17 Graduation Hairstyles for Curly Hair Under Mortarboard Caps

Finding the perfect graduation hairstyle is already a challenge. When you add natural curls and a stiff mortarboard cap into the mix, the difficulty level definitely increases.

Your curls deserve to be celebrated on the big stage. You shouldn’t have to flatten your texture just to fit into traditional academic headwear during the ceremony.

The right style ensures your cap stays secure while your curls remain defined. These options balance the structure of the mortarboard with the beautiful volume of your natural hair.

Let’s explore the best ways to style your texture for the big day. Here are 17 graduation hairstyles for curly hair under mortarboard caps that look stunning.

1. Deep Side-Swept Ringlets

Sweeping your curls to one side creates a dramatic and elegant look that works perfectly with the flat surface of a mortarboard. By pinning one side back tightly, you create a stable base for the cap to grip onto.

This style allows your length and volume to take center stage without interfering with the cap’s fit. It frames the face beautifully and looks incredible in professional portraits taken from a slight angle.

To achieve this, use a strong-hold gel on the “tucked” side and let the other side air dry with a curl-defining cream. This contrast between the sleek side and voluminous curls is breathtaking.

2. The Romantic Low Chignon

A low chignon is a timeless choice for any formal event, especially when you need to wear a hat. By keeping the bun at the nape of the neck, the cap sits perfectly level.

This style keeps your hair contained and protected from the wind during outdoor ceremonies. It also prevents the “hat hair” look that can occur when curls are pressed down by the cap’s edges.

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Pull a few face-framing tendrils out to soften the look. This adds a touch of effortless romance to an otherwise structured and traditional academic outfit.

3. Half-Up Topped with Bobby Pin “Crosses”

Securing the top half of your hair is the most effective way to keep a mortarboard from sliding off. Using decorative bobby pins adds a touch of personal flair to your hairstyle.

Create two small flat twists or braids on the top of your head to create a “landing pad” for the cap. This ensures the cap sits snugly against your head rather than floating on your curls.

Let the back of your hair flow freely to showcase your natural pattern. This combination provides the security of an updo with the beauty of wearing your hair down.

4. Low Double Dutch Braids

Double Dutch braids are a fantastic option for keeping curls organized and frizz-free throughout a long graduation day. They start at the front and lead back to the nape of the neck.

Because the braids are tight to the scalp, the mortarboard will sit very comfortably and securely. You won’t have to worry about your cap wobbling as you walk across the stage.

You can leave the ends of the braids in two cute pigtails or join them into one low bun. This style is particularly durable if you expect a humid or windy graduation day.

5. Front-Pinned Natural Volume

If you want to wear your hair fully down, the key is managing the volume at the crown. Use large bobby pins to flatten the very top section where the cap sits.

By pinning the front sections behind your ears, you keep your face clear for photos. This also prevents the cap from squashing your curls into your eyes during the ceremony.

Apply a lightweight anti-frizz serum before heading out. This will help maintain the definition of your curls as they peek out from underneath the back of the cap.

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6. The Textured Side Braid

A loose, voluminous side braid is the ultimate “cool girl” graduation look. It gathers your curls into a structured shape that drapes elegantly over your shoulder.

This style is perfect for mortarboards because the top of the head remains relatively flat. The braid adds visual interest and prevents your hair from looking like a shapeless mass under the cap.

Pancake the braid by gently pulling on the edges to make it look fuller. This highlights your natural texture while keeping the hair controlled and polished for the ceremony.

7. Sleek Low Ponytail with Curly End

For a modern and sophisticated look, try a sleek low ponytail. Use a boar bristle brush and some edge control to smooth the top of your head down.

The contrast between the slicked-back top and a massive, curly ponytail is striking. Since the top is flat, the mortarboard will fit perfectly without any bumps or unevenness.

Wrap a small section of hair around the hair tie to hide the elastic. This small detail elevates the look from a casual ponytail to a formal graduation hairstyle.

8. Flat-Twisted Crown

Flat twists around the perimeter of your head act as a natural headband. They keep your hair out of your face and provide a sturdy anchor for the graduation cap.

You can have the twists lead into a low bun or let them transition into loose curls at the back. This style is incredibly versatile and works for all curl patterns from 2C to 4C.

This is a great protective style if you plan on attending multiple graduation parties after the main event. It stays neat for hours and looks intricate without being overly complicated.

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9. The “Hidden” Top Bun

Believe it or not, you can actually use a small, flat bun to help hold your cap in place. This involves creating a very flat “cinnamon roll” bun at the very top of your head.

The cap’s crown can sometimes fit over this small bun, providing a literal peg for the hat to sit on. This is a secret trick for those with very fine curls that usually struggle with hat stability.

Ensure the bun is pinned as flat as possible so it doesn’t create a weird bulge in the mortarboard. It’s a functional and clever way to secure your academic regalia.

10. Waterfall Braid for Loose Curls

A waterfall braid allows you to show off your length while keeping the top section of your hair secure. It creates a beautiful horizontal line that mimics the edge of the cap.

