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42 BEST AFRICAN-AMERICAN HAIRSTYLES & HAIRCUTS FOR BLACK WOMEN IN 2024

Modern, edgy, and timeless African-American hairstyles always make a statement. Like the perfect accessory, they complete any look with flair. Whether you lean toward simple elegance or textured boldness, these Black hairstyles are sure to turn heads! Before your next hair appointment, explore these inspiring photos of the most popular African-American hairstyles and haircuts.

STUNNING 3C CURLS 

Stunning 3C curls are tight, bouncy, and well-defined. This style showcases natural curls that have a beautiful, spiral shape, giving a lively and voluminous look. It’s perfect for adding lots of texture and flair to your hair.

NATURALLY CURLY KINKY HAIR

Women with naturally curly, kinky hair should consider trying a reddish hue! For Black women, hairstyles with tight coils look amazing with red and warm-toned highlights strategically placed. Ask your stylist to add highlights around your face to enhance your best features.

CURLY PIXIE FOR SHORT NATURAL HAIR

Consider a naturally curly pixie cut for a stylish look. Keep in mind that short hair requires regular upkeep, but the right haircut makes a big difference. Find a hairstylist who specializes in pivot point cutting to ensure your cut suits your head shape and lifestyle perfectly. A good stylist will personalize the cut just for you.

NEW BRAID HAIRSTYLES WITH BEADS

Braids are always a great choice for Black women, and this style shown here has a modern twist. With colorful beads added, this braided look is fabulous and stylish while also helping to protect your hair from seasonal damage.

SHORT AFRO-TEXTURED HAIRSTYLE

Short afro-textured hair has its own charm. Embrace your beautiful short natural curls with this adorable pixie cut. Use Kinky Curly’s Knot Today conditioner to define and condition your curls. This pixie afro style works well for all face shapes.

HYDRATED CURLS

Hydrated curls for Black women highlight natural, bouncy curls that look full and healthy. This style keeps curls moisturized and well-defined, avoiding dryness and frizz. Using products that add moisture helps the curls stay soft and shiny. Regular conditioning and hydrating treatments are key to maintaining this look. This style showcases the beauty of natural curls and is easy to maintain with the right care.

BLONDE AND BROWN AFRO HAIRSTYLES

This is one of the best natural hairstyles for Black women. Embrace your black girl magic and rock your curls proudly in an afro. This voluminous style has a fun and lively feel, especially with a blend of blonde and light brown hues.

COLORED HAIRSTYLES FOR BLACK WOMEN

Looking for a fresh and unique look? Try a choppy cut with side bangs like this one. The combination of red and pink shades adds a glamorous touch, and it suits Black women beautifully. The choppy layers fall just below the chin, making this haircut ideal for round faces.

UNIQUE BRAIDS WITH BEADS

Unique braids with beads are super cool! They’re regular braids with pretty beads added to them. You can use different colors and sizes of beads to make your hair look really special. It’s like adding little pieces of jewelry to your hair!

BOUNCY CURLS WITH BRAIDS

Why choose between braids and curls when you can have both? Take inspiration from the hairstyle shown here, which blends bouncy curls with cornrow braids. The tight braids on one side and the cascading curls on the other create a stunning look. Short curly hairstyles for Black women are always in style and add a touch of elegance.

LIGHT BROWN PROTECTIVE BRAIDS

Light brown protective braids are a great way to keep your hair safe. These braids are usually long and look like rope. They come in a light brown color. Because they’re tight, they help your hair grow and stay healthy. They also look really stylish!

CURLY MOHAWK WITH DESIGNER EDGES

Looking for an edgy black hairstyle? Check out this one: it features bouncy curls styled into a voluminous mohawk, with shaved sides that add a bold twist. The line design on the shaved sides enhances the style, making it even more fabulous.

BRAIDED BUN WITH FLOWERS

Natural black wedding hairstyles are both fun and stunning. This particular look showcases a bride wearing her natural hair in a halo braid, complemented by a low bun. The tiny flower accessories enhance the elegance of this beautiful style.

