Homecoming hairstyles for curly hair should be anything but basic — your gorgeous curls deserve their moment to shine! After all, nothing says “main character energy” like walking into homecoming with perfectly styled, voluminous curls that turn heads.
Trust me, when it comes to curly hair homecoming hairstyles, working with your natural texture (rather than against it) is absolutely key. For years, I’ve helped friends find that perfect balance between glamor and effortlessness for hoco curly hairstyles that actually last through hours of dancing. Whether you’re sporting short curly locks or long flowing ringlets, these styles will help you feel confident and beautiful. Homecoming is, naturally, the first big event of the school year — it’s when we all want to establish our presence and, honestly, look our absolute best.
From elegant updos to casual half-up homecoming hairstyles for short curly hair, I’ve gathered 16 stunning options that celebrate your natural texture while ensuring you’ll stand out for all the right reasons. These hoco curly hairstyles are designed to make your night unforgettable — just like your perfect homecoming look should be.
Defined & Down Curls
For a show-stopping homecoming look, defined and down curls create that perfect balance of elegance and natural beauty. Let’s dive into this gorgeous style that celebrates your natural texture!
Style Overview
Defined and down curls showcase your natural curls in their full glory, yet with enhanced definition and polish. This style allows your curls to cascade freely while maintaining structure and shine. I love how this look offers both sophistication and playfulness – perfect for making a statement at homecoming without looking overly “done.”
Why It Works for Curly Hair
This style works magnificently because it enhances your natural pattern instead of fighting against it. Defined curls capitalize on what makes curly hair special – its natural volume, movement, and personality. Furthermore, this style prevents the frizz and damage that often comes from trying to completely alter your curl pattern.
Styling Tips
Start with freshly washed and conditioned hair, then apply a curl-defining cream to damp strands. Never use regular cotton towels – opt for microfiber towels or even a cotton t-shirt to prevent frizz and damage. The key secret? Avoid touching your curls at all while they dry! For extra definition, use a diffuser on low heat and speed. This helps maintain the curl pattern without creating excess frizz.
Best Face Shapes
Defined and down curls work wonderfully for most face shapes, especially:
- Oval faces – lucky you, this style enhances your already balanced proportions
- Square faces – curls soften angular jawlines beautifully
- Round faces – longer, defined curls create the illusion of length
Accessory Ideas
Enhance your defined curls with strategic accessories like embellished bobby pins, puffy headbands, or decorative hair clips. Silk scarves wrapped partially around your crown add both protection and elegance, especially in vibrant colors that complement your homecoming outfit.
Belle Hathaway’s Pro Tip
In my experience, the true secret to perfect defined curls is patience! Allow your hair to completely dry before heading out – even slight dampness can lead to frizz later in the evening. Additionally, keep a travel-sized curl refresher spray in your bag for quick touch-ups during homecoming night!
Half-Up Twist Magic
The half-up twist hairstyle offers that perfect middle ground for homecoming – showcasing your curls while keeping your face beautifully framed. This elegant yet approachable style has become my go-to recommendation for clients who want sophistication without sacrificing their natural texture.
Style Overview
Half-up twist magic combines the best of both worlds – your curls remain mostly down and free-flowing, yet strategic twisting creates visual interest and structure. The style features twisted sections from both sides of your head that meet in the back, creating a lovely woven effect that’s simultaneously elegant and relaxed. This versatile look works for both formal homecoming events and more casual celebrations.
Why It Works for Curly Hair
The beauty of this half-up style lies in how it celebrates your natural curl pattern. Unlike fully pulled-back styles, the half-up approach allows your curls to maintain their natural bounce and volume. Moreover, the twisted sections create beautiful texture contrasts against your free-flowing curls. The style also keeps hair comfortably away from your face throughout hours of dancing and photos.
Styling Tips
First, start with loose waves or your natural curly texture. Take a section of hair from each temple and twist each upward and back toward your crown. Secure the first twist with bobby pins at the back of your head, then bring the second twisted section across, tucking the ends under the first twist. Finish by gently pulling at the edges of both twists to create fullness. For extra security, consider adding a decorative pin where the twists meet.
