hairstyles to get at a salon

21 ADORABLE LOW-MAINTENANCE PROTECTIVE HAIRSTYLES FOR SUMMER

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 summer that are light, low-maintenance, and easy to handle. When the weather heats up, 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.

20 MUST-TRY HAIRSTYLES FOR 2024

Ready to refresh your look for the new year? We’re excited to showcase the hottest hairstyles for 2024. Keep scrolling to discover the most stunning trends of the year!

THE WOLF CUT

The wolf cut is the must-try hairstyle of the moment! Combining elements of the mullet and shaggy cuts, this trend revives the iconic 1970s rock look with longer hair at the back and shorter layers at the sides. With its roots in the hippie and bohemian vibes of the shaggy cut, the wolf cut is incredibly versatile and suits a wide range of people. Celebrities like Miley Cyrus and Billie Eilish have already embraced this bold new look, making it a hot trend for 2024.

THE MODERN RACHEL CUT

The iconic haircut sported by Jennifer Aniston in the ’90s sitcom Friends is making a major comeback! This style features shoulder-length hair with layers cut at varying lengths, creating a rounded, face-framing effect. To achieve this stunning look, consider using a volumizing shampoo to keep your hair light and fluffy, and apply a hair oil or serum for added texture. With a bit of practice, you can master this classic cut at home and enjoy its timeless appeal.

LONG, SLEEK STRANDS

Sleek, long hair has long been a symbol of femininity and elegance. In the 1920s, it was associated with sophistication and mystery, embodying a classic sense of grace. By the 1960s, however, long hair took on a rebellious edge, becoming a statement of unconventional self-expression and freedom. While sleek hair remains a timeless choice, it’s fascinating to see how its meaning has evolved over the decades.

MID-LENGTH CURLY SHAG

The iconic haircut sported by Jennifer Aniston in the ’90s sitcom Friends is making a major comeback! This style features shoulder-length hair with layers cut at varying lengths, creating a rounded, face-framing effect. To achieve this stunning look, consider using a volumizing shampoo to keep your hair light and fluffy, and apply a hair oil or serum for added texture. With a bit of practice, you can master this classic cut at home and enjoy its timeless appeal.

MID-LENGTH CUT

The mid-length cut is an ideal choice for those who want a balance between short and long hair. It’s particularly flattering for thicker hair, offering a natural, effortless look. This versatile style is perfect for the spring season, allowing for a range of styles from beachy waves to sleek updos. With the right styling products, you can easily switch up your look without making a drastic change. If you’re seeking a fresh update that’s both manageable and stylish, the mid-length cut is worth considering.

FUNKY PIXIE

The funky pixie hairstyle is a contemporary twist on the classic pixie cut, featuring shorter layers on top with longer, choppy layers around the sides and back. This cut is often styled to have a textured, messy finish, giving it a fun and playful vibe.

To achieve this look, start with a short, layered haircut. Use products like pomade, wax, or clay to define and separate the layers, creating the desired texture. For added volume and movement, you can also use a hair dryer and a round brush. The result is a modern, edgy style that’s both stylish and easy to maintain.

SLICKED BACK STRANDS

The slicked-back hairstyle is a timeless and elegant choice, especially for women with long hair. It offers a polished alternative to the traditional ponytail, perfect for those who want a chic, updo without the usual fuss. This style exudes sophistication and sexiness, giving you a salon-fresh look. Its popularity on Pinterest and Instagram reflects its growing appeal, making it a favorite among women looking for a sleek and stylish finish.

DIMENSIONAL PIXIE BOB

The pixie bob is a chic, short hairstyle that combines the sleekness of a bob with the edgy appeal of a pixie cut. Typically shorter at the back and featuring longer bangs, it can range from ear-length to chin-length. Adding dimensional highlights can enhance the movement and depth of this cut around the face. Ideal for those seeking both texture and volume, the pixie bob’s versatility and ease of styling make it a timeless choice that never goes out of fashion.

BLUNT COLLARBONE CUT

The blunt collarbone cut is a popular hairstyle for those looking for a low-maintenance yet stylish look. It features a sharp, angled line, not shorter in the back or longer, that runs along the collarbone and can be customized to fit any face shape.

With its versatility, the blunt collarbone cut is perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re headed to a casual brunch or an evening event, this look will have you looking on-trend and ready to take on the day.

CLASSIC LOB

A classic lob is a haircut that falls between the chin and collarbone. It is a versatile haircut that can be styled in a variety of ways, including straight, wavy, or curly. To achieve a classic lob hairstyle, start by having your hair cut into a blunt or slightly graduated bob. You can then style your hair as desired, using products such as mousse, gel, or serum to add definition and hold.

BIG CHOP

The big chop is a bold and trendy hairstyle featuring a dramatic, choppy cut. It doesn’t necessarily mean you have to cut off all your hair; instead, it involves a significant change that can be tailored to your personal style. Communicate with your stylist to choose a pixie cut that complements your face shape.

