For those who may not be familiar, 4c hair is a type of natural hair texture that is characterized by tight, coily curls.
It is often described as having a “kinky” or “nappy” appearance, and it can be one of the most challenging hair types to style and maintain.
4c hair is also known for its shrinkage, which means that it can appear much shorter than it actually is when it’s in its natural state.
When it comes to awkward length hair, this refers to the stage where your hair is too short to pull back into a ponytail but too long to wear a simple wash-and-go.
It’s a frustrating stage that many naturalistas go through, especially those with 4c hair.
The shrinkage and unique texture of 4c hair can make it difficult to find styles that work well during this in-between phase.
But don’t worry, my fellow 4c queens!
I’ve been there, and I know how challenging it can be to navigate this awkward length stage.
That’s why I’ve compiled a list of trendy hairstyles that will help you embrace your natural texture and rock your 4c hair with confidence, no matter the length.
These styles range from simple and low-maintenance to bold and daring, so there’s something for everyone.
Mini Twist-Out
If you’re looking for a low-maintenance style that still packs a punch, the mini twist-out is perfect for you.
Start by washing and conditioning your hair, then apply a leave-in conditioner and your favorite styling product.
Part your hair into small sections and twist each one tightly.
Allow your hair to dry completely, then unravel the twists for a beautifully defined, voluminous look.
This style works well for awkward length hair because the twists help to elongate your curls and give the illusion of more length.
One of the best things about the mini twist-out is that it can last for several days, depending on your hair type and how well you protect it at night.
To keep your twist-out looking fresh, simply re-twist your hair before bed and cover it with a satin bonnet or scarf.
In the morning, unravel the twists and use your fingers to gently fluff out your hair.
You can also add a little bit of oil or styling cream to your hands to help tame any frizz and add shine.
Flat Twist Updo
For a more sophisticated look, try a flat twist updo.
This style is perfect for special occasions or when you want to add a touch of elegance to your everyday look.
Start by parting your hair into sections and flat twisting each one, starting from the front and working your way back.
Secure the ends of the twists with bobby pins, then use your fingers to gently fluff out the twists for added volume.
This style is great for awkward length hair because it allows you to tuck away any uneven pieces while still showcasing your natural texture.
To take your flat twist updo to the next level, try adding some accessories like a pretty hair clip or a few strategically placed flowers.
You can also experiment with different parting patterns to create a unique look.
For example, you could try a side part or a zigzag part to add some visual interest to your style.
High Puff with Bangs
If you’re looking for a fun and flirty style, try a high puff with bangs.
This style is perfect for those days when you want to let your natural hair shine while still keeping it out of your face.
Start by gathering your hair into a high ponytail, then use a hair tie to secure it in place.
Take a small section of hair from the front and cut it into bangs, then use a styling product to smooth them down.
Finally, use your fingers to gently fluff out the puff for added volume.
This style works well for awkward length hair because it allows you to create the illusion of more length while still keeping your hair manageable.
If you’re not ready to commit to full-on bangs, try a side-swept bang instead.
Simply part your hair to the side and use a styling product to smooth down the front section.
You can also experiment with different textures and lengths to find the perfect bang for your face shape and personal style.
Braided Crown
For a regal and romantic look, try a braided crown.
This style is perfect for those days when you want to feel like a queen.
Start by parting your hair down the middle, then create two Dutch braids on either side of your head.
Wrap the braids around your head and secure them in place with bobby pins.
Use your fingers to gently pull apart the braids for a more relaxed, effortless look.
This style works well for awkward length hair because the braids help to keep your hair in place while still allowing you to show off your natural texture.
If you’re feeling extra creative, try adding some colorful extensions or beads to your braided crown for a fun, festive look.
You can also experiment with different braiding patterns and techniques to create a unique style that’s all your own.
Bantu Knots
If you’re feeling bold and daring, try Bantu knots.
This style is perfect for those days when you want to make a statement.
Start by parting your hair into small sections, then twist each section tightly until it forms a small knot.
Secure the knots in place with bobby pins, then use a styling product to smooth down any flyaways.
This style works well for awkward length hair because the knots help to create the illusion of more volume and texture.
One of the best things about Bantu knots is that they can be worn in a variety of ways.
You can wear them as a standalone style, or you can unravel them to create a beautiful, curly afro.
You can also experiment with different sizes and shapes to create a unique look that’s all your own.
Half-Up, Half-Down
For a simple yet chic look, try a half-up, half-down style.
This style is perfect for those days when you want to keep your hair out of your face while still showing off your natural curls.
Start by gathering the top half of your hair into a ponytail or bun, then secure it in place with a hair tie.
Use your fingers to gently fluff out the bottom half of your hair for added volume.
This style works well for awkward length hair because it allows you to keep your hair manageable while still showcasing your natural texture.
