Winter Hairstyles for Black Women: 25 Protective and Fashionable Styles

Introduction

As the winter chill sets in, are you struggling to find hairstyles that not only protect your hair but also help you look fabulous? For Black women, the harsh winter months can be tough on natural hair, leading to dryness and breakage. But just because it’s cold outside doesn’t mean you have to compromise on style. The good news is, there are plenty of winter hairstyles that allow you to protect your hair while still looking chic, whether you’re rocking a cozy beanie or adding some sparkle with hair accessories.

In this guide, we’ll dive into 25 trendy winter hairstyles for Black women that are both practical and stunning. From protective styles to creative twists, these looks will keep your hair healthy and stylish all winter long.

25 Trendy Winter Hairstyles For Black Women

1. Chunky Twists with Beanie

Chunky twists are not only low-maintenance but also a great protective style for winter. Paired with a cute beanie, this look keeps your hair moisturized and your head warm.

To make hairstyle:

• Start with clean, moisturized hair.
• Section your hair into large parts using a comb or your fingers.
• Apply a leave-in conditioner or cream to each section to keep your hair soft.
• Split each part into two smaller parts, then twist them together from root to tip.
• Repeat this for the rest of your hair.
• Once done, put on your favorite beanie. The twists will protect your hair, and the beanie keeps you cozy.

2. Faux Locs with Headwrap

Faux locs offer a stylish way to give your natural hair a break. Add a colorful headwrap for an extra layer of warmth and flair.

To make hairstyle:

• Divide your hair into small sections using hair clips to keep them separated.
• Braid each section tightly, from root to ends.
• Take pre-made faux locs or Marley hair and wrap it around each braid, securing it by tucking the ends.
• Once all locs are complete, tie a colorful headwrap over your hair. You can leave some locs out in the front for style.

3. Bantu Knots with Hair Jewelry

Bantu knots are a bold and beautiful option. Accent them with gold or silver hair jewelry for a festive, eye-catching look.

To make hairstyle:

• Part your hair into small sections using a comb.
• Take one section, twist it tightly from the root, and coil it into a small bun on your scalp.
• Secure the bun with a bobby pin or small hair elastic.
• Repeat this for the rest of your hair.
• Add hair jewelry like gold or silver rings around some of the knots for a festive look.

4. High Puff with Knitted Scarf

The high puff is a classic go-to for Black women with natural hair. Pair it with a knitted scarf for added warmth and an effortlessly chic vibe.

To make hairstyle:

• Brush your hair upwards towards the crown of your head.
• Use a soft hairband or string to gather your hair into a puff at the top.
• Fluff the puff to give it volume.
• Drape a knitted scarf around your neck for warmth. You can wrap it around your head for extra style.

5. Cornrows with Wool Hat

Cornrows are not just protective; they also fit snugly under a wool hat. This sleek look is both practical and trendy for winter.

To make hairstyle:

• Start by parting your hair into rows using a rat-tail comb.
• Take the first row and begin braiding close to your scalp, pulling in hair as you go along the row.
• Continue until you reach the end and secure with a small elastic.
• Repeat for each row.
• Wear a wool hat over your braids to keep warm while looking neat.

6. Box Braids with Fur Headband

Box braids are a versatile, long-lasting protective style. Add a fur headband to give your look a winter-ready, luxurious touch.

To make hairstyle:

• Section your hair into small square parts.
• Take one part and divide it into three equal strands.
• Begin braiding by crossing the strands over each other until you reach the end.
• Secure with a small elastic or burn the ends for a lasting hold.
• Repeat for all sections of your hair.
• Add a fur headband over your forehead for a soft and warm look.

7. Halo Braid with Beanie

A halo braid keeps your hair out of your face and looks gorgeous peeking out from under a beanie. It’s a perfect style for winter outings.

To make hairstyle:

• Part your hair down the middle from the front to the back.
• Start braiding from one side, going around your head like a crown.
• Keep adding more hair as you go, making a continuous braid.
• When you reach the other side, tuck the braid under itself and pin it down.
• Wear a beanie for a cute, cozy finish.

