Tired of trying hairstyles that just don’t work with your hair? You’re not alone! Finding the perfect ‘do can be tricky, especially with all the different textures out there.
But don’t stress as this guide is packed with fabulous styles for every hair type, whether you’ve got sleek straight locks, wild waves, curls, or coils.
The right cut can boost your confidence and make your mornings easier. So, let’s jump in and find a hairstyle that’s going to make you look and feel amazing!
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How to Determine Your Hair Type?
Figuring out your hair type is key to picking the right products and styling methods. Start by checking your curl pattern. After washing and air drying, is your hair straight, wavy, curly, or tightly coiled? That will tell you a lot.
Next, test your hair’s porosity by placing a strand in water. If it sinks right away, your hair is highly porous. If it floats for a bit, it’s moderately porous, and if it stays on top, it’s low porosity. Finally, pinch a strand of hair.
If it feels thin, you’ve got fine hair, and if it feels thicker, it’s medium or thick. Understanding these basics helps you nail your hair routine!
1) Sleek High Ponytail
To create a sleek high ponytail, smooth your hair using a flat iron or straightener. Gather it at the crown of your head and secure it tightly with an elastic band. Use a serum or hairspray to tame any flyaways.
Pair this hairstyle with a chic bodycon dress and bold makeup, like sharp winged eyeliner and red lips. This hairstyle is perfect for formal occasions like dinner parties or red-carpet events, where you want to showcase a polished and glamorous look that exudes confidence.
2) Loose Beach Waves
To get loose beach waves, curl sections of your hair with a curling wand and loosen them by running your fingers through them. Use a sea salt spray for a textured finish. This style works beautifully with boho-inspired outfits such as a flowy maxi dress.
Keep your makeup natural with dewy skin and a touch of bronzer to enhance the sun-kissed vibe. The look is ideal for casual outings or a relaxed day at the beach, providing an effortless yet stylish appearance.
3) Box Braids
Box braids are a great option for natural or coily hair types. This protective style involves sectioning the hair into small square-shaped sections and braiding each. They can be styled in various ways, from updos to leaving them down.
For a modern twist, pair your box braids with casual streetwear, such as high-waisted jeans and a crop top. Add bold lip color and statement jewelry for a complete look.
4) Half-Up, Half-Down
To create a half-up, half-down hairstyle, section off the top half of your hair and secure it with a cute clip or band. Leave the rest of your hair down in soft waves or curls.
This hairstyle works perfectly for curly and wavy hair types and pairs well with casual dresses or jeans and a blouse. Keep your makeup simple with soft blush and nude lipstick.
The half-up, half-down style is ideal for brunch dates, family gatherings, or casual events where you want a feminine but relaxed vibe.
5) Blunt Bob
A blunt bob suits straight hair best and offers a sharp, sophisticated look. To style it, use a flat iron to keep the ends sleek and polished. This look works beautifully with a sleek blazer or a fitted dress. Opt for bold makeup, like red lipstick or smokey eyes, for an extra edge.
The blunt bob is ideal for formal settings, such as business meetings or dinner parties, where you want to exude elegance and professionalism while maintaining a modern and chic look.
6) Messy Bun
To achieve a messy bun, gather your hair loosely and twist it into a bun at the crown or nape of your neck. Leave a few strands out to frame your face for an effortless vibe. This look pairs well with casual wear, like jeans and a T-shirt or athleisure.
Keep makeup minimal with just a touch of mascara and nude gloss. The messy bun is perfect for everyday wear, quick errands, or casual outings where you want to look effortlessly chic without putting in too much effort.
7) Curtain Bangs with Waves
For wavy or straight hair, style curtain bangs with loose waves for a soft, romantic look. Use a curling wand to create loose waves, and a round brush to shape the bangs. This hairstyle pairs beautifully with flowy dresses and bohemian outfits.