Best Face Shapes
This style particularly flatters oval and heart-shaped faces by drawing attention to your cheekbones. If you have a round face, create more height at the crown for a face-elongating effect. Square-faced beauties benefit from the softening effect the loose curls provide against angular jawlines.
Accessory Ideas
Enhance your twisted half-up style with pearl-adorned pins, jeweled hair clips, or fabric-covered barrettes. For homecoming, consider a small tiara or rhinestone hair comb positioned where the twists meet. Neutral-colored claw clips work perfectly for a more subdued everyday version of this look.
Belle Hathaway’s Pro Tip
In my experience, the secret to making this style last all night is creating slight tension in your twists without pulling too tight – this prevents headaches yet maintains structure. Before leaving for homecoming, mist your finished style with a flexible-hold hairspray, focusing on the twisted sections rather than your free-flowing curls.
Curly Bangs Moment
Curly bangs have made a serious comeback and they’re absolutely perfect for homecoming hairstyles for those blessed with natural texture. Forget the outdated belief that bangs are only for straight hair—this eye-catching addition can transform your homecoming look completely!
Style Overview
Curly bangs frame your face with bouncy, defined curls that add dimension and personality. This style features shorter curls that fall across the forehead, creating a playful yet sophisticated frame for your eyes. The length typically sits between the eyebrows and eyelashes, though curtain-style curly bangs may be slightly longer. For homecoming, curly bangs pair beautifully with both down styles and updos.
Why It Works for Curly Hair
Contrary to popular belief, bangs aren’t exclusive to straight-haired folks. In fact, curly bangs can add visual interest to your mane and create the illusion of thicker hair. Moreover, they frame your features strategically while adding movement to your overall style. For homecoming specifically, they offer that perfect balance of structured elegance without forcing your natural texture into submission.
Styling Tips
Start by having your stylist cut your bangs while they’re dry—never wet! Wet-cutting leads to major shrinkage surprises. For styling, apply a lightweight curl-defining cream to damp bangs, then either diffuse on low heat/speed or air-dry until 80% dry before twisting small sections. Avoid touching your bangs while they dry to prevent frizz. For those special homecoming photos, consider curl-elongating products that give your bangs maximum stretch.
Best Face Shapes
Curly bangs flatter various face shapes, specifically:
- Round faces—shorter bangs can elongate your face
- Square faces—whispier bangs soften angular features
- Oval faces—virtually any bang style works beautifully
Accessory Ideas
Elevate your curly bangs with thoughtfully chosen accessories. Embellished bobby pins create subtle accents without overwhelming your curls. For homecoming, consider pearl-adorned pins or rhinestone clips that complement your outfit. Silk scarves can add elegance when worn as headbands, while velvet scrunchies work beautifully if you’re pulling back sections alongside your bangs.
Belle Hathaway’s Pro Tip
From my experience styling countless homecoming looks, the secret to perfect curly bangs lies in humidity protection! I always recommend a lightweight anti-frizz serum applied with fingertips to dry bangs just before heading out. Additionally, resist the urge to constantly touch or adjust your bangs throughout the night—this introduces oils from your fingers and disrupts your perfectly defined curl pattern. Trust the style you created and enjoy your homecoming confidence!
Slicked Side Part Curls
The slicked side part style has become one of my top recommendations for homecoming clients who want to combine sleek elegance with their natural curly texture. This trendy look offers that perfect balance of polish and personality for your special night.
Style Overview
The slicked side part curls feature a smooth, controlled front section with a deep side part, while the back remains gloriously curly. Consequently, you get that sophisticated, put-together appearance in photos yet maintain your natural curl pattern. This versatile style works beautifully for formal homecoming events, yet remains playful enough to dance all night without worrying about your hair.
Why It Works for Curly Hair
This hairstyle celebrates the dual nature of curly hair—its ability to be both structured and free-flowing. First, the slicked portion creates a striking contrast against your natural texture. Secondly, it keeps curls out of your face during homecoming festivities without compromising volume or personality. Finally, since only a portion of your hair needs smoothing, you’ll experience less heat damage compared to fully straightened styles.
Styling Tips
Start by thoroughly wetting your hair—this is essential as trying to brush dry curls can cause breakage. Next, create your deep side part while hair is damp. Apply a strong-hold gel to the front section, brushing it smoothly away from your part. For maximum hold, many curly girls prefer using both a dense brush and a small-tooth comb to achieve that ultra-sleek look. Once the front is secured, apply curl-defining cream to the remaining hair and either diffuse or air-dry for natural definition.
