32 Best Wrestling Hairstyles for Women — Secure, Stylish & Performance-Ready

As a stylist with over a decade in the salon chair, I’ve worked with youth, high-school and collegiate wrestlers to create competition-ready looks that perform under pressure. Wrestling hair needs to be low-profile, low-friction and firmly secured to stay put under headgear while protecting the hair from breakage. In this post I present 32 reliable wrestling hairstyles for women, selected for different hair lengths and textures: tight cornrows and Dutch braids for maximum security, braided ponytails and tucked buns for long hair, and sleek low buns or double braids for shorter lengths. I’ll share salon-tested product picks—water-based gel, snag-free elastics, flexible-hold spray—and practical tips like braiding close to the scalp, slightly dampening hair for clean parts, and avoiding metal clips against the ears. Use the 32 images as step-by-step visual guides to pick the style that suits your routine, competition rules, and comfort level.

Sleek Tight Cornrow Braids with Defined Baby Hairs

This polished cornrow style works best on medium to thick hair and textured straight-to-coily types that hold tension well. For finer hair, use a light texturizing spray or a little mousse to add grip. Technique: create clean, parallel parts with a rat-tail comb and braid each narrow section close to the scalp using a traditional cornrow (underhand) or Dutch technique for more lift. Keep sections even and consistent in size to maintain the uniform look and finish ends with small elastics. Tools needed: rat-tail comb, sectioning clips, small clear elastics, spray bottle, fine-tooth brush. Products required: lightweight leave-in detangler, medium-hold gel or edge control for clean parts, small amount of styling cream for ends, scalp oil or braid spray for hydration, and a light shine serum. Difficulty level: intermediate — requires neat parting and steady braiding speed; full head can take 45–90 minutes. Maintenance tips: sleep on a silk bonnet, refresh edges with edge control, mist scalp weekly with braid spray or diluted leave-in, avoid excessive tension to prevent breakage, and remove braids after 4–6 weeks for deep conditioning.

Braided High Ponytail with Textured Waves

Modern, versatile braided high ponytail that pairs two front French/Dutch braids into a textured, wavy pony. Best for medium to long hair; works on fine hair with volumizing products or clip-in extensions, and on thick or curly hair when smoothed slightly before styling. To create: section two front panels and French- or Dutch-braid each panel back toward the crown, secure with small elastics, gather remaining hair into a high pony including braid ends, and conceal elastics with a wrapped strand. Add loose waves through the ponytail with a 1–1½ curling wand, alternating direction and breaking curls with fingers for lived-in texture. Tools: rat-tail comb, sectioning clips, fine elastics, bobby pins, curling wand, paddle brush. Products: volumizing mousse or powder, heat protectant, texturizing or sea salt spray, flexible-hold hairspray, light serum for ends. Difficulty: medium — requires basic braiding and sectioning skills. Maintenance: refresh with dry shampoo and salt spray on day two, re-twist and tighten braids if needed, and sleep on a silk pillowcase or loosely braid the pony to preserve waves.

Textured Double Dutch Braids Into Messy Top Bun — Pastel Blue Hair

This playful updo pairs two textured Dutch braids that feed into a relaxed, messy top bun — ideal for medium to long hair and especially flattering on naturally wavy or textured hair. For fine hair, add clip-in extensions or gently backcomb the crown for extra bulk; very thick hair will require extra pins. Start on dry, day-two hair: create a clean center part, Dutch-braid each side (braiding under to create lift) toward the crown, pancake the braids for width, then wrap them into a low top bun and secure with elastics and bobby pins. Tools: rat-tail comb, sectioning clips, small clear elastics, plenty of bobby pins, and a fine-tooth tail comb. Products: salt or texturizing spray for grip, light styling mousse or volumizer, heat protectant (if you pre-curl pieces), smoothing serum for flyaways, and a flexible-hold hairspray. Difficulty: moderate — 25–40 minutes depending on skill and hair density. Maintenance tips: sleep on a silk pillow, refresh texture with dry shampoo or mist of sea salt spray, retighten pins as needed, and protect the pastel color with sulfate-free shampoo and regular deep conditioning.

