is one box of hair dye enough

30 STYLISH TAPERED HAIRCUTS TO ENHANCE NATURAL CURLS

Natural hair offers a wealth of stunning styling options. There’s a vast array of protective styles, creative ways to enhance and volumize curls, and numerous methods to rock shorter lengths. Additionally, you can explore various undercuts, mohawk-inspired designs, and sleek looks. Among these, tapered haircuts stand out as a favorite for styling natural hair.

Tapered haircuts feature varying lengths that create a distinctive gradation, ranging from low fade buzz cuts to asymmetrical bobs and long curly layers. The beauty of tapered haircuts lies in their versatility; they can be tailored to match your hair type, curl pattern, length, and face shape, resulting in a personalized style that suits you perfectly.

To spark inspiration for your next salon visit, we consulted two professional hairstylists who have curated a list of the 30 best tapered haircuts for natural hair, along with expert styling tips. From Amandla Stenberg’s tapered box braids and Angela Bassett’s layered curls to Danai Gurira’s buzzcut styles and Zendaya’s modern pixie, explore these top looks to find the perfect tapered haircut for you.

CLASSIC POMPADOUR

A modern twist on the pompadour focuses on achieving maximum volume. You can replicate a tapered cut by pinning the hair to the sides or keep the hair trimmed or buzzed everywhere except the top. This approach allows you to maintain a striking, voluminous style with a contemporary edge.

SIMPLE SALT & PEPPER

Simplicity has its own charm, especially in the natural hair world. You don’t need elaborate designs, complex dye jobs, or long lengths to make a statement. Embrace a chic, peppery short ‘do and let your unique features shine through effortlessly.

SHORT POMPADOUR

The timeless pompadour consistently enhances one’s style, as perfectly exemplified by model Maria Borges.

ASYMMETRICAL SIDE

Don’t hesitate to get creative with your haircut. For example, this asymmetrical cut features soft edges on both sides, forming a striking geometric look that showcases inventive styling.

CONVENTIONAL CUT

If you’re not keen on getting too close with the clippers, consider a long, layered pixie tapered haircut. This classic and timeless style complements curly textures and beautifully frames the face. It’s also a great option for naturals with fine hair who want to add more volume and depth to their look.

PIXIE WITH BANGS

Add a boyish-glam touch to your pixie cut by incorporating sweeping bangs. Finish off the style with a shine spray to enhance the sleek, polished effect.

FRIZZY FRO

Embrace the humidity and its natural frizz. Your curls will appear even more voluminous, creating a halo-like effect around your face.

ACCESSORIZED WITH A HAT

Choosing a tapered haircut doesn’t mean you have to forgo dressing up your natural curls. In fact, you can experiment with colors and accessories to enhance your look. A wide-brimmed hat is a chic way to complement your tapered style and add an extra touch of flair.

CURLY FADE

We adore Cynthia Erivo’s subtle, curly fade haircut. It adds texture and dimension to her look, striking the perfect balance between laid-back elegance and high glamour.

GROWN OUT TAPERED CUT

A tapered cut is stylish, but it also looks fantastic as it grows out. When your curls lengthen, you can use techniques like finger coils and twist-outs to define and enhance your hair’s shape and texture.

DIP-DYE FRO

While fro-hawks are popular, this dip-dyed tapered haircut offers a fresh twist. Shave your sides and create a large “Z” pattern for a unique look. When you’re heading out, style your hair to the front and pin or tie it in place to showcase your lightened curly ends.

COMB-OVER FRO-HAWK

Make a statement like Rihanna with this dynamic haircut. “I love seeing women rock a fro-hawk,” says Bailey. “The fro-hawk is a daring style with versatile options. With the sides typically faded, tapered, or closely trimmed, the real drama happens at the top or along the center of the head.”

SOFT CUT

Channel Rihanna’s bold style with this striking haircut. “I love seeing women embrace a fro-hawk,” says Bailey. “The fro-hawk is a fearless choice with lots of versatility. While the sides are usually faded, tapered, or closely trimmed, the real impact is made at the top or along the center of the head.”