Best Face Shapes
The deep side part works wonderfully for:
- Round faces – creates angles that help slim and contour
- Square faces – adds softness to angular features
- Diamond faces – provides balanced framing
- Long faces – a side or zig-zag part breaks up length, creating the illusion of width
Accessory Ideas
Elevate your slicked side part with strategic accessories. Consider adding decorative bobby pins where the sleek portion meets your curls. Alternatively, pearl-studded clips or rhinestone barrettes placed along the slicked section create eye-catching dimension. For a more subtle approach, try a thin metallic headband that follows your part line.
Belle Hathaway’s Pro Tip
From my experience working with various curl patterns, the secret to making this style last all night is layering products! Always start with a leave-in conditioner before applying your gel—this prevents that crunchy, flaky look that can happen with gel alone. Furthermore, keep a small edge brush in your purse for quick touch-ups throughout homecoming night.
Curly Crown Braid
Crown braids have become my absolute favorite homecoming style recommendation for clients with natural curls looking for that regal, eye-catching look.
Style Overview
A crown braid elegantly wraps around your head just above the forehead in a half-moon shape, resembling a tiara or crown. Despite its intricate appearance, this style creates a striking frame for your face while keeping your gorgeous curls secure throughout homecoming festivities. The braid forms a perfect circle, creating that coveted princess-inspired homecoming look that photographs beautifully from every angle.
Why It Works for Curly Hair
Crown braids are remarkably versatile for virtually all hair types, densities, and textures. For curly hair specifically, this style celebrates your natural texture rather than fighting against it. As a protective style, it reduces over-manipulation of your curls while creating a polished, sophisticated appearance that lasts through hours of dancing.
Styling Tips
Begin by applying a leave-in conditioner to make braiding easier—I recommend Shea Moisture’s 100% Virgin Coconut spray. When braiding curly hair, always grab whole curls rather than splitting them to prevent frizz and tangles. For the prettiest result, only add hair from the top as you braid around, leaving more hair to hang underneath the braid for dimension. Once complete, gently stretch the braid between your fingers to make it appear thicker and fuller.
Best Face Shapes
The crown braid works wonderfully on square faces, as it softens angular features beautifully. Oval faces can also rock this style effortlessly. For round faces, create slightly more height in the crown area to elongate your face shape.
Accessory Ideas
Enhance your crown braid with strategic accessories like delicate hair pins that will subtly embellish the style. For homecoming, consider flower crowns or jeweled combs positioned strategically along the braid. These additions elevate the look without overwhelming your natural texture.
Belle Hathaway’s Pro Tip
After years of styling crown braids, I’ve discovered the secret lies in practice! Initially, your arms might ache during styling, but with time, this becomes a five-minute style. For homecoming, I always stretch the braid more dramatically than usual—this creates the illusion of thicker hair and makes your curls look even more luxurious in photos.
High Puff Glam
The high puff hairstyle has become the ultimate quick-yet-glamorous option for homecoming events where you want to showcase your natural curls while keeping your styling time minimal.
Style Overview
The high puff is a bold, statement-making updo that elevates your curls to new heights—quite literally! This style features all your gorgeous curls gathered high on your head, creating a beautiful, voluminous puff that shows off your natural texture. Naturally, it’s perfect for homecoming when you want that “effortless glam” vibe without spending hours styling.
Why It Works for Curly Hair
First off, high puffs celebrate rather than constrain your natural curl pattern. This style keeps hair comfortably away from your neck—ideal for staying cool through hours of homecoming dancing. Moreover, high puffs highlight the beautiful texture of curly hair, creating a chic look that’s simultaneously sophisticated and playful.
Styling Tips
To create this homecoming-worthy style:
- Start with moisturized hair using a quality leave-in conditioner
- Apply gel only around the perimeter for smooth edges
- Wrap a stretchy headband around your neck twice
- Push the headband upward to form your puff at desired height
- Twist one part of the headband and pull to tighten
- Secure with bobby pins or tuck remaining headband
Best Face Shapes
Although the high puff works for most face shapes, it’s particularly flattering for those with oval or heart-shaped faces. Round-faced beauties should position the puff higher for a face-elongating effect.
