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One thing about Black women, we change our hair like we change our clothes. While I might have a new hairstyle every time you see me, what I love most about our textured coils is their ability to transform into a multitude of creations. Flexing our God-given versatility, it's only natural for those not familiar with the culture of Black Hair to be in awe of how often we create Black girl magic in the salon chair. Now that we're enjoying the summer outdoors, there are so many 2021 approved hairstyle trends I've been dying to try.


Protective styles are essential to preserving our delicate curls as well as a fun way to express our creative freedom. Not all seasons are created equally, which means during extreme hot or cold weather, it's best to find the most manageable hairstyles in each circumstance. Guarding our hair from the sun to prevent heat damage, there are plenty of hair do's to choose from. From 2000 era throwbacks to classic looks that withstand any decade, here are the hairstyles you'll want to try this summer.

1. New Age Ponytail

J Mulan, @jmulan

A super chic look this summer, this creative take on a waist long ponytail by hairstylist Rosa Coleman is one of my favorite looks for summer. This updo is snatched to perfection, perfect for warm weather. Hassle-free and easy to manage, a slicked ponytail can be achieved using minimal to no heat with extensions matching your natural texture to achieve this look.

2. Butterfly Locs

Aisjah, @lipstickcoco

Butterfly locs are a type of faux loc styled using the crochet method where strands of hair are looped into a braid using a crochet needle, loosely wrapped to give it a distressed/unraveled look. This Bohemian style has grown in popularity over the years and is perfect for an effortless summer look. Chopped short for a bolder a-line look, these lowkey locs are high on the list of must-try styles.

3. Passion Twist 

Trene, @yagirltrene

One of my personal favorites, passion twists are a sweet alternative to the popular 90's style box braids. Two strand twists are another low-maintenance boho-inspired protective 'do that looks great all summer long. Perfect for black women of all shades and hair types, this is an easy eye-catching look you should want to try.

5. The Alicia Keys

Dani Leigh, @iamdanileigh

Whether straight back or a customizable design, it's never a bad idea to wear cornrows in the summer. Resurfacing is the early 2000 era aesthetic and it's making its way back into our everyday looks from head to toe. The famous zig zags and reverse braiding method made popular by singer/songwriter Alicia Keys, are having a moment yet again and I'm absolutely here for it. The mood is exciting and I can feel the creativity in the air. Have fun with your look this summer with a bold new look.

5. Textured Coils

Kayla, @fvshiondior

As a huge advocate for natural and healthy hair, I'm inspired to rock my God-given curls this season. Our strands deserve to live young wild and free, which ultimately gives our hair and scalp a break from stressful tension. A wash 'n go is one of my favorite styles to wear all-year long. It's always the perfect time to be natural.

6. Textured Bob

Brittni, @thebrittni

One of the chicest hairstyles is the bob. This sharp cut with an edgy a-line is trimmed to perfection. Stopping just above the shoulders, this is a sharp alternative to long locks and helps to stay cool this summer. I love a textured look, especially to avoid extra heat in my hair. Summer gives drama, texture and boldness so our hair should match accordingly.

7. Half Up/Half Down 

Nailah French, @nailahfrench

I love half up and half down hair moments. This updo is a classic style that looks universally good on everyone while adding a spark of youth. A sleek natural look makes this hair choice a winner, keeping it out of your face and easy to manage. For extra texture and length, add curly extensions to blend with your natural hair.

8. Bantu Knots

Julie, @wavyyjuju

Cute and quirky Bantu Knots are always fun to wear. Easy to style, this can be a DIY look for anyone to try. Complete with swirls of baby hair and you'll be sure to catch compliments all day wearing these textured mini buns. This artistic hairstyle will always be an expression of black hair and Afrocentric culture at its finest.

Featured image by Getty Images

 

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