TAPERED BOX BRAIDS

Elevate your protective style with a touch of tapered length for a subtle yet eye-catching detail that adds a hint of flair.

VOLUMINOUS BOB WITH BANGS

Boost the volume of your curls for a tapered, stylish look. Simply apply a curl-defining product to your strands to achieve a well-coiffed and controlled style, reminiscent of Solange’s signature flair.

TAPERED AFRO

For naturals in stage two of their hair journey, joining the tapered haircut trend is easy by keeping the hair shorter at the back. This creates a choppy, medium-sized afro that retains definition while adding style. To enhance the look, fluff up the front and pull a few strands to achieve wispy curls, making your cut truly stand out.

CURLY COIFFURE

Keep your curls voluminous at the top of your head while tapering the rest to a shorter length, drawing attention to your crown. If you love this style but prefer not to commit to a tapered cut, achieve a similar effect by gathering your hair into a high puff.

PEEKABOO CUT

Surprise and captivate with a hidden undercut design. Style your box braids into a high bun to showcase your shaved sides, creating a visually striking contrast. Pulling your hair up will reveal the tapered cut, offering a stylish and attention-grabbing twist.

ASYMMETRICAL CURLS

An asymmetrical cut is a timeless choice, and you can personalize it by embracing your natural texture. This style remains stylish and allows you to highlight the unique qualities of your curls or waves, making the look distinctly your own.

AUBURN WAVES

Naturalistas looking to enjoy the benefits of short hair without a drastic chop can enhance their look with a teeny weeny afro. The key to this style is to keep your hair short enough to stay manageable while long enough to showcase your natural texture.

Use a boar bristle brush to smooth baby hairs or create soft waves, and consider a monthly (or weekly) auburn rinse for a touch of color. The Mason Pearson Handy Mixture Bristle Hair Brush is ideal for achieving the perfect finish.

ASYMMETRICAL BUZZCUT

Embrace a punk-inspired look by shaving one side of your hair, while letting the other side showcase your curls or featuring box braids for a stylish protective option. This contrast creates a bold and versatile style that combines edgy flair with practical hair care.

HIGH FADE

A high fade allows you to achieve the flat-top look without the hassle of maintaining height. Simply buzz the sides of your head for a clean finish. The contrast between the shorter sides and the longer top creates a striking, gender-neutral style that’s both sleek and sophisticated.

BOLD FRO-HAWK

If daring is your style, you’ll love the idea of a colorful frohawk. Ask your stylist to buzz the sides, create a distinctive shape—like a shaved lightning bolt—and add some bleach for extra impact. Choose any color you like, but a vibrant shade adds personality and pairs well with neutral outfits. The standout feature is the playful shape, which adds a fun, bold touch without taking itself too seriously.

LONG, TAPERED CURL

Anyone with curls knows that each bend can create a trompe l’œil effect, but you can enhance this illusion by adding real layers for even more shape and dimension. This approach not only emphasizes the natural texture but also adds depth and movement to your curls, making your hairstyle even more striking.

BUZZ CUT WITH DESIGNS

Keep your style sharp and eye-catching with a buzzcut that incorporates unique designs. Whether you opt for various sizes, shapes, or personal messages, your scalp becomes a canvas for creativity. The possibilities are endless, allowing you to make a bold statement with your haircut.

GINGER SNAP

No matter which tapered haircut you choose, adding a ginger hue can give your style an edgy, alternative vibe. This vibrant color enhances the look, providing a fresh and eye-catching twist to your tapered cut.

ICY TRAIL

If you’re ready to transition from long natural hair to a vibrant fashion color, this clean fade is the perfect choice. Opt for a close shave on the sides to let the deep side steal the spotlight, and add an icy, gunmetal blue for a striking, contemporary look.