Textured Side Mini-Braids with Loose Waves — Long Hair Styling

This long, textured look combines small side and fishtail-style braids with loose, undone waves to create a lived-in, salon-finished style. Best for medium to thick long hair and naturally wavy or curly textures — fine hair can work with added texturizing spray or clip-in wefts for volume. Start on damp or dry hair: apply heat protectant and a volumizing mousse, blow-dry while lifting the crown, then section the top for light backcombing to create height. Braid several small Dutch or three-strand braids along one side, finishing one as a loose fishtail and pulling gently to pancake for width. Use a 1

Voluminous Curly High Ponytail with Face‑Framing Layers

Suitable for medium to long hair and ideal for medium to thick textures, this salon-style high ponytail can be adapted for fine hair with volumizing products or clip-in extensions. Begin on clean, towel-dried hair: apply a lightweight heat protectant and a root-lifting mousse. Blow-dry smooth while lifting at the roots with a round brush. Create loose, natural waves using a 1–1.25 curling iron, alternating directions for movement and leaving two small face-framing sections out. Lightly backcomb the crown for lift, gather hair into a mid-to-high ponytail and secure with a snag-free elastic. Wrap a small section of hair around the base to conceal the band and pin underneath. Finish by separating curls with your fingers, misting with a flexible hairspray and adding a light texturizing spray for hold and separation. Tools needed: blow dryer, round brush, curling iron, sectioning clips, teasing brush, elastics and bobby pins. Products: heat protectant, root-lift mousse, texturizing spray, flexible hairspray, lightweight serum. Difficulty: moderate (about 25–35 minutes). Maintenance: revive with dry shampoo, mist and scrunch to re-form waves, sleep on silk and re-pin loose pieces as needed.

High Double Dutch Braids with Face‑Framing Mini Braids

This sporty-chic look pairs two high Dutch (boxer) braids with slim face-framing mini braids and contrast accents. Best suited to medium to thick hair and straight-to-wavy textures; fine hair works with lightweight extensions or texturizing powder for grip. Section a centered part and create two tight Dutch braids starting at the hairline, adding hair as you go; leave two small strands at the front to braid thinly for detail. Use the pancake technique on the larger braids to widen and soften them if desired. Tools: rat-tail comb, sectioning clips, fine-tooth comb, small clear elastics, hair ties, and a paddle brush. Products: lightweight styling cream or mousse for hold, texturizing spray or powder for grip, edge control gel for smoothing, and a shine serum. Difficulty: intermediate — expect 30–50 minutes depending on length and whether extensions are added. Maintenance tips: sleep with a silk scarf or bonnet, refresh roots with dry shampoo, re-slick edges with a small amount of gel, and avoid keeping the style longer than 2–3 weeks to protect the hair and scalp. Re-do elastics or touch up flyaways as needed.

Textured High Half‑Pony with Chunky Face‑Framing Blonde Highlights

This bold half-up high pony works best on medium to thick hair and naturally wavy or loosely curled textures; fine hair can achieve the same look with clip-in pieces or strategic backcombing. Start on dry, detangled hair: apply heat protectant and a volumizing mousse at the roots. Section the top crown and lightly backcomb for lift, then gather a rounded top section into a high half-ponytail and secure with a strong elastic. Use a 1–1.25” curling wand to create loose waves in the remaining hair and the ponytail, alternating barrel direction for texture. Finish by separating waves with fingers and misting a salt-texture spray for grit, then lock with a light-hold hairspray. Tools: tail comb, teasing brush, elastics, bobby pins, clips, curling wand, flat iron (optional). Products: heat protectant, volumizing mousse or root spray, dry shampoo for grip, texturizing/sea-salt spray, light-hold hairspray, purple shampoo for maintained blonde tones. Difficulty: intermediate. Maintenance: refresh with dry shampoo and texture spray, loose “pineapple” at night, tone blond sections monthly, and trim every 8–12 weeks to keep ends healthy.

Double Dutch (Boxer) Braids — Sleek Athletic Braided Crown

Suitable for medium-to-long hair and most textures, these double Dutch (boxer) braids work best on straight to wavy hair or textured hair that holds shape. Fine hair can benefit from a light texturizing spray or dry shampoo for grip; very thick hair may require smaller sections. Technique: create a clean center part, take a small triangular section at the hairline and braid under (Dutch style), adding hair evenly on each pass and keeping tension consistent as you follow the hairline toward the nape; finish with a three-strand braid to the ends and secure. Tools needed: rat-tail comb, sectioning clips, paddle brush, small clear elastics, and bobby pins. Products required: pre-styling texturizer or mousse, smoothing cream or pomade for flyaways, light-hold hairspray, and optional shine serum. Difficulty level: moderate — expect 15–30 minutes for beginners, 8–12 minutes for experienced stylists. Maintenance tips: sleep on a silk pillowcase, refresh with dry shampoo or a light mist of water and re-tighten as needed, avoid heavy oils at the roots, and re-braid after 2–4 days to maintain neatness and scalp comfort.