Opt for natural makeup with a peachy blush and glossy lips to complete the look. Perfect for daytime outings, lunch dates, or even garden parties, this hairstyle is all about effortless femininity with a touch of retro charm.
8) Cornrows
Cornrows are a protective style for coily or kinky hair types. Part the hair into small sections and braid close to the scalp in your desired pattern. Cornrows are versatile and can be worn up in a bun or left down for a casual look.
Pair this hairstyle with casual wear like a maxi dress or jumpsuit. Keep the makeup minimal with natural tones or add a pop of color on the lips for an added flair. Cornrows are ideal for summer festivals, casual outings, or even a relaxed beach day.
9) Layered Cut with Blowout
For fine or straight hair, a layered cut adds texture and volume. Blow-dry the layers with a round brush for added bounce and definition. This hairstyle pairs well with both casual and formal outfits, depending on how you dress it up.
Wear it with a fitted dress for an evening out or a relaxed tee and jeans for daytime wear. Go for soft, natural makeup with a bit of highlighter to enhance the healthy glow. Layered cuts work for every occasion, from casual meetups to formal events.
10) Faux Locs
Faux locs look like dreadlocks without the commitment. For natural or coily hair, you can achieve this style by wrapping synthetic hair around sections of your natural hair.
Style your locs with head wraps or beads for a boho vibe, and pair with flowy bohemian outfits like a maxi dress. Bold eyeshadow and natural lips enhance the look.
Faux locs are ideal for music festivals, summer getaways, or artistic events where you want to stand out with a creative, carefree look.
11) Side-Swept Curls
For curly or wavy hair types, side-swept curls create a glamorous, voluminous style. Use a curling wand to enhance your natural curls, then sweep them to one side and secure them with pins.
This hairstyle pairs well with an elegant gown for formal events, adding a romantic touch. Opt for bold makeup like a deep red lip and a touch of highlighter to complete the look.
Side-swept curls are perfect for weddings, galas, or romantic date nights where you want to look effortlessly glamorous.
12) Sleek Low Bun
The sleek low bun is ideal for straight or fine hair types. To achieve this, smooth your hair back using a gel or styling cream, and gather it into a low bun at the nape of your neck. Pair this hairstyle with an elegant evening gown or a tailored suit for a formal occasion.
Enhance the sleekness with bold red lips and winged eyeliner. This look is perfect for black-tie events, corporate meetings, or formal dinners, where a clean and sophisticated appearance is key.
13) Textured Pixie Cut
For short hair types, the textured pixie cut offers a bold and edgy look. Add texture with styling cream or wax, creating a definition in the layers. This style pairs beautifully with casual wear, such as a leather jacket and skinny jeans, for an edgy daytime look.
For makeup, go bold with smokey eyes and nude lips to balance the overall look. The textured pixie cut is perfect for women wanting a low-maintenance but statement-making hairstyle, suitable for concerts, night outs, or creative gatherings.
14) Classic French Twist
The French twist is a timeless option for straight or wavy hair types. Gather your hair at the nape and twist it upward, securing it with pins for a sleek finish. Pair it with a little black dress or elegant gown for a sophisticated appearance.
Opt for classic makeup like red lips and sharp eyeliner to elevate the look. The French twist is perfect for formal occasions, weddings, or fancy dinner events where you want to showcase a refined and polished appearance.
15) Dutch Braids
Dutch braids are perfect for all hair types, providing a trendy and youthful appearance. To achieve this, section your hair into two parts and braid each section starting from the crown and working down. The braids sit on top of the hair, creating a 3D effect.
This style pairs well with sporty or casual outfits like joggers and sneakers. For makeup, go for a fresh look with tinted moisturizer and a hint of blush. Dutch braids are ideal for outdoor activities, gym sessions, or casual hangouts, offering a practical yet stylish look.
- You may also read this: 10 Trendy Blazer Shorts Outfit Ideas For Women To Try
16) Voluminous Afro
For women with natural or coily hair, the voluminous afro celebrates natural beauty and texture. To achieve this, use a pick or comb to lift the hair at the roots, creating volume and shape.
