Curly hair offers a natural, romantic texture perfect for wedding celebrations. Pinned updos provide a polished way to showcase those curls while staying comfortable all day.
Finding the right style can be a challenge. These seventeen looks balance sophisticated elegance with the playful bounce of natural curls.
Whether the wedding is formal or casual, these pinned styles ensure your hair looks intentional and beautiful. Let’s explore these stunning options for your next event.
1. The Classic Low Chignon
The low chignon is a timeless choice that emphasizes the natural volume of curly hair. By gathering the hair at the nape of the neck, you create a sophisticated silhouette that works for any formal setting.
To achieve this look, loosely pull the curls back to maintain their shape and texture. Use large U-shaped pins to secure the mass of hair into a soft, rounded bun that sits just above the collar.
The beauty of this style lies in its intentional imperfections. Allowing a few stray ringlets to escape around the ears adds a soft, romantic touch that complements the structured base of the updo.
2. Side-Swept Curly Bun
The side-swept bun offers an asymmetrical aesthetic that is both modern and glamorous. This style draws attention to the neckline and shoulders, making it an excellent choice for sleeveless or one-shoulder dresses.
Gather your curls to one side, ensuring the hair is smooth across the back of the head while keeping the texture lively at the side. Secure the bun with pins that match your hair color for a seamless finish.
This look provides a great canvas for decorative accessories. Consider adding a jeweled clip or a vintage-inspired pin on the opposite side of the bun to balance the visual weight of the style.
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The “pineapple” is a staple for curly textures, but it can be elevated for a wedding guest look. By pinning the curls forward toward the forehead, you create a high-fashion, voluminous crown.
Start by gathering all curls at the very top of the head. Instead of using a simple elastic, use pins to strategically place each curl so they cascade forward and to the sides in a controlled manner.
This style is particularly effective for showcasing the definition of your curls. It keeps the hair off the neck, making it a practical and stylish choice for warm-weather outdoor ceremonies.
4. Twisted Halo with Curls
The twisted halo combines the structure of a braid with the softness of loose curls. Two sections of hair are twisted from the front and pinned together at the back of the head.
This style creates a “halo” effect that frames the face beautifully. The remaining curls are then gathered and pinned into a messy but deliberate cluster at the center of the twist.
Because this look relies on twists rather than intricate braids, it is easier to achieve with highly textured hair. It maintains a bohemian vibe that is perfect for garden or beach weddings.
5. French Twist for Texture
A French twist is usually associated with straight hair, but curly hair gives it a unique, voluminous update. The natural grip of the curls makes the twist easier to secure and prevents slipping.
Gather the hair and roll it toward the center, pinning as you go to create the iconic vertical seam. Instead of tucking the ends in, let the curls spill out over the top for a fountain effect.
This version of the French twist is less about precision and more about celebrating the hair’s natural movement. It provides a height and elegance that suits black-tie wedding invitations perfectly.
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The braided crown is a fairytale-inspired look that keeps all hair securely pinned up. This style involves two large braids that wrap around the head and meet at the top or back.
The curls provide the braids with a thick, lush appearance that straight hair often lacks. Once the braids are pinned in place, small sections can be gently pulled to increase the volume.
This updo is extremely durable, making it ideal for a long day of travel and dancing. It stays in place without constant adjustments, allowing you to focus on the celebration.
7. The Triple Top Knot
For a more contemporary and edgy guest look, the triple top knot uses three distinct pinned sections. These are arranged vertically from the crown down to the nape of the neck.
Each section is gathered into its own small bun and secured with pins. The result is a Mohawk-inspired silhouette that remains elegant because of the soft, curly texture of the buns.
This style is a conversation starter and works well for those who want to stand out. It is also a great way to manage very thick or long curls that might feel too heavy in a single bun.
8. Tucked Gibson Girl Updo
Inspired by early 20th-century styles, the tucked Gibson Girl look relies on volume at the sides and a tucked-under back. Curly hair naturally provides the “pouf” needed for this vintage aesthetic.
Create a loose ponytail at the back, then create a pocket above the elastic and tuck the curls downward into it. Use pins to secure the roll and keep the sides fluffy and wide.
This look is soft, feminine, and exceptionally sophisticated. It pairs beautifully with high-neck dresses or lace details, evoking a sense of classic romance that fits the wedding theme.
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The waterfall braid transition into a pinned side bun offers a dynamic look with multiple focal points. The braid travels across the back of the head, acting as a decorative element.
As the braid reaches the side, incorporate the remaining curls into a low, textured bun. Pin the ends securely so the braid appears to flow directly into the gathered hair.
This style is highly visual and looks great in photographs from every angle. It balances the detail of a braid with the classic appeal of a pinned-up bun.
10. The Messy Rose Bun
The rose bun involves twisting small sections of curls and pinning them in a circular pattern to resemble a blooming flower. It is a creative way to handle individual ringlets.
