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17 Elegant Wedding Guest Hairstyles for Curly Hair You’Ll Love Unveiled

17 Elegant Wedding Guest Hairstyles for Curly Hair You’Ll Love Unveiled

Ready to wow on the big day without sacrificing your curls? These stylish, kid-tested ideas keep volume, bounce, and shine in check while still looking entirely polished. FYI, you’ll love how quick they can come together when you’re short on time.

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1. Glam Ribbon Curls Updo That Feels Like a Dream

A high-resolution, editorial-style photograph of a bride-to-be with naturally curly hair styled in a glamorous ribbon updo. The hair is voluminous at the crown with loose, defined curls cascading into an elegant low bun, subtly woven with a satin 1/2 inch ribbon that threads through sections and is secured with discreet pins, creating a soft, dreamlike shimmer. The bride stands in a romantic garden wedding setting with soft afternoon light filtering through greenery and delicate florals in pastel tones. She wears a timeless, ivory wedding gown with a delicate lace bodice and off-the-shoulder sleeves, complemented by minimal, dewy makeup and pearl earrings. The shot is a mid-length portrait from the shoulders up, focusing on the intricate ribbon weaving, the natural curl texture, and the gentle lift at the crown, with a shallow depth of field that softly blurs the background to emphasize the hairstyle’s elegance and romance. No text on the image.
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This look blends classic elegance with modern ease, letting your natural curls shine through while a satin ribbon accessorizes the vibe. It’s perfect for a formal venue or a romantic garden ceremony.

Ingredients:

  • 8-10 large curl-enhancing pins
  • Satin ribbon, 1/2 inch wide
  • Light hold hairspray

Instructions:

  1. Section hair and loosely pin top crown to create lift.
  2. Weave the ribbon through sections, securing with pins as you go.
  3. Finish with a light mist of hairspray to hold curls without stiffness.

Keep a mini comb handy for smoothing flyaways, and you’re good to glow all night. Trust me, the ribbon detail reads ultra couture in photos.

2. Twist-Out Half-Up That Feels Effortlessly Luxe

A high-resolution, market-style photograph of a glamorous bride-to-be with naturally curly hair, styled in a twist-out half-up do that looks effortlessly luxe. The main subject stands in a softly lit, elegant bridal setting with warm golden-hour tones. The hair is defined with a light sheen, featuring two twisted sections pulled from the temples and secured at the back with delicate, decorative bobby pins, forming a gentle, romantic silhouette. Loose curls cascade around the face and shoulders for softness. The styling products are subtly hinted at: a small, open jar of curl-defining cream resting on a white marble vanity and a sleek bottle of shine serum placed nearby, with a light, almost imperceptible touch of serum on the hair to enhance luster. The subject wears a veil that drapes partially over the back, or alternatively a statement clip for drama, both subtly visible but not overpowering. The overall mood is intimate, luxe, and celebratory, with soft bokeh in the background suggesting a wedding ambiance. The image should be a clean, natural realistic color profile, no text, and the subject should be looking slightly off-camera with a serene expression.
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Twists plus a half-up backdo creates a soft, romantic silhouette. It’s easy to customize with pins, curls, and a touch of shine serum.

Ingredients:

  • Curl-defining cream
  • 8 decorative bobby pins
  • Shine serum or light oil

Instructions:

  1. Define curls with cream and let them dry as needed.
  2. Twist two sections from the temples and secure at the back with pins.
  3. Arrange loose curls for softness and apply serum lightly.

Pair with a delicate veil or a statement clip for extra drama. Your curls will thank you for the glow.

3. Low Knot With Curls Cascading Like a Waterfall

A high-resolution, candid-style photograph of a bride with curly hair styled in a low knot, with curls cascading like a waterfall over the knot. The main subject is a graceful bride wearing an elegant wedding dress, standing in a softly lit chandelier-lit reception venue with warm amber and golden tones. The hair is pinned with invisible hairpins and small elastics, with a few loose curls framing the face for softness. The look is sophisticated yet effortless, exuding natural movement and shine, as if just styled for the moment. The composition should emphasize the textured curls and the sleek low knot, with subtle, flattering bokeh in the background from string lights and chandeliers. No text, no captions. Realistic lighting, natural skin tones, and a shallow depth of field to keep the focus on the hairstyle and the bride’s graceful profile.
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A graceful, low knot keeps hair out of your face while letting curls cascade down. It’s sophisticated but not stuffy—perfect for a chandelier-lit reception.

