18 Styling Ideas for Natural Hair in Case You're in the Mood to Experiment

Whether you've just started your natural-hair journey or you're a pro at caring for your coils and curls, there's no denying that this period of time at home without visits to our trusted hair whisperers has been a challenge. The truth is that for many black and brown women, maintaining our natural hair on our own is a new venture. It's a process that calls for lots of trial and error and lots of time that many of us just couldn't find in our schedules—until now. 

And even if you've got a handle on your wash-and-go or another style that serves your tresses well, you might be hitting a wall when it comes to creativity. Burden of choice is real, and now more than ever, we're seeing so many depictions of all the fun styles we can create with our hair. It's exciting, for sure.

So before you reach for the perm rods you've used every wash day for the last couple of months, check out 18 of the most gorgeous natural hairstyles, suitable for all kinds of curls and coils. Get inspired, snag the must-have styling products, and carve out some time to try something new with your beautiful mane.

Braids and Twists

Now is the perfect time to work on your braiding skills. These cute plaits are the perfect style to add to the rotation.

Flat twists are the foundation of many natural hairstyles, but they can be a gorgeous style on their own, too!

As far as protective styles go, this one is a winner in our book.

Whether you're priming your hair to wear under a wig or looking for a fun style, cornrows are always a good idea.

These knots are a serious vibe.

If you're working with box braids, a half-up topknot is a gorgeous styling option.

On the other hand, securing your braids into one big braid is so cute, too.

Must-have styling products:

Twist-Outs, Roller Sets, and Stretched Styles

The smaller your perm rods, the tighter the curls. This perfectly picked curly 'do is high on our must-try list.

You don't have to spend all day applying curl formers to get an awesome natural hairstyle. This retro blowout is proof!

To get these defined corkscrews, you'll need some expertly executed flat twists, secured with perm rods. Pro tip: Make sure your hair is all the way dry before untwisting.

Get an extra style day out of your twist-out by adding some small cornrows in the front. Don't forget to smooth down those baby hairs.

Some fashionable hair accessories are the perfect addition to a tightly cropped natural style.

This look is so effortless and so cool. The key is to make sure your hair is adequately moisturized.

This voluminous rod set is the stuff of natural-hair dreams!

Must-have beauty products:

Ponytails and Buns

This sleek, side-parted bun is perfect for any occasion.

Out of ideas for extending your style for another day? Scoop your curls into a beautiful waterfall.

These double buns are playful and chic.

This easy, curly topknot will definitely be a summer staple.

Must-have beauty products: