side Ponytail
The curly side ponytail offers asymmetrical charm with a playful twist that’s both stylish and practical for homecoming dancing and festivities.
- Gather all your curls to one side at ear level and secure with a decorative elastic
- Wrap a section of hair around the elastic to hide it and create polish
- Allow curls to cascade over one shoulder for dramatic, romantic effect
- Use curl cream to enhance definition and reduce frizz before styling
- This style pairs beautifully with one-shoulder dresses and statement earrings
18. Braided Updo with Curly Texture
The braided updo with curly texture combines structured braiding with your curls’ natural volume, creating a sophisticated style with interesting visual depth.
- Create multiple loose braids throughout your hair, incorporating your natural curl pattern
- Gather the braids into a low updo, pinning them in place while maintaining texture
- Allow some curly pieces to escape for a softer, more romantic finish
- Use texturizing spray before braiding to enhance grip and hold
- This intricate style showcases hairdressing artistry while celebrating your natural curls
19. Curly French Twist
The curly French twist adapts the classic updo to accommodate curly hair’s volume and texture, creating timeless elegance with a modern twist.
- Gather your curls to one side and begin rolling them inward toward your scalp
- Secure the roll with bobby pins, working from bottom to top for stability
- Allow some curls to peek out from the twist for added texture and visual interest
- Gently tease the front sections for height and volume at the crown
- This sophisticated style works beautifully with strapless dresses and elegant jewelry
20. Half-Up Curly Bouffant
The half-up curly bouffant brings retro glamour to your homecoming look while letting your curls shine in all their natural glory.
- Tease the crown section of your hair to create dramatic height and volume
- Secure the teased section with bobby pins, creating a bouffant shape
- Allow the remaining curls to flow freely for balanced proportions
- Use strong-hold hairspray to maintain the bouffant’s shape throughout the evening
- This dramatic style pairs perfectly with bold makeup and statement accessories
21. Twisted Low Bun with Curly Accents
The twisted low bun with curly accents creates understated elegance while highlighting your curls’ natural texture and movement.
- Twist sections of hair from both sides of your head toward the back
- Gather all hair into a low bun, allowing curls to maintain their natural texture
- Pull out a few curly strands to frame your face and soften the overall look
- Secure with bobby pins that match your hair color for seamless blending
- This versatile style works with both casual and formal homecoming dresses
22. Curly Fishtail Side Braid
The curly fishtail side braid creates intricate visual interest while working beautifully with your hair’s natural curl pattern and texture.
- Gather your curls to one side and begin a fishtail braid, working with your curl pattern
- Allow the curls to create natural texture within the braid structure
- Gently pull apart the braid sections to create fuller, more voluminous appearance
- Secure the end with a clear elastic and finish with anti-frizz serum
- This bohemian-inspired style pairs well with flowy dresses and natural makeup looks
23. Vintage Pin Curls
Vintage pin curls create perfectly sculpted, retro waves that bring old Hollywood glamour to your homecoming celebration.
- Create small, tight curls using a small barrel curling iron throughout your hair
- Pin each curl in place while it cools to set the vintage wave pattern
- Brush out the curls gently and set with strong-hold hairspray for lasting hold
- Part deeply to one side and smooth the front sections for authentic vintage appeal
- This timeless style pairs beautifully with red lipstick and classic winged eyeliner
24. Asymmetrical Curly Updo
The asymmetrical curly updo creates modern sophistication with an edgy twist that’s perfect for fashion-forward homecoming looks.
- Gather curls predominantly to one side, creating an off-center focal point
- Secure in an updo that’s fuller on one side than the other
- Allow some curls to escape naturally for texture and visual interest
- Use bobby pins strategically to maintain the asymmetrical shape
- This contemporary style works well with modern dress silhouettes and bold accessories
25. Curly Flower Crown Style
The curly flower crown style combines natural curls with floral accessories to create a whimsical, garden-party-inspired homecoming look.
