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15 BEST MEDIUM-LENGTH HAIRSTYLES FOR BLACK WOMEN

A mid-length hairstyle is the perfect choice for those who want a balanced, low-risk look. Despite being “mid-length,” these styles are far from dull. Their versatility offers a happy medium between the upkeep of a shorter bob and the commitment of extra-long hair. Mid-length cuts are both stylish and practical, making them an appealing option for many. Take a look at our top 15 mid-length hairstyles below!

SHOULDER LENGTH BOB

Kahlana Barfield Brown’s shoulder-length bob always gives me major hair envy. If you’re looking to recreate her waves, a curling wand is an easy go-to tool. One pro tip I picked up while straightening my own hair is to pin curl it at night after styling. This helps keep the waves intact and looking fresh the next day!

Asymmetrical Lob

The lob, or long bob, is a collarbone-grazing style that works beautifully for all curl types. To give it a more edgy, relaxed vibe, try parting your hair off-centre—this will add extra volume on one side and create a less “polished” finish.

Locs

Hair discrimination against Black women remains an issue in the workplace, particularly for those with locs. However, trailblazers like Ava DuVernay inspire us to embrace and celebrate the hairstyles that are unique to us, reminding us to wear them with pride.

Layered Curls  

If you’re lucky enough to have thick, bouncy curls, a layered cut might be perfect for you. This style is designed to create a softer, more rounded shape and is often done on dry curls to ensure the best result. To enhance your natural curls with added texture, a curling wand is your go-to tool for defining those layers even more.

Curly Puff with Fringe

Yara Shahidi always nails her look. If you’re not ready to wear all your curls down, a puff with fringe is the perfect compromise, offering a stylish way to showcase your curls without going all in.

Curly Fringe

Add a touch of allure to your curly hairstyle by incorporating a fringe. Whether you let a few curls fall softly over your forehead or sweep a fuller set forward, a fringe can instantly create the look of more volume and bounce, enhancing your overall style.

Bold Colored Wig

Regina Hall’s Met Gala look was a whole vibe. It wasn’t just the sleek middle part and silky texture that stood out—the pop of color added an unexpected twist. While achieving shades like pastel pink can be risky for dark roots due to the damage from bleaching, that doesn’t mean you can’t rock the look. A great wig and a boost of confidence are all you need to pull it off without compromising your curls.

Angled Lob

For a chic and sophisticated look, try an inverted lob. This style is cut slightly shorter in the back, allowing for a front that frames your face beautifully. It’s the perfect way to show off your wild locks while adding a touch of elegance to your overall look.

Faux Locs

Protective styles like faux locs offer a great way to switch up your look while giving your hair a much-needed break from daily styling. You can wear them as they are for a sleek, natural vibe, or add colorful hair accessories or highlights to make your locs stand out even more.

Straight Lob

The collarbone-grazing long bob is ideal for straight hair, particularly if your locks lack natural volume. As the ends hit your décolletage, they’ll create a natural flick. To style, use a round brush while blow-drying to curve the hair under your chin, or keep it sleek and straight. Tucking one side behind your ear adds an impression of texture and effortlessly enhances the overall look.

Bantu Knots

Bantu knots serve a dual purpose: they act as a protective style while also stretching coily hair. By twisting wet hair into bantu knots and allowing them to dry, you can achieve stunning beachy waves once you take them down. This technique not only protects your curls but also enhances their natural texture in a stylish way.

Textured Lob

Even the straightest hair can gain texture with the addition of layers. These layers help frame your face, accentuating features like your eyes and cheekbones. For extra volume and texture at the roots, try light backcombing and finish with a spritz of hairspray to hold the style in place.

Hair Wraps

During my journey growing out my Big Chop, wraps became my go-to accessory. Not only did the printed fabrics enhance my wardrobe, but they also helped my hair grow by minimizing manipulation of my 4C coils. While learning to tie a wrap can be tricky, I recommend watching a few tutorials to find a method that suits you best. With a little practice, you’ll be able to style them effortlessly!

straight Side-Parting

A simple way to elevate your hairstyle is by opting for a side parting. Whether it’s your natural part or not, shifting your hair to one side creates a cool, edgier vibe. This is especially effective if you have more hair on one side; parting it on the thicker side can help create balance.

Side Swept Afro

If you’re searching for a style that’s perfect for a special occasion or want to highlight your cheekbones, Kia Marie’s side-swept fro is an excellent choice. This look beautifully frames the face and adds an elegant touch to any outfit, making it a standout option for any event.

