30 Elegant Curly Updo Hairstyles

Curly hair possesses a natural texture and volume that makes it perfect for creating stunning updo hairstyles that turn heads at any occasion.

Whether you’re preparing for a wedding, a formal event, or simply want to elevate your everyday look, curly updos offer endless possibilities that celebrate your hair’s natural beauty while keeping it elegantly styled and manageable.

This comprehensive guide explores 30 elegant curly updo hairstyles that work for different curl patterns, hair lengths, and skill levels, providing you with inspiration and practical styling ideas.

From romantic loose buns to sophisticated twisted styles, these updos showcase how curly hair can be transformed into breathtaking hairstyles that exude confidence and grace.

Each style in this article has been carefully selected to help you discover the perfect updo that complements your face shape, personal style, and the occasion you’re dressing for, making “30 Elegant Curly Updo Hairstyles” your ultimate resource for mastering the art of styling curly hair up and away.

1. Classic Curly High Bun

The classic curly high bun stands as a timeless updo that combines elegance with simplicity, making it suitable for both casual outings and formal events.

This style works beautifully with naturally curly hair by gathering all your curls at the crown of your head and securing them into a voluminous bun that showcases your hair’s natural texture.

• Gather your curly hair into a high ponytail at the crown of your head, positioning it where you want the bun to sit
• Twist the ponytail loosely to maintain the curl pattern and volume
• Wrap the twisted hair around the base of the ponytail to form a bun shape
• Secure the bun with bobby pins, inserting them at various angles for maximum hold
• Pull out a few face-framing curls to soften the look and add a romantic touch
• Apply a light-hold hairspray to keep the style in place without making the curls crunchy
• For added security, use a hair donut or bun maker underneath for extra volume and support

2. Romantic Low Curly Bun

The romantic low curly bun creates a soft, sophisticated look that works exceptionally well for weddings, date nights, and special occasions where you want to appear effortlessly elegant.

This style positions the bun at the nape of the neck, creating a graceful silhouette that flatters most face shapes.

• Start with well-moisturized curls that have been defined with your preferred styling product
• Part your hair to your preferred side or create a center part
• Gather all hair at the nape of your neck, keeping the gathering loose to preserve volume
• Create a low ponytail and secure it with a soft hair elastic
• Form the bun by pinning curls around the base in a circular pattern
• Allow some curls to fall loosely around the face and neck for a romantic effect
• Add decorative hairpins, flowers, or accessories to enhance the elegance
• Mist with a flexible-hold hairspray to maintain the style throughout the day

3. Messy Curly Top Knot

The messy curly top knot delivers an effortlessly chic vibe that’s perfect for those days when you want to look stylish without appearing too polished or formal.

This casual-yet-elegant updo celebrates the natural volume and texture of curly hair while keeping it secured on top of your head.

• Flip your head upside down and gather all hair toward the crown area
• Create a high ponytail without worrying about smoothing every strand
• Twist the ponytail loosely once or twice around itself
• Wrap the twisted hair around the base to create a bun shape
• Secure with bobby pins, leaving some pieces intentionally loose for the messy effect
• Pull and tease the bun gently to increase volume and achieve the desired messiness
• Let random curls escape around your face and neck for an undone finish
• Use minimal product to maintain the natural, lived-in appearance

4. Braided Crown with Curly Bun

The braided crown with curly bun combines two beloved styles into one show-stopping updo that’s perfect for formal events and celebrations.

This intricate style features braids that wrap around the head like a crown, ending in a textured curly bun at the back.

• Section off the front portion of your hair from ear to ear
• Create a Dutch braid or French braid along your hairline, starting from one side
• Continue braiding around your head like a crown, incorporating hair as you go
• When you reach the starting point, let the remaining hair flow into the back section
• Gather all remaining curly hair at the back and form it into a bun
• Secure the bun with bobby pins, allowing the curls to maintain their natural shape
• Pin the end of the braid securely into the bun to create a seamless connection
• Gently pull at the braid to create a fuller, more voluminous crown effect

5. Twisted Curly Updo

The twisted curly updo offers a sophisticated alternative to traditional buns by incorporating multiple twists that showcase your curl pattern while creating an elegant sculptured look.

This style works beautifully for formal events and adds visual interest through its dimensional twisted sections.