Ingredients:

  • Fine-tooth comb
  • 2 small elastics
  • Invisible hairpins

Instructions:

  1. Gather hair at the nape and secure in a low knot.
  2. Let curls fall over the knot and pin in place.
  3. Loosen a few curls around the face for softness.

Finish with light hold spray to maintain motion without stiffness. It looks like you woke up flawless.

4. Faux Bob With Defined Curls For Major Impact

A high-fashion studio-shot of a radiant woman with curly hair styled into a chic faux bob, her ends tucked neatly under to create a defined bob silhouette. The scene captures a mid-to-close, waist-up pose with the subject facing slightly to the side, one shoulder slightly forward for depth. The lighting is soft yet bright, highlighting the lush curls, glossy crown, and the smooth, sculpted jawline. She wears a sleek, modern outfit in a jewel-tone color that complements her skin tone, with a bold lipstick in a vivid fuchsia or classic deep red to convey contemporary glam. Hair is secured with delicate pins and subtle elastic ties; curls at the ends are fluffy and well-defined, conveying volume and bounce. The background is clean and neutral to keep the focus on the hairstyle and makeup, with a minimal prop-free setting that suggests a high-end salon or editorial shoot. The overall mood is confident, polished, and chic, suitable for wedding guest hairstyle inspiration.
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The faux bob screams chic with a wink of retro charm, and curly texture adds depth and volume that reads spectacular on every skin tone.

Ingredients:

  • Elastic hair ties
  • Hair pins
  • Medium-hold hairspray

Instructions:

  1. Pin the ends under to create a faux bob silhouette.
  2. Secure with pins and smooth the crown.
  3. Spritz for hold and fluff curls at the ends.

Try a bright lipstick with this one for a modern glam moment. It’s bold, but you’ll own it.

5. Crown Braid With Curly Puff For Regal Vibes

A high-resolution, editorial-style portrait of a radiant bride with curly hair styled in a loose crown braid that frames her face, with a voluminous puff at the crown for regal height. The bride stands in a softly lit, elegant wedding venue backdrop featuring warm golden tones and subtle bokeh fairy lights. The crown braid should appear slightly loosened for a romantic, lived-in look, with a few delicate loose tendrils around her face. The hair should look glossy and healthy, with defined curls cascading from the crown and along the sides. The bride wears a classic, timeless wedding gown with intricate lace details and a sweetheart neckline, complemented by a delicate, soft fabric headband tucked lightly at the back. The overall mood is sophisticated, confident, and celebratory, capturing the detail-oriented bridal vibe. No text on the image.
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A loose crown braid frames your face while a puff at the crown keeps volume high. This one says “I paid attention to detail.”

Ingredients:

  • Detangling brush
  • Soft fabric headband (optional)
  • Small amount of texturizing spray

Instructions:

  1. Part hair down the middle and start a loose braid along the forehead to the opposite crown.
  2. Secure with pins and add a puff at the crown if desired.
  3. Loosen braid slightly for a romantic, lived-in look.

Carry a small comb for touch-ups and enjoy the bridal glow from every angle.

6. Side-Swept Curly Pony With Pearl Pin Details

Create a stunning high-resolution editorial portrait of a bride with curly hair styled in a dramatic side-swept curly ponytail. The look features a deep side part with a high, swooping ponytail gathered at the shoulder, accentuated by 2-3 pearl pins placed along the side for a refined, timeless charm. The model’s natural curls are defined and textured with a light, natural sheen, achieved using a texturizing mousse, with a subtle flexible-hold spray to maintain bounce. She wears a satin wedding dress that complements the elegant hairstyle, standing in a softly lit, luxurious ceremony setting with warm, golden ambient light. Capture a close-up and mid-shot combination that highlights the pearl pins, the glossy ponytail, and the confident, serene expression on her face, with a shallow depth of field to keep the focus on the hairstyle while still revealing the satin fabric and refined jewelry. No text on the image.
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A dramatic side part and a curved ponytail instantly elevate your look, while pearl pins add timeless charm.

