35 Baddie Curly Hairstyles 2025 With Braids, Slick Buns, Half Up Ponytail For Short And Long Hair

The world of baddie curly hairstyles is about unapologetic confidence and eye-catching creativity. As 2025 approaches, the styles blend elegance with an edge, making them perfect for various occasions. Whether you’re heading for school, a party, or simply going out, these looks deliver both functionality and flair. Below, we’ll dive into 35 hairstyle ideas that highlight how baddies can rock their curls, short or long, with absolute style.

The Sleek Half-Up Ponytail

A sleek half up ponytail is the epitome of a baddie look, combining practicality with a bold aesthetic. Perfect for school or going out, this hairstyle allows you to showcase your natural curls while keeping your face clear for confidence-boosting selfies. Best suited for heart and oval face shapes, the high ponytail elongates the face, while the cascading curls add volume. Pair this with smoky eyes or a bold lip for a head-turning vibe.

To achieve this style, gather the top half of your hair into a ponytail, ensuring the base is slicked back with a styling gel like Eco Styler Gel. Use a curling wand to define curls if needed. Secure the ponytail with a claw clip or elastic. Maintenance involves regular hydration—opt for Shea Moisture Curl Enhancing Smoothie to keep your curls bouncy and frizz-free.

Short 3A Curls with Braids

Short 3a curls enhanced with delicate braids bring a playful yet polished energy to your look. This hairstyle is perfect for school or casual outings, offering versatility with minimal effort. It works well with round or square face shapes as the curls frame the face beautifully, while the braids add an intricate touch.

Start by sectioning small pieces of hair for the braids and secure them with rubber bands. Let your curls shine by using a curl-defining cream like Cantu Curl Activator. Keep the look fresh with a satin scarf at night to avoid frizz and tangles.

Medium-Length Slick-Back Curls

Medium-length slick-back curls are a statement of controlled elegance. This style is ideal for formal events or going out. The slicked-back top draws attention to your cheekbones and jawline, making it great for diamond-shaped faces. Pair this hairstyle with gold hoops for an ultimate baddie vibe.

To create this look, use a styling mousse like Mielle Organics Pomegranate & Honey to tame flyaways. Comb the top section back and secure with pins or a claw clip. For added volume, scrunch your curls with a diffuser. Maintain the shine with a lightweight serum like OGX Coconut Milk Anti-Breakage Serum.

Short Wavy Bob with Rubber Bands

The short wavy bob, accentuated with strategically placed rubber bands, exudes youthful energy and creativity. Perfect for school 2025 or weekend brunches, this hairstyle suits oval and oblong face shapes, balancing their features. The soft waves create a chic, modern silhouette that feels both carefree and intentional.

To achieve this style, use a curling wand to create loose waves. Section off small pieces of hair and secure them with rubber bands for a playful touch. A sea salt spray like Not Your Mother’s Beach Babe will keep the waves textured and defined. For maintenance, invest in a sulfate-free shampoo to preserve your hair’s natural oils.

Long Curls with Half-Up Buns

The half-up bun on long hair is a playful yet glamorous look that works for a night out or casual school braids style. This hairstyle is best suited for round or heart-shaped faces, as the bun adds height, balancing the face’s proportions.

Create this look by gathering the top section into a bun, leaving the rest of your curls down. Use a volumizing spray like Amika Plus Size Spray for fullness. To keep curls defined, use DevaCurl SuperCream. Wrap the bun with a fun scrunchie or add hair accessories for extra flair.

Slick High Ponytail with Short 4B Curls

A slick high ponytail with short 4b curls offers a bold, edgy vibe, perfect for baddies making a statement at a party or special event. The sleekness at the crown draws attention upward, making it ideal for oval and square face shapes.

To create this style, use edge control like Ebin 24-Hour Edge Tamer for a smooth base. Secure the curls into a ponytail with a durable elastic band, fluffing the ends for volume. Keep it fresh with curl-refreshing spray like Aunt Jackie’s Quench Moisture Intensive Leave-In.

Bun with Braided Accents

The short bun with braided accents is both chic and practical, offering an elevated twist on everyday styles. Ideal for school easy, this look works for all face shapes, as the braids add texture and the bun creates a polished finish.

Start by braiding small sections of your hair around the crown and gathering them into a bun. Use bobby pins to secure the bun, and finish with a shine spray like OGX Argan Oil. To maintain, wrap your hair with a satin scarf overnight to keep the bun intact.

Short 3B Curls with a Claw Clip

Short 3b curls styled with a claw clip are effortless yet stylish, making them a go-to for school short hairstyles. The clip keeps your curls in place, while the texture adds natural volume and flair. Great for diamond and round faces, this style emphasizes the eyes and cheekbones.

Simply gather the back of your curls and secure with a claw clip, letting the front pieces frame your face. For added definition, use a curl mousse like TRESemmé Flawless Curls. Regular use of a hydrating mask like Moroccanoil Intense Hydrating Mask will keep curls soft and manageable.

Medium-Length Curls with a Side Slick

For those with medium length hair, a side slick back look brings an edgy yet sophisticated feel to your curls. Perfect for red carpet-inspired events or elegant nights out, this style complements oval and heart-shaped faces beautifully.

To style, part your hair deeply on one side and slick down the smaller section with a strong-hold gel. Define the curls on the larger section with a curling cream like Curlsmith Hold Me Softly. Finish with a light hairspray for hold and shine.