• Divide your hair into multiple sections depending on your hair thickness
• Take each section and twist it away from your face
• Pin each twist at the back of your head, securing them with bobby pins
• Continue this process with all sections until all hair is twisted and pinned
• Arrange the twisted sections to create a rounded updo shape
• Allow the ends of the twists to remain curly and visible for added texture
• Tuck and pin any loose ends to maintain the polished appearance
• Finish with hairspray to ensure the twists stay secure throughout the day

6. Curly Side Bun

The curly side bun brings asymmetrical elegance to your hairstyle by positioning the bun to one side of your head, creating a dramatic and fashion-forward appearance.

This style beautifully frames your face while showcasing the volume and texture of your natural curls.

• Create a deep side part on your preferred side
• Sweep all hair to one side of your head, just behind and below your ear
• Secure the hair with a hair elastic to create a side ponytail
• Take sections of the ponytail and pin them in a circular pattern to form the bun
• Position the bun so it rests on your shoulder area when viewed from the front
• Leave the curls loose and voluminous rather than tightly wound
• Pull out a few face-framing pieces on the opposite side for balance
• Add decorative pins or accessories to enhance the glamorous side placement

7. Pineapple Updo

The pineapple updo has become iconic in the curly hair community as a protective style that preserves curl definition while creating a playful, voluminous look at the top of the head.

This style gets its name from the fountain-like appearance of curls sprouting from a high ponytail.

• Flip your head upside down or tilt it to one side
• Gather all hair at the very top of your head in a loose ponytail
• Use a scrunchie or soft hair tie to avoid creating creases in your curls
• Position the ponytail so high that the curls fan out like a pineapple top
• Fluff the curls in the ponytail to maximize volume and spread
• Leave the ponytail loose enough to avoid flattening your curl pattern
• Allow face-framing pieces to fall naturally if desired
• This style works particularly well for sleeping to preserve curls overnight

8. Vintage-Inspired Victory Rolls with Curly Back

The vintage-inspired victory rolls with curly back transport you to the glamorous era of the 1940s while incorporating modern curly texture.

This retro style features rolled sections at the front that pair beautifully with loose curls gathered at the back of your head.

• Section off the front portions of your hair on both sides of a center or side part
• Take one front section and roll it upward and backward toward the crown
• Pin the roll securely with bobby pins, creating the signature victory roll shape
• Repeat the rolling and pinning process on the opposite side
• Ensure both rolls are symmetrical and positioned at similar heights
• Gather the remaining curly hair at the back and secure it loosely
• Pin the back curls in an updo style that complements the front rolls
• Apply setting spray to maintain the vintage structure throughout the day

9. Curly Space Buns

Curly space buns deliver a fun, youthful aesthetic by creating two buns positioned symmetrically on the top sides of your head.

This playful style has gained popularity through social media and works wonderfully with naturally curly hair for added volume and texture.

• Create a center part from your forehead to the nape of your neck
• Divide your hair into two equal sections on either side of the part
• Gather one section into a high ponytail positioned above and slightly behind your ear
• Twist the ponytail and wrap it around the base to create a bun
• Secure the first bun with bobby pins
• Repeat the process on the opposite side, ensuring both buns are at matching heights
• Fluff and adjust the buns to achieve equal size and fullness
• Pull out a few curls around the hairline for a softer, less severe appearance

10. Elegant Chignon with Curly Texture

The elegant chignon with curly texture offers a refined, sophisticated updo that’s perfect for black-tie events, weddings, and professional settings.

This French-inspired style adapts beautifully to curly hair by incorporating the natural texture into the classic chignon shape.

• Start with moisturized, well-defined curls for the best results
• Gather your hair at the nape of your neck in a low ponytail
• Twist the ponytail into a rope-like shape
• Fold the twisted section upward toward the base of the ponytail
• Tuck the ends underneath to create the characteristic chignon fold
• Pin the chignon securely from all angles using bobby pins
• Allow some curly texture to show through rather than smoothing it completely
• Finish with a light mist of hairspray to maintain the polished appearance

11. Half-Up Curly Bun

The half-up curly bun strikes the perfect balance between wearing your hair up and down, creating a versatile style suitable for virtually any occasion.

This easy-to-achieve updo keeps the top section secured in a bun while allowing the bottom curls to cascade freely down your back.