Ingredients:

  • Texturizing mousse
  • 2-3 pearl pins
  • Flexible hold spray

Instructions:

  1. Apply mousse and scrunch to enhance natural curl pattern.
  2. Create a high, swooping side part and secure a pony at the shoulder.
  3. Place pearl pins along the side for a refined finish.

Pair with a satin dress and you’ll be the ceremony’s quiet riot—in the best way possible.

7. Waterfall Curls With Tiny Bun For a Modern Princess Look

A high-resolution, studio-quality photograph of a bride with curly hair styled in a Waterfall Curls with Tiny Bun for a Modern Princess Look. The main subject stands outdoors at golden hour, with soft, natural light and a gentle breeze that teases the cascading curls while the delicate bun sits neatly at the back, curls tucked around it. The focus is on the head and upper shoulders, capturing a luminous, ethereal silhouette against a softly blurred garden backdrop. Hair shines with a subtle dewy finish from a light shine spray, tiny clear elastic bands and hairpins subtly securing the waterfall braid effect. The subject wears an elegant, ivory wedding dress with clean lines and a delicate neckline, minimal jewelry to keep attention on the hairstyle. The composition emphasizes texture and movement of the curls, with wind adding drama but the style staying put, creating a timeless, magical bridal portrait. No text on image.
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This style combines cascading curls with a delicate bun, giving you a soft, ethereal silhouette that photographs beautifully.

Ingredients:

  • Clear elastic bands
  • Hairpins
  • Light shine spray

Instructions:

  1. Pull a thin section from the temple, curl and secure as a waterfall braid effect.
  2. Form a small bun at the back and tuck loose curls around it.
  3. Finish with a gentle mist of shine spray.

Ideal for outdoor ceremonies where breeze loves drama. Seriously, it stays put even when the wind joins the party.

8. Half-Up Halo Curl Bun For Effortless Radiance

A close-up, high-resolution photograph of a radiant bride with curly hair styled in a half-up halo curl bun, captured in a softly lit, elegant indoor wedding setting. The subject's face is gently illuminated to showcase natural makeup, with a few loose tendrils framing the face and a delicate halo headband adorned with subtle crystals perched above the crown. Two sections of curls are pulled back and twisted into a small, casual yet couture bun secured with slender pins, while a lightweight veil is tucked into the bun for a magical touch. The hair has defined curls with glossy, hydrated texture, and a light mist of hairspray gives a natural, almost-airbrushed hold. The background is softly blurred with warm bokeh lights and neutral tones, emphasizing the bride’s serene expression and the refined, effortless elegance of the half-up halo curl bun. No text or logos.
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A half-up halo keeps hair off your face while curling into a soft bun that feels equal parts casual and couture.

Ingredients:

  • Curl cream
  • Halo headband or decorative pins
  • Lightweight hairspray

Instructions:

  1. Define curls with cream and loosely pull two sections to the back.
  2. Twist and wrap into a small bun, securing with pins.
  3. Place the halo headband or pins and mist lightly.

Try a delicate veil tucked into the bun for a magical wedding-day moment.

9. Sleek Side Pony With Curls Framing The Face

A high-resolution, editorial-style photo of a bride or wedding guest with curly hair, posed in a sleek side pony with curls framing the face. The subject sits or stands against a softly blurred elegant backdrop (dimly lit ballroom or lush outdoor garden at golden hour). Hair is gathered into a low, glossy ponytail on one side, with front curls loosened to frame the face in gentle waves. The look is polished but not stiff, with a subtle shine on the hair from a lightweight frizz-taming serum. The subject wears statement earrings that peek through the curls, and a refined, chic outfit (a satin or lace wedding guest dress) in complementary tones. Lighting is natural and flattering, highlighting the smoothness of the sides and the texture of the curls, with a shallow depth of field to keep the focus on the hairstyle and facial features. No text on image.
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Vintage meets contemporary with a slick side pony that keeps your curls in perfect framing. It’s polished without feeling stiff.

