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21 ADORABLE LOW-MAINTENANCE PROTECTIVE HAIRSTYLES FOR FALL

Every Black girl knows the joy of a great protective hairstyle. Not only do they shield your hair from damage, but they also let you look fabulous while doing it! Choosing the right protective style is a big deal because you’ll likely wear it for a couple of months. So, finding a style that’s both stunning and practical is essential.

This post highlights some fantastic protective hairstyle ideas for fall that are light, low-maintenance, and easy to handle. When the weather gets cold, you don’t want a style that requires too much fuss, which is why I’m a huge fan of protective styles for the season!

CHUNKY BUTTERFLY LOCS

Butterfly twists really have been gaining popularity! It’s great how styles can grow on you—sometimes it just takes a bit of time to appreciate their unique charm. They’re definitely a fresh and fun option for protecting your hair while staying stylish. Have you tried them out yourself, or are you still contemplating?

STITCH TRIBAL BRAIDS

Absolutely, cornrows and stitch braids are both such powerful styles! And that’s a great tip about protecting those baby hairs—keeping your edges intact is crucial for long-term hair health. Do you have a favorite way to style your cornrows or stitch braids?

CORNROWS WITH A FAUX PONY

Braiding cornrows into a faux ponytail offers the perfect blend of intricate detail and voluminous style. If you’re ready to play with color, you can weave it into the cornrows or add a vibrant ponytail for a chic color-block effect. Either way, you’re sure to turn heads!

PASSION TWIST

Passion twists definitely add a fresh and vibrant twist to traditional styles! They have that perfect blend of texture and movement that makes them stand out. Have you tried them out or are you planning to?

FAUX FISHTAIL BRAID

Not all faux ponytails are the same, and Tracee Ellis Ross took it to the next level with this stunning fishtail braid, adding both length and texture. For an ultra-sleek, shiny look, use a hair pomade like Carol’s Daughter Mimosa Hair Honey. It’ll tame flyaways effortlessly and leave your hair looking radiant.

KNOTLESS BOX BRAIDS

Knotless box braids are such a game-changer! They’re definitely a more comfortable and gentle option for your hair. Plus, they look great and can be styled in so many ways. Have you found any particular styles or variations of knotless braids that you love?

FULANI BRAIDS

Enhance the texture of your Fulani braids by styling them with defined baby hairs. With endless parting options—like overlapping braids or geometric patterns—the beauty of this protective style is that you can keep returning to it for a fresh, glowing look without ever feeling repetitive.

JUMBO BRAIDS

Jumbo braids are so popular because they let you spend less time in the salon and require less hair! Plus, they’re absolutely adorable and give off major summer vibes—or is that just me?

BOX BRAIDS

Box braids are a top pick for protective styles for a reason. Not only are they low-maintenance, but they’re also incredibly versatile and never dull. For added flair, try larger sections—this amps up the drama, reduces braiding time, and keeps upkeep simple.

CURLY CORNROWS

This layered cornrow style by celebrity stylist Susy Oludele and Aeon Elliott is anything but ordinary. The curl pattern adds a fun and elegant twist to the classic straight-back cornrows, while the red highlights give it a vibrant pop of color.

FAUX LOCS

“Another great way to put a cool spin on box braids or faux locs is combining textures and curl patterns with extension hair,” says Brown. If you’re looking to elevate your look, try incorporating different colors—don’t shy away from bold contrasts—for a modern twist on this classic protective style.

FULANI BRAIDS WITH BEADS

Solange elevated her Fulani braids by adding beads that nearly cover the entire length. Channel her iconic style by coordinating your accessories—like a statement mask—with your braids for a bold, futuristic vibe. “Shook” doesn’t even begin to describe it!

FINGER-WAVE CORNROWS

Koudou drew inspiration from Beyoncé’s Lion King red-carpet look to craft these striking finger waves. Typically ending at the nape, the added extension offers extra length and the versatility to drape over your shoulder or wrap into a low ponytail or bun. Versatility is always a win!

FLAT TWISTS

This style combines flat twists and Bantu knots, showcasing that there’s no single way to rock protective styles. It’s ideal for when you’re torn between styles. Choose twists laid to the side like these, or go for a straight-back approach.

PLAITED UPDO

Elevate your braids with this stunning updo, crafted by Koudou. Inspired by Yoruba royalty, this look not only leaves you in awe but also honors the ancestors who pioneered intricate, innovative patterns to care for their natural hair. It’s a true celebration of heritage and beauty.

WAVY BANTU KNOTS

These Bantu knots strike the perfect balance between playful and chic with their curved parts and chunky, braided knots. It’s a great reminder that changing up your parting can instantly reinvent a timeless classic.

LOCS WITH HIGHLIGHTS

“Color is such a great way to give your box braids or faux locs a fresh look,” says hairstylist Cristiana Cassell, Chloe Bailey’s warm, highlighted locs were created in collaboration with hairstylist Sparkle. The neutral tones are ideal for fall but can effortlessly transition into winter months.