Textured Micro‑Braided High Ponytail with Loose Curly Face‑Framing Pieces

Suitability: Works best on medium to very curly or wavy hair, and on straight hair with added braiding extensions for texture and volume. Ideal for clients seeking a long‑lasting protective look with movement. Styling technique: Section the hair into small, even parts using a rat‑tail comb. Create micro braids/twists from root to mid‑length, leaving a few front pieces and ends loosely curled for soft framing. Gather the braided sections into a high ponytail and secure with a strong elastic; wrap a few finished braids around the base for polish. Tools needed: rat‑tail comb, sectioning clips, small elastics, fine crochet hook (for extensions), paddled brush for smoothing, and a blow‑dryer with diffuser if drying natural curls first. Products required: pre‑styling leave‑in conditioner, light styling gel or edge control for neat roots, curl cream for face‑frames, lightweight oil/serum for shine, and flexible hold hairspray. Difficulty level: Advanced — expect 3–6 hours depending on density/length; professional installation recommended. Maintenance tips: wash with diluted sulfate‑free shampoo, avoid heavy conditioners at the root, sleep on silk, apply light scalp oil between washes, and retouch loose braids every 6–8 weeks to maintain neatness.

Messy Space Buns with Colored Wrap Braid for Medium–Thick Textured Hair

A modern, wearable take on space buns: two messy high buns with a small side braid wrapped in red and blue extension strands. Suitability: best on medium to thick hair and on naturally wavy or slightly curly textures; straight hair will also work after adding texture or clip-in extensions. Styling technique: section hair into two top sections for buns, secure each into a loose high ponytail, twist into messy buns and anchor with pins. Leave a small side strand, add colored clip-in or pre-tied extension pieces, and three-strand braid incorporating the extensions; tie off with a clear elastic and tug for volume and movement. Tools needed: tail comb, small elastics, bobby pins, sectioning clips, optional curling wand or diffuser. Products required: texturizing or sea-salt spray for grip, light styling cream or serum for flyaways (on bangs), flexible-hold hairspray, and dry shampoo for added volume. Difficulty level: intermediate — requires neat sectioning and braid control. Maintenance tips: sleep with a silk scarf, refresh texture with dry shampoo, retighten buns as needed, and remove clip-ins for washing or long-term wear to protect natural hair.

Textured Dutch Double Braids into Low Bubble Plaits

This look suits medium-to-long hair and works best on medium to thick textures; fine hair can hold the style with texturizing products and light teasing, while very curly hair should be smoothed slightly at the roots for clean Dutch braids. Start by creating a clean center part, clip one side out of the way and Dutch-braid from the hairline toward the nape, adding hair evenly as you go. Secure each braid with a small elastic, then create the low bubble effect by adding 2–3 additional elastics down each tail and gently pulling each section outward to pancake and soften. Tools: tail comb, sectioning clips, small clear elastics, boar-bristle brush and bobby pins. Products: salt or texturizing spray for grip, light smoothing serum at the ends, dry shampoo to add hold, and a flexible-hold hairspray to finish. Difficulty: intermediate — requires comfort with Dutch braiding and pancaking technique. Maintenance tips: sleep on a silk pillow or loose wrap, refresh texture with dry shampoo or misted sea-salt spray, re-tighten elastics as needed and avoid heavy oils that will weigh the braids down.

Textured Double Space Buns with Face‑Framing Waves and Blunt Fringe

This playful textured double-bun look with soft face-framing waves and a blunt fringe suits straight to wavy hair and adapts well for medium to thick textures; fine hair can wear it with added texture. Start on dry hair: apply heat protectant, then mist a sea-salt or texturizing spray through mid-lengths and ends. Create a centered part or slightly off-center, section the top into two high ponytails, backcomb the bases lightly for lift, twist each pony into a loose bun and secure with elastics and bobby pins, pulling pieces out for a messy, lived-in finish. Use a 19–25 mm curling wand to add loose S-shaped waves to the face-framing pieces. Tools: tail comb, elastics, bobby pins, curling wand, vent brush. Products: heat protectant, texturizing spray or powder, lightweight smoothing serum for flyaways, and a flexible-hold hairspray. Difficulty: moderate — 15–30 minutes depending on experience. Maintenance: refresh texture with dry shampoo or powder, retuck loose strands with pins, dampen and re-texturize to revive shape, and use weekly deep conditioning for bleached hair to preserve integrity.

