I've always thought of my hair as having a mind of its own, especially when I'm in between washes. Some days (with the right products, that is) my hair is soft, manageable, and tangle-free, while others it seems to want to ride the disaster train a little too hard.
To be honest, I've always struggled to embrace my natural texture. I have thick, tighter curls that were tough to manage growing up. So naturally, I turned to heat styling to help alleviate the burden a bit. A few years (and a lot of heat damage) later, I decided it was time to truly embrace my unrefined texture and learn to style my hair other ways. Of course, I went down a Pinterest hole to look for ideas (as one does) and found some surprisingly simple styles that anyone with textured hair can embrace, really. If you're looking for a few easy natural hairstyles that are sleek and won't take much extra time in the morning, keep scrolling below for all the looks on my ever-expanding curly hair inspo board.
1. Pinned-Back Pigtails
Fact: Coily hair types look incredibly chic in their natural state. But if you're looking for a way to accentuate your natural texture without fully letting it roam free, pinned-back pigtails are the perfect solution. All you'll need is a bit of styling gel (or cream), hair elastics, and bobby pins to create an effortlessly cool look.
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2. Au Naturel
Now, this über-natural hairstyle can be a bit deceiving in terms of how simple it is. For looser curl types, it can be easier to maintain throughout the day, but in my personal experience, the tighter the coil, the more prone to frizz. That doesn't mean you can't still make it easy with the right products. You'll definitely want to invest in a curl-defining gel and leave-in conditioner. Both will ensure maximum hold and reduced frizz for all-day wear.
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3. Embellished Short 'Do
For those who sport a shorter length and still want to add a little something more, try accessorising with embellished pins. It takes almost no extra time and can be tailored to any outfit.
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4. Loose Low Ponytail
Barrettes not necessary for this one, but I have to say they add extra flair to an otherwise basic loose ponytail. A pony like this is perfectly low-maintenance because it requires only an elastic or two (and accessories if you feel so inclined). You can roll out of bed, spritz with a refreshing spray, tie it up, and go.
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5. Long Fauxhawk
This is a pretty bold style, but it's also incredibly easy to re-create. It's giving me '80s prom vibes but in all the right ways. A little blow-dry action might be needed to add volume, but with the right diffuser, curls need not fear.
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6. Hair Bow With a Headscarf
Scarves are one of the most versatile accessories. Case in point: They can be worn with your winter coat or as a cute little hair bow. It just really works for curls and coils because it easily gives your natural texture a lift without much effort. Run your errands in it, do the food shop in it—it just never looks out of place.
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7. High Bun
You can't go wrong with a simple high bun. It's a look that never goes out of style and speaks to the minimalist in every one of us. For an extra-slick look, comb your curls up and back with a bit of lightweight mousse or gel.
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8. Classic Claw Clip
Oversize claw clips are one '90s accessory I'm happy is back in the spotlight. It's the perfect way for curlies who don't have a lot of time in the morning to style their locks without all the fuss. They're especially great for those with thicker curls who have trouble styling their natural texture—it's an easy fix.
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9. Half-Up, Half-Down
Another pretty and straightforward style I love is throwing curls half up and half down. You'll definitely want to spritz your hair with a styling product beforehand, but it works so well for both day and nighttime.
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10. Throw on a Beret
Maybe it's not everyone's cup of tea, but in my (biased) opinion, a beret is the perfect way to accentuate your natural hair texture. Curls especially look chic and sophisticated when paired with one whether they're long or short.
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Next up, short curly hairstyles that will make you rethink your long hair.
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My Hair Doesn't Do Well in Hot Weather—15 Humidity-Proof Styles I'm Bookmarking for SummerHeatwave incoming.
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I Spot Hair Trends for a Living—5 Fresh Ways to Elevate Your Look This SummerNew season, new 'do.
