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One of the most empowering parts of natural hair is how incredibly versatile it is. Braids, twist outs and updos are among some of the beautiful ways you can experiment with your stands. Apart from having fun with styles and even different colors, natural hair can also be worn in a variety of patterns regardless of length.
Whether you have short hair, medium hair or long hair, you can draw inspiration from this selection of the best natural hairstyles we've seen worn by your favorite celebrities. If you’re in the mood to create some art with your hair, you can opt for a more elaborate look or go for an easy and quick ‘do. There is also a great range of protective hairstyles to try, including box braids and cornrows.
No matter if you’re thinking of going for, we’ve got you covered. Some of these ideas can be done at home, while others will require a trip to the salon, but any of these gorgeous ideas can easily become your new everyday look.
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1
Gray Moment
Going gray can be exciting. Mara Brock Akil, embraces her gray strands and curly locks with this textured low ponytail.
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2
Full Fro
If you’re 1970s obsessed, or just interested in experimenting with the shape of an afro, then you can you can learn a thing or two from the icon herself Diana Ross. This perfectly shaped afro is achieved through combing out the curl and picking the hair at the root.
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3
Head Wrap
Headwraps have been a part of natural hair care for centuries. Beninese musician Angélique Kidjo is known for her patterned headscarves. The significance of headscarves even holds a lot of weight in the United States. According to, National Park Service, in Louisiana, many Creole women used the tignon cloths to create elaborate headscarves and wraps.
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4
Sleek Bun
A slicked back bun is one of the most popular natural hairstyles and is easy to achieve regardless of your hair styling skills. Yara Shahidi wears a gelled bun at the Emmy Awards.
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5
Platinum TWA
Do blondes have more fun? We don’t know! But Solange’s platinum TWA (teeny weeny afro) is giving everyone a little bit of blonde ambition.
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6
Red Tease
Chaka Khan is known for two things: her unique voice and voluminous hair. Chaka’s violet red hair, has become synonymous with the singer. This style is achieved by coloring the hair violet red and teasing out the curl.
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7
Silk Press
If you want to ditch the relaxer but wear sleek straight hair, then a silk press is the perfect alternative as this heat styling technique works for all curl patterns. Zendaya wears her bone straight style on the red carpet.
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8
Pearls
Pearls don’t only go on your neckline! Alicia Keys applied adhesive pearls onto her hair for the Met Gala. A wonderful idea for a special event.
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9
High Top
Take your hair to new heights, literally, with a high top style. It will let your beautiful facial features shine.
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10
Defined Curls
Let your natural texture radiate like former First Lady Michelle Obama. For ultra-defined ringlets, try using a gel for curly hair right when you get out of the shower.
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11
Wave Pattern Micro Braids
Micro braids take a bit of extra time, but for hair like Beyoncé, they're totally worth it. A wave pattern makes these braids look regal and unique.
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12
Braids with a Headband
This easy hairstyle can be worn in any situation. If you have box braids, throw them back with a headband to keep them out of your face. Try a plain black headband like Tiffany Haddish, or mix it up with a fun pattern.
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13
Side Swept Twist Out
Go for a curly and voluminous twist out for maximum impact. Sweep strands to one side like Taraji P. Henson to keep it cool.
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14
Fluffy Afro
Iman is undoubtedly a fashion icon — but we should be talking about her hair, too. Channel her by keeping your hair natural and sporting it in an afro for an effortless effect.
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15
High Half Bun Braids
Try this half-updo, seen on Gabrielle Union, for a fun twist on a casual style. To achieve this look, box braids are pulled up into a half bun, but the end of the braids are left out for a cascading face frame.
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16
Side-Pinned Coils
This style looks chic and sophisticated — and bonus, it's easy to achieve. Let your natural texture shine through, styling in a deep side part, then pin back one side like Issa Rae.
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17
Long Pigtail Braids
Impossibly long pigtail braids with embellishments are the height of cool. Part your hair straight down the middle like Janelle Monáe to keep them sleek.
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18
Side Cornrows
You don't have to braid cornrows straight back — take it from Keke Palmer. Mix up typical cornrows by braiding them toward either side. The result? Sleek, stylish strands.
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19
Braided Bangs
Long box braids will always be in style. Take them to the next level by adding shorter braided bangs, like Lupita N'yongo. These bangs add drama to any look, but to make them even more show-stopping, some carefully placed beads are always a good idea.
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20
Side-Pinned Twist Out
Looking for an easy way to put a twist on long, voluminous curls? Take some inspiration from Kerry Washington by middle parting your hair, then pinning the top of each side down. This look is so versatile, you can dress it up or down.