To add some extra flair to your half-up, half-down style, try adding some accessories like a pretty hair clip or a colorful scarf.
You can also experiment with different textures and curl patterns to create a unique look that’s all your own.
Finger Coils
If you’re looking for a style that really shows off your natural curl pattern, try finger coils.
This style is perfect for those days when you want to embrace your 4c texture in all its glory.
Start by washing and conditioning your hair, then apply a leave-in conditioner and your favorite styling product.
Take small sections of hair and twirl them around your finger until they form tight coils.
Repeat this process all over your head, then allow your hair to air dry completely.
This style works well for awkward length hair because the coils help to create the illusion of more length and definition.
One of the best things about finger coils is that they can last for several days, depending on your hair type and how well you protect them at night.
To keep your coils looking fresh, simply re-coil your hair before bed and cover it with a satin bonnet or scarf.
In the morning, use your fingers to gently separate the coils and fluff out your hair.
You can also add a little bit of oil or styling cream to your hands to help tame any frizz and add shine.
Pineapple Updo
If you’re looking for a quick and easy style that still looks polished, try a pineapple updo.
This style is perfect for those days when you’re running late but still want to look put-together.
Start by gathering your hair into a high ponytail, then secure it in place with a hair tie.
Take a small section of hair from the ponytail and wrap it around the base to hide the hair tie.
Finally, use your fingers to gently fluff out the ponytail for added volume.
This style works well for awkward length hair because it allows you to keep your hair out of your face while still showing off your natural texture.
To add some extra flair to your pineapple updo, try adding some accessories like a pretty hair clip or a colorful scarf.
You can also experiment with different textures and curl patterns to create a unique look that’s all your own.
Twist-Out Mohawk
If you’re feeling bold and edgy, try a twist-out mohawk.
This style is perfect for those days when you want to make a statement and show off your fierce side.
Start by parting your hair into three sections: two on the sides and one in the middle.
Twist each section tightly, then secure the ends with a small elastic band.
Allow your hair to dry completely, then unravel the twists for a beautifully defined, mohawk-inspired look.
This style works well for awkward length hair because the twists help to elongate your curls and create the illusion of more length.
To take your twist-out mohawk to the next level, try adding some temporary color or glitter to your hair for a fun, festive look.
You can also experiment with different parting patterns and twist sizes to create a unique style that’s all your own.
Braided Topknot
For a sleek and sophisticated look, try a braided topknot.
This style is perfect for those days when you want to look polished and put-together.
Start by parting your hair into two sections, then braid each section tightly.
Wrap the braids around each other to form a topknot, then secure them in place with bobby pins.
Use a styling product to smooth down any flyaways and add shine.
This style works well for awkward length hair because the braids help to keep your hair in place while still allowing you to show off your natural texture.
To add some extra flair to your braided topknot, try accessorizing with a pretty hair clip or a colorful scarf.
You can also experiment with different braiding patterns and techniques to create a unique look that’s all your own.
Space Buns
If you’re looking for a fun and playful style, try space buns.
This style is perfect for those days when you want to channel your inner child and let your hair down (literally).
Start by parting your hair down the middle, then gather each section into a high ponytail.
Twist each ponytail into a bun, then secure them in place with bobby pins.
Use a styling product to smooth down any flyaways and add shine.
This style works well for awkward length hair because the buns help to create the illusion of more volume and texture.
To take your space buns to the next level, try adding some colorful extensions or glitter to your hair for a fun, festive look.
You can also experiment with different sizes and shapes to create a unique style that’s all your own.
Braided Headband
For a simple yet stylish look, try a braided headband.
This style is perfect for those days when you want to keep your hair out of your face while still showing off your natural texture.
Start by parting your hair to the side, then take a small section of hair from the front and braid it tightly.
Wrap the braid around your head and secure it in place with bobby pins.
Use a styling product to smooth down any flyaways and add shine.
This style works well for awkward length hair because the braid helps to keep your hair in place while still allowing you to show off your natural curls.
To add some extra flair to your braided headband, try accessorizing with a pretty hair clip or a colorful scarf.
You can also experiment with different braiding patterns and techniques to create a unique look that’s all your own.
Twisted Updo
For a chic and elegant look, try a twisted updo.
This style is perfect for special occasions or when you want to add a touch of sophistication to your everyday look.
Start by parting your hair into four sections, then twist each section tightly.
Wrap the twists around each other to form an updo, then secure them in place with bobby pins.
Use a styling product to smooth down any flyaways and add shine.
This style works well for awkward length hair because the twists help to create the illusion of more length and volume.
To take your twisted updo to the next level, try adding some accessories like a pretty hair clip or a few strategically placed flowers.
You can also experiment with different parting patterns and twist sizes to create a unique look that’s all your own.
Embracing your natural 4c hair is a journey, and it’s not always easy.
Your hair is your crown, and you should wear it with pride.
