Messy curly hair has a life of its own. One minute, it’s perfectly styled, and the next, it’s a wild, unpredictable mess of curls. But you know what? That’s part of the charm, right? If you’ve ever had a bad hair day and found yourself embracing the mess, you’re not alone.
I’ve spent years trying to tame my curls, only to realize that sometimes the best thing you can do is just… let them be. So, here’s the scoop: messy curly hair isn’t a problem to solve—it’s a style to own.
Curly hair has its own personality, and messy curls are no exception. Whether you’re headed out for a casual coffee run or dressing up for a night out, messy curly hair can be the perfect laid-back yet stylish look.
Think of it as embracing the beauty in chaos. You can rock messy curls with ease, and I’ll share how you can make it work for you. I promise you—once you stop fighting your curls, you’ll start loving them even more.
And if you’re still not sure how to pull it off, don’t worry. I’ve got you covered with some of the best curly hair looks that let you rock your natural messiness in the most fashionable way.
1. Tousled Curly Hair Down
Tousled curly hair down is the ultimate effortless look.
I love how it’s a perfect mix of volume and texture, giving you that “just rolled out of bed” vibe—but in a chic way.
To pull this off, scrunch some mousse or curl cream into damp hair, let it air dry, and voilà!
It works best for medium to long curls and gives you that playful, relaxed vibe all day long.
Try this with layered haircuts that boost volume, especially if your curls need more shape.
2. Messy Curly High Ponytail
A messy curly high ponytail is both fun and practical. It’s one of those styles I throw together when I need my curls out of my face but still want to look put-together.
Simply gather your hair, tie it high, and let a few curls hang loose for that effortlessly chic, messy look. It’s perfect for a day at the gym or casual outings.
Want more practical looks? Check out these easy everyday hairstyles for women.
3. Half-Up Messy Curly Knot
The half-up messy curly knot is my go-to when I want to keep some curls out of my face but still show off the texture.
It’s a trendy, modern look that can be pulled off in minutes.
Just twist the top section of your hair, tie it in a knot, and let the rest of your curls flow freely for a fun, carefree style.
For more half-up looks, explore these half-up half-down hairstyles.
4. Messy Curly Side Braid
For a relaxed yet stylish vibe, try the messy curly side braid. I love how it’s simple, yet adds a lot of personality to my curls.
You just loosely braid your hair to the side, letting a few curls escape to frame your face.
It’s perfect for casual events or when you need a cute hairstyle on-the-go.
5. Voluminous Curly Messy Bun
A voluminous curly messy bun is great for days when you want your curls to look full and fabulous without all the effort.
I just pull my curls into a loose bun, leaving some volume on top for a messy, yet elegant look.
It’s perfect for busy mornings when you want your hair to look chic with minimal styling.
It’s perfect with these easy hairstyles for long hair that don’t compromise on style.
6. Messy Curly with Headband
If you’re looking for a cute way to keep your curls in place, try adding a headband to your messy curly hair.
It’s a simple trick that works wonders for days when you want to tame your curls but still keep things fun and stylish.
A colorful or patterned headband can elevate any casual outfit instantly.
7. Loose Curly Side Part
The loose curly side part is a classic and effortless look. I love it because it’s super easy to achieve just part your curls to the side and let the volume do the rest.
It works for any occasion, whether you’re going for a laid-back brunch or a more polished look.
It’s one of those styles that always looks put-together without trying too hard.
8. Messy Curly with Scrunchie
Messy curly hair with a scrunchie is a throwback that’s still so on-trend.
It’s playful and nostalgic, and I always reach for it on days when I want something quick and cute.
Just pull your curls into a ponytail or bun, add the scrunchie, and let some curls hang loose for that perfect messiness.
9. Textured Curly Bob
The textured curly bob is ideal if you want to rock a short, chic look without compromising on your curls.
I love how this style gives my curls definition while maintaining a messy, natural vibe.
It works best for anyone with medium to thick hair and looks especially cute with a little curl cream to enhance the texture.
10. Messy Curly with Hair Clips
Add some personality to your messy curly hair by incorporating hair clips.
I love how easy it is to throw in a few clips and instantly elevate a simple curly look.
Whether they’re floral, metallic, or oversized, they add a fun touch to any hairstyle, giving your curls a playful twist.
11. Undone Curly Updo
An undone curly updo is a great way to look effortlessly chic while keeping your curls out of your face.
I love this style for events because it’s easy to achieve, yet still polished.
Twist and pin sections of your curls to create a loose updo, letting some pieces fall free for that perfectly undone look.
Great for weddings too—see these romantic wedding hairstyles for more inspo.
12. Messy Curly with Bangs
Messy curly hair with bangs is bold, trendy, and super flattering.
It works especially well if you want to add some framing around your face without committing to a full straight-across fringe.
Soft, wispy bangs blend beautifully with curly textures and bring out the natural bounce of your hair.
13. Curly Messy Space Buns
Curly messy space buns are a fun, edgy way to wear your hair. I love how they instantly give my curls a playful, youthful vibe.
Simply divide your hair into two sections, twist them into buns, and let a few curls escape for a messy but cute look.
It’s a perfect style for festivals or any time you want to stand out.
14. Messy Curly with Ribbon
Messy curly hair with a ribbon is a cute, feminine twist on a classic style.
I like to tie a ribbon around my curls for a sweet, vintage feel.
Whether you go for a bow or a simple knot, it adds a soft, romantic touch to your curly look, perfect for adding some extra flair to your messy style.
15. Diffused Curly Messy Look
For a natural, voluminous style, a diffused curly messy look is the way to go.
I use a diffuser to dry my curls with a little bit of product to keep the texture intact.
This method lets my curls maintain their bounce and shape, creating a full, messy look that’s both voluminous and beautifully undone.
16. Messy Curly Half-Braid
A messy curly half-braid is the perfect mix of cute and casual.
I love to braid just the top section of my hair, leaving the rest of my curls free-flowing.
It’s an easy-to-do style that keeps your hair out of your face while still showing off those beautiful curls.
17. Curly Messy Low Ponytail
A curly messy low ponytail is simple, yet always looks chic.
I gather my curls at the nape of my neck, loosely tie them, and let a few tendrils fall for that effortlessly cool look.
This style works for any occasion and is ideal for days when you want something casual, yet put-together.
18. Messy Curly with Floral Pins
Messy curly hair with floral pins is a cute and girly style that adds a bit of whimsy to your curls.
I love adding pins to my curls for a fun touch of color and sparkle.
Whether you pin a few curls back or just use one as a statement piece, it’s an easy way to make your curly hair look more polished and fun.
19. Shaggy Curly Messy Layers
Shaggy curly messy layers are perfect if you want to add movement and texture to your curls.
I adore this style because it’s low-maintenance yet gives my curls tons of volume.
The layers help define the curls, giving them a carefree, messy look that’s both stylish and natural.
You’ll love this if you’re into modern shaggy cuts for curls or curly mullet styles.
20. Messy Curly with Scarf
Add a scarf to your messy curly hair for a vintage-inspired style.
Whether you tie it around your head or wrap it as a bandana, it adds an instant touch of charm.
This style works great for days when you want to add a bit of color or pattern to your look while keeping your curls beautifully messy.