Accessory Ideas
Elevate your hoco puff with wide headbands or satin scrunchies that reduce friction. Clearly, embellished bobby pins or decorative hair clips add visual interest without overwhelming your natural curls.
Belle Hathaway’s Pro Tip
I’ve found that using a scarf matching your hair color creates the most natural-looking puff. Furthermore, position your band in the middle of your head—not too high or low—for the perfect shape that lasts all night!
Side-Swept Curly Bun
The side-swept curly bun combines vintage glamor with modern sophistication, making it my number one recommendation for students who want an effortlessly elegant homecoming hairstyle.
Style Overview
This romantic style features curls swept gracefully to one side, gathered into a structured bun that sits elegantly near one ear. Hence, you get that perfect blend of structure and softness that photographs beautifully from every angle.
Why It Works for Curly Hair
The side-swept bun celebrates your natural curl pattern, working with your texture’s inherent volume. Subsequently, it creates beautiful dimension that straight-haired styles simply can’t match.
Styling Tips
Begin by sweeping all hair over one shoulder, securing with bobby pins on the opposite side. For optimal results, gently backcomb the ends after curling and set with firm-hold hairspray. Remember that your side-swept hair needs securing before adding any decorative elements.
Best Face Shapes
This style particularly flatters square faces by softening strong angles with gentle waves. Heart-shaped faces benefit as well, as side-swept curls add flattering volume around the jawline, creating balance.
Accessory Ideas
Position a sparkling hair clip directly above your exposed ear as a stunning focal point. Alternatively, bobby pins work perfectly for a polished yet stylish appearance.
Belle Hathaway’s Pro Tip
I always position accessories where they catch the light—this creates dimension and visual interest in homecoming photos that flat styles simply can’t achieve!
Messy Curly Updo
Nothing says effortless glam quite like a messy curly updo for homecoming night! This style has saved countless of my clients who wanted that perfectly imperfect vibe.
Style Overview
A messy curly updo features a high bun with intentionally loose, textured curls. Essentially, this style creates that coveted “I woke up like this” elegance that photographs beautifully yet appears completely effortless.
Why It Works for Curly Hair
This approach embraces your natural texture rather than fighting against it. Correspondingly, the messier the bun, the better the result—making it ideal for those with naturally curly hair who want a fuss-free homecoming option.
Styling Tips
Start by securing hair in a high ponytail, apply texture spray, then split the ponytail in half. Spread hair around the elastic band, secure with another band, then gently pull apart the bun for volume. Twist any loose ends toward the bun, securing with bobby pins.
Best Face Shapes
This versatile style suits most face shapes, particularly oval and heart-shaped faces. For round faces, create additional height at the crown.
Accessory Ideas
Bobby pins with decorative ends work wonderfully, as do small jeweled clips placed strategically throughout the updo.
Belle Hathaway’s Pro Tip
Never underestimate the power of strategic messiness! Prior to homecoming, I always tell clients to gently pull small sections for that perfectly undone look that lasts all night.
Half Bun Babe
I’ve always loved recommending the half bun for homecoming – it’s that perfect blend of chic and casual that screams “I tried, but I didn’t try too hard.” This style has quickly become a favorite among my clients with gorgeous curls!
Style Overview
The half-up bun (or “half bun”) takes the top portion of your hair into a bun while leaving the bottom half flowing freely. It’s both fashionable and remarkably easy to do. Indeed, this style combines the elegance of an updo with the free-flowing beauty of loose curls.
Why It Works for Curly Hair
Naturally, half buns showcase your curls’ natural volume and texture. This hairstyle is highly versatile and works beautifully for various curl patterns. As well as being practical (keeping hair out of your face), it creates that perfect balance between styled and effortless—ideal for homecoming photos and dancing.
Styling Tips
To create this look:
- Gather hair from temple to temple into a section
- Secure closer to the crown for height
- Twist loosely and wrap into a spiral bun
- Secure with bobby pins through the middle
Best Face Shapes
Higher buns help elongate your neckline, creating a youthful appearance. Likewise, this style particularly flatters oval and heart-shaped faces.