Pair this stunning hairstyle with bold, colorful outfits like a jumpsuit or patterned dress. Opt for vibrant makeup with bold eyeshadow and glossy lips to complement the look.
The voluminous afro is perfect for festivals, parties, or any event where you want to embrace your natural texture and make a bold statement.
17) Waterfall Braid
The waterfall braid adds a romantic touch to curly or wavy hair. Start by braiding at the crown and allowing sections of hair to drop through the braid, creating a cascading effect. This hairstyle pairs beautifully with flowy, feminine dresses and floral patterns.
Complement the look with soft, pastel makeup, such as peach blush and nude lips. The waterfall braid is ideal for weddings, garden parties, or daytime events where you want a soft, ethereal vibe that looks effortlessly elegant.
18) Space Buns
Space buns are a fun and playful hairstyle for all hair types. To create this look, part your hair down the middle and twist each section into a bun on either side of your head. Secure with hair ties and bobby pins.
This style works perfectly with casual or festival outfits like high-waisted shorts and crop tops. For makeup, go bold with glittery eyeshadow and a pop of color on your lips.
Space buns are perfect for music festivals, themed parties, or any event where you want to have fun and stand out with a quirky, youthful style.
19) Tapered Cut
A tapered cut is a great option for women with natural, coily, or textured hair who want a low-maintenance yet stylish look. The hair is cut shorter on the sides and back, leaving the top fuller. Style with a curl cream to define the curls.
Pair the tapered cut with urban streetwear, like oversized jackets and sneakers. Keep the makeup bold with bright lipstick and defined brows for a fresh, edgy look. The tapered cut is ideal for everyday wear and makes a statement at art events or creative gatherings.
20) Fishtail Braid
The fishtail braid is a versatile hairstyle that works for straight, wavy, and curly hair types. To create it, divide your hair into two sections and alternate taking small sections from the outer edges and crossing them over. The result is a textured, intricate braid.
Pair this style with a boho maxi dress or denim jacket for a casual chic vibe. For makeup, go for a natural look with dewy skin and soft pink lips.
The fishtail braid is perfect for outdoor weddings, summer picnics, or casual brunches, providing a sophisticated yet laid-back look.
Hair Care Tips for All Hair Types
Taking care of your hair does not have to be complicated, no matter your hair type. Start with gentle cleansing and skip the sulfate-loaded shampoos that strip away natural oils. They can be especially harsh on curly or coily hair.
When styling, always protect your hair from heat by using a heat protectant to avoid damage like dryness and split ends. Keep those locks moisturized, especially if your hair is on the dry side, with conditioners and leave-in treatments.
And remember, less is more when it comes to styling. Constant brushing or tugging can cause breakage, so handle your hair with care!
Conclusion
Whether you have sleek straight hair, flowing waves, bouncy curls, or tightly coiled strands, there’s a perfect hairstyle out there for you.
By understanding your hair type and experimenting with different styles, you can discover looks that enhance your natural beauty and boost your confidence. Remember, the most important thing is to have fun and enjoy your unique hair texture.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What Are The 12 Hair Types?
There are actually only 4 main hair types: straight, wavy, curly, and coily. The 12 “types” you might have heard about are variations within these 4 main categories based on factors like porosity, thickness, and curl pattern.
- What Hairstyles Look Good On Everyone?
While there’s no one-size-fits-all hairstyle, some styles are generally flattering to most people. These include loose waves, a classic bun, and a side braid.
- What Are The 4 Main Hair Types?
The 4 main hair types are straight, wavy, curly, and coily. Straight hair lies flat, wavy hair has a gentle S-shape, curly hair forms distinct curls, and coily hair has tightly coiled strands.
- Which Type Of Hairstyle Is Best?
The best hairstyle for you depends on your hair type, face shape, and personal preferences. Experiment with different styles to find what you love.