Textured Messy High Ponytail with Curtain Bangs and Face‑Framing Tendrils

This relaxed, textured high ponytail with curtain bangs and loose face‑framing tendrils suits straight to wavy hair and medium to thick densities best; fine hair can achieve similar lift with volumizing products or a small padding piece. Start on towel‑dried hair: apply heat protectant and a volumizing mousse at roots, then blow‑dry with a round brush to lift the crown. Use a texturizing spray through the mid‑lengths and ends. Section the front curtain bangs and two thin face‑framing pieces; gather the rest into a high pony, backcomb slightly at the crown for added height, and secure with an elastic. Wrap a small strand around the elastic and pin underneath. Lightly curl the face pieces with a 1

Textured Blonde-to-Purple Half-Up Dutch Braids with Loose Rope Waves

This textured half-up braided style pairs tight Dutch braids along the crown with long, loose rope braids and soft, undone waves. Hair type suitability: best on medium–long lengths and naturally wavy, curly, or textured hair; fine hair benefits from texturizing products or clip-in extensions for fullness, while very thick hair will need controlled sectioning. Styling technique: create two Dutch/French braids from the hairline toward the crown, secure, then twist remaining lengths into loose rope braids or finger-twist for that boho look; finish with a 1 curling wand or diffuser to blend waves and soften face-framing pieces. Tools needed: tail comb, sectioning clips, small clear elastics, bobby pins, 1 curling wand (or diffuser), and a wide-tooth comb. Products required: heat protectant, salt/texturizing spray, light-hold gel for braid control, flexible-hold hairspray, color-safe shampoo and a weekly bond-building mask for bleached color. Difficulty level: intermediate — requires comfortable braiding and sectioning. Maintenance tips: sleep in a loose braid or silk scarf, refresh texture with dry shampoo or misting spray, re-tighten crown braids after 2–4 days, and deep-condition regularly to protect colored ends.

Textured Messy High Ponytail with Beach Waves and Face‑Framing Tendrils

Salon-ready yet effortless, this textured messy high ponytail suits wavy to curly hair and medium-to-thick straight hair that’s pre-textured. Start on damp hair: apply a lightweight mousse or salt spray and a heat protectant. Either diffuse to rough‑dry for natural volume or create loose waves with a 1–1.25 curling wand (or set several loose braids in damp hair and undo when dry). Gather hair into a high ponytail, leaving a few face‑framing pieces out; wrap a small section of hair around the elastic and secure with bobby pins for a polished look. Add one or two tiny braids or twists through the ponytail for extra detail if desired. Tools: wide-tooth comb, tail comb, brush, elastic, bobby pins, curling wand or diffuser, blow dryer. Products: sea salt/texturizing spray, light mousse, heat protectant, texturizing powder or dry shampoo for lift, flexible-hold hairspray, small smoothing serum for ends. Difficulty: easy–moderate, 15–30 minutes depending on texture. Maintenance: refresh next day with dry shampoo and a quick mist of salt spray or re-curl a few pieces; sleep on a silk pillowcase and avoid heavy oils at the roots to preserve volume.

Textured Double Dutch Braids with Face‑Framing Tendrils (Platinum Blonde)

This look is ideal for medium to thick, shoulder‑length to long hair and works well on straight or gently wavy textures; fine hair can wear it with volumizing products or light extensions, while very curly hair benefits from a quick smooth blowout first. Technique: start on dry hair with a light texture spray for grip, create a clean center part, and Dutch‑braid each side from the hairline back. Braid to the nape, secure with a small elastic, then pancake and loosen the braid for volume and softness. Pull a few face‑framing tendrils free and softly twist or curl them with a small barrel for a lived‑in finish. Tools needed: rat‑tail comb, sectioning clips, small clear elastics, paddle brush and a 1/2–3/4