Accessory Ideas
Elevate your half bun with:
- Satin scrunchies to prevent damage
- Decorative bobby pins or hair cuffs for sparkle
- Pearl-adorned pins for homecoming elegance
Belle Hathaway’s Pro Tip
First thing to remember: leave out some curls around your face for that soft, romantic vibe perfect for homecoming. I always tell my clients to refresh bottom curls right before photos—it’s those flowing curls that truly make this style steal the show!
Curly Wig Glow-Up
Transforming a curly wig into a homecoming showstopper has become increasingly popular among my clients seeking versatility without committing to permanent styles.
Style Overview
Curly wig glow-ups feature voluminous, spiral curls that add movement and dimension to your homecoming look. This versatile option allows for sophisticated styling with tightly coiled curls that offer timeless appeal. Plus, these wigs pair beautifully with everything from formal gowns to cocktail dresses.
Why It Works for Curly Hair
For those blessed with natural curls, high-quality curly wigs provide a damage-free alternative that maintains your hair’s health underneath. Naturally, these wigs showcase the beauty of curls without the lengthy styling time or concern about humidity affecting your natural texture throughout homecoming night.
Styling Tips
Begin with proper preparation—use a wig cap to flatten natural hair for a snug fit. For styling, use a wide-tooth comb to gently detangle, working from tips upward. Consider a half-up ponytail style that elegantly balances formal and playful elements. Apply minimal product—lightweight curl-defining cream works wonderfully for refreshing the curl pattern.
Best Face Shapes
Diamond faces look stunning with chin-length bob or mid-length layered curly wigs that soften angular features. Oval faces can experiment freely, as most styles complement their balanced proportions. Square faces benefit from soft, loose waves that create a more delicate appearance.
Accessory Ideas
Elevate your curly wig with embellished hairpins, jeweled headbands, or pearl-adorned clips. Silk scarves wrapped partially around create both protection and style statement. For homecoming specifically, thin rhinestone headbands add sparkle without overwhelming.
Belle Hathaway’s Pro Tip
Always check if your wig is heat-resistant before using styling tools. Certainly, the secret to a natural-looking wig lies in the hairline—create realistic baby hairs using a small toothbrush and minimal styling gel for that seamless, glamorous homecoming look.
Twisted Heart Half-Up
My clients always squeal with delight when I suggest the twisted heart half-up style for homecoming. This romantic yet playful hairstyle creates the perfect statement piece for your special night.
Style Overview
The twisted heart half-up creates an adorable heart shape at the back of your head using twisted sections of hair. Naturally, your remaining curls flow freely underneath. The style features two sections twisted together to form a dimensional heart shape that stands out against your natural curls.
Why It Works for Curly Hair
Curly hair provides the perfect texture for this style—your natural volume makes the heart shape more pronounced and visible. Generally, the twisted sections create wonderful contrast against your loose curls, adding visual interest without straightening a single strand.
Styling Tips
To create this look:
- Section hair from above your temples and divide down the middle
- Twist left section counterclockwise, bringing it up and over to form half the heart
- Twist right section clockwise, creating the opposite side
- Secure with bobby pins where the twists meet
- Gently pull on the heart’s outline to enhance volume
Best Face Shapes
This style beautifully flatters oval faces, nevertheless it’s versatile enough for heart-shaped faces too. For round faces, position the heart slightly higher to create length.
Accessory Ideas
Embellish your twisted heart with small decorative pins where the two sides meet. Alternatively, tiny flowers or rhinestone clips add homecoming sparkle.
Belle Hathaway’s Pro Tip
In my experience, the secret to making this style pop is backcombing slightly before twisting. This creates more dimension and helps the heart shape stand out in photos all night long.
Voluminous Low Updo
The voluminous low updo offers that rare combination of timeless elegance and practical comfort for your homecoming celebration.
Style Overview
A voluminous low updo gathers your curls into a loose, textured arrangement at the nape of your neck. This style creates a refined yet softly structured look that lets your natural curls shine through. It’s that perfect balance between polished and effortlessly romantic – ideal for formal homecoming events without appearing overdone.
Why It Works for Curly Hair
Curly hair already brings natural volume and texture, making it ideal for creating these sophisticated low styles. Furthermore, this updo embraces your curls rather than fighting them, creating an effortless vibe that remains polished throughout the evening. The loose gathering also prevents that “too tight” feeling that often leads to headaches by evening’s end.
