The first day of school is here, and your hairstyle can make all the difference in how confident you feel walking through those doors. For curly girls, that’s a fact—your curls are your crown and a big part of your personality.
But between early mornings, unpredictable weather, and those “I only have five minutes” moments, figuring out what to do with your hair can be challenging. That’s why I’ve rounded up 25 curly hairstyles that check all the boxes—stylish, easy to do, protective, and perfect for school.
1. Voluminous High Puff
Pull all your curls up into a high puff and secure them with a bold, oversized scrunchie or scarf in your favorite color. The puff keeps your hair out of your face while letting your curls shine. Go for bright neon or pastel shades that pop against your hair—it’s the fastest way to make your look stand out in the school hallway.
2. Sleek High Puff with Laid Edges
If you want a polished version of the high puff, smooth your hairline with edge control before gathering your curls at the crown. The laid edges give it that clean, intentional look that says you woke up ready to slay. Add gold hair cuffs or pins for an extra layer of detail.
3. Double High Puffs
Think of this as the curly-girl take on space buns—but puffier and cuter. Part your hair down the middle, create two equal puffs, and secure them with matching scrunchies or hair ties. This style is playful, easy to do in five minutes, and perfect for days when you want extra personality in your look.
4. Mini Twists for Defined Texture
Mini twists are a lifesaver when you don’t have time for daily styling but still want your curls to look intentional. Twist small sections of damp hair with cream or butter for hold, and let them set overnight. You’ll have a neat, defined look that lasts all week—plus, they make a great base for other styles.
5. Defined Wash-and-Go
Sometimes, nothing beats letting your curls do their thing. After washing, apply a curl-defining gel or cream to soaking wet hair and scrunch for maximum definition. Diffuse or air dry, and you’re ready to walk into class with soft, bouncy curls that speak for themselves.
6. Half-Up Curly Bun
Gather the top half of your hair and twist it into a small bun, leaving the rest of your curls free. This style is great for keeping your hair out of your face without hiding your texture. It’s quick, casual, and works perfectly for both early mornings and after-school hangouts.
7. Side-Swept Curls with Hair Clips
Part your hair to the side and pin it with cute barrettes, pearl clips, or colorful bobby pins. It gives you a put-together look without much effort, and you can switch up the accessories to match your outfit. The side part also adds volume and frames your face nicely.
8. Low Puff with a Headband
A soft headband instantly takes a simple low puff to a more stylish level. Choose a satin or cotton band in a bright color or pattern for extra flair. It’s functional too, keeping your curls back and your edges laid during those long school hours.
9. Space Buns with Curly Ends
Instead of full buns, try twisting only the base of your hair and leaving the ends curly. This gives you two fun, fluffy puffs at the top that still show off your natural texture. Pair with hoop earrings and a little lip gloss, and you’ve got a look that’s both playful and bold.
10. Sleek Low Bun with Middle Part
Smooth your hair into a low bun with a defined middle part for a sleek, sophisticated vibe. Use a strong-hold gel to keep everything in place, and add some shine spray for that glossy finish. Perfect for presentation days or when you want to look extra polished.
11. Pineapple Updo
Gather all your curls at the very top of your head and secure them loosely with a scrunchie. This high ponytail not only keeps your curls defined but also shows off their length and volume. It’s a lifesaver for second- or third-day hair when you still want to look fresh.
12. Braided Crown
Part your hair down the middle and create two braids along the front hairline, meeting them at the back like a crown. This style keeps hair out of your face and adds a soft, romantic touch. It works great on freshly washed curls or even stretched hair.
13. High Ponytail with Curly Bangs
Pull your curls into a high ponytail, but leave a few tendrils or curly bangs in the front. It’s a fun twist on a classic style that frames your face while keeping most of your hair out of the way. Works well with scrunchies for a softer, more playful vibe.
14. Curly Half-Up Space Buns
Take the top half of your hair and split it into two mini buns while leaving the rest down. This style keeps things interesting and shows off your curls at the same time. Great for school spirit days or when you just want something a little different.
15. Twisted Crown
Twist sections from each side of your hairline and pin them at the back, creating a crown effect. It’s simple but gives your curls a romantic, boho feel. You can wear it with your hair fully down or in a half-up style.
16. Pineapple Updo
Gather all your curls on top of your head and secure them with a soft scrunchie. This high, loose ponytail keeps your curls intact and your edges safe. It’s an easy go-to for early mornings when you don’t want to overthink your hair.
17. Side Puff
Instead of placing your puff at the back or top, shift it to one side. It instantly makes the style feel fresh and unique while still being quick to do. Perfect if you like statement looks without spending extra time.
18. Low Braided Ponytail
Braid your ponytail from the base down for a more defined, structured style. It keeps your curls neat and controlled all day. Add a hair tie with a bow or ribbon for a softer touch.
19. Chunky Flat Twists
Create two or four chunky flat twists starting from your hairline, going back. This style is protective and stylish, and it looks great when you take the twists out for definition later. A good pick for when you want to stretch your wash days.
20. Afro with Hair Scarf
Let your afro shine and tie a colorful scarf around your hairline. It adds a pop of personality and keeps your edges laid. You can switch up scarf prints to match your outfits or mood.
21. Double Puff Pigtails
Part your hair down the middle and create two puffs — one on each side. It’s playful, youthful, and works for any curl pattern. This style also makes a great base for adding accessories like clips or ribbons.
22. Mini Bantu Knots in Front
Section the front of your hair into small parts and twist them into mini Bantu knots while leaving the back curly. It’s a bold, trendy style that keeps your look interesting from every angle.
23. Braided Headband
Braid a small section of hair from behind your ear and wrap it across your head like a headband. Secure it on the other side and fluff out your curls. It’s a cute, functional style that keeps your hair off your face.
24. Curly Pony with Bubble Ties
Instead of a plain ponytail, add hair ties every few inches down the length of your curls to create a bubble effect. It’s fun, eye-catching, and perfect if you like experimenting with styles.
25. Low Twisted Bun
Twist your hair loosely into a low bun for a relaxed but tidy look. It works well with second- or third-day curls and looks even better with a few curls left out in the front.
26. Side Cornrows into Curls
Cornrow one side of your hair and leave the rest curly. It’s edgy yet feminine and adds some variety to your usual curly styles. You can also add beads or cuffs to the cornrows for extra flair.
27. Defined Curly Afro
Pick out your curls for a rounded, voluminous afro shape. Use a curl cream or gel for definition and shine. It’s bold, empowering, and makes a statement without needing anything else.
Final Thoughts
Your curls deserve more than just a “throw it up and go” moment. With these 25 hairstyles, you’ve got a playbook for every kind of school day. You can tweak any of these styles with accessories, parting changes, or curl definition techniques to make them yours.
Now I want to know—which style are you rocking first? Drop it in the comments or tag us in your back-to-school selfies for a chance to be featured.