MID-LENGTH BEAUTIFUL MIDDLE-PARTED CURLS

Mid-length curls with a middle part look really pretty. Your hair falls down your shoulders in bouncy curls. The part in the middle makes your face look nice and balanced. It’s a style that’s easy to wear and makes you look stylish.

GORGEOUS LONG CROCHET BRAIDS

Gorgeous long crochet braids are like magic hair! They look like real braids but are actually made by hooking hair onto your own braids. They can be super long and bouncy, and come in lots of colors. It’s a quick way to get beautiful, long hair without waiting for your own hair to grow.

CHUNKY DREADLOCKS

Dreadlocks are really popular right now! They’re like cool, rope-like twists in your hair. Adding white thread to them makes them look even cooler and helps them keep their shape. Dreadlocks are easy to take care of and don’t need a lot of fussing. They’re perfect for people who want a stylish and low-maintenance hairstyle.

MICRO TWISTS IN BRAIDS

When you’re unsure what to do with your hair, try a half-up, half-down hairstyle like this one. These straight-back micro braids are playful and stylish. Half of the braids are gathered into a ponytail at the crown, while the rest are left loose, creating a stunning effect.

BOUNCY TOUCHABLE CURLS 

Bouncy touchable curls are like soft, springy springs on your head! They look and feel amazing. You can run your fingers through them and they bounce right back. This style is fun and playful, and it makes you feel good.

MODERN BLACK NATURAL HAIRSTYLES

Here’s a trendy hairstyle for Black women that embraces natural hair texture. This look features a modern blend of braids and curls. Four tiny, symmetrical braids frame the front, while the hair from the crown and below flows freely. The bouncy curls at the back beautifully balance the polished front, creating an incredibly glamorous effect.

ELEGANT SIDE-PARTED LONG BLACK HAIR

Elegant side-parted long black hair is super classy! Your hair is long and black, and you part it on one side. It looks fancy and makes you feel confident. It’s a style that’s perfect for special occasions or just when you want to feel extra special.

STUNNING BRAIDED BUN HAIRSTYLES FOR BLACK WOMEN

When you’re not sure what to do with your hair, braids are always a great choice. This hairstyle for Black women offers a touch of extra flair. The Fulani braids, enhanced with red extensions, are twisted into an elegant and intricate updo. The rich red color and detailed bun create a regal and eye-catching look.

THICK 3C SPIRAL CURLS 

Thick 3C spiral curls are like bouncy, tiny springs! They’re really curly and close together. Your hair looks full and has lots of volume. Because the curls are so tight, it can be a bit tricky to keep them moisturized, but when they’re healthy, they look amazing!

BLACK NATURAL HAIRSTYLES IN DUAL SHADE

Searching for vibrant hairstyles for Black women? Look no further. This hairstyle is ideal for those who want to add color without blending in with the crowd. Featuring dual shades and natural curls, it offers a unique and striking look. You can choose any color combination you like to make it truly your own.

BRAIDS FOR BLACK WOMEN IN A PONYTAIL

You’ve probably seen plenty of ponytail hairstyles, but here’s one with a modern twist. Check out the hairstyle shown here, which features a mix of thin and thick braids gathered into a high, curly ponytail. What sets this look apart is the golden cuff that holds the ponytail together, along with the stylishly shaped edges.

CHIC CORNROW BRAIDS

Box braids are a great hairstyle for Black women! They’re comfy, stylish, and protect your hair. You can make them long or short, and they look good on everyone. Don’t forget to style the edges for a super polished look.

BOX BRAIDS WITH PASSION TWIST 

Box braids with passion twists are a super cool mix! You have regular box braids, then some of them are turned into passion twists. It’s like having two different styles in one. The passion twists add a curly, bouncy look to the box braids. It’s a fun and creative way to wear your hair.

RIHANNA HAIRSTYLES FOR BLACK WOMEN

Rihanna’s simple updo is so chic! Her hair is sleek and smooth, pulled back into a pretty bun. It’s not too tight, and sits perfectly on her head. She has a few wispy pieces of hair around her face, which makes it look even nicer. It’s a classy and easy hairstyle to copy!

