How to get Defined Curls if you Have Straight Hair

When you have straight hair, it may seem next-to-impossible to get bouncy, defined curls. My hair is stick straight, so I understand the struggle. Today I'm going to share a few tips that have helped me, and hopefully they'll help you, too! Read on to learn how to get defined curls in a few simple steps.

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Want to learn the secret to getting bouncy, well-defined curls? Step-by-step instructions here... #hairtutorial Share on X

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How to get Defined Curls:

When I graduated last month, I knew I wanted to wear my hair in curls under my graduation cap. I thought it would look better than wearing it straight, because I was worried I might get a line from the cap that would show up more with straight hair than it would with curls. (Yes, I actually think of things like that. lol)

1. 1. Start with clean, dry hair. My current favorite shampoos and conditioners are Redken's All Soft in the liter size, because they last a really long time — even with my longer hair.

1. 1. Use a comb to separate a center section of hair from your forehead to the base of your neck, like you're creating a mohawk. Clip the sides or put them in a ponytail while you're working on the top.

1. 1. Begin adding curlers to the mohawk section. I start at my bangs and roll the first three rollers forward, towards my face. Once I hit the crown (the upper back portion) of my head, I roll those sections backwards and under (towards the base of my neck) to create lift at my roots. For the sides of my head, I also roll the curlers under (towards my neck) to create lift.

1. 1. Let the hot rollers set until they've cooled completely, then take them out. After you've removed them, wait a minute or two before doing anything else so the curls can completely cool and set.

1. 1. Spray mousse in your hands, then flip your head upside down and scrunch fingers through the roots of your hair…like you would if you were rubbing shampoo into your hair. The mousse I use is Frederic Fekkai Full Blown Volume Styling Whip.

1. Flip your head/hair back upright again and style it with your fingers. Your roots should have a lot of lift! You can individually twist each curl to shape it. I recommend not brushing because it takes away the curls (this tutorial is all about getting defined curls, after all). You can spray with a light hairspray if you want extra hold, but mine usually stays put pretty well.

The End Result:

I recently had blonde balayage added to my hair for the summer, so my hair is lighter than usual around my face and towards the ends.

TIP: Check out my Tips for Long, Loose Curls and 10 Tips to Avoid Split Ends posts if you're looking for more hair advice. Don't forget that healthy hair begins with what you eat, so stick to a healthy diet.

My Pop Pop came to TX for my graduation, so I convinced him to take a few pics with me. He's such a cutie! He kept making me laugh while we were taking pictures.

Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world. -Nelson Mandela Share on X

TIP: A good haircut can work wonders for your curls. Ask your stylist to incorporate long layers to add extra bounce.

Pop Pop and I look sharp all dressed up for my graduation ceremony, don't we? 🙂

I kept my makeup simple and classic for graduation. This classic Audrey Hepburn look would be great if you want to recreate something similar.

Similar Kendra Scott Jewelry:

My necklace and earrings are the Kendra Scott ‘Danielle' Drop Earrings in Gold/Turquoise and the Kendra Scott ‘Rayne' Stone Tassel Pendant Necklace in Gold/Turquoise. Here are a few classic turquoise styles similar to the ones I picked.

TIP: Graduation isn't the best time to experiment with crazy looks; save that for senior parties or something else. Classic hair and makeup is something you'll never regret for a once-in-a-lifetime event.

Do you have any tips about how to get defined curls? If so, please share in the comments below! I love hearing what works well for other people.

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