What's Up With Your Hair? Beautiful Natural Hairstyles That Celebrate Your Crown!
It's Summer and I thought I would peruse the cyber world to see how are our naturals styling their naturals in the warm weather. Here are a few styling options!
By Lady Carolyn M. Summerset | Crowning Glory — Coils & Kinks
Hello, my beautiful naturalistas!
What's up with your hair, ladies?
No, seriously! What's going on with those beautiful curls, coils, kinks, and twists?
Are you rocking a wash-and-go, pulling your curls into a fabulous puff, experimenting with braids, or simply trying to figure out what to do with your hair next?
Well, you're certainly not alone!
One of the things I absolutely love about natural hair is its versatility. Our beautiful crowns can be twisted, braided, pinned, stretched, sculpted, and styled in so many creative ways.
And isn't that part of the joy of embracing our natural hair?
Today, I thought we would have a little fun exploring some hairstyles that are not only beautiful but also practical for everyday living.
Whether you're headed to work, church, brunch with the ladies, or enjoying a relaxing weekend, there's a natural hairstyle waiting to complement your personality.
Let's get into it!
1. The Curly Puff — High or Low, You Decide!
Oh, how I love a beautiful curly puff!
Sometimes the simplest hairstyles make the biggest statements.
A high puff gives your natural hair a playful, youthful appearance while allowing those gorgeous curls and coils to take center stage.
A low curly puff, on the other hand, can create a more sophisticated and polished look.
Two different takes on the same styling idea!
The wonderful thing about this hairstyle is that you can dress it up or down depending on the occasion.
Styling tips:
Begin with moisturized, detangled hair.
Use a soft hair tie, satin scrunchie, or adjustable puff band.
Smooth the front and sides with a lightweight styling product if desired.
Fluff the curls gently to achieve your preferred fullness.
Avoid pulling the hair too tightly, particularly around your edges.
And ladies, remember: Your edges deserve love, too!
A beautiful hairstyle should never come at the expense of your hairline.
2. The Curly Updo — A Little Drama, A Lot of Beauty!
Now, if you're feeling a little fancy, let's talk about curly updos.
There is something incredibly beautiful about natural curls gathered into an elegant updo.
Whether you're sporting a high curly bun, a loosely pinned curly style, or a colorful updo with a little personality, this hairstyle can take you from casual to sophisticated in no time.
I especially love seeing naturalistas experiment with different shapes and textures.
And if you enjoy adding temporary color to your hair, a rich burgundy, auburn, or vibrant red can bring another dimension to the hairstyle.
Of course, color is optional. Your natural hair color is beautiful just as it is!
Styling tips:
Start with moisturized hair that is easy to manipulate.
Use bobby pins or hairpins to secure sections without excessive pulling.
Leave a few curls loose around the face for softness.
Try decorative clips, pearls, or elegant hair accessories for special occasions.
A curly updo can be a wonderful choice when you want your hair off your neck without sacrificing style.
3. Braided Updos — Elegance Meets Creativity
Now, ladies, let's give some attention to those beautiful braided hairstyles!
Braiding has long been a meaningful part of Black hair culture, and the artistry involved can be absolutely breathtaking.
From intricate cornrows to large, beautifully arranged braids, these hairstyles demonstrate just how creative natural hairstyling can be.
One of my favorite things about braided updos is how elegant they can look.
Some styles feature braids sweeping toward the back of the head, while others incorporate intricate patterns before gathering the hair into a bun.
And when properly installed and maintained, braided styles can reduce the need for daily manipulation.
However, let's remember something important.
Protective styling should actually protect your hair!
Braids that pull too tightly along the hairline or create discomfort can lead to breakage and traction-related hair loss.
Beauty should never require us to ignore what our scalp is telling us.
Styling tips:
Make sure your hair is clean and conditioned before braiding.
Avoid excessive tension around the hairline.
Keep your scalp comfortable and clean.
Moisturize your hair as needed.
Protect your style at night with a satin scarf or bonnet.
If a hairstyle hurts, it's too tight!
4. Creative Cornrows — It's All in the Design!
Have you noticed how creative cornrow hairstyles have become?
We're talking curved parts, zigzags, side-swept designs, geometric patterns, and intricate braid arrangements!
These styles are truly works of art.
One thing I particularly admire is the way a skilled stylist can use the natural shape of the head to create a beautiful design.
Some styles look simple from the front but reveal an entirely different pattern from the back.
And isn't that a lovely surprise?
Design in the back, beauty all around!
Cornrows can also be a practical option for women who prefer a hairstyle that requires less daily restyling.
Just remember to protect your scalp, maintain moisture, and avoid leaving a style in longer than is comfortable or appropriate for your hair.
5. Keeping Your Natural Hair Healthy Beneath the Style
Ladies, while we're admiring all these beautiful hairstyles, we cannot forget the foundation of every gorgeous style.
Healthy hair care!
It doesn't matter how beautiful your updo, braid pattern, or curly puff looks if your strands are suffering underneath.
Here are a few reminders I always believe are worth sharing.
Moisture matters. Water-based products can help hydrate your natural hair, while conditioners and suitable oils or creams can support softness and manageability.
Protect those ends. The ends are the oldest part of our hair and often need additional attention.
Be gentle with your edges. Avoid hairstyles that repeatedly pull or create tension around your hairline.
Don't forget your nighttime routine. Satin bonnets, scarves, and pillowcases can help reduce friction while you sleep.
Listen to your hair. Not every hairstyle or product works for everyone. Hair density, strand thickness, porosity, and personal preference all play a role.
And most importantly, don't allow a hairstyle to become more important than the health of your crown.
6. Your Hair, Your Crown, Your Choice!
One of the most freeing things about embracing natural hair is realizing that we don't have to style it the same way every day.
Some days we want curls cascading around our faces.
Other days, we're perfectly happy with a simple puff.
And then there are those occasions when we want an elaborate braided updo that makes everybody stop and take a second look!
Whatever you choose, remember that your natural hair is beautifully versatile.
You don't have to follow every trend or recreate every hairstyle you see on social media.
Find what works for your hair, your lifestyle, and your personal style.
Because the most beautiful hairstyle is one that allows you to feel comfortable, confident, and completely yourself.
Let's Talk, Naturalistas!
Now it's your turn!
What's up with YOUR hair these days?
Are you wearing:
A high or low curly puff?
A twist-out or wash-and-go?
An elegant curly updo?
Braids or creative cornrows?
Or are you experimenting with something completely different?
Tell me about it in the comments!
And here's another question: Do you prefer hairstyles that show off your curls, or do you enjoy tucking your hair away in a protective style?
I'd love to hear your thoughts and styling experiences.
Until next time, ladies, keep loving your curls, embracing your texture, and celebrating the beauty of your natural crown.
Happy Curls to You!
Lady Carolyn M. Summerset
Crowning Glory — Coils & Kinks
© 2026 Crowning Glory — Coils & Kinks by Lady Carolyn M. Summerset. All Rights Reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, distributed, or republished without prior written permission of the author.
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