AFRO WITH A HAIRBAND

A bandana isn’t the only accessory to keep your beautiful, bouncy curls in place. Try using a stylish hairband to push your afro away from your face. This will add a fresh dimension to your look while making your hair more manageable.

LIGHTLY CURLED LONG BOB

A lightly curled long bob is a stylish haircut. Your hair is cut short around your chin, but it’s longer than a regular bob. The ends of your hair are softly curled, giving it a bouncy and playful look. It’s a modern and easy-to-manage hairstyle that looks good on almost everyone.

NATURAL BRAIDED UPDO HAIRSTYLES FOR BLACK HAIR

Braids for Black women create a stunning look when styled into a bun, making them perfect for wedding hairstyles. This particular example showcases a simple, fun, and elegant style where boxer braids are tied into a low bun. To add extra definition and flair, the braids are beautifully adorned with beads.

AFRICAN HAIRSTYLES WITH DREADLOCKS

You can still show off gorgeous dreadlocks even with short hair. With the help of some hair extensions, you can achieve sleek, polished dreadlocks like the ones pictured here. Enhance the look by adding stylish cuffs to elevate the glam factor of your hairstyle.

LONG FRIZZY CURLS

Long, frizzy curls cascade down, a wild and untamed mane full of personality. They bounce with every movement, a playful dance of texture and volume. While they might require extra care to tame, their effortless beauty and undeniable charm make them a captivating sight.

CORNROWS FOR AN EDGY TWIST

This is an amazing braided hairstyle for Black women that adds a unique twist to the usual straight hair with wavy ends. The style featured here offers inspiration to elevate a simple look with an edgy flair. Cornrows braided on one side bring a bold touch, while the cascading wispy ends on the forehead perfectly balance the edginess, creating a striking and sophisticated hairdo.

THICK CURLED LIGHT BROWN HAIR

Thick, light brown curls create a luxurious, cascading waterfall of hair. Each curl is defined and bouncy, full of life and movement. The color adds a warm, sun-kissed glow, making it a truly enviable mane.

LATEST AFRICAN AMERICAN NATURAL HAIRSTYLES WITH BANGS

Having curly hair doesn’t mean you have to miss out on the bangs trend. In fact, you can absolutely rock bangs with a head full of curls. Take inspiration from Zendaya, who effortlessly pulls off curly bangs like no one else. Embrace your natural texture and let it shine, making you look as stunning as ever.

FULL-LOOKING NATURAL CURLS

Full-looking natural curls boast a captivating volume and texture, creating a head-turning crown of ringlets. Each curl springs to life, showcasing the hair’s natural vitality and bounce. This enviable hairdo exudes confidence and effortless style.

GLAMOROUS COILY WAVES

Tired of your curls? Try switching things up with these chic and stunning finger waves. You can achieve this look with the help of a curling rod, or you can start with Bantu knots. After leaving the knots in for a while, you’ll not only get natural finger waves but also an added boost of volume.

VERY THICK CURLY HAIRSTYLE

Very thick curly hair is a stunning mane of voluminous ringlets that command attention. Its weight and density create a captivating cascade of curls, full of bounce and life. While it might require extra care and styling, the end result is a breathtaking head of hair that exudes confidence and personality.

ELEGANT UPDO HAIRSTYLES FOR BLACK WOMEN

If you love pineapples, why not let that passion inspire your hairstyle? Gather your curls at the top of your head to create a playful pineapple effect. This hairstyle, as shown here, is a perfect blend of fun and sophistication.

WATERFALL DEVACUT

A waterfall DevaCut is a mesmerizing technique that enhances the natural beauty of curly hair. Strands are layered and shaped to create a cascading effect, resembling a flowing waterfall. This cut not only defines curls but also adds volume and movement, resulting in a stunning, effortless hairstyle that celebrates the hair’s unique texture.