8. Two-Strand Twists with Satin-Lined Cap

Two-strand twists are gentle on your hair, and when paired with a satin-lined cap, they retain moisture while staying stylish.

• Take a section of your hair and divide it into two parts.
• Twist the two parts around each other, making sure they’re tight but not uncomfortable.
• Twist all the way down and secure the end with a small elastic if needed.
• Repeat for the rest of your hair.
• Put on a satin-lined cap to protect your twists while keeping your head warm.

9. Curls with Faux Fur Ear Muffs

If you love to show off your natural curls, try pairing them with faux fur ear muffs. This look keeps your curls defined and your ears toasty.

To make hairstyle:

• If your hair is naturally curly, refresh your curls by spraying water and applying a curl cream.
• Scrunch your hair with your hands to help the curls bounce.
• Let your curls air dry or use a diffuser to speed up the process.
• Wear faux fur ear muffs for a cute, cold-weather accessory.

10. Bob Wig with Wool Hat

For those looking for a quick and easy hairstyle, a bob wig is perfect for winter. It fits smoothly under a wool hat, giving you a sleek look in seconds.

To make hairstyle:

• Start by braiding your natural hair down in cornrows for a flat base.
• Place your bob wig over your braids, making sure it fits snugly.
• Adjust the wig to your liking, combing it down if needed.
• Top it off with a wool hat for a chic winter look.

11. Goddess Braids with Embellished Headband

Goddess braids offer an elegant yet protective style. Pair them with an embellished headband for a winter-appropriate glam factor.

To make hairstyle:

• Part your hair into large sections using a wide-tooth comb.
• For each section, braid the hair close to your scalp, creating a thick, smooth braid.
• Continue braiding until you reach the ends of each section.
• Place an embellished headband around your forehead to complete the style.

12. Twist Out with Silk Hair Scarf

A twist out can be maintained even in winter by wrapping your hair in a silk hair scarf. This adds both protection and style to your look.

To make hairstyle:

• Start with two-strand twists all over your head.
• After letting the twists set overnight, gently unravel them, starting from the ends.
• Fluff out your hair to add volume and definition.
• Wrap a silk scarf around your hair to keep it protected while looking stylish.

13. Side-Swept Braids with Cap

Side-swept braids give off an effortlessly cool vibe. When combined with a winter cap, this style is both functional and fashionable.

To make hairstyle:

• Part your hair to one side and section it off.
• Begin braiding on the larger side of your part, braiding down towards your ear.
• Braid until the end of the section, then secure with an elastic band.
• Wear a warm cap on top for extra protection from the cold.

14. Updo Bun with Satin Lined Hat

An updo bun keeps your hair off your shoulders while giving you a polished look. A satin-lined hat ensures your hair stays hydrated and frizz-free.

To make hairstyle:

• Gather your hair into a high ponytail at the crown of your head.
• Twist the ponytail around itself to form a bun.
• Secure the bun with a hair tie or pins.
• Place a satin-lined hat on top to protect your hair from winter dryness.

15. Natural Afro with Wide Brim Hat

Let your natural afro shine, even in winter. A wide-brim hat offers protection from the elements while keeping your look on-trend.

To make hairstyle:

• Start by combing out your natural afro, making sure your hair is moisturized and fluffy.
• Shape your afro with your fingers or a wide-tooth comb to create an even look.
• Put on a wide-brim hat that rests comfortably over your afro, adding style while keeping your head warm.

16. Senegalese Twists with Wool Beret

Senegalese twists are perfect for winter as they last for weeks and protect your hair. Add a wool beret for a chic Parisian vibe.

To make hairstyle:

• Part your hair into small sections.
• Take a section and divide it into two parts.
• Twist synthetic hair into your natural hair, wrapping it tightly around itself.
• Twist all the way down and secure.
• Repeat this process for all sections.
• Pop on a wool beret for a French-inspired winter look.

17. Low Sleek Ponytail with Headband

A low sleek ponytail is a simple yet elegant style. Add a stylish headband to give it a winter-ready update while keeping your ears warm.