TAPERED PIXIE

Pair a pixie cut with tapered sides for a wispy, stylish look that’s both cute and easy to maintain—just remember regular touch-ups with clippers or your stylist. For an extra touch, sweep the top into a soft mohawk for added flair and versatility.

ARTSY COLORS

“Tapered cuts are like blank canvases, offering clients the chance to get creative and express their style almost artistically,” says Dent. “You can opt for cut designs that reflect your personality or mood, incorporating clean lines, swirls, or even shaved artwork. Plus, you can style it with curls, twists, faux locs, and coils—or, in this case, with vibrant dye.”

CURLY FRO-HAWK

For a timeless yet edgy look, sweep the sides of your hair up and style them into a curly faux frohawk. To add even more impact, stretch out your curls to enhance their volume and create a bold, standout style.

FAQ

1.How can I maintain a natural tapered cut?

One key aspect of tapered cuts is their tendency to grow out quickly. To keep your style looking sharp and fresh, aim to schedule a barber appointment every 2 to 3 weeks.

2.How can I fake a tapered cut?

If you’re drawn to the tapered sides but hesitant to fully commit, try creating a faux hawk. Divide your hair into 2 or 3 vertical sections, slick up the sides to form ponytails, and fluff each ponytail to achieve a cohesive, uniform look.

36 AMAZING GODDESS BRAIDS HAIRSTYLES THAT WILL MAKE YOU SAY ‘WOW!”

Let’s be real—goddess braids are straight-up magical! The moment you get them done, it’s like pow—an instant confidence boost. You’ll be serving looks left and right, channeling your inner queen. There are 36 gorgeous goddess braids hairstyles to obsess over—everything from bold warrior braids to pretty halo plaits. Each one is handpicked to hype up your natural beauty and complement your features, and we guarantee you will say “wow” because of their appeal! These braids transform you into royalty, hunty. Let’s get started!

GODDESS BRAIDS IN A ZIGZAG UPDO

Goddess braids styled in a zigzag updo offer a blend of playful charm and sophistication. The braids are first arranged in a zigzag pattern across the scalp, creating a striking visual effect and setting it apart from traditional straight-back styles. Once the zigzag pattern is in place, the braids are gathered into an updo—whether it’s a high bun, a series of twists, or an elaborate design that continues the zigzag theme. This style highlights the intricate braiding pattern and is also a practical way to keep hair away from the neck and face, making it a versatile choice for both casual and formal occasions.

GODDESS BRAIDS WITH ACCENTS OF GOLD THREAD

Goddess braids embellished with gold thread exude an air of regal elegance and luxury. The braids are usually large and striking, and the gold thread woven through them adds a shimmering effect that catches the light and attracts attention. Depending on your preference, the gold thread can be applied sparingly for a subtle sparkle or wrapped more densely for a bold statement. This style transforms a classic goddess braid into a more festive and glamorous look, making it a popular choice for events like weddings, celebrations, and holidays where a touch of shine and opulence is desired.

GODDESS BRAIDS WITH LACY PATTERNS

Goddess braids with lacy patterns offer an intricate and delicate twist on the classic style. The term ‘lacy’ describes the intricate designs created on the scalp using thin braids woven together to resemble lace fabric. This eye-catching style stands out for its detailed craftsmanship and the skill required to achieve it. The braids can be arranged in various patterns, from geometric shapes to curves and swirls, mimicking a lacy overlay on the scalp. Due to its elaborate nature, this type of goddess braid is often reserved for special occasions and serves as a statement hairstyle that’s both elegant and artistic.

GODDESS BRAIDS HUMAN HAIR

Goddess braids made with human hair involve using 100% human hair extensions to create a protective style. This approach provides a more natural look and feel, allowing the braids to move and flow like natural hair. Human hair braids can be washed, conditioned, and heat-styled, similar to one’s own hair, and can be dyed to match the wearer’s hair color or to add highlights. While they are a premium option and generally more expensive than synthetic alternatives, human hair braids offer superior versatility and a more realistic appearance. This makes them a favored choice for special occasions or for those seeking a high-quality, long-lasting braided style.