LONG PONY

Not all protective styles need braids—sometimes the simplest options, like a low bun or a long ponytail, can be just as effective. Elaine Welteroth shows that adding a touch of volume can elevate these go-to looks, turning a standard ponytail into something extraordinary.

FLORAL BOX BRAIDS

Combine box braids into larger sections and add floral accents for an instant update to your protective style. This look is great for fall, but you can easily transition it to winter by swapping the florals for golden rings. The beauty of this style lies in its limitless versatility.

HAIR WRAP

“An overlooked protective style is wearing a scarf,” says Lindsey. “Pulling your hair back into a loose ponytail or plaiting your hair, then wrapping a scarf in a chic style, is definitely an easy protective style that can be worn all year round.” The best part is that you can effortlessly switch up your look by experimenting with different colors and patterns based on your mood.

BRAIDED HEADBAND

Yvonne Orji from Insecure adds a touch of regal elegance to protective braid styles by draping one braid across the forehead like a crown.

CONCLUSION

In conclusion, cute low-maintenance protective hairstyles offer both style and practicality, making them perfect for busy days or just keeping your hair healthy and protected. From jumbo braids and versatile box braids to chic Bantu knots and sleek faux ponies, there’s a range of options to fit every mood and occasion. Experimenting with colors, patterns, and accessories can add a personalized touch, ensuring your look remains fresh and exciting.

HAIRSTYLES FOR THINNING HAIR ON THE CROWN

Thinning hair, especially on the crown, can be a confidence-booster. But fear not! With the right hairstyle, you can cleverly disguise those areas and boost your overall look. This guide will explore various haircuts, styling techniques, and hair care tips to help you embrace your hair and feel fabulous. Let’s dive in and discover how to create a fuller, more voluminous appearance.

SHORT AND CHIC: EMBRACING PIXIE CUTS AND BOBS

Shorter hairstyles are often an excellent choice for concealing thinning hair on the crown, as they add volume and texture, helping to mask sparse areas.

The Edgy Pixie: The pixie cut is a timeless classic that is both chic and versatile. Its short layers and choppy texture create the illusion of fullness while drawing attention to your facial features. You can experiment with different lengths and textures, opting for a spiky pixie for a bold look or a soft, feminine pixie with wispy bangs for a gentler style.

The Versatile Bob: The bob is another fantastic option, offering numerous variations to match your personal style. A classic chin-length bob with blunt ends provides instant volume and structure. For a contemporary twist, consider an angled bob or a long bob (lob) that sits just above your shoulders. Layers can also be beneficial, adding movement and dimension to fine hair.

LONG AND LOVELY: STYLING TIPS FOR GORGEOUS FLOWING LOCKS

Even with longer hair, you can achieve stunning styles that camouflage thinning on the crown.

The Illusion of Volume: Adding volume at the roots is crucial for long, thinning hair. Try blow-drying your hair upside down for maximum lift, or use a volumizing mousse or root-lifting spray. Texturizing sprays can also add grit and body, making your hair appear thicker.

Strategic Partings: Deep side parts can create the illusion of a fuller head of hair. Experiment with different partings to find what works best for your face shape and hair type. Incorporating braids or twists along the part can add interest and help conceal sparse areas.

The Updo Advantage: Updos are a lifesaver for those with thinning hair. A messy bun, chic chignon, or playful braid crown can all effectively cover the crown while still looking stylish. For extra volume, tease your hair slightly at the roots before creating your updo.

ACCESSORIZE WITH STYLE: HEADBANDS, HAIRBANDS, AND MORE

Hair accessories can be your secret weapon for disguising thinning hair.

Headbands and Hairbands: These versatile accessories add instant style and can cover sparse areas at the hairline. Choose bold prints, delicate designs, or embellished bands to match your personal taste.

Scarves and Bandanas: Tie a colorful scarf or bandana around your head for a bohemian vibe while camouflaging thinning on the crown. Experiment with different tying techniques to create unique looks.

Hair Toppers and Extensions: For those with significant hair loss, hair toppers and extensions provide extra coverage and volume. Consult a hairstylist to find the right option for your needs and ensure a natural-looking result.

REMEMBER: CONFIDENCE IS EVERYTHING

Ultimately, the best hairstyle for thinning hair is the one that makes you feel confident and beautiful. Embrace your natural texture and experiment with different styles until you find something you love. Remember, hair loss is a common experience, and there are countless ways to rock your unique look with grace and style.

Regular Trims: Getting regular trims helps prevent split ends and keeps your hair healthy, making it appear thicker.

Scalp Massage: Stimulating your scalp with a gentle massage can increase blood flow and promote hair growth.

Healthy Hair Habits: Eating a balanced diet, getting enough sleep, and managing stress all contribute to healthy hair growth.

With a little creativity and these helpful tips, you can embrace your thinning hair and rock any hairstyle with confidence. So, go forth and flaunt your fabulous mane!

CONCLUSION

Thinning hair on the crown can be a challenge, but it doesn’t have to define your look. By understanding your hair type and experimenting with different hairstyles, you can effectively camouflage thinning areas and create a stylish, confident appearance.