From Afros to Bantu Knots: 30 Hairstyles that reflect African American Culture and Community

Hair has held significant symbolic value in African American culture. The intricate braiding techniques and decorative styles, which are derived from African culture, demonstrate Black women’s creativity and expertise. Hairstyles tell stories of tradition, ingeniously preserved during persecution when resources were scarce. As discrimination persisted even when after enslavement, hair became a platform for expressing pride in identity and natural beauty in opposition to white beauty standards that devalued black features. African American hairstyles, from bold Afros to loving cornrows, tell stories of resilience and beauty, weaving history into living art. Today in this article I am going to highlight 30 hairstyles that reflect African American culture and community.

1. Cornrows

A picture a girl in cornrows. Photo by Ben Iwara on Unsplash 

Cornrows are an iconic braided hairstyle in African American culture, where the hair is intricately braided flat to the scalp in straight rows. The origins of cornrowing hair dates back centuries as a popular style across African communities. The name “cornrows” comes from the braids’ resemblance to cornfields, and the style rose to prominence again in the 1960s as the Black Pride movement embraced them as a symbol of rejecting Euro-centric beauty standards and proudly celebrating natural black beauty. Over the years, cornrows have continued to evolve into countless creative variations in pattern, style, and decoration while maintaining their cultural significance of displaying African ancestry.

2. Twists

Twists are a staple hairstyle within black culture that involves sectioning hair and twisting two strands tightly around one another to form coils of hair resembling rope and dreadlocks. The twisting technique creates clearly defined, stretched-out curls that can be done on both natural hair and added extensions. Twists are extremely versatile, able to be worn at varying lengths from chin to waist and sizes from micro to jumbo. They can be left in for weeks as a protective low-maintenance style. The style nods to traditional African continental styles while introducing creativity.

3. Dreadlocks

A man with dreadlocks. Photo by Dorrell Tibbs on Unsplash 

Dreadlocks also referred to as locs, are a symbolic hairstyle associated with Rastafarian culture formed by allowing hair to mat into thick ropelike coils. As hair naturally tangles and knots over long periods without combing, the resulting dreadlocks represent nonconformity through resisting manipulation and embracing a more organic state. Within the Rastafarian religion, dreadlocked hair carries spiritual meaning representing concepts like inner strength, endurance, and pride by allowing hair its natural form. Across cultures, dreadlocks symbolize pride in natural hair and heritage, standing tall against standards of straightness and embracing untamed beauty.

4. Box braids

Box braids are a beloved, versatile black hairstyle involving braiding hair into small, square sections that resemble boxes. The technique of intricately braiding hair into boxed rows close to the scalp has been practiced by African women for centuries and allows for decorative styling by braiding in extensions. Box braids represent a protective style that nurtures the hair underneath by minimizing manipulation and sealing in moisture. Box braids, with their sharp lines and endless artistic possibilities, celebrate tradition, beauty, and black hair’s unique health and history.

5. Flat Twists

Flat twists. Vlogger known as “As Told By HER”, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Flat twists are a popular technique in black hairstyling involving twisting sections of hair tightly against the scalp to create a braided cornrow-like appearance. They serve as an excellent protective base for many styles, neatly smoothing hair while allowing versatility. Flat twists can be worn as-in in creative parts or patterns or used to achieve stretched-out curls by untwisting after a day or two. They are commonly incorporated into updos by pinning or gathering twisted hair into buns or ponytails. Flat twists combine traditional cornrowing with convenience, lasting long and hugging the scalp, making them both functional and elegant expressions of black hairstyling skill.

6. Twists outs

Twists out are a popular technique for creating defined curls by first twisting the hair tightly and then untwisting to allow the coils to spring free into a curl pattern. Doing a twist out on natural hair results in bouncy, stretched-out curls that create volume and fullness. The resulting big, curly afro-textures hair becomes a symbol of natural hair pride embracing texture instead of feeling pressure to chemically straighten hair to fit narrow mainstream beauty standards. Twists outs can be worn on short or long hair, with products used to enhance the longevity of the shapely coils. As a versatile curly style achieving maximum curl definition, the twists out allow black women to celebrate the inherent beauty and versatility of textured hair.