Braided Cornrow High Pony with Textured Dreadlocks

This look suits naturally textured hair, mature starter locs, or those using loc extensions—especially 3A–4C textures where grip and volume hold braids and dreadlocks well. Technique: create neat cornrows along the hairline and crown, feeding the sections back into a high pony; wrap or tuck individual locs to build a full, elevated silhouette. For added dimension use pre-made synthetic or real loc extensions and integrate them with a crochet needle or latch hook. Tools needed: rat-tail comb for parting, sectioning clips, sturdy elastic bands, small rubber bands, crochet hook/needle (for extensions), and hair pins. Products required: lightweight leave-in conditioner, locking gel or cream for control, edge control for baby hairs, anti-frizz serum, and a clarifying shampoo for periodic buildup removal. Difficulty level: intermediate — expect 45–90 minutes depending on loc density and extension work. Maintenance tips: avoid excessive tension at the hairline, sleep on a silk scarf or bonnet, refresh cornrows every 2–4 weeks, retwist loc bases as needed, clarify monthly to prevent residue, and moisturize scalp regularly with light oil to prevent dryness.

Braided Half‑Up High Ponytail with Textured Loose Curls

This salon-ready half-up style pairs a crown braid with a high, textured ponytail of loose curls. Best for medium to long hair and medium to thick textures; straight hair will need pre‑texturizing and fine hair benefits from light backcombing or clip-in extensions for fullness. To create: section a top panel and execute a tight Dutch/French braid along the hairline into a high pony, secure with an elastic, then curl the remaining lengths with a 1–1.25 curling wand and gently separate for a lived-in look. Tools needed: rat-tail comb, sectioning clips, elastic bands, bobby pins, curling wand, paddle or boar-bristle brush. Recommended products: heat protectant, lightweight mousse or root volumizer, texturizing spray, flexible-hold hairspray, and a small amount of smoothing serum for flyaways and baby hairs. Difficulty: intermediate — requires steady braiding and clean tension. Maintenance tips: sleep with a silk scarf or pineapple the ponytail to preserve curls, refresh with a spritz of water + curl cream or dry shampoo for lift, and re-secure loose pieces with bobby pins as needed to maintain shape.

High Messy Ponytail for Tight Natural Curls — Textured Curly Updo

This high messy ponytail is ideal for tight, springy curls and naturally textured hair. Start on damp, detangled hair: apply a lightweight leave-in conditioner and a curl‑defining cream to distribute moisture and reduce frizz. Use a wide-tooth comb or fingers to shape curls, then either diffuse on low heat to preserve curl pattern or allow to air dry until mostly set. Gather hair high at the crown, secure with a snag-free elastic, and loosen the ponytail by pulling small sections outward to create volume and a soft, undone silhouette. For extra definition, wrap a few perimeter pieces around a small-barrel curling wand or finger‑twist them while damp. Finish with a light-hold hairspray and a dab of anti-frizz serum on flyaways. Tools needed: wide-tooth comb, rat-tail comb, elastic band, bobby pins, diffuser (optional), small curling wand (optional). Products: leave-in conditioner, curl cream, light gel or mousse, anti-frizz oil, light hairspray. Difficulty: easy–medium. Maintenance: pineapple at night with a silk scarf/bonnet, refresh with water + curl cream or curl refresher spray, deep-condition weekly, and trim ends regularly to avoid frizz and maintain shape.

Double Dutch Braids into Low Braided Bun — Platinum Short–Medium Hair

A structured double Dutch (inverted) braid finished into a low braided bun — ideal for platinum, silver or light-colored hair because the texture and contrast show detail. Best suited to straight or slightly wavy hair of medium to thick density; fine hair will benefit from light texturizing spray or temporary extension pieces for fullness. Technique: section two clean, slightly textured panels from hairline to nape, create tight Dutch braids by crossing strands under while adding hair, secure with small elastics, then wrap and pin the remaining lengths into a neat low braided bun. Tools needed: rat-tail comb for parting, sectioning clips, small clear elastics, bobby pins, and a fine-tooth brush for smoothing. Products required: sea salt or texturizing spray (for grip), smoothing cream or light pomade for flyaways, medium-to-strong hold hairspray, and a small shine serum for finishing. Difficulty: intermediate — requires controlled tension and even braiding (30–45 minutes). Maintenance tips: sleep on a silk pillowcase or wrap with a silk scarf, refresh with dry shampoo and a few pins to tighten, and avoid heavy oils that weigh platinum hair down.