Styling Tips
Begin by securing hair into a low ponytail, then create small sections and wrap each around a curling wand for definition. Next, apply texture spray to the crown and gently pinch to create subtle volume. Create a small hole above the elastic, pass the ponytail through, and twist sections toward your head. Secure with bobby pins and gently pull sections apart for fullness.
Best Face Shapes
Oval faces look naturally balanced with this style, yet square faces benefit most as the softness of the updo beautifully counteracts angular jawlines. For round faces, create slightly more height at the crown.
Accessory Ideas
Decorative pins, pearl-studded clips, or rhinestone barrettes positioned strategically throughout add wonderful dimension without overwhelming your natural texture.
Belle Hathaway’s Pro Tip
In my experience, the secret lies in strategic looseness—I always pull sections gently before finishing to create that perfect “undone” elegance that lasts through hours of dancing!
Bubble Half-Up Style
Bubble half-up styles frequently emerge as my favorite homecoming recommendation for clients with beautiful curly hair. This playful yet sophisticated look makes a statement without hours of styling!
Style Overview
This eye-catching style combines the best aspects of half-up hairstyles with fun, bubble-like sections that create visual interest. The technique uses strategically placed hair ties to form rounded “bubbles” along sections of hair, resulting in a dimensional, textured look.
Why It Works for Curly Hair
This hairstyle perfectly showcases the natural texture and volume of curly hair. As a rule, it works beautifully for medium to long lengths, accommodating both thick and thin locks. The structure highlights your natural pattern while keeping curls contained.
Styling Tips
Start by creating a triangle section at the top of your head with the widest part at your forehead. Secure with a small hair tie just before your crown for volume. Create a second section angled up from your ear. Add additional ties 2-3 inches apart, then gently pull sections outward to create bubbles.
Best Face Shapes
This style particularly complements oval, square, and heart-shaped faces.
Accessory Ideas
Clear elastics work wonderfully, though colored ties can add personality. Pearl pins positioned between bubbles elevate this look for homecoming.
Belle Hathaway’s Pro Tip
Always pull hair outward little by little—holding the tie with one hand while gently tugging with the other. This creates perfectly balanced bubbles without overstreching.
Twisted Topknot for Curls
When my curly-haired clients need a reliable yet stunning homecoming style, the twisted topknot consistently ranks among my top suggestions. This elevated bun creates both protection and elegance throughout your special night.
Style Overview
The twisted topknot features your curls gathered high on your head, with sections twisted clockwise to create a rope-like texture before being wrapped into a structured bun. Unlike traditional topknots, this style specifically celebrates your curl pattern while keeping everything securely in place. Plus, you can opt for either a polished, sleek finish or a slightly messier version depending on your homecoming vibe.
Why It Works for Curly Hair
Primarily, this style excels by keeping your curls elevated and away from potential damage. For curly-haired beauties, it prevents friction against strands, which significantly reduces tangles and breakage throughout homecoming festivities. Additionally, the twisted topknot preserves your natural oils and moisture while you enjoy dancing all night.
Styling Tips
To create this look:
- Gather supplies: hair elastic, optional hair donut, bobby pins
- Tilt head forward and gather curls into a high ponytail using fingertips
- Secure with an elastic firmly (but not too tight!)
- Separate ponytail into three sections
- Twist each section clockwise at the top while ending at the base
- Wrap twisted sections around the base to form your bun
Best Face Shapes
Oval faces enjoy balanced proportions with this style, yet it’s versatile enough for most face shapes. Currently, those with round faces benefit most as the height elongates facial features beautifully.
Accessory Ideas
Consider satin scrunchies rather than regular elastics to minimize damage while maximizing hold. Otherwise, hair forks or decorative pins can elevate this style for homecoming elegance.
Belle Hathaway’s Pro Tip
Always apply leave-in conditioning cream prior to styling—this creates a crucial moisture barrier that protects your curls throughout the night. Henceforth, keep your topknot loose enough to prevent crushing your beautiful curl pattern while still secure enough to withstand hours on the dance floor!