STUNNING ASYMMETRIC BLACK HAIRCUTS

This short asymmetrical bob is one of the most iconic Black hairstyles, made famous by Rihanna and embraced by women ever since. The version pictured here features soft, wispy ends that perfectly balance the uneven symmetry. The waves in the front add definition and drama, making this hairstyle both stylish and striking.

JAW-LENGTH BOB WITH BANGS

A jaw-length bob with bangs offers a chic and versatile style. The cut falls just below the jawline, creating a flattering frame for the face, while the bangs draw attention to the eyes. Whether blunt, side-swept, or curtain bangs, this combination adds a touch of edge and sophistication, making it a timeless choice for any occasion.

PROTECTIVE BOX BRAIDS

Protective box braids are a popular hairstyle that shields natural hair from damage and manipulation. The intricate pattern of squared sections and tightly woven braids helps retain moisture and promotes hair growth. They offer a versatile style that can be dressed up or down, making them a go-to choice for many.

CONCLUSION

From classic elegance to bold and edgy, the world of African-American hairstyles offers endless possibilities for Black women to express their unique style and personality. Celebrate the diversity and beauty of Black hair by exploring these 42 stunning hairstyles and finding the one that empowers you to shine.

24 BOOKS TO MAKE YOU SMARTER

Whether you’re looking to brush up on your history, hone your cooking skills, or understand the mysteries of the universe, these fascinating books are here to help. Written by experts in various fields—from physics to farming—these titles are outstanding sources of knowledge that will leave you feeling more intelligent and eager to learn even more. Read on to discover which book you should pick up next.

INVISIBLE WOMEN

Data drives countless decisions in today’s world, yet it often fails to account for gender, leaving women at a disadvantage. In her latest book, Invisible Women, Caroline Criado Perez tackles this gender data gap, exploring how it influences everything from politics to healthcare to technology. This fascinating examination of gender inequality and institutional bias delves into the reasons behind the data gap and underscores the necessity of closing it.

For Small Creatures Such as We

Written by the daughter of astronomer Carl Sagan, For Small Creatures Such as We is a celebration of the beautiful and vast world around us. Sagan explores the meanings behind our most important traditions and rituals—from weddings to funerals—considering them through a secular lens. Richard Dawkins describes it as “a charming book, ringing with the joy of existence,” while scientist Bill Nye notes that reading it will leave you with “a deeper appreciation for your every step, every bite, and every breath.”

The Yellow House

The 2019 winner of the National Book Award for Nonfiction, The Yellow House tells the story of the author’s childhood home: the titular yellow house her mother purchased in New Orleans East in 1961. Sarah M. Broom chronicles her family’s history and their experiences in New Orleans, including the devastating impact of Hurricane Katrina on the house. The result is a poignant memoir that explores themes of family, place, and race.

Jubilee

No “Best Cookbooks of 2019” list would be complete without Jubilee. Toni Tipton-Martin, author of the James Beard Award-winning The Jemima Code, explores 200 years of African American cuisine, introducing readers to over 100 recipes. In addition to learning how to prepare dishes like seafood gumbo and spoon bread, readers will discover the rich history behind these culinary traditions. The New Yorker describes Jubilee as “a testament to the essentiality of African American gastronomy to all of American cuisine.”

Ruffage

You’ll be eager to eat your vegetables after exploring this comprehensive cookbook by Abra Berens, a Midwestern chef and farmer. Berens offers valuable information on how to buy, store, and prepare 29 types of vegetables, leading to 300 diverse and delicious recipes. Ruffage also features compelling essays that delve into each vegetable, providing insight into how farmers view and interact with them.

Hidden Figures

This New York Times bestseller chronicles the contributions of Black female mathematicians who played crucial roles in the Space Race and helped shape the future of the United States. Hidden Figures tells the stories of four women who worked at Langley Memorial Aeronautical Laboratory, following their careers over three decades and highlighting their invaluable work and calculations. Readers interested in the lives of Dorothy Vaughan, Katherine Johnson, and Mary Jackson will also appreciate the Oscar-nominated film based on this inspiring narrative.