GODDESS SMALL BOX BRAIDS

Goddess small box braids are a refined variation of traditional box braids, characterized by their smaller size. Hair is sectioned into small squares (or boxes) across the scalp, with each section braided individually from root to tip. These braids can vary in length from waist-length to bobbed styles, and despite their smaller size, they offer versatility for different looks, including updos, buns, and ponytails. The smaller braids often appear more natural and can create a fuller look, though the installation process can be time-consuming. To enhance the goddess effect, some braids may feature curly or wavy ends, adding a soft, romantic touch. This style is ideal for those seeking a protective option that reduces daily manipulation of their natural hair, and it can be maintained for several weeks.

GODDESS TWIST BRAIDS

Goddess twist braids are a variation of goddess braids that use the two-strand twist technique instead of the traditional three-strand braid. This method creates a softer, more voluminous appearance compared to braids. Additionally, twist braids are gentler on the scalp and hair, as they typically exert less tension.

GODDESS BRAIDS WITH COWRY SHELLS

Cowry shells are used to embellish goddess braids, either attached to the ends or spaced along the length of the braids. This decorative touch adds a cultural or bohemian flair to the hairstyle, with the shells’ natural white color providing a striking contrast against the hair.

GODDESS BRAIDS WITH A HEADBAND

In this style, a headband is paired with goddess braids, serving either to push the front braids away from the face or as a decorative accessory. The headband can range from a simple, elegant band to a more elaborate design, potentially embellished with jewels or flowers.

MEDIUM GODDESS BRAIDS

These braids strike a balance between long, flowing braids and shorter, more practical ones. They provide enough length for versatile styling options—like buns, ponytails, or half-up, half-down looks—while avoiding the added weight of extra-long braids.

BLONDE GODDESS BRAIDS

Blonde goddess braids can be created with natural blonde hair or by adding blonde extensions. This results in a striking, high-contrast effect, particularly for those with darker hair. The blonde hue adds a contemporary twist to the classic style, with options ranging from platinum to honey blonde.

GODDESS BRAIDS PONYTAIL

The goddess braids ponytail gathers the braids at the crown or back of the head into a ponytail. The braids can be left as they are, woven into a single, thicker braid, or twisted together. This style merges the neatness of goddess braids with the practicality and sporty appeal of a ponytail.

SHORT GODDESS BRAIDS

Short goddess braids are perfect for those with shorter hair or those who prefer braids that don’t extend far beyond the shoulders. While still styled in the goddess braid fashion, these shorter braids offer a lighter, more manageable option.

GODDESS CROCHET BRAIDS

This protective style starts with braiding the natural hair into cornrows, followed by using a crochet hook to add hair extensions. Goddess crochet braids often feature curly or wavy pieces left out at the ends, creating a voluminous and flowing effect. It’s a versatile option that typically requires less time and exerts less tension on the scalp compared to other braided styles.

GODDESS MOHAWK BRAIDS

The Goddess Mohawk merges the daring style of a Mohawk with the elegance of goddess braids. The sides of the head can be braided, twisted, or slicked back with gel to highlight the raised “Mohawk” in the center. The central braids are typically thick and prominent, running from the forehead to the nape of the neck, creating a classic Mohawk silhouette.

GODDESS BRAIDS WITH A MIDDLE PART

This hairstyle features a bold middle part with goddess braids on either side. The braids can flow straight back or be styled into different designs, maintaining the symmetry created by the middle part. The hair is parted down the center to achieve a balanced look, with goddess braids installed on each side. These braids are typically directed away from the face, flowing down the back or arranged around the head in a crown-like fashion. The middle part frames the face, offering a flattering appearance for many face shapes.

