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Author
Merit Ronald

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No matter if your curls fall in loose ringlets (a 3A curl pattern) or super tight coils (a 4C curl pattern), natural hair is incredibly versatile — and beautiful. As with any hair texture, though, it can be easy to fall into a rut and repeat the same familiar style over and over again. When something works for you, it works for you.

Whether you have very short hair, medium hair, long hair, braids of any length, bangs, or are thinking about switching it up, these on-trend new styles, from ponytails to buns and beyond, offer up all the hair inspiration you need. We also gathered plenty of options for your next protective style, whether you want to try box braids, cornrows, or even dreadlocks.

As these celebrities demonstrate, there are countless ways to embrace or enhance your natural texture and express your personal style, whether you're looking for a look that's polished, bold, or something in between. Take a cue from Taraji P. Henson and rock a luscious twist out, or go for long pigtail braids like Janelle Monáe. Below, some of our favorite natural hairstyles to try:

Defined Curls

Let your natural texture shine 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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Oversized High Bun

One of the best things about box braids is that you can wear them in a million different ways. Channel Kelly Rowland by twisting them into a high bun.

Mini Dreadlocks

If you think dreadlocks can't be dressed up, think again. Zoë Kravitz proves that dreadlocks are ultra-chic and feminine.

Flipped Out Ends

Try straightening your natural hair and pulling it back into half-updo. To add a bit of volume, flip out the ends like Lupita N'yongo.

Short Knots

Willow Smith keeps it simple with miniature knots. This style ensures that your eyes are the focus.

Box Braid Top Knot

Actress Teyonah Parris made a statement at the Toronto Film Festival with her dramatic braided top knot. As much as you want to copy it ASAP, we recommend waiting up to a week after getting your braids to recreate this updo.

Fulani Braids

Actress Issa Rae's Met Gala hairstyle had an extra touch of sparkle with gold embellishments. With or without the decorative beads, this is both regal and fun.

Side Braided Ponytail

Singer Alicia Keys's hairstyle has it all: a voluminous mohawk, braided ponytail, and cornrows on the side. Whether you're hitting the stage or just heading to the grocery store, this is a definite head-turner.

Flirty Forehead Pieces

Victoria's Secret model Samile Bermannelli's tight curls have a sexy piecey-ness, including a couple of strands that tease the look of bangs without full fringe.

Short and Glossy Curls

We'd be smiling ear to ear like actress Samira Wiley too if we were sporting such a cute style. A high dose of shine adds definition to her tight, springy curls— try a shine gloss or serum created for curls.

Multi-Texture Ponytail

Super-sleek at the base, this long ponytail mixes up a variety of textures from straight to wavy to curly — all of which you can get with a single flat iron — for an edgy yet glamorous look.

Wash and Go

Dark and Lovely's Lead Squad Stylist, Stephanie McLemore, says the secret to nailing this style is bringing your blow dryer's diffuser attachment into the equation. Use the diffuser to dry your hair without blasting away your coils. Bonus: Apply a curl boosting leave-in prior to drying, to enhance fullness, like Kimberly Elise.

Bantu Knots

Bantu knots, which originated in Southern Africa, are a great way to take your hair game up a notch, à la singer Rihanna. And don't commit the cardinal crime that is forgetting to lay your baby hairs! Try a gel formulated specifically for them.

Bantu Knot-Out

Bantu knot-outs are a great way to change up your look. There's no other way to get coils as full and bouncy as the ones you're left with after having unraveled the knots. They're also ideal for women who are transitioning from relaxed to natural hair.

Box Braids

The best thing about box braids is that they're a great way to protect your hair from over-styling and the damage that comes with it. The second best thing is that there's a size for every preference, ranging from Moesha to Poetic Justice.

Braid Out

Ever get a glimpse of your perfect post-braids waves in a mirror and wished you had somewhere to go? We know. Just spritz your hair with water, add a curl or wave-defining styling cream, and decide whether cornrows or box braids will be your ticket to morning flawlessness, like Amandla Stenberg.

Fauxhawk

This isn't the average angsty pre-teen haircut that we're talking about. This style simply calls for an abundance of pins, a smoothing brush, and the desire to flaunt your edgy (yet pretty!) side, like Yaya DaCosta. For a more long-lasting version of the style, consider braiding or flat-twisting the sides.

Pineapple

You can pull your locks toward the crown of your head and pin accordingly for this funky fruit-esque 'do. Or, for a less severe version, Vida Latimer, Colorist and Educator at Devachan NYC, recommends using "a very wide micro fiber headband to gently lift curls from the face. Then, you can jump right into bed, since this style is perfect for overnight style-stretching.

Stretched Afro

Of course, you can just rock the afro that nature gave you as singer Solange does so gorgeously. But, for a little variety, try stretching your hair with a minimal amount of heat to show off your length and achieve envy-inducing volume. For a fluffy, soft effect, try a styling lotion.

High Bun

A bun at the crown of your head like Tracee Ellis Ross is one of the best ways to look effortlessly chic in seconds. Smooth the top and sides with a hairspray.

Senegalese Twists

If you're looking for very long, very fabulous hair, then look no further than these statement-making twists, sported by singer Brandy.

Classic Cornrows

Don't let anyone tell you that these are "boxer braids." They're cornrows and they're fabulous, as seen on actress Jada Pinkett Smith. Plus, you can keep them in for a few days and follow up with a braid-out, easily carrying you from one wash day to the next. Boost definition in between with SheaMoisture Coconut Custard Make it Last Wash 'N Go Curl Revival Oil.

Space Buns

Who says that this funky style is only for kids? Rock out with sleek space buns like Yara Shahidi, or embrace your texture and upgrade them to Afro puffs, leaving your ends free.

Faux Locs

If you're looking for a shortcut to a head full of beautiful dreadlocks, then you'll be pleased to know that you can fake it 'til you make it using hair extensions. If you want to polish off your look, add some pretty dread cuffs into the mix, like Zendaya!

Two-Strand Twist

Two-strand twists are truly the best of both worlds, because they're super easy and quick. Plus, after they're done, you can still style them differently each day! Apply a leave-in styler and conditioner hybrid before twisting to help smooth and condition.