Joy at Work

In collaboration with Scott Sonenshein, a Rice University professor and organizational psychologist, New York Times bestselling author Marie Kondo shares valuable tips for improving your professional life in Joy at Work. Whether you’re seeking guidance on managing your inbox, decluttering your desk, or navigating difficult conversations with coworkers, this book has you covered. Kondo’s practical advice makes it easy to implement changes and maximize your productivity at work.

Humble Pi

Who among us hasn’t made a mistake when it comes to math? While our errors may have resulted in a poor grade, the miscalculations explored in Matt Parker’s engaging book had far more significant consequences—think collapsing bridges or failed NASA projects. Ryan North, author of How to Invent Everything, describes Humble Pi as “a charming and very readable guide to some of humanity’s all-time greatest miscalculations,” reminding us that it’s okay to feel a little better about our own mistakes.

The Heartbeat of Wounded Knee

A National Book Award finalist and New York Times bestseller, The Heartbeat of Wounded Knee examines Native American history and culture from 1890, following the massacre at Wounded Knee, to the present day. David Treuer, an anthropologist and member of the Ojibwe tribe, explores various topics, including the role of Native Americans in World War I and the impact of the 1988 Indian Gaming Regulatory Act. He also profiles relatives and friends across the U.S., such as North Dakota teacher Sierra Frederickson and Oglala Lakota chef Sean Sherman.

Midnight in Chernobyl

Adam Higginbotham’s deep dive into the Chernobyl nuclear power plant disaster is a thrilling read, rich with historical detail. Featuring firsthand accounts of the catastrophe and two decades of reporting, Midnight in Chernobyl takes readers from the construction of the nuclear plant to the night of the disaster and its aftermath in the Soviet Union. Higginbotham’s work is described by Hampton Sides, author of On Desperate Ground, as “a triumph of investigative reportage, exquisite science writing, and heart-pounding storytelling.”

American Sherlock

Anyone fascinated by true crime stories will be captivated by Kate Winkler Dawson’s latest book, which explores the life of Edward Oscar Heinrich, one of America’s first forensic scientists. Throughout his career, Heinrich solved thousands of cases, earning the nickname “American Sherlock Holmes” and transforming both forensic science and the American legal system. American Sherlock offers a fascinating portrait of criminal investigation, which Kirkus describes as “an entertaining, absorbing combination of biography and true crime.”

The Color of Law: a Forgotten History of How Our Government Segregated America

In his engrossing and meticulously researched book, Richard Rothstein illustrates how local, state, and federal governments enforced residential segregation through their housing policies. The Color of Law also examines the long-lasting effects of this de jure segregation and its impact on our world today. Sherrilyn A. Ifill, president of the NAACP Legal Defense and Educational Fund, notes that Rothstein “reveals a history of racism hiding in plain sight and compels us to confront the consequences of the intentional, decades-long governmental policies that created a segregated America.”

The Art of Statistics

Using practical examples, statistician David Spiegelhalter illustrates the prevalence and importance of statistics in our world today. Hailed by Publishers Weekly as “both fully comprehensible and valuable in a digitally driven world,” The Art of Statistics serves as an approachable guide to understanding numbers. Readers will learn analytical techniques to solve everyday problems and recognize common mistakes people make when applying statistics.

Talking to Strangers

In Talking to Strangers, Malcolm Gladwell explores how we interact with strangers and where we often go wrong in those encounters, whether by trusting the wrong people or misunderstanding them entirely. The New York Times bestselling author consults a range of experts, from criminologists to military psychologists, to delve into the significance of these interactions and their broader implications. As Oprah Winfrey states, reading this book “will actually change not just how you see strangers, but how you look at yourself.”

Digital Minimalism

Whether you find yourself constantly reaching for your phone or worrying about the news, Cal Newport provides practical solutions for limiting screen time and reducing our dependence on devices. He suggests undertaking a 30-day digital declutter, which involves removing optional apps like Facebook or Twitter from your life. This New York Times bestseller is ideal for anyone feeling overwhelmed by their digital commitments and seeking to engage with technology in a healthier way.