• Section off the top half of your hair from ear to ear across the crown
• Smooth the top section back toward the crown area
• Create a ponytail with the top section at your desired height
• Form a bun with the ponytail by twisting and wrapping the hair
• Secure the bun with bobby pins
• Leave the bottom half of your curls loose and flowing
• Gently pull at the bun to create more volume if desired
• This style works well for both casual and semi-formal occasions

12. Curly Mohawk Updo

The curly mohawk updo creates a bold, edgy statement by gathering hair along the center of the head while keeping the sides sleek or pinned down.

This dramatic style celebrates volume and height while maintaining sophistication suitable for fashion-forward events.

• Create a section down the center of your head from forehead to nape
• Pin or slick down the hair on both sides of the center section
• Tease or fluff the center section to create maximum volume and height
• Pin the center curls upward and toward the center line
• Continue building height along the center mohawk section
• Secure all pins firmly to support the vertical structure
• The curls in the mohawk section should form a dramatic crest
• Use strong-hold products to maintain the structure throughout the event

13. Waterfall Braid into Curly Bun

The waterfall braid into curly bun combines flowing, cascading braiding technique with a gathered bun at the back, creating a romantic and intricate updo.

This style showcases both braiding skill and the beauty of curly texture in one cohesive hairstyle.

• Begin a waterfall braid at one temple, creating the cascading effect
• As you braid, drop strands down to create the waterfall appearance
• Continue the braid around the back of your head to the opposite side
• Gather all hair including the dropped waterfall strands at the back
• Create a bun with all the gathered hair
• The waterfall strands will integrate beautifully into the curly bun
• Secure everything with bobby pins
• The contrast between the braided section and curly bun creates visual interest

14. Curly Gibson Tuck

The curly Gibson tuck offers a vintage-inspired elegance that became popular in the Edwardian era and translates beautifully to modern curly hair styling.

This sophisticated updo tucks the hair inward at the nape, creating a rolled appearance that looks polished and timeless.

• Gather your hair into a low ponytail at the nape of your neck
• Create a gap above the elastic by separating the hair
• Flip the ponytail up and through the gap you created
• Continue tucking the ends upward and inward into the rolled section
• Pin the tucked hair securely along the roll
• The curly texture adds dimension to the traditional Gibson tuck
• Smooth the top section while allowing the tucked portion to show texture
• Add decorative pins or combs for additional vintage flair

15. Asymmetrical Curly Updo

The asymmetrical curly updo breaks traditional styling rules by creating an intentionally unbalanced design that looks modern and artistic.

This style positions curls and pinned sections at varying heights and angles for a fashion-forward appearance.

• Avoid creating symmetrical sections or parts
• Pin sections of curls at different heights on one side versus the other
• Create more volume on one side for dramatic contrast
• Allow some curls to cascade down on the less voluminous side
• Use pins strategically to create interesting angles and shapes
• The asymmetry should look intentional rather than accidental
• This style works particularly well for editorial and fashion shoots
• Experiment with the placement until you achieve the desired artistic effect

16. Curly Faux Hawk Updo

The curly faux hawk updo creates the illusion of a mohawk without shaving the sides, making it a temporary and versatile alternative to the permanent style.

This bold updo works wonderfully for concerts, parties, and events where you want to make a statement.

• Section hair down the center of your head from front to back
• Pin the side sections down and toward the back
• Gather the center section and pin it upward in a raised ridge
• Stack curls along the center line to create height
• The faux hawk should have maximum height at the crown
• Gradually decrease height as you move toward the nape
• Secure all sections firmly with bobby pins
• Use gel or mousse for extra hold on the raised center section

17. Braided Halo with Low Curly Bun

The braided halo with low curly bun creates an angelic, ethereal appearance by encircling the head with a braid while the remaining curls form a soft bun at the nape.

This romantic style works beautifully for weddings, formal events, and occasions requiring a dreamy aesthetic.

• Create a braid starting behind one ear
• Continue braiding around the crown of your head like a halo
• Connect the braid behind the opposite ear
• Gather all remaining hair at the nape into a low bun
• Allow the curly texture to remain visible in the bun
• Pin the braid securely to create the halo effect
• Tuck the end of the braid into the bun for a seamless finish
• Add small flowers or pearls along the braid for extra romance

18. Curly Top Knot with Shaved Sides Accent

The curly top knot with shaved sides accent showcases a contemporary style that’s gained popularity in recent years, featuring a high bun on top while emphasizing any undercut or shaved side designs.