Ingredients:

  • Pomade or gel for smoothing
  • Hair elastics
  • Frizz-taming serum

Instructions:

  1. Apply smoothing product and comb hair to one side.
  2. Secure a low, sleek pony and loosen front curls for framing.
  3. Apply serum to tame flyaways and add shine.

Pair with statement earrings to complete the refined look.

10. Bouffant Crown With Soft Curls For The Drama Queen In You

A high-resolution, close-up portrait of a glamorous bride with curly hair styled in a dramatic Bouffant Crown with Soft Curls. The head-and-shoulders shot captures a confident, radiant look as natural light highlights the voluminous crown at the top and the framing curls around the face. The hair has a luminous, healthy shine with soft, defined curls cascading and framing the jawline. The bride’s makeup is elegant and timeless, featuring a soft smokey eye, rosy cheeks, and a nude lip. She wears a delicate, off-the-shoulder wedding gown with subtle lace detailing that hints at a romantic, upscale setting. The background is softly blurred (bokeh) to emphasize the hair and facial features, with warm, golden-hour tones suggesting a late-afternoon ceremony. The scene conveys drama with minimal accessories, focusing on texture, volume, and the light-catching crown bouffant. No text or logos on the image.
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If volume is your love language, this crown bouffant with soft curls delivers. It captures light and attention alike.

Ingredients:

  • Volume-boosting powder
  • Fine-tooth comb
  • Flexible hold spray

Instructions:

  1. Sprinkle powder at the crown and tease gently for lift.
  2. Let curls fall softly and frame the face.
  3. Set with a flexible spray and smooth the front.

Bring on the compliments with minimal effort and maximum impact.

11. Twist & Pin With Ribbon Bow For Playful Romance

A high-resolution, close-up wedding portrait of a bride with naturally curly hair styled in a playful twist-and-pin updo, featuring a delicate satin ribbon bow as the focal point. The scene is softly lit with warm, flattering backlighting to highlight the curls’ bounce and texture. The hairstyle shows two crown twists pinned neatly at the back, with a small satin bow centered just above the nape, catching a subtle glint from the soft spray setting. The bride’s face is serene and slightly turned to the side, showing an elegant profile with natural makeup that emphasizes luminous skin and defined eyes. The background is a softly blurred, romantic backdrop of a blush-toned reception venue with bokeh lights to convey a wedding ambiance. The overall composition emphasizes the hair detail, bow, and a sense of whimsy and timeless elegance suitable for wedding photography. No text, ultra-realistic, high dynamic range, 8K quality, natural skin tones, and a shallow depth of field (f/2.8) to keep the focus on the hairstyle.
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A playful twist-and-pin style with a delicate ribbon bow adds whimsy without sacrificing elegance. It’s wedding-day friendly and camera-ready.

Ingredients:

  • Satin ribbon bow
  • Hair pins
  • Soft-hold hairspray

Instructions:

  1. Twist two sections from the crown and pin at the back.
  2. Attach a small satin bow for a charming focal point.
  3. Finish with a soft spray to keep curls bouncy.

FYI, the bow doubles as a cute keepsake for the after-party photos.

12. Loose Updo With Defined Curls And Pearls

A high-resolution, editorial-style photograph of a smiling bride featuring a loose updo with defined curls and scattered pearl pins, framed from the shoulders up against a soft, romantic wedding venue backdrop with warm natural light. The bride’s hair is styled in a relaxed, voluminous updo with clearly defined curls pinned into a gentle chignon, pearl hairpins placed randomly for a luxe finish. The bride wears a classic wedding gown with delicate lace or satin texture, and holds a bouquet visible in the lower portion of the frame to convey a joyful, ear-to-ear grin. The scene emphasizes elegant simplicity, subtle shimmer on the hair, and a timeless silhouette suitable for wedding photography, with no text or logos in the image.
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Loose updo, defined curls, and pearl accents create a timeless silhouette that reads as wedding-ready in every photo.

