3 Ways to Style a Curly Hair Bun

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Author Name: Beth Rush
Date: Wednesday July 27, 2022

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Curls are the best of both worlds for creating beautiful hairstyles. They bring volume and definition to every style without adding extra weight. The versatility of curly hair means that it’s easy to switch between wearing voluminous curls down or putting them up in a styled bun. 

Despite its versatility, taking care of curly hair can be challenging. Many women experience a variety of textures in their work and struggle to protect their curl pattern. Washing, brushing and fixing curly hair can take a long time. That’s why curly hair buns are such a good idea. 

Why Buns are Ideal for Curly Hair

Buns allow you to look put together in a matter of minutes. If your hair already has natural texture from curls, you don’t need to brush most of it before throwing it up in a bun. With just a little care, a curly hair bun can also work for a formal event. 

Some women are worried about how a bun will affect their curl pattern. However, buns help protect your hair from the damaging effects of wind or low humidity. A loose, high bun is often used to keep curls intact overnight – some women go a step further and wrap their heads with silk to reduce frizz. 

Putting your hair in a bun creates an illusion of volume for girls with shorter hair. Women with long hair can use a bun to get their hair out of the way quickly. Unlike long hairstyles, your curl pattern doesn’t have to be perfect to add texture and fullness to a bun. 

Curly Hair Buns: What Not to Do

Although buns are generally a great styling option for curly hair, there are a few things you should avoid doing. The most important thing is to use scrunchies that are thick and won’t snag or stretch your hair. Silk scrunchies are recommended by many stylists. 

It’s not a good idea to wear tight hairstyles too often. They can pull on your hair follicles, putting stress on your scalp and leading to breakage over time. Wearing a tight hairstyle every once in a while is fine. You can also style your buns to be loose and avoid tight styles altogether. 

Another mistake that curly girls often make is washing their hair too often. Most shampoos strip natural oil from your hair. However, healthy curls require moisture and some natural oils to stay healthy. Buns are a great way to stay stylish between washes and they actually work better when your hair isn’t squeaky clean. 

3 Ways to Style Curly Hair With a Bun

Styling curly hair in a bun is easy and looks fabulous. This style can be adapted to suit any look you’re going for, ranging from a messy bun to a sleek updo. Here are three ways to style your curly hair into a charming bun. 

  1. Classic Messy Bun

Natural curls make the classic messy bun look gorgeous. Whether you’re heading to the grocery store or just want to look accidentally put together, this bun is a great option. With some practice, you can finish this look in five minutes or less. 

Start by pulling your hair up as if you were making a high ponytail. You can either smooth your curls back or leave them loose and textured. Wrap around the ponytail once with a silk scrunchie. Twist the scrunchie and wrap around a second time – but don’t pull your hair all the way through. 

You should have curls in front and a rounded bun in the back. Next, use bobby pins to secure the bun and arrange your curls. You can either wrap them around the back or leave them in front to add texture to the look. 

  1. Romantic Low Bun

This bun follows the same principle to achieve a different look. Instead of a high ponytail, gather your hair for a low ponytail. You can wet your hair or use gel beforehand to add more definition to your curls. If you’d rather have a sleek bun, brush gel through your hair to smooth it out. 

Wrap a smooth hair tie or silk scrunchie around your hair once. When you wrap around again, only pull your hair through halfway. You can use bobby pins to secure the bun to your head. Consider using a side part and then creating the bun on the opposite side of your head. 

Some women pull shorter curls out around their face for a more relaxed look. Try pulling out two high curls on one side of your face or use symmetry for a fancier look. You can use gel, water and finger curling to make these curls as defined and permanent as possible. 

  1. Formal Twist Bun

This bun works well if you have longer hair or want a more formal look for a fancy event. Start by partitioning off the front sides of your hair. Then, braid the rest and coil it into a low bun. Use bobby pins and hair ties to secure it. 

This part of the hairstyle will act as a chignon that you can style your front curls over. Separate your front sections into three to five curls each. One at a time, twist these curls and crisscross them over the top of your bun. Twist the ends up and around and pin them into place. 

You can make these curls as smooth or as loose as you like. Leave a few shorter curls in front to frame your face. This hairstyle looks gorgeous with a silk flower or sparkling hair accessory. You could even add real flowers or pearls for a special event. 

Sweep Your Curls Into a Bun

Putting curly hair in a bun is easy and instantly makes you look put together. It’s a great option for protecting your locks and handling hair that hasn’t been washed in a while. Use this guide to create the perfect curly bun and add another styling option to your daily routine. 

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