Start from the center of the back of the head and work outward. Each pinned section adds a “petal” to the rose, creating a large, textured floral shape made entirely of hair.
This style is particularly stunning with highlighted hair, as the different tones accentuate the “petals.” It is a delicate and artistic approach to a standard pinned updo.
11. High Bun with Face-Framing Tendrils
A high bun creates a regal silhouette that adds height and elongates the neck. For a wedding guest look, avoid a “ballerina” style and opt for a softer, pinned texture.
Secure the bun at the very top of the crown, using pins to keep the curls looking bouncy rather than flattened. The key is to keep the base firm while the top remains light.
Release a few delicate curls around the temples and ears to frame the face. This prevents the look from appearing too severe and maintains the romantic feel suitable for a wedding.
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12. Cross-Pinned Back Updo
The cross-pinned updo uses overlapping sections of hair to create a woven effect at the back. It is a great way to manage medium-length curls that might be too short for a large bun.
Take sections from the left side, pull them to the right, and pin. Then take sections from the right, pull them over the first sections to the left, and pin again.
Repeat this process until all hair is gathered. The resulting texture looks intricate and professional, yet it is simply a series of well-placed pins and crossed sections.
13. Curly Faux Hawk
The curly faux hawk is a bold choice for a wedding guest who wants a modern, high-energy look. It focuses the volume along the center of the head from the forehead to the nape.
Sides are pinned back tightly to create a sleek contrast with the voluminous curls in the middle. The central curls are then pinned upward and outward to maximize their bounce.
This style is perfect for showing off a great pair of earrings. It keeps the hair entirely away from the face while maintaining a lot of personality and texture.
14. Wrapped Low Pony Updo
This style begins with a low ponytail that is then transformed into an updo by wrapping and pinning individual curls. It provides more structure than a standard messy bun.
After securing the base, take individual ringlets and pin them around the elastic until the ponytail is completely hidden. This creates a thick, textured knot that looks incredibly polished.
The wrapped method ensures that the weight of the hair is distributed evenly. It is a comfortable style for guests who plan on being active throughout the reception.
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15. The Scarf-Integrated Updo
Integrating a silk scarf into a pinned updo adds a pop of color and a touch of vintage flair. This is a great way to coordinate your hair with your wedding guest outfit.
Weave the scarf through a braid or twist, then pin the entire assembly into a low bun or crown. The fabric peeks through the curls, adding visual depth and interest.
Choose a scarf in a material like silk or satin to prevent snagging the curls. This look is particularly charming for daytime or outdoor summer weddings.
16. Asymmetrical Pinned Roll
The asymmetrical roll is a sleek option that focuses all the volume on one side of the head. It creates a striking profile that is both elegant and fashion-forward.
Hair is rolled from one ear across the nape and pinned securely on the opposite side. The ends are then left to curl naturally, creating a beautiful contrast between the smooth roll and the textured finish.
This style works well for guests with shorter curly hair. It provides the illusion of a more complex updo while remaining very easy to secure with just a few sturdy pins.
17. The Goddess Halo with Gold Pins
The goddess halo utilizes metallic bobby pins as a visible design element. Instead of hiding the pins, use gold or silver pins to create geometric patterns on the sides of the head.
Gather the curls at the back and pin them into a soft, voluminous mass. Use the decorative pins on the smooth sections of the hair to add a “regal” or “goddess-like” shine.
This look is minimal yet high-impact. It is a perfect solution for the guest who wants a sophisticated style without using traditional floral or jeweled hair accessories.
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What is the best way to prep curly hair for a pinned updo?
It is usually best to work with hair that was washed the day before. This allows the natural oils to provide “grip,” making it easier for pins to stay in place. Apply a light curl cream or mousse to define the ringlets before styling.
How do I make sure the pins don’t slip out of my curls during the wedding?
Use “criss-cross” pinning where two bobby pins form an “X” shape. This creates a locking mechanism that is much stronger than a single pin. You can also spray the pins with hairspray before inserting them for extra traction.
Should I define my curls before pinning them up or after?
Define your curls before you begin the pinning process. Once the hair is pinned, it is much harder to apply product without disturbing the structure of the updo. Use a diffuser to dry your curls completely before you start styling.
Can these styles work for guests with short curly hair?
Yes, many of these styles, especially the asymmetrical roll and the cross-pinned back updo, are excellent for shorter lengths. For short hair, focus on pinning small sections at a time rather than trying to gather large amounts of hair.
How can I prevent my updo from looking too frizzy by the end of the night?
Finish your style with a high-hold, anti-humidity hairspray. Additionally, try to touch your hair as little as possible once it is pinned. If you have flyaways, use a small amount of hair oil or a clean toothbrush with hairspray to smooth them down.
Are these hairstyles suitable for outdoor summer weddings?
Pinned updos are actually the best choice for summer weddings because they keep hair off your neck. This prevents the curls from losing their shape due to sweat or humidity. The structural nature of an updo helps maintain a polished look all day.