7. Faux locs

Faux locs. Photo by Jabari Timothy on Unsplash 

Faux locs offer a temporary way to mimic the look of long, thick dreadlocks without the high maintenance. Achieved by intricately wrapping synthetic hair extensions around neatly braided cornrows laid closest to the scalp, faux locs provide the visual appeal of locs with more convenience. Unlike real locs, faux locs offer a temporary, protective style. Weaved-in extensions shield natural hair from heat and chemicals, promoting its health. Bouncy and customizable, faux locs let you experiment with daring styles, colors, and lengths without commitment. This innovative approach marries convenience and artistry, showcasing the boundless creativity and self-expression within Black hair culture.

8. Afros

The Afro is a well-known hairstyle that evolved in the 1960s and 1970s as a powerful symbol of Black pride and identity during the civil rights movement. Rather than chemically straightening or smoothing natural kinks and curls, the Afro lets hair stand freely in a rounded, voluminous halo that embraces the distinctive texture of black hair. As a political celebration of African lineage, the Afro’s gravity-defying shaping pays homage to the beauty and cultural significance found in Black hair wearing its natural coil pattern proudly. This style remains deeply meaningful as an expression of both power and unapologetic ownership of cultural heritage.

9. Bantu Knots

Bantu Knots. Photo by Mike Von on Unsplash 

Bantu knots are made by twisting sections of hair into tight coils that are fashioned across the head to resemble little buns or knots. This technique, which originated in African culture, creates a fun sculptural design while also providing a defensive purpose. Bantu knots reduce breakage by neatly confining hair without effort, maintaining moisture, and allowing for varied styling that can tolerate sleep. More than merely beautiful, the gravity-defying dotted knots celebrate black hair adaptability and African origin via function, nourishing hair as ancient wisdom is passed down through generations.

10. Goddess Braids

Flowing like waterfalls, goddess braids are more than just a protective style. They evoke the elegance of African deities and queens, adorned with rich symbolism like beads and shells. This unbound expression celebrates natural beauty, blessings, and the inner power of Black womanhood. Wearers connect to their heritage and ancient ancestors with each cascading braid, praising femininity and bringing back memories of ethnic pride.

11. Weaves

A piece of a weave. geehairimages, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Weaves are a popular hairstyling technique that provides temporary transformation. Weaves allow black women to experiment with straight, long lengths, and vibrant ombre colors that are not possible with their natural hair by supplementing it with extensions via braids, clips, or glue. More than just convenience, weaves allow you to express yourself by experimenting with significantly varied styles that can be changed without hurting your own hair. Weaves symbolize creative freedom.

12. Sister locks

Sister locks are a unique, trademarked locs hairstyle featuring uniformly thin locks styled into intricate symmetrical patterns across the head. The neat, funky look nods to traditional African dreadlocks’ symbolism of spirituality and commitment to the natural hair journey. By combining uniformity with organic dread forms, Sister Locks blends modern convenience with cultural connections, achieving an almost futuristic loc look requiring consistent upkeep. The distinctive appearance makes a statement of both tradition and innovation inspired by the energy and pride within natural black hair.

13. Fulani Braids

A picture of fulani braids.

Fulani braids represent a distinctive cornrow style originating from the Fulani people of West Africa. The hair is braided tightly to the scalp in straight rows down the center and both sides of the head, often accessorized with cowrie shells or metal beads woven directly into the braids. These long cornrow variations allow black women to stay connected to specific African regional lineage through honoring ethnically significant styles. The ornamentation nods to wealth and womanhood, with center parts symbolizing focus. Fulani braids blend reverence for Fulani heritage with modern black hair culture’s love for cornrows.

14. Ghana Braids

Ghana braids are a protective cornrow style that originated in the West African country of Ghana and has neatly braided geometric designs across the head. Skilled hands meticulously weave rows of whirling fractals, curving lines, zigzags, or checkered boxes, each pattern highlighting the rich texture of black hair. Ghana braids, adorned with colored threads or gold beads, allow wearers to proudly display national culture through regal, ornamented cornrow constructs that require artistry and patience. Ghana braids weave together stunning visual trickery, cultural connection, and skillful artistry into one beautiful style.

15. Crotchet Braids

A picture of a girl in crotchet baids. Photo by Baptista Ime James on Unsplash 

Crochet braids allow synthetic hair to be crocheted directly onto natural hair using a special needle for a seamless protective style. Popular styles include faux locks, twists, braids, and waves, achieved by carefully crocheting hair through cornrows laid flat to the scalp. Crotchet braids provide versatility in both texture and length, blending easily with natural hair. As extensions are woven through rather than glued or sewn, little tension is placed on real hair while granting customizable options. Crochet braids seamlessly intertwine innovation and versatility, embodying the beauty and functionality of ever-evolving Black hairstyling traditions.