- Style your curls loosely and naturally, enhancing their definition with curl cream
- Create a crown of fresh or artificial flowers around your hairline
- Allow curls to flow freely while the flower crown adds romantic charm
- Secure the flower crown with bobby pins hidden among the blooms
- This dreamy style pairs beautifully with pastel dresses and natural makeup
26. Textured Curly Pixie Updo
The textured curly pixie updo transforms shorter curly hair into an elegant style perfect for homecoming while celebrating natural texture.
- Use texturizing mousse to enhance your curls’ natural pattern and volume
- Pin sections upward and back, creating height while maintaining curl definition
- Allow some pieces to fall naturally around your face for softness
- This style works exceptionally well with bold earrings and dramatic makeup
- Perfect for those with shorter curly hair who want formal elegance
27. Curly Space Buns
Curly space buns create a playful, youthful look that’s perfect for fun-loving homecoming celebrants who want something unique and Instagram-worthy.
- Part your hair down the middle and create two high ponytails
- Twist each ponytail into buns, allowing curls to create natural texture
- Leave some face-framing pieces loose for a softer, more flattering appearance
- Secure with colorful elastics or decorative pins that match your dress
- This trendy style pairs well with bold makeup and statement accessories
28. Grecian Goddess Curls
Grecian goddess curls create an ethereal, mythological-inspired look that’s perfect for making you feel like a divine beauty at homecoming.
- Create loose, flowing waves using a large barrel curling iron or diffuser
- Gather sections from the sides and secure them at the crown with decorative pins
- Allow the majority of curls to cascade over one shoulder for dramatic effect
- Add a gold leaf headband or laurel crown for authentic goddess appeal
- This celestial style pairs beautifully with flowing, draped dresses
29. Curly Victory Rolls
Curly victory rolls bring 1940s pinup glamour to your homecoming look, creating distinctive vintage style with modern appeal.
- Create two large roll sections at the front of your hair, working with your natural curl pattern
- Secure the rolls with bobby pins and allow remaining curls to flow freely
- Use strong-hold styling products to maintain the rolls’ shape throughout the evening
- Finish with red lipstick and winged eyeliner for complete vintage authenticity
- This bold retro style makes a statement and photographs beautifully
30. Natural Curly Wash and Go Updo
The natural curly wash and go updo celebrates your curls in their most authentic state while creating formal elegance for homecoming.
- Apply leave-in conditioner and curl cream to freshly washed, damp curls
- Scrunch gently and allow curls to air dry in their natural pattern
- Once dry, gather loosely into a low updo that maintains curl definition
- Secure with bobby pins while allowing maximum curl texture to show
- This effortless style celebrates natural beauty and works with any curl type
Essential Products for Curly Homecoming Hair
- Curl-enhancing cream: Defines curls while reducing frizz and adding moisture
- Strong-hold hairspray: Maintains style integrity throughout long homecoming events
- Bobby pins in matching colors: Secure styles invisibly for professional-looking results
- Anti-frizz serum: Applied before styling to create smooth, polished finish
- Texturizing spray: Adds grip and volume for easier styling and better hold
- Deep conditioning mask: Use weekly leading up to homecoming for healthy, shiny curls
Final Preparation Timeline
One Week Before:
- Deep condition hair and trim any damaged ends
- Practice your chosen hairstyle to perfect the technique
- Gather all necessary styling products and tools
Day Before:
- Wash hair with moisturizing shampoo and conditioner
- Apply a nourishing hair mask for extra hydration
- Sleep with hair in a protective style to maintain curl pattern
Day Of:
- Style hair 2-3 hours before the event for best results
- Use products sparingly to avoid weighing down curls
- Pack touch-up supplies in a small bag for the evening
The world of homecoming hairstyles for curly hair is incredibly diverse and exciting, offering endless possibilities to showcase your natural texture while achieving formal elegance.
These 30 Cute HoCo Hairstyles for Curly Hair That Totally Slay prove that curls are not just beautiful in their natural state, but can be transformed into stunning formal styles that rival any straight-haired look.
Whether you choose a classic updo, romantic side style, or bold contemporary look, the key is to work with your curls’ natural pattern rather than against it.
Remember that confidence is your best accessory, and when you feel beautiful in your chosen style, it shows. Your curls are your crown, and homecoming is the perfect opportunity to let them reign supreme while you dance the night away in style.
