Winter is a season of cozy layers, warm drinks, and most importantly, chic hairstyles. Whether you’re looking to protect your hair from the cold or simply want to switch things up, this time of year presents a fantastic opportunity to explore new styles. The crisp air and holiday spirit call for fun and festive looks that keep your hair looking fabulous, despite the drop in temperature.
Black women, in particular, have a vast array of versatile hairstyles to choose from, making winter the perfect time to experiment with protective styles, natural looks, and even bold, colorful twists. From classic braids to daring shaved sides, the possibilities are endless!
If you’re wondering what hairstyle to rock this season, we’ve got you covered. In this guide, we’ll dive into 31 incredible winter hairstyles for Black women. These styles will keep your hair looking and feeling amazing all season long. Let’s jump into the list!
1. Box Braids
Box braids are always a go-to protective style, especially in winter. Not only do they shield your natural hair from harsh weather, but they also give you a break from daily styling. Box braids can be worn long, short, or even styled in updos, depending on your preference.
You can add some color to your braids for a fun twist, or accessorize with beads or cuffs for a bit of flair. The best part? They last for weeks, so you won’t have to worry about daily maintenance during the chilly months.
2. Faux Locs
Faux locs offer a trendy alternative to traditional locs without the long-term commitment. These locs give a bohemian vibe while still protecting your natural hair. Faux locs are ideal for winter because they act as a shield against cold winds and dry air, preventing breakage and moisture loss.
They’re also incredibly versatile. You can wear them down, in a bun, or even style them in a half-up, half-down look. Add some gold or silver accessories to make your locs stand out during the holiday season!
3. Senegalese Twists
Senegalese twists are another protective style that looks stunning in winter. These twists are sleek, lightweight, and can be styled in a variety of ways. Whether you prefer them long or short, Senegalese twists can be styled into buns, ponytails, or even elegant updos.
They’re perfect for busy women who want a low-maintenance style that lasts through the colder months. Plus, the twists help lock in moisture, preventing dryness and breakage.
4. Crochet Braids
If you’re looking for a quick and easy protective style, crochet braids are the way to go. Crochet braids offer endless options, from curly to straight textures, and can mimic natural hair patterns effortlessly. The installation process is fast, making them ideal for anyone who doesn’t want to spend hours in the stylist’s chair.
Crochet braids also offer volume and length, giving you the freedom to experiment with different looks. Whether you prefer a more natural texture or something sleek and shiny, crochet braids can be customized to your liking.
5. Bantu Knots
Bantu knots are not only stylish but also practical for winter. This hairstyle involves sectioning your hair and twisting it into small, neat knots. Bantu knots are great for natural hair because they keep your ends tucked away and protected from the elements.
Not only can you wear the knots themselves, but once you unravel them, you’re left with beautiful, bouncy curls. It’s like getting two hairstyles in one!
6. Marley Twists
Marley twists are a thicker version of the Senegalese twist, and they’re perfect for creating a bold, natural look. These twists are made with Marley hair, which mimics the texture of natural Black hair. They offer a fuller, more voluminous style, ideal for anyone who loves big, statement-making hair.
Marley twists are great for keeping your natural hair protected from the cold, dry winter air. Plus, they’re super versatile and can be styled in countless ways, from buns to updos.
7. Cornrows
Cornrows are a timeless hairstyle that never goes out of style. They’re sleek, low-maintenance, and protect your natural hair from the harsh winter weather. Cornrows can be worn in intricate patterns, straight-back styles, or combined with other styles like ponytails or buns.
If you’re looking for a hairstyle that can be easily accessorized, cornrows are perfect. Add some beads or gold accents to elevate your look, or pair them with a bold lip for an extra pop of color.
8. Braided Ponytail
A braided ponytail is both elegant and functional. This style involves cornrowing the front or sides of your hair and gathering the rest into a sleek braided ponytail. It’s an excellent option for women who want to keep their hair off their face while still looking chic.
The braided ponytail can be worn high or low, depending on your preference. You can even wrap the base of the ponytail with a few strands of hair for a polished finish. This style works for both casual days and more formal events.
9. Passion Twists
Passion twists are a newer style that has quickly become popular. These twists have a more relaxed, bohemian look compared to traditional twists, giving them a soft and romantic feel. Passion twists are perfect for winter because they’re lightweight, and their natural-looking texture offers a carefree vibe.
