Braiding hair is not the only way to get a cool protective hairstyle. Kinky twists are just as fun, diverse, and easy to do. Want a natural-looking protective style? Try them! They can be done in a variety of ways, by playing with length, color, accessories, and styling options. They are not only great as a protective look for your natural hair, but also add memorable style moments.
@truehairlovesalon
Natural looks often feature daring hair color combinations, and this one is no different. Here, the deep black shade is accented with shiny golden blonde curls at the ends.
Shorter layered hair is soft and manageable. It’s devoid of bulkiness, and so cute in movement. A pretty golden chain and occasional hair cuffs are a beautiful way to accessorize your hairdo. Plus, it’s practical, since it holds the face-framing pieces from falling into your face.
@itsdonnalianne
By now, it’s pretty clear – a bob works with just about any hair texture. This edgy take on the bob is intensified by marsala hair color, curled tips, and deep side bangs.
@rocksonmiss
This style demonstrates just how appealing natural updos can be. These dark brown braids with light brown highlights are nonchalantly gathered up, with extra-long bangs swept to the side.
@carlynexoxo
This multi-angle shot displays a 360 view of an amazing French-braided updo. Here, the braid hugs the head, running to one side and leaving lush bangs out. Looks chic!
@returning2natural
Long spirals are unarguably the best way to go when you want a textured loose hairstyle with no frizz and excessive volume. The longer the style, the more styling options and freedom you’ll have. Take, for instance, this side-swept style that requires little-to-no effort, while looking totally fabulous.
@themariaantoinette
Give your hairdo some added color by creating a gorgeous ombre effect. Two-tone braids are adorable in Mohawk updos and buns. Here’s a perfect hairstyle – in color, texture, and silhouette.
@kinkycurlybeauty
Next time you visit a hair salon, consider a variation with curly ends. Leaving the bottoms of your plaits loose and curled gives your look a fun, feminine edge. The style in the photo frames the face nicely and is perfect as a lightweight, happy summer option.
@mahoganydesignsunlimited
Add some pretty color to your bob and make it really stand out. Have some fun and give a bright hue, like purple or maroon, a shot. The shade can be woven sporadically into each strand so the style shows only some glimpses of color. Your hair will look like a prismatic masterpiece.
@modernsalon
Take a more formal approach to your hair if you’re attending a dressy event. Separate the front pieces and sweep them across the face like bangs. Gather the rest of the hair to the top of the head and pin it down with bobby pins. This look is ideal for a date night or a black-tie affair.
@modernsalon
If you’re contemplating how to add a personal touch to your coif, consider color. While natural, raven-colored plaits are all well and good, coppery, auburn braids are lovely and, more importantly, totally unexpected. Make the shade transition nicely from light to slightly darker, so you’ve got a well-blended balayage effect.
@michellebraiding
Headed to a fancy soireé or a hot date? Try an interesting updo that will make those braids a bit more refined than your everyday style. And don’t worry about making it too complicated. Simply create a messy bun and allow a few strands to fall down your forehead like wispy bangs.
@modernsalon
Take your locs on a vacation and let them fly free. Wear those small strands loose and natural around the shoulders, topping them off with a beautiful, exotic flower. Floral accents are perfect for adding a little special something to an otherwise plain hairstyle.
@healthysoutherngourmet
A crimson color adds a fiery element to your look. The color may also be subtle, but it’s still super noticeable when worn in half-updos and ponytails, so don’t be afraid to experiment a little.
@american_salon
Shoulder-length strands don’t need to be basic. Give your ‘do an upgrade by making a few (yes, just a few) braids blonde. This will brighten your dark hair without being a total hair overhaul. Sometimes the smallest adjustments and accents produce the biggest payoff.
@modernsalon
Try more than one trend by wearing your crochet braids in a long bob. This shape allows for plenty of versatility and styling options, so don’t worry about being limited there. You can go half-up, pony-style, or even the bun route.
@duendemanes
If you’ve got a round face shape, a side part is a great way to elongate it. So, next time you style your hair, try sweeping it over and let it fall to one side. It may seem like a small change, but you’ll definitely notice a difference in your appearance.
@allthingscrie
Everyone loves a good hybrid style that thick bobbed plaits deliver. Because of its shorter length and layers, the look takes on a fuller, more voluminous shape. Think of it as a sort of afro.
@reasonforhair
The pure simplicity and chicness of the style are hard to ignore. All you need to do is throw on an elastic headband to sweep the hair back and – voila – an instant hairdo. This is perfect for those days you don’t have a ton of time to fuss with your small braids.
@dr.danielle.renee
Are you overwhelmed with endless images of hairstyles and not even sure where to begin? Start with the easiest and most classic style in the book: a ponytail. Throw your hair up into a casual pony and top it off with a funky headband. Simple as can be, the look delivers a cool, glam vibe.
@beautybysheri
Achieving a seemingly complex and flawless hairstyle is easier than it appears. Sometimes it’s just a matter of upgrading a current hairstyle you’ve already mastered. Secure your kinky twists half up with an elastic band. Then take the rest of your hair and pull it into a loose low braid.
@meetmarquita
You can make your bob-length style even more interesting by curling the ends. This will add some body, enhance the texture and shape of the look, especially if you have layers.
@modernsalon
If you’re still skeptical about red and black hair, try this on for size. Make red more prominent on the bottom half of the hair and layer out the locks for structure and shape. This will make the color look like it’s cascading down your back.
@smartstyles6642
A bandana is a simple way to accessorize your hairstyle for the day. Your thicker braided strands are beautiful on their own, but a cute, festive accessory ups the ante for sure. This look is perfect for a picnic, pool party, or other summer-centric event.
@talaahairbraiding
Even short hairstyles are far from boring, and the full-frontal hairdo proves this for sure. Strategically braid your hair to the front and allow it to hang loosely onto your forehead, creating a faux fringe.
@kinkycurlybeauty
Your protective styles don’t get any easier than this one. This top knot is one of the best ways to fashion an updo. It’s worn high on the head and slightly off to one side. Customize it with a hue that complements your skin tone.
@blossomshopch
You do not need extra-long plaits to come up with a beautiful formal updo. This discreet hairstyle is conservative yet stylish, and very flattering to a variety of face shapes.
@earthy_sa
The best way to add depth and dimension to your hair is to opt for a layered style with highlights. These highlights are bright, and they do a great job of adding shine and accentuating the texture.
@stylesbyjaleesa
One way to personalize your hairstyle is to add spiral curls to the ends. They will create a lovely texture that looks particularly flattering in ponytails, half-updos, or loose buns.
@american_salon
Here is another example of an adorable color and styling combination. The style is short, but the texture and feel it gives are inimitable. And the light chocolate and blonde shades are simply gorgeous!
@modernsalon
This photo gallery is packed with inspo on how to style and color your kinky twist hairstyles to give them a fun, flirty, conservative, or edgy look of your choice.