GODDESS BRAIDS FISHTAIL

Goddess braids merge into a fishtail braid at the back, starting with classic goddess braids—thicker cornrows braided close to the scalp. As the braids reach the back of the head, they transition into a fishtail braid. This braid is crafted by splitting the hair into two sections and alternately crossing thin strands from each side, creating a herringbone pattern that mimics a fish’s tail. The fishtail braid adds an intricate touch to the protective and stylish goddess braids.

GODDESS BRAIDS WITH A BOW

Goddess braids with a bow blend the sophistication of goddess braids with the playful or feminine touch of a bow. Goddess braids, which are thicker and larger than traditional cornrows, can be styled in various ways—straight back, in a halo, or in intricate patterns. As a protective hairstyle, goddess braids can last from several days to weeks, offering a stylish way to promote hair growth while keeping hair neat and well-styled.

GODDESS BRAIDS BUN

Goddess braids styled into a bun create an elegant and polished appearance, ideal for formal events or professional settings. The bun adds a classic flair to the protective nature of goddess braids, neatly tucking the hair away and delivering a sophisticated silhouette.

COLORFUL GODDESS BRAIDS

Colorful goddess braids infuse vibrant hues into the classic goddess braid style, achieved either with colored hair extensions or by dyeing natural hair. This contemporary twist on a traditional look offers a way to express personal style and can range from subtle highlights to bold, eye-catching colors.

GODDESS BRAIDS WITH LOOSE ENDS

Goddess braids with loose ends offer a stunning and versatile look by blending the sleekness of cornrows or large, flat braids with the free-flowing beauty of loose hair. In this style, braids are plaited close to the scalp and left loose at the ends, resulting in a mix of textures and a relaxed, bohemian feel.

DIAMOND PARTING GODDESS BRAIDS

Diamond parting goddess braids are a striking variation of the classic goddess braids, characterized by a distinctive diamond-shaped pattern in the parting of the hair. This geometric design adds an extra layer of complexity and style to the braids, creating a precise and eye-catching aesthetic that is both unique and fashionable.

MERMAID GODDESS BRAIDS

Mermaid goddess braids create a beautiful, sea-inspired look. Begin by braiding the hair close to the scalp into cornrows, then blend the ends into curls at the ends of the hair. Finish the beachy vibe by embellishing the braid ends with white strands of hair the color of sea sand. This whimsical, coastal style not only showcases your natural hair’s growth but also evokes a charming, aquatic atmosphere. Use this unique braided design to channel your inner sea queen.

GODDESS BRAIDS HALO

Goddess halo braids, or crown braids, are a classic and elegant hairstyle that features braiding the hair in a circular pattern around the head, creating the appearance of a halo or crown. This style offers a regal and romantic touch and can be customized to fit different hair types and lengths.

GODDESS FEED IN BRAIDS

Goddess feed-in braids involve adding extensions to individual loose braids to achieve added length and volume. The feed-in technique integrates extensions seamlessly, avoiding the need for tiny strands of natural hair. The result is a bohemian style with a polished finish, ideal for enhancing medium to coarse textures. The extensions provide flexibility in length, color, and texture, creating loose, undone braids that exude an effortlessly chic goddess vibe.

JUMBO GODDESS BRAIDS

Jumbo goddess braids are a striking and elegant hairstyle that combines the boldness of larger braids with the intricate, regal appearance of goddess braids. This style features fewer, thicker braids that make a strong statement while also serving as a protective option for natural hair.

LONG GODDESS BRAIDS

Long goddess braids offer a stunning, elongating hairstyle. Begin by braiding the natural hair into cornrows close to the scalp, then extend the braids into extra-long goddess braids that flow gracefully down the back. These extended braids create an elegant and eye-catching look. Enhance the style with gold beads or cuffs at the ends for a touch of glamour. You can also wrap the braids into a bun or ponytail for a different look. Long goddess braids provide a striking way to protect and style your natural hair as it grows, allowing you to feel like a goddess with these glamorous, flowing braids.

GODDESS BOB BRAIDS 

Goddess bob braids offer a stylish and modern twist on the classic braided bob, combining the ethereal charm of goddess braids with the sleek, defined lines of a bob haircut. This hairstyle is known for its blunt, even length and often includes softer, more feminine braiding patterns, such as curls or waves.