The braided section provides a perfect place to slide in bobby pins that hook into the cap’s fabric. This ensures your mortarboard won’t budge even if you’re looking down at your diploma.

This style works best on damp hair styled with a bit of mousse for definition. The resulting look is ethereal and perfect for outdoor spring graduation ceremonies.

11. Low Tucked Goddess Braid

The goddess braid is a thick, regal braid that sits low on the head. It’s a powerful look that matches the significance of a graduation achievement.

By tucking the ends of the braid under, you create a clean, finished look that won’t snag on your graduation gown. The smoothness at the crown makes cap placement a breeze.

Use a bit of shine spray to make the braid pop in photos. This style is excellent for highlighting the highlights or dimension in your curly hair.

12. Asymmetrical Low Bun

Instead of a centered bun, try shifting your hair to one side at the nape of your neck. This adds a modern twist to a classic updo.

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The asymmetry creates a beautiful balance with the square shape of the mortarboard. It also makes for great profile photos as you receive your degree on stage.

Keep the bun loose and “messy” to celebrate your natural texture. This prevents the look from feeling too stiff or overly formal for a celebratory day.

13. Triple Flat Twist Back

Divide the top of your hair into three sections and flat-twist them straight back toward the crown. This flattens the hair exactly where the cap needs to sit.

The twists provide excellent grip for the cap’s inner band. Below the cap, you can let your curls explode in a beautiful “half-down” display of volume.

This style is particularly helpful for those with very thick, high-density curls. It manages the bulk of the hair at the scalp while letting the rest of the hair breathe.

14. Bubble Ponytail with Texture

The bubble ponytail is a playful and trendy option that looks great with curls. Start with a low ponytail and add elastics every two inches, fluffing the hair in between.

The “bubbles” look like clouds of curls and add a lot of personality to your graduation attire. It keeps your hair from getting tangled in the tassels of your cap or gown.

This style is very secure and won’t require much maintenance throughout the day. It’s a fun, youthful way to celebrate your accomplishments.

15. Scarf-Wrapped Low Pony

If you want to add a pop of color that matches your school’s colors, wrap a silk scarf around a low ponytail. This adds a sophisticated layer to your look.

The scarf helps to weigh down the ponytail, ensuring it stays behind your shoulders and out of the way of your face. It also protects your curls from friction against the graduation gown.

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Choose a silk or satin scarf to prevent frizz and breakage. This is a great way to incorporate school spirit into your professional graduation look.

16. Pinned-Back Temple Curls

This is the simplest way to wear your curls down under a cap. Simply take the sections of hair at your temples and pin them back behind your ears.

This “opens up” your face, ensuring you aren’t hidden by hair in your official graduation photos. It also provides a flat surface for the sides of the cap to rest against.

Use decorative pins or “spirit” colored clips to hold these sections. It’s an easy, low-stress style that allows you to focus on the ceremony rather than your hair.

17. The Low “Pineapple” Bun

The pineapple is a favorite for curly hair, but for graduation, you need to move it to the bottom. Gather your curls into a loose, high-volume bun at the nape.

This allows the curls to “sprout” out from the bottom of the cap in a beautiful, voluminous display. It honors your natural texture while remaining practical for the headwear requirements.

Use a silk scrunchie to avoid creating a dent in your hair. This way, if you take the cap off later, your curls will still look fresh and bouncy for the after-party.

How do I stop my graduation cap from falling off my curly hair?

The best way to secure a cap on curly hair is to create “anchors” using bobby pins. Place two pins in an “X” shape over a section of hair that is flat against your scalp, then slide the cap’s edge under the “X.” You can also sew a small plastic headband or hair clips into the inside of the cap for extra grip.

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Should I wash my hair on graduation morning?

It is usually better to wash your hair the day before. “Second-day” curls often have better grip and less “slip,” which helps the mortarboard stay in place. If you have very fine hair, freshly washed hair might be too soft and cause the cap to slide around more easily.

Will the graduation cap ruin my curl definition?

The cap will naturally flatten the hair at the crown, but you can minimize the damage by using silk or satin. You can tape a small piece of silk fabric to the inside of the cap to prevent friction. Also, avoid using heavy oils on the top of your head, as the heat from the cap can cause them to weigh down your curls.

What are the best products for curls under a cap?

A strong-hold gel or mousse is essential for the sections you are pinning flat. For the loose curls, use a leave-in conditioner and a light-hold defining cream. Finish with a high-shine hairspray to ensure your hair looks polished in the bright lighting often used for graduation ceremonies.

Can I wear a high bun with a graduation cap?

Generally, high buns are difficult because they create a large bump that prevents the mortarboard from sitting level. If you insist on a high bun, it must be very small and flat. However, low buns or side-swept styles are much more practical and traditional for academic headwear.

How do I fix “cap hair” after the ceremony?

Keep a small “refresh kit” in your bag with a spray bottle of water and a little bit of curl cream. Once you take the cap off, flip your head upside down and gently massage your roots to regain volume. Re-moisturize any flattened curls with a touch of water to reactivate the products already in your hair.