To make hairstyle:

• Brush your hair back into a low ponytail, making sure it’s smooth and flat.
• Secure it with a hair tie.
• Use a gel or edge control to smooth down any flyaways.
• Place a stylish headband across your forehead for a touch of elegance.

18. Passion Twists with Knit Cap

Passion twists are a fun and flirty protective style. Pair them with a knit cap to stay warm while keeping your look fresh.

To make hairstyle:

• Begin by parting your hair into small sections.
• Take each section and twist synthetic hair into it, creating loose, springy twists.
• Continue twisting until all sections are done.
• Put on a knit cap to stay warm while rocking this playful style.

19. Tapered Cut with Ear Warmers

For those with a shorter tapered cut, ear warmers are a great accessory to keep you cozy while letting your hair do the talking.

To make hairstyle:

• Style your tapered cut by trimming the sides short and leaving the top longer.
• Define the top section with curl cream or mousse for texture.
• Add a pair of ear warmers around your ears to stay warm while showcasing your haircut.

20. Marley Twists with Beaded Accessories

Marley twists are a popular protective style that can be easily spruced up with beaded accessories for a unique winter look.

To make hairstyle:

• Divide your hair into medium-sized sections.
• Use Marley hair to create thick twists, wrapping the extensions around your natural hair.
• Twist all the way down and secure the ends.
• Decorate with wooden or colorful beads for a fun, bohemian touch.

21. Crochet Braids with Chunky Scarf

Crochet braids are another fantastic low-maintenance style for winter. Pair them with a chunky scarf to keep your neck warm and your look on point.

To make hairstyle:

• Braid your hair down in cornrows to create a base.
• Use a crochet hook to attach pre-curled or braided hair to your cornrows.
• Continue crocheting until your head is full.
• Pair your new crochet style with a chunky scarf for an effortlessly cozy look.

22. Kinky Curls with Embellished Hair Clips

Let your kinky curls flow freely while adding some fun with embellished hair clips. This playful style is perfect for holiday parties and gatherings.

To make hairstyle:

• Start by washing and conditioning your hair, then apply a curl-defining cream.
• Allow your curls to air dry or use a diffuser for extra volume.
• Add sparkling or jeweled hair clips throughout your curls for a festive winter vibe.

23. Flat Twist Updo with Decorative Pins

A flat twist updo keeps your hair neatly tucked away from the winter air. Decorative pins add a touch of elegance to this protective style.

To make hairstyle:

• Section your hair and begin flat twisting from the front of your hair towards the back.
• Pin each twist up once you reach the back of your head.
• Add decorative pins along the sides or at the back for a fancy, finished look.

24. Faux Hawk with Metallic Hair Clips

For a bold and edgy look, try a faux hawk. Metallic hair clips add a winter sparkle, making this style perfect for special occasions.

To make hairstyle:

• Part your hair into three sections: one down the middle and two on the sides.
• Braid the sides tightly or smooth them down with gel.
• Fluff up the middle section to create volume for the faux hawk effect.
• Add metallic clips along the sides for a bold touch.

25. Locs with Knit Headwrap

Locs are naturally perfect for winter as they retain moisture well. Wrap them in a knit headwrap for a cozy, fashion-forward look.

To make hairstyle:

• Start by moisturizing your locs with oil or cream to prevent winter dryness.
• Wrap your locs around your head into a low bun or let them hang freely.
• Finish with a warm knit headwrap that keeps your head cozy while highlighting your locs.

Conclusion

Winter doesn’t have to be a season of bad hair days. With the right styles, Black women can keep their hair protected from the harsh cold while looking effortlessly stylish. From chunky twists to faux locs and elegant updos, these winter hairstyles for black women offer a perfect blend of function and fashion. Adding caps, scarves, or accessories like headwraps and hair clips not only elevates your look but also helps lock in moisture, protecting your hair from breakage. Whether you’re looking for something bold, simple, or elegant, there’s a winter hairstyle here to suit every taste, keeping you looking fabulous all season long.