Textured Double Dutch-to-Fishtail Braids for Wavy or Curly Hair

Suitable for medium-to-thick wavy, curly or textured hair, this look combines two Dutch braids at the scalp that transition into looser fishtail-style plaits with soft face-framing tendrils. Technique: create a clean center part, section into two, Dutch-braid each side from the hairline to the nape while adding hair, then switch to a fishtail (or continue three-strand) for the length. Gently pancake the braids for volume and pull a few tendrils around the face for a relaxed finish. Tools needed: rat-tail comb, sectioning clips, small clear elastics, fine-tooth comb and a paddle/boar-bristle brush. Products required: lightweight leave-in conditioner, texturizing or sea-salt spray for grip, curl-defining cream or light pomade for control, and a flexible-hold hairspray. Difficulty level: intermediate — you should be comfortable with Dutch and fishtail braiding; expect 25–45 minutes in a salon. Maintenance tips: sleep on a silk pillowcase or wrap, refresh with water + curl cream or texturizer, re-tighten elastics if needed, avoid heavy oils at the roots and expect the style to last 3–5 days with proper care.

Textured Cornrow-to-Ponytail with Side Braid — Curly & Wavy Hair Style

This look pairs two neat cornrows at the crown that feed into a soft, textured ponytail with a relaxed side braid — ideal for medium to thick naturally curly or wavy hair and also adaptable to straight hair with pre-texturing. Technique: create clean center or slightly off-center parts, Dutch/cornrow the front sections tightly but comfortably toward the crown, gather into a high ponytail and braid the remaining length loosely for a lived-in finish. Tools needed: rat-tail comb, sectioning clips, fine and wide-tooth combs, small clear elastics, paddle brush, and a blow-dryer with diffuser (optional). Products required: lightweight leave-in conditioner, curl-enhancing cream or mousse, medium-hold gel for smooth edges, anti-frizz serum or spray, and a light hairspray for hold. Difficulty level: intermediate — basic cornrowing and braiding skills plus time management (25–45 minutes) make this salon-friendly. Maintenance tips: sleep on a silk pillowcase or silk bonnet, refresh curls with water and curl cream or a mist, gently re-tighten cornrows when loose, avoid over-manipulating to reduce frizz, and trim ends every 8–12 weeks for the cleanest silhouette.

Cornrowed Rows into Loose Twists — Braided Mohawk with Textured Ends

This braided style features tight cornrowed rows on the scalp that transition into relaxed three‑strand twists for a textured, faux‑dread look. Suitability: Best on medium to thick hair and straight to wavy textures; fine hair works with pre-bonded or clip-in extensions for fullness and grip. Styling technique: Create clean center and side partings, Dutch or regular cornrow each row toward the crown, secure ends with small elastics, then braid or twist remaining lengths into loose three‑strand twists or palm‑rolled ropes. Tools needed: rat‑tail comb, sectioning clips, small elastics, braiding needle or crochet hook (for extensions), and a fine tooth comb. Products required: light holding gel or braiding cream for grip, texturizing spray for volume, lightweight scalp oil, and a flexible hold hairspray to set. Difficulty level: Intermediate — expect 60–120 minutes depending on hair density and extension use. Maintenance tips: Sleep on a silk pillow or bonnet, mist scalp with diluted leave‑in weekly, refresh edges with a tiny amount of gel, and redo cornrows every 4–6 weeks to prevent matting and keep partings crisp.

Textured Half-Up Messy Bun with Curtain Bangs and Loose Curls

This textured half‑up messy bun with curtain bangs and loose curls is best for medium to thick hair and works particularly well on shoulder‑length to long layers. Natural waves or curls provide immediate texture; fine or straight hair will need body-building products and heat styling to hold shape. Styling technique: apply heat protectant and a volumizing mousse to damp hair, blow-dry with a round brush or diffuse. Section the top half, twist into a loose, slightly off‑center bun and secure with a small elastic and bobby pins, leaving face‑framing pieces out. Use a 1 curling wand to define remaining lengths and bang ends, then lightly tease the crown for lift and soften with fingers. Tools & products: 1 curling wand, round brush, tail comb, sectioning clips, bobby pins, small elastics. Products: heat protectant, volumizing mousse, texturizing or sea‑salt spray, light‑hold hairspray, and a smoothing serum for ends. Difficulty: Moderate (20–30 minutes). Maintenance: refresh with texturizing spray, sleep on a silk scarf or pillowcase, touch up loose curls as needed, and trim bangs every 4–6 weeks to maintain shape.

