If you’ve ever tried to tame curly hair into braided pigtails without turning into a full-blown hair-wrestling ninja, I see you. I’ve been there, brush in one hand, leave-in conditioner in the other, praying my arms don’t give out mid-braid.
But guess what? Braided pigtails on curly hair are not only possible, they’re ridiculously cute—and easier than you think (with a little practice and maybe a snack break).
In this post, I’m sharing the go-to styles I’ve actually tried on curly hair—including the wins, the whoops, and the “wow, that really worked!” If you’re wondering how to rock braided pigtails on curly hair without fighting frizz or losing definition, you’re in the right place.
Whether your curls are tight coils or loose waves, I’ve got practical tips, personal tricks, and styles that’ll turn heads and survive recess. Let’s braid, not battle.
1. Curly-End Cornrow Pigtails
When I first tried curly-end cornrow pigtails, I didn’t expect them to look that good. The braids were sleek and neat, but those curly tips? They added just the right amount of bounce and sass.
This style works perfectly for kids with natural curls who want to keep things tidy at the top but playful at the bottom. I usually use flexi rods to set the ends overnight — it gives the curls a juicy spiral.
And here’s a tip: add a bit of mousse at the end to keep those curls popping all day. This look is ideal for school days or casual weekends, much like the styles featured in Curly-End Pigtail Braids for kids.
2. Box Braid Pigtails with Curly Ends
Box braids were already my go-to, but once I added curly ends, I was hooked. The curls softened the whole look, making the braided pigtails feel more fun and youthful.
For black kids with thick curly hair, this style holds well and doesn’t tangle easily — a total win. I always braid the hair down and leave about 2 inches for curling at the tips.
Dip the ends in hot water or use perm rods for the best curl results. These pigtails last a while, and the curly finish keeps them from looking too “stiff.”
3. Classic Pigtails for Curly Hair
You really can’t go wrong with the classic. The very first time I did braided pigtails on curly hair, I didn’t use any products — mistake. Curls need love!
Now I prep with a curl cream and a bit of gel to keep the sections smooth before braiding. This simple look suits just about every face shape and is gentle on the scalp.
I usually finish with little satin bows to make it pop. It’s classic, it’s cute, and it never goes out of style.
4. French Braid Pigtails with Curls
French braids were my childhood staple, but combining them with natural curls at the end gave it a modern glow-up. The braids hug the scalp just enough while the curls at the bottom bring it to life.
This style works best on semi-damp hair — it’s easier to control the flyaways and keeps the curls intact. I sometimes braid loose toward the ends to let the curls do their thing.
Use a leave-in conditioner before styling for that silky finish. These braided pigtails for curly hair are my favorite for picture days and birthdays.
5. Dutch Braid Pigtails for Curly Hair
Dutch braids are like French braids’ cooler cousin — the braid sits on top, giving the look a bold vibe. When I added curls to the ends, it became a full-on showstopper.
I love how the curls give this style a soft contrast to the structured braid. It’s great for kids with thicker curls, as the reverse braid grips better and doesn’t unravel.
I always secure the ends with tiny rubber bands and fluff out the curls for volume. Bonus: it keeps the braid from looking too “tight” or flat.
6. Micro Braid Pigtails with Curls
Micro braids take time — trust me, I’ve spent hours on them — but the payoff is worth it. When you add curly ends to micro pigtails, you get a light, bouncy finish that’s full of movement.
This style is great for kids who want something durable but still playful. I find that adding the curls at the very ends gives it just enough flair without overwhelming the scalp.
The key is using lightweight hair extensions to avoid bulk. The curly pigtails come out looking refined yet super fun.
7. Jumbo Pigtails with Curly Tips
Jumbo braids are quick, bold, and full of personality. Add curls at the tips, and it becomes the hairstyle version of a statement piece.
I love this look for weekends or special events — it turns heads without trying too hard. I keep the braids thick and fluffy while letting the curly tips add that soft detail.
Use curl activator spray at the ends to keep them springy. These braided pigtails with curly hair are proof that bigger really is better (sometimes).
8. Side-Parted Curly Pigtail Braids
Side parts always give a little flair, especially on braided pigtails for curly hair. I remember trying this for a school play, and it instantly gave me main-character energy.
This works best on naturally curly textures since the part adds shape while the curls bounce at the ends. I always start the part above the brow for an eye-lifting effect.
Add small clips or charms to enhance the side-swept look. Trust me, the side part + curls combo is super underrated.
9. High Curly Braided Pigtails
If there’s one style that screams energy, it’s high braided pigtails with curly hair ends. I wear this when I want to show off volume and personality.
These are ideal for high-density curls — the height keeps the curls off the neck and showcases the texture. I secure the base tightly and let the curls be wild and free.
A light mist of curl refresher spray makes them last all day. It’s the ultimate “bounce when you walk” kind of vibe.
10. Low Curly Pigtail Braids
Low pigtails have a way of making curly styles feel calm and composed. I first tried this look before a family dinner, and it was the perfect balance between chill and cute.
It works for any curl type, especially when you want to avoid tension at the scalp. I braid loosely and finish with soft elastic bands, letting the curls peek out at the ends.
This look is gentle, easy to maintain, and seriously adorable — especially when you add little beads or clips at the base. Similar styles can be found in the Latest Braided Pigtails.
11. Half-Up Curly Pigtail Braids
I call this the “best of both worlds” look. Half-up braided pigtails let me keep my curls flowing while still showing off neat, playful braids up top.
This style is perfect when I want a mix of structure and bounce. I usually start the braid from the crown and leave the back section curly and wild.
A little edge control helps keep the top sleek, and a diffuser boosts the curls underneath. Great for school, brunch, or anytime you feel like channeling your inner cool kid.
12. Braided Pigtails with Loose Curls
Sometimes I don’t want my curls too defined — just soft, loose, and flowy. These braided pigtails with loose curls are my go-to on low-maintenance days.
I start with two braids and stop mid-way down, letting the rest of the hair fall in loose spirals. It’s effortless but still polished.
A bit of leave-in conditioner gives the curls that lived-in softness. This look is perfect when I want something casual but still put-together.
13. Zig-Zag Part Curly Pigtails
Want to level up your braided pigtails? Just zig-zag that part, baby! I tried this once on a whim and now I’m obsessed — it’s edgy but still cute.
The zig-zag part draws attention to your scalp design, making even basic braids feel elevated. I keep the curls at the end fluffy to balance out the sharpness of the part.
If you’re feeling bold, add a little glitter or hair cuffs for extra drama. It’s a small twist that makes a big impact.
14. Braided Pigtails with Beaded Curls
Beads plus curls? Yes, please! I added small beads to the curly ends of my pigtail braids once and instantly felt like a fashion icon.
This style works best when the curls are tightly coiled — it helps the beads stay in place. I recommend adding them on damp hair so they lock in better.
It’s fun, eye-catching, and perfect for special events or cultural celebrations. Plus, that satisfying bead sound when you move? Iconic.
15. Short Curly Pigtail Braids
Who said you need long hair to rock braided pigtails with curly hair? My short curls make the cutest mini pigtails, and they’re super easy to style.
I keep the braids short and let the curls puff out at the ends. It’s low tension, low effort, and still totally charming.
A touch of curl custard helps define those short ends. Ideal for younger kids or anyone embracing a short natural look.
16. Protective Curly Pigtail Braids
As someone who loves switching up styles but also values healthy hair, protective braided pigtails with curly ends are a lifesaver.
I braid most of the length and leave just a small section of curls free at the ends to reduce friction. It keeps my hair safe but stylish.
I usually moisturize with oil before braiding, and seal the curls with a satin bonnet at night. This style is perfect for travel or just giving your strands a break.
17. Braided Pigtails with Ribbon Curls
One word: ribbons! I added thin satin ribbons to my braided pigtails once, and it took the whole look from sweet to stunning.
You can weave the ribbon through the braid or tie it around the ends — either way, it adds a playful twist. The curly ends make the ribbons bounce with every step.
Great for themed parties or holidays. Just be sure to match your ribbon to your outfit — style points matter!
18. Curly Pigtails with Scalp DesignBoyfriend Bob
Okay, I’ll admit it — I felt like a mini celeb when I got pigtails with a creative scalp design. It was like artwork for my hair.
These styles usually involve precise parting, sometimes in swirls or hearts, combined with braided pigtails and curly ends. I loved how detailed it looked.
Perfect for photo shoots or birthdays. Just remember: the design stays crisp longer if you avoid too much manipulation afterward.
19. Braided Pigtails with Defined Curls
Defined curls at the end of braided pigtails? Chef’s kiss. I like using a curl-defining cream and letting the ends air dry naturally.
This combo of sleek braids and juicy spirals gives a polished look without losing any curl personality. It’s especially cute for formal events.
I use a wide-tooth comb before styling to avoid frizz. And trust me, the definition lasts longer than you’d expect.
20. Medium-Length Curly Pigtail Braids
My medium-length curls are right in the sweet spot — not too long, not too short. Braided pigtails on this length feel super balanced and bouncy.
I can pull off mini braids, chunky ones, or even mix in colored extensions. The curls add volume without feeling heavy.
This style is perfect for school or after-school fun. I sometimes fluff the ends with a pick just to amp up the drama.
21. Twisted Curly Pigtail Braids
Tired of three-strand braids? Twist it up! Literally. I love doing rope-style twists that end in curly puffs — they’re quicker and just as cute.
Twists tend to be gentler on the scalp, and the curls at the end soften the whole look. I like using shea butter to keep them moisturized.
This look feels fresh and fun — especially when I add some golden cuffs along the twist.
22. Braided Pigtails with Colorful Curls
Color makes everything better, right? I once added pink and purple extensions to my curly pigtails and felt like a walking unicorn.
Adding color to just the curls is a fun way to experiment without dyeing your whole head. Kids love this for holidays or school spirit days.
Just make sure to use heat-safe colored hair if you plan to curl the ends. It’s a rainbow vibe you’ll want to wear again and again.
23. Curly Pigtails with Yarn Accents
I saw this on Pinterest and had to try it — wrapping yarn into braided pigtails and letting the curly ends peek out. Game changer.
Yarn adds texture, color, and a whole lot of personality. I went with earth tones, but neon yarn? Yes please.
Secure the yarn well at the base, and let the curls contrast against it for a stunning visual pop.
24. Braided Pigtails with Natural Curls
Some days, I just want to let my natural curls shine. I braid only the roots and leave the rest of my curly pigtails wild and free.
This style gives the best of both worlds — the control of a braid and the joy of natural curls. I use curl cream and gel to define the ends without crunch.
It’s perfect for casual hangouts and still looks chic with a headband or scarf.
25. Curly Pigtails with Barrettes
Barrettes take braided pigtails with curly hair from basic to beautiful in 10 seconds flat. I love stacking multiple colors or sticking to metallics for that sparkle.
This style works on all lengths and curl types. I place the barrettes near the top or scatter them along the braids for flair.
Great for special occasions or just jazzing up a regular Tuesday. And let’s be honest — barrettes are never not cute.
Amazon Finds That Changed My Hair Game
SheaMoisture Coconut & Hibiscus Kids Curling Butter Cream
Mielle Organics Pomegranate & Honey Coil Sculpting Custard