This haircut is increasingly popular among women looking to make a powerful statement with their hair. It represents a dramatic shift from long to short hair and can be both liberating and empowering, offering a fresh and stylish new look.

SHORT CURLY AFRO

The short curly afro is a standout hairstyle that has recently gained significant popularity. Ideal for those seeking a bold new look or simply wanting to inject some fun and flair into their style, this haircut is perfect for making a statement.

Often considered attractive and sexy due to its rarity and the emphasis on natural texture, the short curly afro draws attention and highlights the uniqueness of your curls. It’s a dynamic choice that sets you apart and celebrates the beauty of natural hair.

STRAWBERRY HIGHLIGHTS

Strawberry highlights have been a popular choice for decades, offering a fresh alternative to traditional highlights and lowlights. These highlights can complement any hair color but are especially striking on light blonde, light brown, and dark brown hair. To achieve this look, typically, a lighter shade of your natural hair color is used for the highlights, while a darker shade is applied for the lowlights. This technique creates a beautiful, sun-kissed effect with rich, multidimensional tones.

TEXTURE ON TOP

Adding texture to a haircut can enhance volume and movement, making it easier to style. Jada Pinkett Smith is known for her stylish and varied haircuts, often featuring textured styles and creative updos that keep the hair off her face. She’s not shy about experimenting with different looks, showcasing a wide range of textured hairstyles. If you’re adding texture with heat styling tools, don’t forget to use heat protectant products to keep your hair healthy.

EDGY UNDERCUT

The edgy undercut is a bold hairstyle characterized by shaved sides and the back of the head, with the top remaining between 3 to 5 inches long. While it can be worn by both men and women, it tends to be more popular among men. Celebrities like Justin Bieber and Scarlett Johansson have helped popularize this look.

Originally known as a “French crop,” this haircut has historical roots dating back to the 19th century, when it was embraced by French aristocrats as a statement of independence from the monarchy. Its enduring appeal continues to make it a striking and fashionable choice today.

FLIPPED-OUT BOB

The Flipped-Out Bob is a trendy hairstyle where the hair is flipped out or back for a playful, dynamic look. This effect can be achieved using a hair dryer and a round brush, or with hot rollers or a curling iron. The bob can range in length from chin-length to just above the shoulders, and the flip’s prominence can be adjusted based on your preference. This style offers a modern twist on the classic bob and pairs well with various makeup and clothing styles, making it a versatile choice for a fresh, stylish appearance.

BEACH WAVES

The beach waves hairstyle embodies a relaxed, carefree vibe, mimicking the natural waves you’d get from a day at the beach. To achieve this look, you can either let your hair air dry after washing or use styling products like sea salt spray or mousse to add texture and volume. Remember, the goal is to keep the waves loose and effortless, so don’t stress about making them perfect. Embrace the natural, tousled look for a chic and laid-back finish.

TWO-TIER INVERTED BOB

The two-tier inverted bob is a modern, sassy haircut that can be customized to complement any face shape. It offers a stylish update without requiring a dramatic change in hair length. This cut features shorter layers in the back, with longer, tapered layers framing the face. The result is a chic, flattering look that combines sophistication with a touch of flair.

BOBS WITH CENTER PARTS

Bobs with center parts gained iconic status in the 1950s, thanks to Hollywood stars like Audrey Hepburn and Marilyn Monroe. This classic hairstyle involves parting the hair down the center and pulling it into two ponytails on either side, which are then braided together to form a braid crown. While this look can be achieved with any hair type, it’s particularly stunning on those with straight or wavy hair, offering a timeless and elegant finish.

WISPY BANGS

Wispy bangs are a fantastic way to refresh your hairstyle without a trip to the salon. They’re easy to create at home with just a few supplies. According to Alex Brown, a Chicago-based hairstylist, “Wispy bangs can add amazing softness and movement to long, thick hair.” Whether you want a subtle change or a more dramatic look, wispy bangs are an ideal option. With a few simple tools and products, you can achieve beautifully soft and lasting bangs that elevate your overall style.

ANGLED BOB

An angled bob is a chic and versatile haircut characterized by shorter hair in the back that gradually lengthens towards the front. This creates a distinctive, angled silhouette that can be tailored to different face shapes and hair textures. The style can be worn with or without bangs, allowing for customization based on personal preferences. Overall, the angled bob offers a stylish, adaptable look that can be adjusted to complement your unique style.

CONCLUSION

In conclusion, the hottest hairstyles for 2024 offer a blend of timeless elegance and modern edge. From the chic angled bob and playful funky pixie to the sleek, sophisticated slicked-back look and the bold, textured beach waves, there’s a style to suit every taste and occasion. The resurgence of classic cuts like the flipped-out bob and short curly afro highlights the versatility and creativity in today’s hair trends. Whether you’re looking for a dramatic change or a subtle update, these trends provide ample inspiration to refresh your look and embrace your unique style.