This edgy style celebrates both the volume of curls and the boldness of shaved patterns.

• If you have shaved or undercut sides, ensure they’re freshly trimmed
• Gather all top and back curls toward the crown
• Create a high ponytail at the top of your head
• Form the ponytail into a voluminous top knot
• Secure the knot with bobby pins
• The contrast between the bun volume and shaved sides creates impact
• Apply shine products to the shaved sections to enhance any designs
• This style works for casual to semi-formal settings depending on accessories

19. Elegant French Twist with Curly Ends

The elegant French twist with curly ends adapts the classic French twist to incorporate the beautiful texture of curly hair by allowing the ends to cascade from the twist.

This sophisticated style works perfectly for formal events while celebrating natural curl pattern.

• Gather all hair to one side at the back of your head
• Twist the gathered hair inward toward the center back
• Continue twisting upward along the back of your head
• Pin the twist securely along the center back line
• Allow the ends to remain loose and curly at the top of the twist
• The curly ends should fountain out from the top of the twist
• Secure pins along the length of the twist for stability
• Apply light hairspray to maintain the twist structure while keeping ends soft

20. Curly Bubble Ponytail Updo

The curly bubble ponytail updo transforms a regular ponytail into a statement style by creating multiple “bubbles” along the length of the ponytail that’s then pinned up.

This playful yet elegant style adds dimension and visual interest while showcasing curly texture.

• Create a high or mid-height ponytail as your base
• Add elastics down the length of the ponytail at equal intervals
• Gently pull and tease each section between elastics to create bubble shapes
• Continue creating bubbles along the entire length
• Fold the bubbled ponytail upward or in a circular pattern
• Pin the bubbled sections to create an updo shape
• The bubbles should maintain their rounded, dimensional appearance
• This style works for both playful and sophisticated occasions depending on styling

21. Crown Braid with Messy Curly Bun

The crown braid with messy curly bun offers the best of both worlds by combining the structured elegance of a crown braid with the effortless appeal of a messy bun.

This versatile style transitions easily from day to evening events.

• Create a Dutch braid or French braid starting at one temple
• Braid along your hairline in a crown pattern
• Stop braiding when you reach the opposite temple or desired point
• Gather all remaining hair including the braid end into a messy bun
• Pin the bun loosely to maintain the intentionally undone appearance
• Allow pieces to escape the bun for the messy effect
• The crown braid adds polish while the messy bun keeps it relaxed
• Pancake the braid by gently pulling it to create more volume

22. Sleek Front with Curly Back Bun

The sleek front with curly back bun creates a stunning contrast between smooth, polished front sections and a textured, voluminous curly bun at the back.

This sophisticated style works wonderfully for formal events and professional settings where polish matters.

• Section off the front portion of your hair from the crown forward
• Apply gel or smoothing cream to the front section
• Brush or smooth the front section back toward the crown
• Pin the front section down smoothly
• Gather all back hair into a bun at your desired height
• Allow the natural curl texture to show in the bun portion
• The contrast between sleek front and curly back creates visual interest
• Use edge control for a polished hairline

23. Twisted Crown with Low Curly Chignon

The twisted crown with low curly chignon combines multiple techniques to create an intricate updo that looks far more complicated than it actually is to achieve.

This elegant style features twisted sections forming a crown that connects to a low chignon at the nape.

• Create multiple small sections along your hairline and crown area
• Twist each front section away from your face
• Pin each twist along the crown area to form a twisted crown
• Continue twisting sections until you reach mid-head
• Gather all remaining hair at the nape
• Form a low chignon with the gathered hair
• Connect the twisted crown sections to the chignon
• The combination creates an elaborate appearance perfect for special occasions

24. Curly Pompadour Updo

The curly pompadour updo brings vintage glamour to modern styling by creating dramatic height and volume at the front of the head while securing the rest in an updo.

This bold style makes a statement and works wonderfully for those who love retro-inspired looks.

• Section off the front portion of your hair from temple to temple
• Tease the front section at the roots to create volume
• Smooth the outer layer of the teased section
• Roll the front section backward and upward to create the pompadour
• Pin the pompadour securely at the crown
• Gather remaining hair at the back into an updo
• The height at the front should be the focal point of this style
• Use strong-hold products to maintain the pompadour volume throughout the day

25. Rope Braid Curly Updo

The rope braid curly updo utilizes the two-strand rope braiding technique to create texture and interest before forming the hair into an elegant updo.