16. Pineapple Updo

The pineapple updo refers to gathering and tying natural curly hair on top of the head, resembling a pineapple fruit. Typically worn to bed, this loose topknot protects curls overnight by minimizing friction, keeping strands coiled together on top instead of splayed across the pillow. As curls remain clumped in their natural curl patterns, volume is maintained for the next day. The pineapple method has become a popular overnight trick for preserving black hair’s coveted texture, bounce and definition. This practical style turns functionality into playful symbolism, using the iconic fruit to celebrate tightly coiled hair in its natural glory.

17. Finger waves

Finger waves were more than just a haircut; they were artistic resistance. Black women of the Harlem Renaissance used their fingers as tools to meticulously build S-waves that cascaded with charm and sophistication. Each ripple defied expectations, telling stories of ethnic pride, resilience, and an unwavering creative spirit. Finger waves were more than just waves; they were symbols of resistance and self-expression, symbolizing the era’s struggle for individuality and freedom.

18. Frohawks

A picture of a man with a frohawk. Uncredited White House photographer, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons

The frohawk represents a fusion of the retro Mohawk with proudly natural African American hair sides and back are precisely shaved or braided flat, but longer hair left on the crown and forehead allows volume to leap upward. The frohawk’s lofty puff, which displays full, gravity-defying height at the center strip, pays homage to cultural symbols such as the Afro by refusing to suppress coil and curl. The frohawk, a defiant Mohawk softened by textured grace, represents independence and history, with its creative pinnacle serving as a canvas for vibrant self-expression.

19. Braided Bangs

Braided bangs offer an easy personality boost to any hairstyle. Just a few simple three-strand plaits, swept sideways or down the middle, instantly soften the face with an edgy flair. These versatile beauties work with curls, braids, weaves, or relaxed hair, adding a personalized touch without going overboard. Braided bangs add personality while reducing forehead frizz for a cool and functional look.

20. Loc petals

Loc petals transform dreadlocked hair into floral art, separating and fanning out locs segments into delicate petal shapes resembling natural flowers. Requiring both a rooted commitment to the deadlocking journey and artistic vision, loc petals display versatile creativity. Locs can be worn organically freeform or precisely separated into flower buds by color or layer, becoming blooming works of hair sculpture. The resulting image whether a sunflower, rose or wildflower remains organically recognizable while heightening the beauty present in dread’s uncombed state enhanced through meticulous styling imagination. Dreadlocks transform into artistic flowers with numerous petals, demonstrating their blossoming flexibility.

21. Kinky twists

Kinky Twists.

Kinky twists are a protective style utilizing textured hair extensions with curls and kinks that closely resemble textures found in black hair. Achieved by two-strand twisting the extensions onto natural cornrowed hair, kinky twists allow both convenience and authenticity. As the coils match seamlessly with natural tight curls, kinky twists move fluidly rather than appearing overly styled. Kinky twists offer both protective styling and natural texture celebration, embracing your God-given beauty with versatility.

22. Headwraps

Headwraps represent a creative African diasporic tradition involving wrapping vibrantly patterned fabrics around braided hairstyles. Materials like flamboyant African gele, Tamil Indian dukaree, or luxurious silk twist elegantly adorn cornrows, burn, or bald heads with flashes of color and texture. Beyond decoration, headwraps protect styled hair, absorbing sweat during hot days. Each pattern and style whispers stories of heritage, connecting wearers to their ancestors and showcasing diverse cultural roots through timeless fashion statements. These globally inspired coverings are more than just hair accessories; they’re powerful expressions of self and identity, boldly woven with a rich tapestry of history.

23. Flat ironed hair

Flat ironing involves using hot iron plates to smooth and straighten curly hair, transforming textures and ringlets into a sleek, elegant cascade. As heat temporarily rearranges curls into fluid lines, this style allows versatility from short crops to longer lengths. When hair is pressed slick and glossy, volume deflates into chic, controlled movement. Though historically associated with conformity to white beauty standards, flat ironing remains popular for special events or elegant touches paired with natural volume on top. More than just styling tools, flat irons hold history and empower creativity, shaping hair into diverse textures with a single stroke.

