Black hair comes in many different textures and styles, providing endless options for creative self-expression.
From braids and twists to natural curls and straightened strands, African American women have pioneered iconic looks that are constantly evolving.
Discover looks you can DIY at home or obtain from skilled stylists.
With thoughtful consideration of your hair type, patience and practice, you’ll be embracing empowering styles that celebrate your natural gifts and individuality.
Black Girl Hairstyles Gallery
Box Braids
Box braids are a versatile protective style that involves braiding thin sections of hair tightly down to the scalp.
The braids can be worn short or extremely long, hanging well past the shoulders.
This style creates a grid-like pattern all over the head which gives the hairstyle its name – the braids resemble little “boxes” everywhere.
Box braids are ideal for natural hair because they keep moisture and styles locked in while preventing friction and breakage from regular combing, brushing and manipulating.
They can be worn for weeks or even months before being taken down.
During that time, very little maintenance is needed beyond retwisting the braids occasionally.
This go-to style suits all face shapes and works for both casual, everyday looks as well as dresses-up occasions.
Box braids allow for easy switching up of accessories too – add colorful beads, ribbons or barrettes for fun flair.
Different braiding patterns and part lines provide variety as well.
For a pop of personality, box braids can be done in bright, unnatural hair colors or cute two-toned combinations.
Left plain, they flatter beautiful natural hair textures and colors too.
Box braids remain a beloved protective style that Black women have been rocking for generations.
Twist Out
The twist out is a way to get voluminous curls and coils from hair that has been previously twisted up in braids or cornrows.
First, small sections of hair are twisted tightly while dry or damp.
Leaving the twists in overnight or for a day allows them to set the hair pattern.
When it’s time for styling, each twisted section is unravelled from the root with the fingers.
This causes the hair to spring up, stretch out and form lush curls and waves along the strands.
Twist outs work especially well on natural hair textures like 4c hair that can retain moisture better when twisted tightly at the roots.
The resulting curls from a twist out are big, soft and full of body.
They have a loose, carefree look compared to tighter ringlets.
Twist outs last 2-3 days, holding the style whether the hair is wet or dry.
More products can be added to reactivate curls if needed.
This versatile technique allows protective styling with braids or twists during the week, then a gorgeous curly look for weekends or special occasions with just a quick unraveling.
Twist outs are one of the most popular natural hair routines for their low maintenance factor and stunning results.
Afro
The Afro is one of the most iconic natural hairstyles for black women.
It involves wearing hair in its naturally puffy, coiled texture without the use of heat tools, chemicals or excessive manipulation.
Afros allow hair to maintain its shrinkage and form a big, puffy crown around the head.
Afros can vary in size and shape depending on hair type and length.
Some are tall and narrow while others are wider with a rounded silhouette.
No two Afros are exactly alike, giving each woman’s style a unique flair.
Traditionally, Afros were a symbol of black pride, empowerment and the natural beauty movement during the 1960s-70s civil rights era.
Today, the Afro remains a bold statement look.
It suits nearly all face shapes with its voluminous silhouette.
Maintaining an Afro is low maintenance if hair is regularly conditioned to retain moisture.
Natural oils, creams or gels can be applied sparingly to tame frizz.
Afros should be protected from humidity or weather changes by bundling hair at night.
Whether worn big, small or in between, the Afro celebrates black features and makes a proud show of kinky, coily textures.
It’s an easy go-to style that requires no tools or treatments beyond letting hair flourish naturally.
Bantu Knots
Bantu knots are tiny, coiled braids wrapped closely around each other to create a knotted look.
The style gets its name from the Bantu people of Africa where similar coiling techniques have been used for generations.
To create Bantu knots, hair is sectioned off and the strands are rolled tightly away from the face before being coiled into a small “knot” and fastened with a clear elastic or small clip.
This is done to each section individually all over the head for a stylized pattern.
The result of styling with Bantu knots is voluminous textured curls or waves once the knots are taken down.
The curls will last for days depending on hair type and products used.
Bantu knots work especially well for those with natural or transitioning hair textures looking to stretch their curls between washes.
This protective style doubles as a nice everyday look on its own too.
Bantu knots suit all face shapes and can be dressed up or down depending on accessories.
The intricate coiling pattern makes for an eye-catching hairstyle that celebrates traditional African techniques in a contemporary way.
Locs (Dreadlocks)
Locs, also called dreadlocks or dreadlocks, are rope-like strands of hair formed in a twisting coiling manner.
They can be achieved naturally over time through no manipulation of the hair strands, or they can be started with backcombing, twisting, or braiding methods.
Locs suit all different hair textures, especially tighter curls and coils.
They are a popular protective style for natural hair because they keep moisture and breakage at bay.
Locs can be worn loose or gathered into ponytails or buns.
Over time they will mature and become tighter, looser, or waxier in appearance depending on hair type and lifestyle.
Maintenance involves regular retwisting or palm rolling to encourage coils and prevent frizzing.
Shampooing is less frequent with locs, just monitoring scalp health.
Decorative beads, dread extensions, or two-tone colors can be added.
Locs have spiritual or religious significance for Rastafarians and are simply a practical hairstyle choice for others.
