12 Stunning Spiral Curls with Plum Root Smudge for 2026
If you’ve been craving that perfect blend of bold color and stunning texture this fall 2025, you’re in the right place. Spiral curls are making a major comeback with their playful bounce and elegant definition, and paired with the rich, mysterious plum root smudge, this hairstyle is everything you want to stand out this season.
Whether you struggle with your curls losing shape or want to try a fresh color combo that’s both trendy and manageable, this article will walk you through twelve spiral curl styles paired with the perfect plum root smudge effect.
You’ll discover how to get these looks, the best products to use (like DevaCurl SuperCream and Bouclème Curl Cream), plus tips from pros to make your curls pop all season long. Ready to get inspired? Let’s dive in!
1. Classic Spiral Curls with Subtle Plum Roots
Classic spiral curls never go out of style. These defined curls bring a natural springiness that suits all hair lengths but look especially striking when paired with a plum root smudge that gently fades into a deep violet at the tips.
This look works beautifully for medium to dark skin tones and adds depth for anyone craving a subtle but rich color transition. To achieve this, start with a medium barrel curling wand or use twist-and-dry methods on damp hair.
Use a curl-enhancing cream like Bouclème Curl Cream to boost definition and hold without heaviness. The plum root smudge is best done professionally for a seamless color melt that’s low-maintenance but eye-catching.
2. Voluminous Spiral Curls with Deep Burgundy Plum Effect
For those who love volume and drama, voluminous spiral curls with a deep burgundy plum root smudge are perfect. This intense shade adds warmth and complements cooler undertones, ideal for autumn vibes.
Use a diffuser on wet hair with products like Mise En Scene Curling Essence to amplify natural texture and lock moisture in. You can achieve volume by clipping curls at the roots while drying.
The burgundy plum blend creates a luxurious gradient that looks sophisticated for both casual and formal occasions. Try a layered cut to help curls bounce freely without weighing down.
3. Loose Spiral Curls with Dusty Plum Ombre Roots
If you want a relaxed, effortless style, loose spiral curls paired with a dusty plum ombre root smudge create a soft, romantic vibe. This look is perfect for light to medium skin tones and fashion enthusiasts who prefer a chic yet undone hairstyle. The loose curls are achieved using a large barrel curling iron or by finger-twisting damp hair and air-drying.
For color, the dusty plum adds a muted but rich gradient, blending into soft lilac or mauve ends. Use lightweight curl mousse like DevaCurl SuperCream to maintain movement without stiffness.
4. Short Spiral Bob with Bold Plum Root Shadow
Short hair lovers can rock spiral curls too—with a bold plum root shadow adding an edgy twist. This is perfect if you prefer a modern, urban look that’s easy to style daily. Short spiral curls look great on all skin tones but especially pop on fair to olive complexions.
To create this style, keep the bob layered to enhance curl patterns. Add root shadowing with a rich plum at the base fading into brighter plum tones for a dramatic effect. Use a curl-defining gel or cream like Charlotte Mensah Manketti Curl Cream to keep curls tight and frizz-free.
5. Spiral Curls with Rose Plum Highlights
If you love a bit of color contrast, try spiral curls with rose plum highlights over a darker plum root smudge. This combination is winning on social media this fall, inspired by celebs like Zendaya.
Rose plum brings a fun but wearable pop on medium to dark hair, flattering warm skin tones perfectly. To style, curl hair with a medium iron and spray with heat protectant before coloring strands with rose plum highlights. Add shine serum after styling to accentuate the color shifts.
6. Half-Up Spiral Curls with Smoky Plum Roots
For a versatile daily look, half-up spiral curls with smoky plum roots create a flattering two-tone effect that suits busy lifestyles and seasonal events. This style gives you the elegance of curls with the practicality of pulled-back hair.
Use a lightweight mousse for hold and finish with a flexible hairspray to keep strands in place. The smoky plum root smudge skillfully blends dark roots into smoky violet tones for a fresh twist on gradient coloring.
7. Spiral Curls with Plum and Copper Blended Root Smudge
Mix things up with a bold plum and copper blended root smudge paired with spiral curls. This warm-meets-cool combo is perfect if you want attention-grabbing color while keeping your curls the star.
Copper tones brighten the face, while plum adds depth, making this style flattering for olive skin tones. Achieve tight spiral curls with a curling wand and finish with a curl cream that supports color-treated hair, like Redken Curvaceous Ringlet.
8. Long Spiral Curls with Mulberry Plum Root Smudge
Long spiral curls paired with a mulberry plum root smudge offer an elegant, statement-making look. This is ideal for formal occasions or anyone wanting to elongate their hair visually. The deep mulberry shade transitions smoothly from natural roots with a smudging technique for a soft, shadowed effect.
To create curls, section hair and use a medium-sized iron or twist hair on damp strands overnight. Use nourishing deep conditioners regularly to keep hair healthy with such an intense color.