Ingredients:

  • Pearl hairpins
  • Lightweight setting spray
  • Detangler brush

Instructions:

  1. Define curls and gently pin sections into a soft updo.
  2. Insert pearl pins randomly for a luxe finish.
  3. Spray lightly to set and keep bounce intact.

Great with a classic gown and a bouquet that makes you grin from ear to ear.

13. Ribbon-Wrapped Low Bun For Sleek Evening Glam

A high-resolution, editorial-style photograph of a bride with curly hair featuring a sophisticated Ribbon-Wrapped Low Bun for Sleek Evening Glam. The main subject stands in a softly lit, luxurious wedding venue with warm ambient lighting and elegant decor. She wears an understated, elegant wedding gown with a clean silhouette and minimal embellishments to keep the focus on the hairstyle. The hair is styled into a smooth, low bun at the nape of the neck, tightly wrapped with a satin ribbon in a champagne gold color that peeks subtly around the bun. The ribbon ends are tucked discreetly, and a few polished bobby pins are visible securing the base. A light mist of high-hold styling spray creates a flawless, pin-sharp finish with a gentle shine. The framing is tight enough to highlight the texture of the curls peeking around the bun and the ribbon’s sheen, yet broad enough to show the elegant neckline and a hint of the veil or decorative comb. The overall mood is timeless, ceremony-ready, and refined, with natural skin tones, no visible text, and a shallow depth of field to softly blur the background while keeping the hairstyle in crisp focus.
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A ribbon-wrapped low bun exudes polished sophistication and keeps curls neatly tucked away in a chic, low-profile style.

Ingredients:

  • Ribbon for wrapping
  • Small bobby pins
  • Strong hold styling spray

Instructions:

  1. Form a low bun and secure with pins.
  2. Wrap ribbon around the base, tucking ends discreetly.
  3. Lock in place with a strong hold spray.

Simple, timeless, and totally ceremony-proof. You’ll thank ribbon for staying put.

14. Curly Faux Hawk For A Bold, Modern Moment

A high-resolution fashion-forward portrait of a bride with curly hair styled into a bold curly faux hawk, photographed in a studio setting with soft, diffused lighting. The subject stands against a neutral, luxurious backdrop (soft cream or warm taupe) to emphasize the hairstyle. The curls tower dramatically at the crown, with a sleek, structured faux hawk shape, finely detailed texture and moisture sheen on the gel-defined curls. A thin metallic or satin headband traces the base of the faux hawk, guiding the shape, while discreet pins secure the silhouette. Subtle mist particles suspended in the air catch the light to convey a light, sheer mist. The subject wears a minimalist, elegant wedding dress silhouette (off-shoulder or strapless) to keep the focus on the hair, with makeup that enhances natural glow and defined eyes. The overall mood is haute-fashion meets bridal elegance: confident, bold, and sophisticated, with the hair as the centerpiece. No text, no logos.
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If you want to lean into haute fashion vibes, this curly faux hawk gives height and drama while still honoring your natural texture.

Ingredients:

  • Hair gel with strong hold
  • Thin headband to guide shape
  • Micro-fine mist spray

Instructions:

  1. Apply gel and lift the top section into a faux hawk shape.
  2. Secure with pins and guide with a headband if needed.
  3. Mist lightly to keep the look intact all night.

Pair with killer shoes and confidence—your best accessories ever.