Curly Side Part with Clips
Adding decorative clips to a side part creates one of my favorite homecoming styles for curly-haired clients who want that perfect balance of elegance and personality.
Style Overview
This versatile style features a deep side part with your curls flowing freely on one side, often with clips strategically placed to add visual interest. The asymmetrical approach creates dramatic volume while keeping your face beautifully framed.
Why It Works for Curly Hair
Above all, this style maintains your natural curl pattern without fighting against it. Wide-tooth clips or satin-finish claws hold curls securely without ruining their pattern. Furthermore, the side-swept approach amplifies your natural volume, making this perfect for homecoming photos.
Styling Tips
Start by creating a deep side part while hair is damp. Apply curl cream to enhance definition, then dry with a diffuser. Position clips where you want your hair to stay in place, gently twisting sections before securing.
Best Face Shapes
Diamond faces shine with this style as a deep side part accentuates high cheekbones. Round faces benefit equally from the angular framing that helps slim and contour.
Accessory Ideas
Opt for pearl-style clips, rhinestone gems, or butterfly accessories to elevate your look. For curly hair specifically, choose clips with smooth edges to prevent tangles.
Belle Hathaway’s Pro Tip
Apply a microfiber-glove technique with your styling products before clipping—this significantly reduces frizz throughout homecoming night!
Romantic Side Braid
For the romantic at heart, a side braid offers that perfect blend of bohemian charm and structured elegance for homecoming night.
Style Overview
The romantic side braid features a Dutch-style plait positioned diagonally across your head, ending over one shoulder. In my experience, this inside-out technique (crossing sections under rather than over) creates a more dimensional, rope-like texture that sits beautifully atop your hair. Occasionally, I position it close to the hairline for a Katniss-inspired look that photographs wonderfully from all angles.
Why It Works for Curly Hair
Obviously, braided hair with curls has more texture and volume, giving it that coveted romantic, casual vibe. In addition to keeping your face beautifully framed, this style actually works better with curly hair – your natural texture provides grip that prevents slipping and creates a fuller-looking braid.
Styling Tips
Begin by creating a deep side part, then take a section from your temple and divide into three pieces. Start your Dutch braid by crossing sections under the middle piece. Angle your braid diagonally across your head for a dramatic effect. Stretch your braid afterward by gently pulling at the edges to create thickness and volume.
Best Face Shapes
This style particularly flatters square faces by softening angular features with its gentle waves. For this reason, oval and heart-shaped faces also shine with this versatile style.
Accessory Ideas
Hair pins work beautifully with side braids, creating a boho homecoming vibe. Given these points, I also love leather cuffs or bows placed strategically along the braid.
Belle Hathaway’s Pro Tip
Style in damp hair, then take out your braid later for gorgeous beachy waves – admittedly, it’s like getting two homecoming looks in one!
Conclusion
Curly hair truly deserves to shine during homecoming, and these 16 styles offer something special for every texture and length. Throughout my years styling curls, I’ve learned that embracing your natural pattern rather than fighting against it creates the most stunning results. Whether you prefer a sophisticated updo like the Twisted Topknot or something more relaxed like the Defined & Down Curls, your natural texture provides the perfect foundation.
Many clients initially worry about their curls lasting through a night of dancing and photos. Undoubtedly, the right products and techniques make all the difference. Most importantly, remember that a little strategic “messiness” often photographs better than styles that appear too perfect or stiff.
Accessories also play a crucial role in elevating these homecoming looks. Pearl pins, rhinestone clips, or even simple bobby pins positioned thoughtfully can transform your style from everyday to extraordinary. My favorite approach involves placing these elements where they catch the light – this creates dimension that straight-haired styles simply can’t match.
Your curls represent something unique and beautiful – they add personality, volume, and movement that straight-haired friends spend hours trying to achieve artificially! Homecoming presents the perfect opportunity to showcase what makes your hair special.
The next time you feel tempted to straighten your curls for a special event, consider these alternatives instead. Your future self will thank you when you look back at those homecoming photos years later, seeing how you celebrated rather than concealed your natural beauty.
After all, the most memorable homecoming looks aren’t about conforming to trends – they’re about expressing your authentic self while feeling confident and comfortable. These curly hairstyles help you achieve exactly that balance, ensuring you’ll stand out for all the right reasons on your special night!