Thinking, Fast and Slow

Ready to rethink everything you know about thinking? In his award-winning and bestselling book, Nobel Prize–winning psychologist Daniel Kahneman explores the two distinct systems that shape our thought processes. System 1 is characterized by speed and intuition, while System 2 involves a slower, more logical approach. Readers will discover the benefits and drawbacks of each system, along with practical advice on how to leverage the advantages of slow thinking.

Salt, Fat, Acid, Heat

The 2018 James Beard Award winner for Best General Cookbook, Salt, Fat, Acid, Heat breaks down cooking into its four titular elements. Author Samin Nosrat — hailed as “America’s next great cooking teacher” by acclaimed chef Alice Waters — explains the science behind each component, providing a solid foundation of knowledge for home cooks of all levels. In addition to a deeper understanding of what makes food taste good, readers will find over 100 recipes to explore, ranging from buttermilk-marinated roast chicken to miso-cured eggs.

Beloved

The Source of Self-Regard is a compelling collection of essays, meditations, and speeches that offers illuminating commentary on race, identity, and art, including the late Toni Morrison’s own award-winning works. Spanning over 40 years, the pieces — such as her 1987 eulogy for James Baldwin — reflect Morrison’s timeless wisdom. As NPR notes, she “tackles headfirst the weighty issues that have long troubled America’s conscience.”

Sapiens

Recommended by figures such as Bill Gates, Barack Obama, and Mark Zuckerberg, Sapiens explores the history of humanity. Historian Yuval Noah Harari takes readers back over 70,000 years to a time when at least six different human species coexisted, examining why only Homo sapiens remain today. This thought-provoking New York Times bestseller will leave you contemplating questions that, as Gates suggests, you’ll want to discuss with your fellow Homo sapiens. After finishing Sapiens, be sure to explore Harari’s follow-up, Homo Deus, which examines the future of humanity.

You Never Forget Your First

You might think you know George Washington, but in You Never Forget Your First, author Alexis Coe offers a fresh perspective on America’s first president. This New York Times bestseller debunks the tall tales we’ve come to accept and presents a well-researched portrait of Washington. Coe’s engaging writing style and sense of humor make it easy to navigate through the biography’s pages.

Successful Aging

In his latest book, neuroscientist Daniel J. Levitin, author of The Organized Mind, challenges how we think about and plan for aging. He emphasizes the importance of focusing on your “health span” rather than just your “life span,” highlighting how factors like diet and friendships significantly influence our well-being as we age. New York Times bestselling author Daniel H. Pink notes that Levitin “debunks the idea that aging inevitably brings infirmity and unhappiness, offering a trove of practical, evidence-based guidance for living longer and better.”

Until the End of Time

Have questions about the cosmos? Until the End of Time offers a profound exploration of our quest to understand the universe and humanity’s purpose. Physicist Brian Greene delves into topics ranging from the Big Bang and black holes to the interplay between science and religion, ultimately examining what the future holds for humanity. The New York Times describes the book as “a love letter to the ephemeral cosmic moment when everything is possible.”

Because Internet

Whether you’re a language enthusiast or an emoji lover, you’ll find Because Internet to be an engaging read. In this New York Times bestseller, internet linguist Gretchen McCulloch combines humor and insight to explore how the digital age is rapidly transforming our language. She delves into the origins of online communication trends, explaining why we enjoy everything from memes to using lowercase letters for emphasis.

The Body

In this captivating read, you’ll discover everything you need to know about your body, from anatomy and evolution to illness. Through intriguing facts and entertaining anecdotes, the beloved author Bill Bryson dispels misinformation and common myths, shedding light on the “thousands of rarely acknowledged tasks our bodies manage as we go about our daily lives.”

CONCLUSION

These 24 books offer a gateway to a world of knowledge, sparking curiosity and challenging our perspectives. Whether delving into the complexities of human nature, exploring the vastness of the universe, or understanding the intricacies of society, these literary gems invite us to think critically, question the status quo, and expand our intellectual horizons. As we embark on this intellectual journey, let us remember that the true power of reading lies not only in acquiring knowledge but in cultivating a lifelong love of learning.