GODDESS BRAIDS WITH CURLS

Goddess braids with curls create a captivating and feminine look by blending the sleekness of braids with the playful charm of curls. This style typically features cornrow-style goddess braids with the ends left loose and curled, or includes curly extensions to add volume and length.

GODDESS KNOTLESS BRAIDS

Goddess knotless braids offer a relaxed, effortless look by avoiding knots for a more natural, carefree style. Unlike traditional braids, these are freehanded, allowing your natural hair texture to shine through and the braids to gradually loosen over time. The result is a low-maintenance style with a graceful, feminine touch. Ideal for medium to long, natural or textured hair, they work best with medium to large braids to achieve a full, thick appearance.

SIDE-SWEPT GODDESS BRAIDS

Side-swept goddess braids offer an elegant twist on the classic goddess braid hairstyle. This style features the braids swept to one side, creating a graceful, asymmetrical look that is both striking and sophisticated.

GODDESS BRAIDS WITH BEADS 

Goddess braids with beads create a captivating and personalized look by combining the elegance of large, cornrow-style braids with the vibrant, decorative touch of beads. This hairstyle, rich in cultural heritage, serves as a contemporary symbol of beauty and identity.

BOHEMIAN GODDESS BOX BRAIDS

Bohemian goddess box braids combine the free-spirited essence of goddess braids with the structured elegance of box braids, offering the best of both worlds. This dreamy boho style blends loose, crimped goddess braids with defined parts and uniform box braid tails, providing versatile styling options. Whether worn flowing freely or crafted into trendy updos, this hybrid protective look requires minimal maintenance and promises carefree summer beauty all season long.

TRIPLE-LAYERED GODDESS BRAIDS

Triple-layered goddess braids elevate the bohemian style to dramatic new heights. Featuring three intricately braided rows stacked down the back, this bold look adds striking volume and dimension to your protective style. Embrace your inner goddess with the captivating movement and flair of these stacked braids. Perfect for festivals, vacations, or everyday life, triple-layered goddess braids bring effortless glamour to all your warm-weather adventures.

GODDESS BOX BRAIDS

Goddess box braids merge two popular protective styles into a single, low-maintenance look. These braided wigs blend the bohemian, crimped texture of goddess braids with the neat uniformity of classic box braids. Featuring defined parts and braided lengths, goddess box braids offer versatile styling options—wear them down, pulled up, or twisted into a top knot. Enjoy the ease and flexibility of this dynamic style throughout long summer days and weekend getaways.

HALF-UP, HALF-DOWN GODDESS BRAIDS

Half-up, half-down goddess braids are the perfect summer protective style. Featuring braided hair pulled up and flowing loose down the back, this look is both feminine and chic. The half-up design offers airflow on warmer days while keeping your lengths protected in elegant, free-flowing plaits.

GODDESS BRAIDS UPDO

The goddess braids updo creates a sophisticated braided look. Begin by braiding the hair into cornrows close to the scalp. Then, braid the ends of these cornrows into larger, flowing goddess braids. Gather the goddess braids into a high ponytail and coil them into a bun, leaving a few braids out to frame the face. Secure the bun with pins. This updo highlights the intricate braid pattern while keeping the hair neatly off the neck. The goddess braids updo is a stunning protective style ideal for formal events or weddings.

CLASSIC GODDESS CROWN BRAIDS

The classic goddess crown braid begins at the hairline and gracefully curves around the head. This single, thick braid resembles a regal circlet, making it perfect for special occasions or weddings. For added flair, small braids can intersect the main crown braid, enhancing its elegance.

CONCLUSION

There you have the list of 36 goddess braids hairstyles. So, why not embrace your inner goddess and explore the endless possibilities of these captivating hairstyles? With a little practice and imagination, you can create a truly unique and unforgettable look that will leave everyone saying “wow.”