Whether worn short and close to the head or extra long, locs make a bold fashion statement while celebrating natural appearance.
They suit many lifestyles and personal styles from casual to professional settings.
Waves
Waves create a supple, relaxed texture that is easy to achieve on straightened or blow-dried hair using just a few hair products.
To get waves, hair is parted into loose sections that are brushed back from the forehead with a round brush.
This creates volume at the roots and loose spiral curls along the mid-lengths and ends.
The key is to brush hair continuously while applying a curl cream, leave-in conditioner or mousse from roots to ends.
This helps set the shape of the waves as strands cool.
Section by section, the whole head is brushed back in the same S-shape motion.
Finally, scrunch hair at the roots with your fingertips to add body and texture.
Waves take just 15-20 minutes to style but will last for several days.
As waves get looser, re-scrunch with a little water or curl product to reactivate the shape.
Different wave patterns like tight beach waves or loose spirals can be achieved depending on how close together the sections are brushed.
Waves soften harsh lines of relaxed hair but still maintain bounce and movement.
This easy style flatters many face shapes too.
Faux Locs
Faux locs are a perfect style for those wanting the signature look of dreadlocks without the long-term commitment or maintenance.
They involve braiding or twisting synthetic dread extensions into wet or dry natural hair to mimic individual locs.
The extensions come in a variety of textures, from thin and fine to thick and coarse, to match different natural hair types.
They are braided or twisted close to the scalp in tiny sections all over the head to create the loc’ed appearance.
Faux locs can be worn for weeks and styled just like real locs with loose ponytails, buns or free-hanging strands.
Over time, they will last until the hair grows out enough to redo the braids.
Touch-ups keep the style crisp between installs.
This protective style is a great way to try dreads without long waits for maturation.
Faux locs protect natural hair underneath while allowing an easy way to switch up colors, patterns and accessories.
Whether worn short or extra long, they flatter all face shapes for a standout look.
The versatility and low maintenance of faux locs make them an excellent loc alternative for experimenting with the aesthetic regularly.
Braid Out
A braid out is created by braiding sections of wet or dry hair tightly before allowing them to dry and setting the pattern.
Come undone time, each braided strand will form defined curly sections along the hair.
To start, rake a leave-in conditioner or cream through damp hair then section it off.
Beginning at the nape of the neck, braid each section very close to the scalp until reaching the end.
Often braids can be thin or fatter ones used for different effects.
Once braiding is complete, let the hair dry fully in braids overnight or under a hooded dryer.
In the morning, gently pull out the braids by pinching the ends and rolling strands between fingers to loosen them.
This prevents frizzing and forms defined curls.
The result is a full head of bouncy curls with defined parts down the middle or along the side.
A braid out creates texture without heat that lasts 2-3 days, reviving curls between washes.
It works for any hair length or curl pattern too.
Bumps/Pin Curls
Bumps or pin curls are a vintage curling technique that sets defining waves and coils along the hair.
Sections are curled by wrapping strands smoothly around the fingers before being pinned in place while drying.
To start, apply a flexible hold product through damp hair and section it off evenly around the head.
Then wrap a 1-inch section tightly around the fingers from root to tip.
Slide a bobby pin through to secure in a small, coiled “pin curl.”
Repeat all over the head, pinning each bump close to the scalp and making sure they don’t overlap.
Let dry fully overnight or under a hooded dryer.
In the morning, gently tease each pin curl with fingers to increase volume.
The result is a head full of defined spirals with long-lasting bounce and lift from roots to ends.
Pin curls create glamour, especially for retro looks or special events.
They work on all natural textures.
Just like creating a perm, pin curls are more of an effort than many styles but worth it for polished curls and flicks that can survive humidity.
Fishtail Braid
A fishtail braid is a popular braiding pattern that creates a fuller, fuller braid than a standard three-strand braid.
It gets its name from the motion used to incorporate pieces of hair that resembles the tail of a fish.
To start, hair is divided evenly into two sections.
A small piece is taken from the first section near the hairline and added to the back section underneath.
Then a piece is taken from the back section and added to the front section.
This motion of over-under-over is repeated down the entire braid for a blended, thick braid.
It can be worn straight down the back or in a crown around the head.
Fishtail braids are Messy and romantic hairstyle.
Once mastered, fishtail braiding goes quickly and suits all hair types, from straight to coily textures.
It makes a statement alone or braided into a fuller plait.
Add flowers, beads or ribbons for extra flair.
Let down, it creates soft tousled waves.
Deep Side Part
A deep side part involves sectioning the hair with a distinct parting line that starts high up on one side of the head and runs all the way back towards the nape of the neck.
This creates a dramatic asymmetric look with much of the hair pulled over to one side.
To achieve a deep side part, start by wetting or drying hair with a deep side-swept part already in mind.
Use a small comb or your fingers to section the hair sharply along the parting lines.
The part should start high above the ear on one side, close to the top of the head.
It then runs straight back before curving down towards the nape of the neck, leaving more hair visible on one side than the other.
The unfinished side can be pinned back or left freely flowing.
A deep side part is sleek and stylish.
