Skip to content
  • Essence GU
  • Beautycon
  • NaturallyCurly
  • Afropunk
  • Essence Studios
  • Soko Mrkt
  • Ese Funds
  • Refinery29
  • WeLoveUs.shop
  • 2026 ESSENCE Festival Of Culture
  • Celebrity
  • Fashion
  • Beauty
  • Lifestyle
  • Entrepreneurship
  • News
  • Shopping
  • Video
  • Events
  • Subscribe
Home • News

Textured Tresses: The Hottest Natural Hairstyles

African American hair is versatile for a million different reasons, but one of the best is that its so incredible versatile--especially natural hair! From dreadlocks to afros, we rounded up our favorite coifs for chemical-free tresses.
By Essence · Updated October 29, 2020
Getting your Trinity Audio player ready…
01
French Twist

African American hair is amazing for a million different reasons, but one of the best is that it’s so incredibly versatile—especially natural hair! From dreadlocks to afros, we rounded up our favorite coifs for chemical-free tresses.

Textured Tresses: The Hottest Natural Hairstyles
All Photos by Sean Burrowes
02
Fierce Faux-hawk

Want the edginess of a mohawk without the whole, shaved-on-the-sides commitment? Try faking the look with a thick French braid down the center of your head. Pro tip: This is a great look to try if you’re growing out a relaxer.

Textured Tresses: The Hottest Natural Hairstyles
03
Up and Away

Whether you’re rocking real dreadlocks or locked extensions, ask your stylist for a dramatic updo. This look is perfect for work, dates, and everything in-between.

Textured Tresses: The Hottest Natural Hairstyles
04
Plaits Please

Over your everyday look? Experiment with bangs by adding flirty cornrow sweeping across your forehead.

Textured Tresses: The Hottest Natural Hairstyles
05
Fabulous ‘Fro

Few things are sexier than a soft, touchable, fabulous afro. Add some dimension—and enhance your texture—but adding some golden-brown highlights.

Textured Tresses: The Hottest Natural Hairstyles
06
Chic Chignon

This ultra-feminine chignon is just the thing for a formal occasion. Add a little cocktail dress, and you’re good to go!

Textured Tresses: The Hottest Natural Hairstyles
07
Loc ‘n’ Roll

Add a dose of edge to your dreadlocks with this sculptural half-bun, half-ponytail look.

Textured Tresses: The Hottest Natural Hairstyles
08
Cool Crimps

To rock this Eighties-tastic style, set your hair with a crimping iron; or add cornrows to wet hair, unraveling them once your hair dries.

Textured Tresses: The Hottest Natural Hairstyles
09
Soft Touch

To add some loose, soft curls to your long afro, simply blow it dry, set it on hot rollers, and then finger-style.

Textured Tresses: The Hottest Natural Hairstyles
10
Twist and Shout

To achieve this tightly waved texture, set damp hair in two-strand twists, allow to air-dry, and then unravel. Voila, instant hotness!

Textured Tresses: The Hottest Natural Hairstyles