9. Textured Spiral Curls with Soft Plum Tint Roots
If texture is your thing, textured spiral curls with a soft plum tint in the roots bring playful volume without feeling too uniform. This laid-back style shines on wavy to curly hair types (2C-3B curls) and suits casual daywear or weekend hangouts. Enhance texture with sea salt spray or curl mousse on damp hair and scrunch while diffusing. The soft plum tint gently blends root color and adds dimension without overwhelming the natural curl pattern.
10. Layered Spiral Curls with Plum Root Shadow
Layered spiral curls offer natural movement and shine with the added interest of a plum root shadow, ideal for those wanting subtle drama. Layers lighten thick curls and improve bounce, especially when combined with a root smudge that plays into natural hair shadow zones.
Ideal for medium-length hair, this style is complemented by using moisturizing shampoos and curl-defining creams like Bouclème for hydration and hold.
11. Spiral Curls with Violet and Plum Gradient
Take your curls to the next level with a violet and plum gradient root smudge. This vivid, high-impact color combo is popular on TikTok and favored by influencers like Ayesha Curry for its stunning dimension.
Achieving this look requires professional color blending to soften the transition between violet tips and plum roots. Use curl-enhancing products that boost shine and maintain color intensity, keeping the curls bouncy and healthy.
12. Braided Spiral Curls with Plum Root Haze
For a creative twist, combine braided details with spiral curls and a plum root haze. This style is perfect for special events or when you want your hair to be a conversation starter.
Braiding adds texture contrast while the plum root haze softly fades the roots into the colorful curls. Use lightweight styling cream and clips to secure braids, then finish with anti-frizz spray to keep the look neat and polished.
Pro Tips From Industry Experts
Avoid over brushing spiral curls to keep the definition intact and prevent frizz. Instead, use fingers or wide-tooth combs when detangling. Consider money-saving alternatives like DIY root smudging by blending semi-permanent plum hair dye with conditioner, but for best results, visit a professional colorist.
Time-saving hacks include sleeping with a satin bonnet or pillowcase to preserve curl shape and color vibrancy overnight. For fall 2025, add deeper plum tones with hints of copper or violet to match the season’s cozy vibes.
How to Choose The Right Spiral Curls For You
Think about your lifestyle if you’re always on the go, opt for styles with less maintenance like loose spiral curls or shorter spiral bobs. Budget matters too; some color treatments require salon visits every 6-8 weeks, while others can be refreshed at home.
Your skill level plays a big role simpler curl styles and color smudges may be easier to manage on your own, but more complex blends and tight curls might need professional help.
Lastly, consider your skin tone and wardrobe; cooler plum shades suit pale to medium skin tones, while warmer plum blends thrive on olive and darker tones.
Trending Spiral Curls Styles This Season
Instagram and TikTok are buzzing with celeb-inspired looks like Zendaya’s rose plum highlights and Ayesha Curry’s violet and plum gradient. Spiral curls with root smudging techniques are trending for their low-maintenance yet high-impact color effect.
Upcoming trends to watch include more multi-dimensional plum blends mixed with unexpected hues like soft copper and smoky violet, perfect for creative experiments this fall and winter.
Maintenance and Care Tips
Keep spiral curls hydrated by using deep conditioners and moisturizing hair masks at least once a week. Avoid shampoos with sulfates as they strip natural oils and dull vibrant plum colors.
Use curl creams specifically designed for color-treated hair, such as DevaCurl SuperCream or Bouclème Curl Cream, to maintain moisture and hold. Refresh curls between washes with a water and leave-in conditioner mix and sleep on a silk pillowcase to prevent frizz. Plan color touch-ups every 6-8 weeks to keep root smudges seamless and vibrant.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What spiral curl style is best for beginners?
Loose spiral curls and half-up styles with simple root smudges are great starting points because they’re easy to create and maintain without professional help. - How much does it typically cost to get a plum root smudge?
Salon prices vary, but expect to pay $80-$150 depending on hair length and color complexity. - How long does it take to style spiral curls with a root smudge?
Curl styling usually takes 30-45 minutes; root smudging color treatments require about 2-3 hours at the salon. - Can I do spiral curls and root smudging at home?
Basic spiral curls can be done at home with the right tools and products, but root smudging works best with professional colorists for a flawless finish. - What products do I need for maintaining spiral curls with plum color?
Look for hydrating curl creams, sulfate-free shampoos, fortified conditioners, and color-protecting products from brands like DevaCurl, Bouclème, Redken, and Mise En Scene. - How often should I refresh my plum root smudge?
Touch-ups every 6-8 weeks keep the color smooth and blended. - What if I have dry or damaged hair—can I still sport spiral curls?
Yes, but deep conditioning treatments and keratin-infused products are key to keeping curls healthy and vibrant.
Conclusion
The perfect spiral curls with a plum root smudge combine stunning texture and trendy color that’s ideal for fall 2025. From classic tight spirals to bold gradients and creative braids, there’s a style for every personality and occasion.
Try something new and embrace this season’s rich plum shades for a look that turns heads and feels effortless. Save this article for your next salon visit or styling session and let us know what’s your favorite spiral curl style with plum roots?