15. Soft Side Bun With Plaited Accent For Subtle Drama

Create a high-resolution, ultra-realistic editorial-style photograph of a bride with curly hair styled in a Soft Side Bun with a delicate plaited accent. The main subject should be the bride from the article title, captured from a flattering three-quarter angle to showcase the side bun and the fine braid along the temple. The hairstyle features a gentle, low side bun with a subtle French braid along the side, smooth, elegant curls framing the face, and a polished, refined look. The lighting is soft and romantic, with warm, natural tones and a shallow depth of field that softly blur the background. The bride wears a soft pink lip and a bouquet with blush-toned blooms that subtly echo the cheek color. Props: minimal, with a clean, sophisticated background (neutral-toned backdrop or elegant wedding venue interior). The overall mood is sophisticated, quiet drama, and understated glamour. No text overlays.
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A soft side bun accented with a delicate braid reads sophisticated without shouting for attention. It’s quietly stunning.

Ingredients:

  • Fine comb
  • Braid thread or thin hair extensions (optional)
  • Rigid-hold spray

Instructions:

  1. French braid a small section along the side.
  2. Wrap hair into a low side bun and pin securely.
  3. Spray to finish and smooth any stray strands.

Great with a soft pink lip and a bouquet that matches the blush in your cheeks.

16. Floaty Double Buns For Playful Elegance

Create a high-resolution, candid-style portrait of a bride with curly hair styled into two elegant, floaty buns perched playfully at the crown, set in a chic, semi-formal wedding reception venue. The bride should have a light, radiant makeup look and wear a soft, ethereal wedding gown with delicate lace or tulle details. The hair should appear voluminous and defined, with each bun neatly twisted and wrapped, secured with subtle hairpins, and a light, matte-hold spray finish giving a natural, long-lasting hold. One side of the head should feature a bold, fashion-forward accessory—such as a statement hairpin, pearl clip, or metallic ornament—that adds personality without overpowering the overall hairstyle. The lighting should be warm and flattering, emphasizing the texture of the curls and the smooth matte finish of the spray. The background should be softly blurred to keep the focus on the bride and her double buns, with hints of a wedding reception setting (e.g., soft bokeh lights, a table with floral arrangements) but no visible text on the image. Ensure a natural, editorial photography style with meticulous detail on hair texture, accessories, and the elegant-playful vibe.
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Double buns give you a playful vibe with an elegant twist, ideal for a less formal ceremony or a chic wedding reception.

Ingredients:

  • Elastic bands
  • Hairpins
  • Soft matte hairspray

Instructions:

  1. Part hair center and create two equal sections.
  2. Twist each section and wrap into buns at the crown or nape.
  3. Pin securely and mist with matte spray for long-lasting hold.

Pair with a bold accessory on one side for extra personality, and you’re good to go.

17. Vintage Roll With Defined Curls For Timeless Charm

Create a high-resolution, realistic photo of a glamorous wedding guest hairstyle scene featuring a single main subject with vintage Hollywood vibes: a curly-haired individual, styled in a soft vintage roll at the back of the head, with defined curls cascading to create texture and depth. The look should include a subtle, elegant shine on the curls, a few delicate hairpins securing the roll, and a light hold hairspray finish. The subject’s makeup should have classic red lips and natural, glowing skin to complement the vintage aesthetic. The lighting should be warm and flattering, reminiscent of timeless portrait photography, with a softly blurred, neutral-toned backdrop that keeps all focus on the subject. The overall mood should exude timeless charm and refined glamour, with attention to detail in the curl definition, hairpins, and the understated, sophisticated styling. No text, no logos.
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A vintage roll gives old-Hollywood glamour a modern twist when combined with curl definition for texture and depth.

Ingredients:

  • Hairpins
  • Curl-enhancing cream
  • Light hold hairspray

Instructions:

  1. Roll a small section at the back and secure with pins.
  2. Define remaining curls and let them fall naturally.
  3. Set with a light spray to keep everything in place.

Finish with a classic red lip or your favorite shade to complete the look.

Ready to pick a favorite or mix and match? These 17 hairstyles are all about celebrating curly hair with confidence, flair, and a touch of fun. Seriously, you’ll be the guest who (a) looks incredible and (b) actually enjoys the getting-ready ritual.

Now go on and rock one of these looks with pride. Your future self will thank you, and so will the photographer. You’ve got this, friend—let’s make those curls shine.

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