This style showcases a unique braiding pattern that complements curly hair beautifully.

• Divide your hair into two large sections
• Twist each section individually in the same direction
• Then twist the two sections around each other in the opposite direction
• This creates the rope braid appearance
• Continue rope braiding down to the ends
• Wrap the rope braid into a bun or updo shape
• Pin securely from multiple angles
• The rope texture adds dimension and interest to the final updo

26. Curly Side-Swept Updo

The curly side-swept updo creates asymmetrical elegance by sweeping all hair dramatically to one side before securing it in an updo.

This glamorous style works beautifully for evening events and red carpet occasions.

• Create a deep side part
• Sweep all hair dramatically to one side
• Begin pinning curls along the swept side
• Layer the pinned curls to create depth and dimension
• Continue pinning upward and toward the side
• The final updo should rest dramatically on one side
• Leave the opposite side smooth and tucked
• Add glamorous accessories like jeweled pins for evening events

27. Braided Base Curly Bun

The braided base curly bun incorporates braids at the foundation of the hairstyle, creating a stable base and decorative element before forming the bun.

This style adds intricacy and ensures the updo stays secure throughout long events.

• Create two or three braids starting at the nape
• Braid upward toward where you want the bun positioned
• The braids form the foundation and decorative base
• Gather all remaining curly hair at the end of the braids
• Form a bun with the gathered curls
• The braids will be visible as a decorative base element
• Pin the bun securely to the braided foundation
• This technique provides extra security for heavy or thick curly hair

28. Curly Rolled Updo

The curly rolled updo features multiple rolled sections of hair pinned together to create a dimensional, textured updo with vintage charm.

This sophisticated style showcases the volume and body of curly hair while maintaining elegant structure.

• Divide hair into several horizontal sections
• Take each section and roll it upward toward the crown
• Pin each roll securely before moving to the next section
• Continue rolling and pinning from nape to crown
• The curly texture adds volume to each rolled section
• Arrange the rolls to create your desired updo shape
• This technique works particularly well for very thick, curly hair
• Finish with hairspray to maintain the rolled structure

29. High Curly Ponytail Updo

The high curly ponytail updo takes the classic ponytail to new heights by creating an elevated pony that’s then styled or partially pinned up.

This versatile style works for athletic activities, casual outings, or can be dressed up for events.

• Flip your head forward and gather all hair at the crown
• Create a high ponytail securing it with a strong elastic
• Allow the curls to cascade from the ponytail
• Option to wrap a section of hair around the elastic to conceal it
• For an updo variation, pin sections of the ponytail up
• Or create a curly bun from the high ponytail base
• Fluff the curls in the ponytail for maximum volume
• This style showcases your curl length and volume beautifully

30. Goddess Curly Updo with Accessories

The goddess curly updo with accessories creates a divine, ethereal appearance by incorporating decorative elements like gold clips, pearls, flowers, or headbands into an elegant curly updo.

This style transforms any updo into a statement look fit for special occasions.

• Start with any base updo style from this list
• Select accessories that complement your outfit and occasion
• Position decorative pins, clips, or combs throughout the updo
• Weave flowers, pearls, or decorative vines through the curls
• Use gold or metallic accessories for a goddess-like appearance
• Headbands or tiaras can be incorporated at the hairline
• The accessories should enhance not overwhelm the natural curl beauty
• This styling works wonderfully for weddings, proms, and formal celebrations

Conclusion

The journey through these “30 Elegant Curly Updo Hairstyles” demonstrates that curly hair offers limitless possibilities for creating sophisticated, beautiful, and versatile updos suitable for every occasion and personal style.

From the timeless elegance of a classic high bun to the bold statement of a mohawk updo, each style celebrates the unique texture, volume, and beauty that curly hair brings to any hairstyle.

Whether you’re preparing for a wedding, heading to a formal event, or simply want to elevate your everyday look, these updo options provide you with the inspiration and techniques needed to transform your curls into stunning updos.

Remember that the key to successful curly updos lies in working with your hair’s natural texture rather than against it, using proper products for hold and definition, and securing styles with adequate pins for lasting results.

Embrace your curls, experiment with these different updo styles, and discover which looks make you feel most confident and beautiful.