Rubber Band Accented Ponytail

Add a playful twist to your classic ponytail by incorporating rubber bands for geometric designs. This look is perfect for school 2025, as it combines functionality with creative expression. It’s ideal for oval and long face shapes, as the ponytail elongates the face.

Start by sectioning the top of your hair and crisscrossing rubber bands for a lattice effect. Secure the ponytail high or low, depending on your preference. Use a curl cream like Maui Moisture Curl Quench for bounce, and wrap the ponytail with a satin scarf at night for longevity.

Curly High Ponytail with a Ribbon

A curly high ponytail tied with a ribbon is a classic yet baddie-approved look that radiates confidence. The ribbon adds a soft, feminine touch, making this hairstyle perfect for school, casual outings, or even a date night. Suitable for oval and heart-shaped faces, the high ponytail highlights the cheekbones while the cascading curls create a playful, voluminous effect.

To recreate this look, gather your curls into a high ponytail and secure it with an elastic. Tie a silk or satin ribbon around the base for a polished finish. Use a curl-defining product like Shea Moisture Curl Enhancing Smoothie to keep the curls bouncy and hydrated throughout the day.

Short Wavy Bob with Curtain Bangs

A short wavy bob paired with curtain bangs is effortlessly chic and trendy for 2025. This style is versatile, working equally well for school or a fun evening out. It’s ideal for round or square faces, as the bangs frame the face while the waves add texture and dimension.

To style, use a curling wand to create loose waves and shape the bangs to curtain the forehead. A lightweight mousse like Moroccanoil Curl Defining Cream can enhance the natural waves. Regular trims and a nourishing mask are key to keeping this look fresh and polished.

Half-Up Half-Down with Braided Accents

This half up half down look incorporates small braids, making it perfect for school short hair or medium-length curls. The combination of loose curls and braided details adds visual interest while keeping the style functional for all-day wear.

To create, braid small sections of hair on each side and secure them at the crown with a clip or elastic. Leave the rest of your curls flowing naturally. Use a texturizing spray like Ouai Wave Spray for added bounce, and ensure the braids stay sleek with a pomade or edge control.

Slick-Back Low Bun with Defined Curls

A slick-back low bun with defined curls is a modern and elegant option for a party or formal occasion. This hairstyle is perfect for oval and oblong face shapes, as the low bun elongates the neck and accentuates facial features.

To style, slick the hair back using a strong-hold gel like Got2b Ultra Glued Gel. Create a low bun at the nape of the neck and define the loose curls with a curling wand. Add a shine serum like OGX Coconut Oil for a glossy finish.

Shoulder-Length Curls with a Side Part

For a sophisticated yet baddie-approved look, shoulder-length curls styled with a deep side part are a go-to. This hairstyle is ideal for going out, school, or even work. It suits diamond and oval face shapes by balancing proportions and drawing attention to the eyes and lips.

Use a wide-tooth comb to create a deep side part. Define your curls with a styling cream like DevaCurl SuperCream, and finish with a shine-enhancing spray. For maintenance, use a silk pillowcase to reduce frizz overnight.

Bubble Ponytail with Rubber Bands

The bubble ponytail with rubber bands is a playful, high-energy style that works for both school and casual outings. This hairstyle complements long and medium-length hair, giving a trendy, sporty vibe.

To achieve this style, create a high ponytail and section it into “bubbles” using rubber bands spaced evenly along the length. Fluff each bubble for volume and define the curls with a moisturizing gel. A leave-in conditioner like Cantu Shea Butter can help keep the bubbles frizz-free.

Short Curly Pixie with Side Slick

A short curly pixie with a side slick is bold and confident, making it perfect for those who love to make a statement. This hairstyle works well for school easy or a casual day out and suits heart and square face shapes by softening strong jawlines.

Style by applying a curl cream to enhance texture and slicking one side back with a strong-hold pomade. Use a diffuser to dry and define the curls. Regular trims are crucial to maintaining the sharpness of this pixie cut.

Natural Frohawk with Braided Sides

The natural frohawk with braided sides is a stunning choice for baddies who embrace their natural curls. This look is perfect for going out, a party, or making an impression at school. It suits round and oval face shapes, as the volume elongates the face.

Braid the sides tightly towards the crown and let the rest of your curls shine in a high frohawk. Use a styling cream like Camille Rose Almond Jai Twisting Butter to define the curls, and secure the braids with small elastics.

Long Loose Curls with Claw Clip Updo

For a relaxed yet elegant look, gather long loose curls into a casual claw clip updo. This style is perfect for school, a brunch date, or even an office setting. It suits oval and diamond face shapes by softening angles and adding volume.

Twist the curls loosely and secure them at the back of the head with a claw clip, leaving a few tendrils to frame the face. Use a curl-refreshing spray like Not Your Mother’s Curl Talk Refreshing Foam for a touch-up throughout the day.

Short 4B Curls with Gold Accessories

Short 4b curls decorated with gold accessories like clips or cuffs are a chic option for school or a special event. The gold accents add a touch of glamour, making this style perfect for round and heart-shaped faces.

Start by applying a curl-defining cream and separating the curls for volume. Add gold clips or cuffs to sections of the hair for a trendy finish. For maintenance, use a hydrating shampoo like Shea Moisture Coconut & Hibiscus Curl & Shine Shampoo to keep your curls vibrant and healthy.

Baddie curly hairstyles are all about owning your curls with confidence, whether you’re rocking them at school, at a party, or for a night out. Let us know in the comments which styles you’ll be trying in 2025—or share your personal favorites!