Embracing your natural texture can feel like an uphill battle sometimes, but next time you're stuck trying to think up new styling ideas for your natural hair, try one of these stunning looks.Whether you have very short hair, medium hair, long hair, braids of any length, bangs, or are thinking about switching it up, these on-trend new styles, from ponytails to buns, knots, twists, and beyond, offer up all the hair inspiration you need.
As these celebrities demonstrate, there are countless ways to embrace or enhance your natural texture and express your personal style, whether you're looking for a look that's polished, bold, or something in between — no matter what length you start with.
1. Put on a Headwrap
There are a plethora of ways to wear a headwrap, but it’s easy to get caught in a styling rut. This top-rated tutorial from Kilahmazing delivers 4 standout looks using wraps from her very own line. My personal favorite is the “Canary” pattern ($28 at Kilah Crowns).
2. Side Braided Ponytail
Singer Alicia Keys's hairstyle has it all: a voluminous mohawk, braided ponytail, and cornrows on the side. Whether you're hitting the stage or just heading to the grocery store, this is a definite head-turner.
3. Flirty Forehead Pieces
Victoria's Secret model Samile Bermannelli's tight curls have a sexy piecey-ness, including a couple of strands that tease the look of bangs without full fringe. Define your spirals with a curl-shaping gel like Curls Goddess Curls Botanical Gelle.
4. Curly Bangs
Who says curly hair can't have bangs? Actress and singer Zendaya is proof that you can not only wear bangs with your natural texture, you don't have to straighten them out to look incredible. Help shape ringlets with a curl custard, such as Kinky-Curly Original Curl Custard.
5. Bantu Knots
Bantu knots, which originated in Southern Africa, are a great way to take your hair game up a notch, a la singer Rihanna. And don't commit the cardinal crime that is forgetting to lay your baby hairs! Try a gel formulated specifically for them, such as Mizani Edge Control Taming Gel.
6. Braid Out
Ever get a glimpse of your perfect post-braids waves in a mirror and wished you had somewhere to go? We know. Just spritz your hair with water, add a curl or wave-defining styling cream, and decide whether cornrows or box braids will be your ticket to morning flawlessness.
7. French Braids
Rock these twin French braids like singer Leona Lewis and pretend that your effortlessly cool look didn't cost you some upper arm soreness. Simply start at the top on each side and create three-strand braids while adding a bit more hair per section as you move down. Set your braids in place with a braid pomade, like Redken Braid Aid 03 Defining Lotion.
8. Three Strand Twist Out
The three-strand twist out is the answer to every natural girl's prayers to achieve the ultimate curl definition. The motion is a bit confusing at first, but once you get it down, you'll be a twisting machine. Latimer is also a fan of the style, as it lasts for a few days and promotes the "replenishing of moisture in the hair," which is especially important in curly and transitioning hair. Want to achieve this yourself? Follow along with YouTube hair expert Samantha Harris a.k.a. Ahfro Baang's tutorial.
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