24. Havana twists

Havana twists are a popular protective style that involves ropelike two-strand twists created with textured Havana-type hair extensions. The synthetic S-shaped curls, named after the Caribbean Island nation, resemble Latino hair textures and may be treated into chunky twists that go well with black hair. Havana twists are more voluminous and flexible than classic slim twists, providing bouncy curl definition evocative of strands twisted back with bobbi pins for decades. Their coiled loops curling downward inspire nostalgia while offering custom styling options for twist size and length. Havana twists bridge the gap between past and present, their modern volume echoing vintage crimped styles in a fresh tribute to cherished traditions.

25. Sleek ponytail

A lady in a ponytail. Photo by donald modeste on Unsplash 

The sleek ponytail is a very common hairstyle that involves pulling the hair tightly back and securing it into a low or high ponytail. The hair is smoothed down to create a polished, finished appearance. Applying gel or edge control pomade along the hairline gives the style its distinctive sleekness and lays down any stray hairs or flyaways. The tightness of the pull on the scalp helps stretch the curls straight back into a streamlined ponytail. Whether worn for an everyday look or a special occasion, the sleek allure of this hairdo projects class, sophistication, and flawless beauty. When paired with the right outfit, the sleek ponytail commands attention and respect through its sculpted, shapely simplicity.

26. Top knot bun

The top knot bun is a popular hairstyle in African American communities for its versatility and ease. To form this effortless yet put-together look, simply gather your hair up smoothly to the crown of your head, twisting it into a rounded bun shape. Wrap any loose hair neatly around the base and secure the entire bun firmly in place at the top of your head with bobby pins and hair ties. This allows for a perfectly imperfect bun that looks elegantly undone.

The height of the bun adds volume, while its messy yet controlled form lends texture and dimension. Top knot buns can be sculpted small for elegance or larger for making a statement. This style suits natural curls, straight hair, braids, and weaves alike – part of its popularity comes from how flattering it looks regardless of hair length or texture. Allowing short hair to be worn up and long hair to be casually piled on top of the head, the top knot bun exudes easy confidence and carefree grace in its countless permutations.

27. Puffballs

A picture of puffy hair. Raftylolis(gangster bugs), CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Puffballs add a dose of fun and sass to African American hairstyling culture. To create puffballs, the hair is sectioned into even round portions, then twisted or braided into tight spirals all over the head. Each section is then wrapped or rolled onto itself until a rounded, pillow-like puff takes shape. The puffs can be left to stand out all over the head or carefully shaped to complement facial features. Allowing short and long hair types to be styled whimsically, puffballs project youthfulness, playfulness, and confidence through their strategically sculpted fullness. Bouncing with personality. These textures and puffs of hair mirror the energetic creativity embedded in African American hair traditions. Puffballs celebrate natural volume in its most joyful, unrestrained form.

28. Finger coils

Finger coils create bouncy, springy curls that celebrate the African American hair’s natural texture. To form finger coils, small locks of hair are wrapped tightly around the finger into a spiral shape. Unraveling the hair from around the finger leaves behind a well-defined and elongated coil that repeats from root to tip. Finger coils boost volume for a playful, youthful look while accentuating the hair’s innate tight curl formation. When cared for properly, finger coils last days without losing their bold spiral structure, making re-coiling less frequent.

29. Halo braids

A picture of halo braids. 

The halo braid beautifully represents a celebration of African American hair flexibility and creativity. As its name depicts, it involves intricately braiding the hair to form a braided crown wrapping the head like an angelic halo. To achieve this ornate look, hair is tightly plaited around the hairline from one side to the other and pinned or sewn in place at the nape of the neck. This surprisingly intricate yet delicate style often incorporates flowers, beads, ribbons, or jeweled accessories within the braid work to enhance its regality.

During weddings, proms, and other formal events, halo braids symbolize the radiance, honor, and significance of the occasion much like a glistening crown. The halo braid’s graceful beauty and craftsmanship demonstrate exceptional hair artistry skills stemming from long-held African American braiding traditions.

30. Chunky twists

Chunky twists are a staple protective hairstyle in African American culture that lends bold personality. To make chunky twists, large locks of hair are tightly twisted from the root to the ends, forming defined rope-like strands that stand out from the scalp. Chunky twists’ bold volume and protective nature make a head -turning statement, celebrating texture and letting your unique style shine through.