Whether you have a significant other you’re excited to cuddle up with this year or you’re planning on binge-watching rom-coms with your besties, make the most of a fun holiday and get yourself all dolled up. But don’t stress too much—despite its reputation, Valentine’s Day should be carefree and dreamy, so try out one of these easy, breezy hairstyles specifically designed for us curly-haired girls.
1. Bodacious Braids
We all love a classic high ponytail, and it’s also a style that’s easy to dress up for a festive occasion. Braids on each side of your head create a face-framing crown and add instant drama to the otherwise casual look. And thanks to Katy Perry (who brought the “bump it” back in full force at this year’s Golden Globes) you can also tease out some hair at the top of your head for dramatic volume—no plastic needed.
Related: Anti-Valentine’s Day: 5 Ways to Not Celebrate February 14
2. Side-Swept Away
If you’ve been dying to try out the Hollywood glam look that’s been taking over the red carpet for the past several years, this is the time to do it. And if you already have naturally wavy locks, you’re halfway there! A dramatic side part and lots of smoothing cream will create a sculpted yet natural style that reads confidence, glamour and, of course, romance. If you want to make the look full-on red carpet, add a bold red lip and some dangly earrings.
3. Tucked and Knotted
Valentine’s Day is all about romance, so try channeling that sentiment through a tousled up-do that looks effortless in the best way possible. Let your curls shine simply by twisting and tucking the lower layers into a loose bun at the nape of your neck, and then spiraling the top layers into a crown that gets pinned into place around the bun. You’ll have instantly created an ornate ‘do that looks sophisticated but totally unfussy.
4. Piled High
When your curls seem unmanageable and uncooperative, a sleek bun is always an easy option. Pile those curls at the top of your head and tease out some strands for a loose-yet-polished date night look. A little hairspray and smoothing cream is all you need to look as pulled together as Beyoncé—and you’ll have done it without her glam squad.
5. Modern Princess
Whether you’ve found a Prince Charming to sweep you away this Valentine’s Day or plan on indulging in some much-needed time with your single ladies, you deserve to let your inner princess shine. Keep those curls soft and feathery, then pull the locks around your face back into a loose twist or ponytail. It’s an easy look that will take you no time at all, yet it’s reminiscent of those storybook heroines we all admire. Of course, a princess is never without her tiara, so tuck a sparkly headband into your hair for the ultimate fairytale come alive.
6. The Faux Bob
One of the most emblematic red carpet hairstyles these days is the faux bob, a super sophisticated way to tame bouncy curls. Long strands of hair get tucked and pinned at the nape of the neck, instantly creating a vintage-inspired and super-soft style that frames the face. Use some styling cream and hairspray for a sculpted effect around the face, or keep things loose and effortless by letting a few strands hang free on each side of the face.
This Valentine’s Day, show your curls a little love and treat them to an extra special ‘do. Who says ringlets aren’t romantic? Ladies, they so are.