This style can be worn long or short and can easily be dressed up with accessories. Passion twists also last for several weeks, making them a great low-maintenance option for the season.
10. Flat Twists
Flat twists are similar to cornrows but offer a softer, more natural look. This style involves twisting two strands of hair flat against your scalp, creating a neat and defined pattern. Flat twists are great for protecting your natural hair while still keeping it stylish.
You can wear flat twists in a variety of ways, from intricate patterns to simple, straight-back styles. They’re also easy to take down, and once unraveled, you’ll have gorgeous, defined curls.
11. Afro Puff
The afro puff is a fun and simple hairstyle that’s perfect for winter. It’s a quick and easy way to rock your natural curls while keeping your hair off your face. Simply gather your hair into a high puff and secure it with a hair tie.
For a polished look, you can slick down your edges with some gel. This style is perfect for days when you want a carefree yet stylish look that shows off your natural hair texture.
12. Halo Braid
The halo braid is an elegant and timeless hairstyle that’s perfect for the winter season. This style involves braiding your hair around the crown of your head, creating a halo-like effect. It’s a stunning updo that’s perfect for formal events or holiday gatherings.
The halo braid not only looks beautiful but also keeps your ends protected from the cold. You can add accessories like flowers or jewels to give the style a festive touch.
13. Finger Coils
Finger coils are a great way to define your natural curls and add some bounce to your look. This style involves coiling small sections of hair around your fingers to create tight, defined curls. Finger coils are perfect for women with natural hair who want to embrace their curls during the winter months.
This style requires a bit of patience, but the results are worth it. Your curls will be bouncy, defined, and full of life!
14. Twisted Updo
A twisted updo is a sophisticated and elegant hairstyle that’s perfect for winter. This style involves twisting sections of your hair and pinning them up to create a chic, polished updo. Twisted updos are ideal for formal events or special occasions.
Not only does this style look stunning, but it also protects your hair from the cold and keeps it neatly tucked away. You can add accessories like pins or clips to make the updo even more glamorous.
15. Tapered Cut
If you’re feeling bold, a tapered cut is a great option for winter. This style involves cutting the sides and back of your hair short while leaving the top longer. The tapered cut gives you a stylish, edgy look that’s perfect for the season.
This hairstyle is low-maintenance and requires minimal styling, making it ideal for women who want a fuss-free look. You can play around with different textures and colors to make the style your own.
16. Side Parted Curls
Side-parted curls are a classic and easy-to-achieve hairstyle that works well in winter. This style involves parting your hair to one side and letting your natural curls fall freely. It’s a simple yet chic look that shows off your curls while keeping your hair manageable.
To keep your curls defined and frizz-free, use a curl-defining cream or gel. This style is perfect for both casual and formal occasions, and it’s incredibly easy to achieve.
17. Shaved Sides
Shaved sides are a bold and daring hairstyle that’s perfect for women who want to make a statement. This style involves shaving the sides of your head while leaving the top longer. It’s an edgy, modern look that’s perfect for winter.
Shaved sides are not only stylish but also low-maintenance. You won’t have to worry about daily styling, and the shaved sections help keep your hair manageable in colder weather.
18. Two-Strand Twists
Two-strand twists are a simple and effective way to protect your hair in winter. This style involves twisting two sections of hair together to create defined twists. Two-strand twists are easy to do and can be worn in a variety of ways, from long and loose to styled in an updo.
This style helps lock in moisture, preventing dryness and breakage during the colder months. Plus, when you unravel the twists, you’re left with beautiful, defined curls.
19. Knotless Braids
Knotless braids are similar to box braids but with a smoother, more natural look. This style starts with your natural hair before gradually adding in extensions, creating a seamless transition. Knotless braids are perfect for women who want a protective style that doesn’t put too much tension on their scalp.
These braids are lightweight, making them more comfortable to wear for long periods. They’re also easy to style and can be worn in a variety of ways.
20. Flexi Rod Curls
Flexi rod curls are perfect for achieving bouncy, voluminous curls without using heat. This style involves wrapping small sections of hair around flexi rods and letting them set. Once you take the rods out, you’ll have beautiful, defined curls that last for days.
This is a great option for women who want to avoid heat styling during the winter months. Flexi rod curls are easy to achieve and give your hair a healthy, natural look.
