10 Hairstyles for LONG Natural Afro Textured Hair (With Pictures)

I wrote about short hairstyles for natural hair here, so it’s about time we talked about our long-haired sisters. If you’re blessed with long strands falling well past your shoulders, there are so many ways to style naturally other than dreadlocks. So, here are 10 ways to style long black natural hair for your inspiration today. 

1.    Wash and go

A wash and go hairstyle works for both long and short natural hair, but it’s definitely more dramatic if you have longer hair. All you need is to wash, condition, detangle, and style your crown. Use your favorite styling lotion or curl defining cream to get luscious, bouncing curls. Note that the longer your natural hair, the more products you’ll use to maintain a wash and go, so you can wear this look every few weeks to save on hair products.

2.    Fishtail braid

This is a more exotic variation of a standard three-strand braid. You part your hair into two sections, then weave smaller sections from each side across each other, all the way to the end. Use a hair tie or elastic at the bottom of the braid to fluff out the fishtail.

3.    Half-up half-down

The half-up half-down look can be formal or casual and accessorized in numerous ways. The great thing about this classic hairstyle is that the top half can be anything you’d like: a bun, a ponytail, a twisted crown, you name it. You can also comb out the bottom half or make finger curls or twists. 

4.    High ponytail

You can wear this style simply, i.e., let your ponytail fall loose down your back. Or you glam it up with hair ties like in the photo, or even braid it to the end. A high ponytail always looks sophisticated, but you may need to use accessories to pin down flyaway strands.

5.    Goddess braids

If you’re transitioning to natural hair, goddess braids are protective enough to keep the new growth strong and hold the treated sections securely. It’s also low-maintenance but looks great with every pattern you wear.

6.    The roll and tuck

This natural hairstyle goes by many names: tuck and roll; roll and tuck; roll tuck and pin; twist and tuck—you get the idea. It’s a quick way to pull your hair back without losing its volume. It may take a few tries to get the pins to hold just right, so be patient with your hair and get a helping hand if you can.

7.    Top knot / ninja bun

You can convert a high ponytail into a bun on top of your head if you prefer to keep your long natural strands intact. Twist the ponytail to gather the hair, then wind it around the base of the hair tie. You can use scrunchies to add some visual interest to this natural hairstyle.

8.    Double knots

This is a playful variation of the half-up half-down hairstyle. Part the top half in the middle and tie each section with a hair tie or elastic.

9.    French roll

This updo creates such a sophisticated look on long natural hair, especially when you add some sparkly accessories to it. Plus, the French roll holds all day, so you won’t worry too much about touch ups.

10. French braids

Another simple but classic look for long hair is the French braid. You can wear one to gather your hair together or part your hair into two, three, or four sections. Braid each section from the top of your head to the back of your neck, then continue the braid all the way to the end. You can wear the ends down your back, over your shoulders, or tuck them away at the base of the braid.

A Style for Every Natural Hair Type

These are just a few ways to wear your long natural hair, from casual and playful to formal and elegant. Get creative, add your personality to it, and rock your natural crown with pride.