It works well for both casual and dressy occasions.
This dramatic asymmetric look flatters many face shapes.
It also allows for versatile switching between swept-over styles or showcasing voluminous curls on one side.
Ponytail
A ponytail is one of the most versatile and easy hairstyles.
It involves gathering all of the hair on top of the head and securing it at the nape of the neck or lower back with an elastic hair tie.
To create a basic ponytail, first apply a smoothing product all over damp or dry hair to eliminate frizz.
Use a comb or brush to pull the hair straight back from the forehead and gather it into a high or low pony.
Secure tightly with a tie that matches the hair color.
From there, ponytails can be dressed up or down.
They suit casual looks but also elegant updos.
Ponytails can be worn high, low, half-up or in two braided sections.
Add volume with backcombing, piece-out strands in front for framing the face, or accessorize with ribbons or hair sticks.
The style is flattering for most face shapes and works well for active lifestyles or hot weather.
Ponytails allow hair to be worn up and out of the way while still having different options for height, texture and tails.
It’s a timeless basic hairstyle.
Top Knot
A top knot is a simple updo where all of the hair from around the head is gathered and secured on top in a messy bun shape.
It’s tied high at the crown for a chic, carefree look.
To create a top knot, prep hair by rough drying it with your fingers or a diffuser for texture.
Then gather all the hair strands from around the head and twist them up towards the top of the crown.
Secure the twist loosely with an elastic or tie so it stays puffy instead of tight.
Adjust any pieces that are sticking out and fluff the bun for added volume and shape.
Top knots are perfect for hot days when you want hair off the neck but still want some height and style.
They work for casual weekends or if hair is drying between washes.
Messy top knots also look great for the gym or beach.
Adding bobby pins, toggles or flowers provides visual interest.
The style is flattering for most face shapes and allows for peek-a-boo strands to frame the face.
Puffed Out Fro
A puffed out fro is a playful way to style naturally curly or kinky hair textures into an exaggerated round shape that accentuates the volume and curl definition.
To achieve the look, start on damp hair that has been freshened with a leave-in conditioner or curl cream.
Use your fingers to separate curls at the roots and fluff them outwards in all directions.
Continuing in sections all over the head, rake fingers through to disturb any curl pattern and create exaggerated puffiness.
Repeat until hair has at least doubled in size from its original compressed state.
For extra lift at the roots, gently blow dry upwards in a round mushroom shape using a diffuser attachment.
Set the style by drying fully.
Pick out the puff with your fingers for a wild, tousled effect.
Puffed out fros are a bold statement and celebrate natural texture.
Accessorize with colorful wraps or picks for added flair.
This playful style is perfect for special events or casual weekend wear.
Highlights
Fine pieces of foil are used to separate small sections of hair that are then colored a lighter shade than the natural color.
When processed, a subtle streaked effect appears.
A freehand painting technique where highlights are brushed onto certain parts of the hair exclusively for a sun-kissed blended effect.
Hair is gradually colored lighter from the roots to ends to mimic a natural sun-warped look.
Highlights can be subtle or dramatic blondes, coppers, caramels – any shade to contrast against the natural hue.
They add interest, lighten up darker hair and counteract brassy tones.
Highlights also create volume and dimension especially around the face.
Regular touch-ups are needed as roots regrow, but in between, highlights leave hair with a lively highlighted look suitable for both casual and dressy styles.
Feed-Ins/Halo Braids
Feed-ins or halo braids involve tiny sections of hair being carefully braided close to the scalp all around the head to create a halo-like effect.
To start, hair is prepped by applying a conditioning spray or oil from roots to ends.
Small sections are then braided from the hairline all around the head in a continuous motion.
Pieces of hair are gently “fed in” and integrated into the braid as it’s worked around the scalp.
This results in delicate, delicate braids that flawlessly frame the face.
Once the entire perimeter has been braided, invisible or woven-in elastics blend the braids together at the back for a finished look.
Feed-ins or halo braids showcase intricate detail work.
They flatter many face shapes and work for formal styles or casual wear left loose.
Refresh with water for a revitalized look between wears of this protective braiding technique.
Space Buns
This trendy style involves sectioning the hair at the crown and sweeping it into two large buns secured near the top of the head.
Start with clean, dry hair.
Take a horizontal part across the crown and secure each section in a low ponytail.
Gather the ponytail tightly into a high bun shape near the top of the head.
Use multiple elastic ties and bobby pins to securely anchor each “space bun” in place.
Loosen and fluff out the buns with your fingers for extra volume.
Pull out strands randomly from the buns to soften the look.
For a fun twist, accentuate the buns with accessories like ribbons, flowers or balls of dyed hair.
Space buns are eye-catching, youthful and complement casual styles.
Play with the height, size and amount of strands pulled out to find your perfect spin on this space-age inspired updo.
In summary, hairstyles offer endless possibilities for creativity, expression and accentuating natural hair textures and features.
Experimenting with different parts, braids, updos and accents allows one to discover flattering looks that feel uniquely their own.
Proper haircare sets the foundation for any stylish do.
Most of all, finding confidence and joy in one’s hair is what creates the most beautiful look of all.