21. Goddess Braids
Goddess braids are larger, thicker cornrows that give you a regal and elegant look. This style is perfect for winter because it protects your hair while keeping it stylish. Goddess braids can be worn in a variety of patterns, and you can add accessories like beads or cuffs to elevate the look.
This style is also low-maintenance and can last for several weeks, making it perfect for women who want a protective style that doesn’t require daily upkeep.
22. Headwrap Styles
Headwraps are a chic and practical way to protect your hair in winter. They add a pop of color and style to any outfit while keeping your hair protected from the cold. You can wear a headwrap over braids, twists, or even natural hair.
Headwraps come in a variety of colors and patterns, allowing you to switch up your look as often as you like. They’re also perfect for bad hair days when you just want to throw on something stylish and go.
23. Curly Frohawk
A curly frohawk is a fun and edgy hairstyle that’s perfect for winter. This style involves pulling the sides of your hair up and letting your curls fall freely in the center. It’s a bold look that’s perfect for women who want to show off their natural curls.
The curly frohawk can be styled in a variety of ways, from sleek and polished to messy and carefree. This style is perfect for both casual and formal occasions.
24. Finger Waves
Finger waves are a classic hairstyle that’s making a comeback. This style involves creating sleek, defined waves that are close to the scalp. Finger waves are perfect for women with short hair who want a polished, vintage look.
This style is ideal for winter because it keeps your hair protected and manageable. You can add accessories like clips or pins to give the style a modern twist.
25. Blowout
A blowout is a great way to achieve voluminous, bouncy hair during the winter months. This style involves using a blow dryer to stretch and smooth your hair, giving it a soft and shiny finish. A blowout is perfect for women who want to show off their natural length and texture.
This style is also versatile and can be worn in a variety of ways, from loose and flowing to styled in an updo. To keep your blowout looking fresh, make sure to use a heat protectant before styling.
26. High Bun
A high bun is a simple and elegant hairstyle that’s perfect for winter. This style involves gathering your hair into a high bun at the crown of your head. It’s a quick and easy way to keep your hair off your face while still looking chic.
The high bun can be worn sleek and polished or messy and carefree, depending on your preference. This style is perfect for both casual and formal occasions.
27. Natural Curls
Embracing your natural curls is always a great option for winter. Let your curls shine by keeping them moisturized and defined. Use a curl-enhancing cream or gel to keep your curls looking their best.
This style is perfect for women who want to show off their natural texture while keeping their hair healthy and protected. Natural curls can be worn loose, in a puff, or even styled in an updo.
28. Side-Swept Braids
Side-swept braids are a chic and elegant hairstyle that’s perfect for winter. This style involves braiding one side of your hair and letting the rest fall freely. It’s a simple yet stylish look that works for both casual and formal occasions.
This style is also easy to achieve and can be dressed up with accessories like beads or cuffs. Side-swept braids are perfect for women who want a stylish yet low-maintenance look.
29. Pixie Cut
A pixie cut is a bold and daring hairstyle that’s perfect for winter. This style involves cutting your hair short while leaving some length on top. The pixie cut is low-maintenance and requires minimal styling, making it ideal for women who want a fuss-free look.
This hairstyle is perfect for women who want to make a statement while keeping their hair manageable in colder weather.
30. Mohawk Braids
Mohawk braids are a bold and edgy hairstyle that’s perfect for winter. This style involves braiding the sides of your hair and leaving the center section loose or styled into curls. Mohawk braids give you a unique and stylish look that’s perfect for women who want to stand out.
This style is also versatile and can be worn in a variety of ways, from sleek and polished to messy and carefree.
31. Curly Bangs
Curly bangs are a fun and playful hairstyle that’s perfect for winter. This style involves cutting your hair into bangs while leaving the rest of your hair curly. Curly bangs give you a fresh and youthful look that’s perfect for women who want to try something new.
This style is also easy to maintain and can be worn with a variety of other hairstyles.
Conclusion
There you have it—31 amazing winter hairstyles for Black women! Whether you’re looking for a protective style to shield your hair from the cold or a bold new look to make a statement, these hairstyles have you covered. Winter is the perfect time to experiment with new styles and embrace your natural beauty.
Remember, the key to maintaining healthy hair during winter is keeping it moisturized and protected from the harsh elements. So, no matter which style you choose, make sure to take good care of your hair, and you’ll be looking fabulous all season long!