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Home • News

Hot Hair: Sleek vs. Full

This summer, the hottest hair trends are all about extremes -- styles are either super-sleek (think tight pony's and updos) or ultra-full (ie, fluffy curls and beachy waves). Here, ten superstars show off both looks. Let us know which extreme suits you in the comments section!
By Essence · Updated October 28, 2020
01
So Fierce

Beyonce’s look has always been about extremes! Here, she’s both understated in a flawless blowout, and diva-tastic in an explosion of 80s-esque ringlets.

Hot Hair: Sleek vs. Full
02
Natural Woman

Yaya Dacosta rocks a subdued style by creating a deep side part and slicking her natural strands back into an oversized bun. We love her wild, au naturel look, too! Which is your fave?

Hot Hair: Sleek vs. Full
03
One Cut, Two Ways

Anika Noni Rose is the epitome of trendy-cool in her high ‘I Dream of Jeannie’ ponytail. But we also love her long, tousled spirals — so flirty and feminine.

Hot Hair: Sleek vs. Full
04
Curly Cues

Kerry Washington is equally gorgeous in a severe ponytail as she is in a riot of corkscrew curls.

Hot Hair: Sleek vs. Full
05
Wave Rave

Zoe Saldana goes from one extreme to the other in a sleek, tightly pulled-back chignon and loose, beach waves.

Hot Hair: Sleek vs. Full
06
Two Hot

Slicked to one side, Eva Marcille’s inch-long platinum locks have a casual, boyish quality. But molded upwards in a pompadour, her pixie has a sexier, more dressed-up feel!

Hot Hair: Sleek vs. Full
07
Full Force

Jada Pinkett Smith looks every inch the elegant Hollywood wife in this intricate, slicked-back bun. We think her full, natural tresses give her a more youthful, exuberant look!

Hot Hair: Sleek vs. Full
08
Straight Up

Gabrielle Union’s pin-straight strands give her look an understated chicness, while her feathered 1970s-esque waves add tons of va-va-voom.

Hot Hair: Sleek vs. Full
09
Band Together

Here, Tatyana Ali creates two distinct looks — a sleek, low bun and fluffy waves — using the same feathered headband!

Hot Hair: Sleek vs. Full
10
Slick vs. Sexpot

Ciara goes from edgy sophisticate in a sleek, low bun to all-out sexpot in high-volume, layered curls.

Hot Hair: Sleek vs. Full