There are an infinite ways to style dark brown hair, especially because it is the most common hair color. But many similar article to this do not take into consideration the various hair textures. Most hair tutorials assume a white or euro-centric hair texture, which is usually also straight. But women of color with dark brown hair exist too, and all their kinks and curls should look beautiful too. How here is a guide for all you hair styling desires.
Top Bun
It doesn’t matter if it’s a messy bun or a perfect ballerina bun, this is a great way to keep your hair out of your eyes, while still looking cute. Many women choose to do their bun with braids, usually cornrows, to create a beautiful and empowering look.
Odengo
Why stop at one bun? Have two. Odengo buns originated in Japan, but have become largely popularized in the past few years, especially by the types of girls who go to Coachella. This hairstyle is super fun and easy to do no matter what your hair texture.
Twist
Twists are like braids but much easier. This look is a great way for your hair to look stylized and effortless. You can make twists in a variety of sizes depending on how much hair you wan to use in each strand.
Bantu Knots
If you want a 90s throwback for your hair, this is the way to go. Bantu knots, also known as Zulu in South Africa, are twists taken to the next level, going tight enough to make a series of small nuns on your head. With the come of 90s fashion happening today, this is a perfect completion to your vintage look. Also, bantu knots tie perfectly into almost any hair consistency, so they are an easy hairstyle for anyone.
The Half Shave
Also known as the Skrillex haircut or an undercut, this style is one way to make sure you look like a badass. This haircut become popularized for women a few year ago in major media with celebrities such as Rihanna or Missy Elliott. You can accentuate your half shave by adding patterns to it. Or if you want the undercut hairstyle without actually shaving your head, you can get this look at home with braids.
Cornrows
Although this look has largely been appropriated by white people in the past fews years, cornrows (also known as boxer braids) have a long history in Africa. They have been used for thousands of years; the shape and style of one’s braids could help determine age, wealth, marital status, tribe etc.. In the U.S. today they are a fun way to style your hair, but cornrows have a long rich history. To learn more about the history of cornrows check out this ebony article here, or for the history of the afro (coming up next) click here.
Accessorize
A great way to add flair to your hair is through accessories. As seen above adding colored strands to cornrows is a common practice that spices up your hair. But why stop with adding fun colors? There are an infinite number of charms, scarves, flowers, headbands etc. that give hair some extra oomf. Though adding elements such as charms or rings is easiest on braided hair, accessories can be used on all sorts of hairstyles. If you want a new look without butting in endless amounts of effort, throw an accessory in.
Afro
Coming into popularity in the 1960s with the Black Power and Black is Beautiful movements, this look is iconic. Though not as extreme as it was in the 60s, afros make a political statement about natural beauty and what is acceptable in a euro-centric world of beauty. They are a statement not only of fashion, but of cultural integrity and power.
Wear it Natural
Keeping your hair as it naturally is adds to a larger movement of black empowerment. The natural look has growing popularity amongst many African American communities. You should not need to feel like you need to do anything to your hair to feel beautiful as you are.
For more easy at home styles check out our article here.
