Eight unique coily hairstyles for everyday, night out, and protective styles, plus some helpful tips to keep your curls defined, healthy, and full of shine.
Coily hair is magic. Bold, expressive, full of personality, and incredibly versatile. But if you’ve ever stood in front of the mirror wondering what to do with your coils for date night, brunch, or that last-minute invite to a wedding, you’re not alone.
Coily textures often get labeled as “high maintenance,” but the truth is: with the right routine, the right products, and a little inspiration, styling coily hair becomes a lot less about taming, and a lot more about celebrating.
Below, we’re sharing our favorite coily hairstyles for every occasion, plus tips for making them last and highlighting the products that support moisture, strength, and shine. Whether you’re rocking a TWA or waist-length curls, these looks were made for your coils.
Everyday styles that don’t compromise on style
1. The moisturized wash-and-go
Coily hair is never just “wash and go.” But with the right hydrating base and curl-defining product, you can simplify your routine while showing off your natural texture.
Start with Moisture Lock™ Shampoo and Conditioner to hydrate and soften curls without buildup. Then layer in Coil Infusions™ Give A Boost Styling + Shaping Gel Cream to enhance your curl pattern while reducing frizz and shrinkage.
Pro tip: Use the praying hands method to apply product, then shake out your roots for volume once dry. Don’t touch your hair during the drying phase, you want definition, not frizz.
Perfect for: Coffee runs, errands, impromptu selfies.
2. Low puff with laid edges
This is a go-to for day-three curls or whenever your roots need a little reset. Slick your hair back into a low puff using Coil Infusions™ Curl Defining Gel, then use a boar bristle brush and satin scarf to keep everything smooth. Add edge control and style your baby hairs to suit your mood, swoops, waves, or minimalist lines.
Perfect for: Workdays, Zoom calls, weekend brunch.
Hairstyles that transition from day to night
3. Defined bantu knot-out
Bantu knots aren’t just a protective style, they’re also an incredible way to stretch and define coils without heat. Apply Coil Infusions™ Soft Stretch™ Priming Milk to damp hair before sectioning and knotting. After priming, we also recommend Coil Infusion® Good Shape® Defining Gel or Coil Infusion® Give A Boost® Styling + Shaping Gel Cream, depending on your preferences. Let it dry completely (overnight is ideal), then unravel gently with a touch of Moisture Lock™Mongongo Oil Multi-Use Curl Treatment on your fingertips.
Fluff roots with a pick or your fingers, and you’ll have a voluminous masterpiece.
Perfect for: Happy hour, date night, or when you just want to feel extra.
4. Half-up space buns
Fun, flirty, and a little bit nostalgic, the half-up space bun look gives you volume up top and defined coils below. Separate the top half of your hair and secure into two high buns (or ponytails for a sleeker variation). Use your Moisture Lock™Edge Control + Pomade to smooth edges and define the loose bottom half with Coil Infusion® Good Shape® Defining Gel or Coil Infusion® Give A Boost® Styling + Shaping Gel Cream.
Perfect for: Music festivals, parties, or turning heads on an average Tuesday.
5. Twist-out with a side part
A classic twist-out never fails, especially when you give it a slight update with a deep side part. Use Coil Infusions™ Double Duty Weightless Cleansing Conditioner for a moisture-rich cleanse, then section damp hair and apply Coil Infusions™ Give A Boost Styling + Shaping Gel Cream before twisting.
Let twists fully dry, unravel gently with Moisture Lock™Mongongo Oil Multi-Use Curl Treatment, and fluff for volume. The result? Soft, full curls with major shape and movement.
Perfect for: Gallery openings, dinner dates, casual Fridays that turn into Friday nights.
Protective styles that slay
6. Braided crown
Channel your inner goddess with a braided halo or crown. You can part your hair down the middle and create two French or Dutch braids, then wrap and pin them around your head. Don’t worry if your ends puff out, that’s part of the charm.
Mist hair with water, then use Moisture Lock™ Leave-In Conditioner to hydrate before braiding. Add Coil Infusions™ Curl Defining Gel for hold.
Perfect for: Weddings, interviews, or anytime you want to feel regal and put together.
7. Flat twists into a bun
This protective style works for medium to long coils and can last a few days with proper nighttime care. Section the front half of your hair and create 4–6 flat twists going back. Gather the rest into a low bun using a soft scrunchie or bobby pins.
Perfect for: Business meetings, family photos, or running errands with style.
8. Coily faux hawk
Feeling bold? This edgy-but-elegant style involves pinning up the sides of your hair and letting your coils shine down the center. It works great on twist-outs, bantu knot-outs, or wash-and-go hair. Add decorative clips, cuffs, or jewels for even more flair.
Perfect for: Formal events, concerts, or any occasion where drama is welcome.
Tips to make every style last longer
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Sleep in silk. Always use a satin or silk bonnet or pillowcase to preserve moisture and prevent frizz.
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Refresh with moisture. A few spritzes of Botanical Boost® Curl Energizing & Refreshing Spray in the morning goes a long way.
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Layer wisely. Use hydrating products like the Coil Infusions™ Priming Milk or Moisture Lock™ Leave-In under stylers to lock in moisture and hold.
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Hands off. The more you touch, the more you disrupt definition—especially on day one.
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Trim regularly. Coily hair thrives with clean ends. Keep your shape fresh to make every style pop.
Your coils, your crown
Coily hair isn’t a trend, it’s a crown. And no matter the occasion, you deserve to feel confident, creative, and completely in control of your look. From soft twist-outs to bold faux hawks, the key is in choosing styles that work with your texture, not against it, and supporting them with products that hydrate, define, and protect.
