If you have curly hair, you know it’s full of volume, texture, and personality — and when styled right, a curly bun can be the perfect way to show it off while keeping things neat, stylish, and versatile. Whether you’re heading to a wedding, a brunch date, or just trying to keep your curls cute and tucked away, curly bun hairstyles are your go-to solution.
From messy buns to high puffs to elegant low updos, this guide highlights 10 stunning curly bun hairstyles for all occasions and hair types — whether you have waves, coils, or ringlets.
1. High Curly Puff Bun
Big, bold, and beautiful — the high curly puff is a classic for natural curls and coils.
Why it works: It lifts your curls up high, making a dramatic statement while keeping hair off your neck.
Style Tip: Use a stretchy band or puff cuff to secure curls at the crown. Lay your edges with a toothbrush and gel for a polished finish.
2. Low Curly Bun with Side Part
Sophisticated and smooth, this style features a sleek side part and a low bun that lets your curls shine.
Why it works: It frames the face beautifully while keeping your curls in control — great for formal settings.
Style Tip: Smooth the front with gel or edge control, then gather the back into a low bun. Let a few curl tendrils hang loose for softness.
3. Messy Curly Bun
Carefree and cute, the messy curly bun is perfect for casual days when you want to look effortlessly stylish.
Why it works: Curls add volume and shape without needing much styling. Perfect for third-day hair.
Style Tip: Loosely gather your curls into a bun and pin randomly. Let curls fall freely and don’t overthink the mess — that’s the charm!
4. Curly Top Knot
Want something bold and elevated? The curly top knot pulls your hair up and shows off volume while staying chic and secure.
Why it works: It keeps your look clean and gives structure, great for summer, workouts, or events.
Style Tip: Pull curls into a high ponytail, then twist or fold into a bun and secure with pins. Use a scarf or headband for flair.
5. Sleek Bun with Curly Ends
The perfect mix of sleek and textured, this bun style features a smooth front and curly ends left out for contrast.
Why it works: It adds interest to a traditional bun and gives your curls their moment.
Style Tip: Pull hair into a tight bun but leave a few curls poking out. You can also leave a section of curls hanging from the bun itself.
6. Half-Up Curly Bun
For when you want your curls to flow but still keep hair out of your face, this half-up curly bun strikes the perfect balance.
Why it works: It frames your face and keeps the volume up top while showing off length.
Style Tip: Gather the top half of your curls into a loose bun and leave the rest down. Perfect for shoulder-length or long curly hair.
7. Space Buns with Curls
Playful and unique, curly space buns add fun flair to your everyday look or festival fit.
Why it works: It’s bold, balanced, and keeps curls front and center.
Style Tip: Part your hair down the middle and create two buns on either side. Let some curls fall out of the buns or leave the back loose for extra drama.
8. Braided Front with Curly Bun
Incorporate braids into the front of your style for texture, detail, and a boho vibe.
Why it works: The braids keep the front tidy while the curly bun adds volume and style.
Style Tip: Braid one or both sides of the front hairline and pin them into a curly bun in the back. Add gold cuffs or beads for flair.
9. Twisted Bun for Natural Curls
Great for protective styling or formal occasions, the twisted curly bun combines flat twists or chunky twists leading into a voluminous bun.
Why it works: It keeps your roots protected and styles your ends into a gorgeous bun.
Style Tip: Twist the front and sides of your hair into sections, gather at the crown or nape, and fluff the bun for fullness.
10. Low Bun with a Scarf or Headwrap
Accessories elevate any bun — and a headscarf or wrap adds both protection and pizzazz.
Why it works: It frames your curls while adding color and style. Great for bad hair days or special events.
Style Tip: Tie the scarf around your bun or use it as a headband. Choose printed or silk wraps that complement your outfit.
How to Prepare Your Curls for the Perfect Bun
Before styling, get your curls prepped for smooth shaping and long-lasting hold:
- Start with moisturized hair: Use leave-in conditioner or curl cream for softness and definition.
- Detangle gently with a wide-tooth comb or fingers.
- Stretch hair if needed: For more control, use heatless stretching techniques like braiding or banding.
- Use a strong-hold gel or edge control to smooth flyaways or create sleek sections.
- Secure with bobby pins or soft scrunchies to avoid tension or breakage.
Best Products for Styling Curly Buns
Keep your curls nourished and your buns locked in with these go-to essentials:
- Edge control gel for sleek finishes
- Satin or silk scrunchies for no-damage hold
- Leave-in conditioner to keep curls soft
- Moisturizing curl cream or butter
- Flexible-hold hairspray for long wear
- Soft boar bristle brush for smoothing edges
- Hair pins and banana clips for styling support
Curly Bun Hairstyle Ideas Based on Occasion
| Occasion | Suggested Style |
|---|---|
| Work or Office | Sleek low bun with curly ends |
| Date Night | High curly bun with soft face-framing tendrils |
| Weddings or Formal Events | Braided front with curly bun or low twisted bun |
| Brunch or Casual Day | Messy curly bun or half-up bun |
| Workout or Travel | Curly top knot or high puff |
| Festivals or Parties | Space buns or scarf-wrapped low bun |
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How do I keep my curly bun from falling apart?
A: Use a mix of pins and hair ties. Secure the base firmly, then use pins to shape and hold curls in place.
Q: Can I do a curly bun on short hair?
A: Absolutely! Use mini claw clips, banana clips, or elastic bands to gather your curls. Half-up buns also work beautifully.
Q: How can I make my curly bun last all day?
A: Use curl-defining products before styling, finish with a light hairspray, and avoid touching your bun too much during the day.
Q: Are curly buns protective for natural hair?
A: Yes! Especially when moisturized well and secured gently, curly buns can protect your ends and reduce manipulation.
Final Thoughts
Curly buns are the ultimate go-to for style, convenience, and flair — whether you’re running errands or walking down the aisle. From sleek and sculpted to wild and free, there’s a curly bun hairstyle for every mood, curl pattern, and occasion.
Embrace your texture, get creative with accessories, and let your curls shine — because your hair is your crown, and buns make it royal.