CONCLUSION

The journey to finding the perfect hairstyle for natural hair is a personal one. It’s about discovering what makes you feel confident and beautiful. Whether you opt for a classic look like the Afro or a trendy style like the locs, the key is to embrace your natural texture and experiment with different styles. So, go ahead and explore the 15 hairstyles we’ve presented in this article. With a little creativity and care, you can rock your natural hair with style and confidence.

5 SIMPLE LOWER BACK STRETCHES FOR INSTANT PAIN RELIEF

Are you tired of lower back pain? You’re not alone. A recent study revealed that lower back pain is a leading cause of disability worldwide.

While addressing the root cause is crucial for long-term relief, we understand that sometimes you need a quick fix. That’s where these five simple yet effective stretches come in.

Let’s dive into these easy-to-follow exercises that can provide instant relief from lower back discomfort.

SITTING STRETCH

Let’s continue with the wall trend for another gentle and easy lower back stretch.

It may look simple, but I promise you’ll feel this stretch in the back of your legs, from your calves to your hamstrings, and you might also experience a gentle pull along your entire back.

How to perform:

  1. Sit against the wall with your legs extended in front of you.
  2. Move your hips as close to the wall as possible, ensuring they align with your shoulders to keep your back straight.
  3. Keep your legs straight with your toes pointed up.
  4. Hold this position for 30 seconds.

WIDE SQUAT WALL STRETCH

Let’s keep using the wall for another one of my favorite stretches!

The wide squat wall stretch is similar to the legs-on-chair pose, as it provides relaxation for your spinal and lumbar muscles. However, this stretch also opens up the hips, which is beneficial since tight hips can contribute to lower back pain. Plus, it’s an easy and relaxing stretch that helps calm your nervous system.

How to perform:

  1. Sit against the wall, as close as possible, and lie back.
  2. Position your feet on the wall as if you were squatting against it.
  3. Point your toes slightly outward, keeping your knees aligned with your toes.
  4. Scoot your buttocks as close to the wall as you can; the closer you get, the more intense the hip stretch.
  5. You can keep your arms at your sides or extend them overhead for an additional shoulder stretch.
  6. Remember to breathe deeply and hold this position for at least 30 seconds.

COUNTER STRETCH

Here’s another one of my favorite lower back stretches for quick pain relief that I do daily. It’s especially beneficial for those who spend long hours in front of a screen. This stretch will help lengthen your spine, open your chest, and provide the relief you need.

How to perform:

  1. I prefer doing this against a wall, but you can also use the back of a chair or a counter.
  2. Stand facing the wall and place your palms at shoulder height, spreading your fingers wide.
  3. Keep your hips above your feet, lean your torso forward, and let your chest sink down.
  4. Relax your shoulder blades while engaging your quads and thighs.
  5. If necessary, take a few steps back until you reach a 90-degree angle.
  6. Aim to arch your lower back to flatten it out.
  7. Your knees don’t need to be straight—just do your best.
  8. Lock your elbows and avoid letting your hands slip down.
  9. Hold the stretch for at least 30 seconds, and remember to breathe deeply throughout.

LEGS ON CHAIR POSE

While this isn’t exactly a stretch, it’s a pose that provides quick relief for lower back pain. I love it because it’s simple yet incredibly effective for relaxation and alleviating discomfort. I also find it helpful for sciatica pain.

To perform the pose, lie on your back and elevate your calves and feet on a chair, aiming for a 90-degree angle in your knees.

Pregnancy Tip

If you’re pregnant (as I am while writing this), you may have been advised to avoid lying on your back during the second and third trimesters. Unfortunately, this means it’s best to skip this pose while pregnant.

This position allows for maximum relaxation of your lower back muscles, letting your back lie flat on the floor without the weight of your legs causing lumbar curvature, as would happen if your legs were straight on the ground.

You can also use this legs-on-chair pose for meditation or breathing exercises.

CHILD’S POSE (BALASANA)

I love starting with Child’s pose because it’s one of my favor

ite yoga stretches for relieving lower back pain and promoting overall relaxation.

We often underestimate how much stress impacts our muscles. Prolonged stress can lead to tension, stiffness, and discomfort, so I try to practice Child’s pose daily.

This pose stretches the back muscles, decompresses the spine, and opens the hips while also calming the mind.

As you hold the pose, focus on slow, deep breaths. It may take some time for both your body and mind to relax and surrender to gravity, so be patient and enjoy the stillness.