Textured Messy Space Buns with Wispy Bangs

This playful textured double-bun with wispy, face‑framing tendrils and blunt fringe suits medium to thick hair and straight‑to‑wavy textures best; fine hair can also wear it with added texturizing or small donut pads, and curly hair can be smoothed slightly for cleaner buns. Start on second‑ or third‑day hair: mist with texturizing or sea‑salt spray, part slightly down the middle, and section hair into two high or slightly off‑center ponytails. Twist each pony into a loose bun, secure with an elastic, then pin loops and tail ends with bobby pins to create a messy, voluminous shape. Pull out a few front strands and loosen the crown for softness; refine bangs with a round brush or flat iron. Tools: tail comb, elastics, bobby pins, curling wand (optional), blow dryer. Products: dry shampoo, texturizing spray or powder, light‑hold hairspray, heat protectant, small amount of smoothing cream for flyaways. Difficulty: easy–medium (20–30 minutes). Maintenance: refresh with dry shampoo, re‑pin loosened sections, reshape tendrils with a curling wand, and sleep on a silk pillow or use a loose wrap to preserve the look.

Asymmetric Cornrows with Textured Curled Fringe

This asymmetric cornrow look with a textured loose fringe is ideal for straight to wavy hair at short to medium lengths, and shows best on medium-to-thick density. Styling technique: create a deep side part and section 3–5 parallel Dutch or French cornrows along the clipped side, feeding hair tightly toward the nape; leave a front section out and add loose curls or finger waves for softness. Tools needed: tail comb, sectioning clips, small clear elastics, 19–25 mm curling wand or flat iron, and a soft brush. Products: lightweight pre-styling spray, volumizing mousse or cream, sea-salt texturizing spray, edge control or light pomade, and flexible-hold hairspray. Difficulty level: intermediate — requires consistent tension and clean parting; expect 30–45 minutes in the salon. Maintenance tips: sleep on a silk or satin scarf/bonnet, lightly oil the scalp to prevent dryness, refresh the fringe with a quick touch-up using a curling iron or texturizer, avoid heavy conditioners that loosen braids, and retouch or re-braid edges after 1–2 weeks. With good care this style lasts 1–3 weeks.

Textured Dutch Braided High Bun with Face‑Framing Tendrils

A versatile textured Dutch braided high bun that pairs polished structure with soft, face‑framing tendrils. Best suited for medium to thick hair and shoulder‑length to long lengths; fine hair benefits from texturizing spray or light clip‑in pieces for volume. Technique: create two or three Dutch braids along the sides or center from the hairline to the crown, secure the braid ends, gather into a high pony and wrap into a loose bun, then pancake the braids slightly for width and pull out a few delicate strands at the front. Tools needed: tail comb for sectioning, sectioning clips, small elastics, bobby pins, boar‑bristle brush, and an optional small curling iron for shaping tendrils. Products required: lightweight mousse or texturizer for grip, dry shampoo to add texture, heat protectant for tendril styling, smoothing serum for flyaways, and a medium‑hold hairspray. Difficulty: intermediate — requires confident braiding and pinning; allow 15–30 minutes. Maintenance tips: sleep on a silk pillowcase, refresh with dry shampoo and a few repositioned pins, touch up loose tendrils with a curling iron, and avoid heavy oils at the roots to preserve hold.

Loose Beachy Waves with Braided Crown for Medium-Long Blonde Hair

This relaxed, salon-friendly look suits medium to long hair with natural waves or straight hair that can hold a curl; medium to thick density will achieve the most body, while fine hair benefits from volumizing products and a root-lift. Start by applying a heat protectant and a lightweight mousse to damp hair, then blow-dry with a round brush for smoothness and lift. Create loose, 1–1.25 inch barrel wand curls, alternating the direction and leaving the ends slightly undone for a beachy finish. Braid a small section along the hairline or create a loose French/rope braid on one side, pinning it back with discreet bobby pins. Finger-comb the curls and mist with a sea-salt spray or texturizing spray for separation, finishing with a light-hold hairspray. Tools needed: blow dryer with nozzle, 1 curling wand, tail comb, bobby pins, clips. Products: thermal protectant, volumizing mousse, sea-salt or texturizing spray, light-hold hairspray, optional shine serum. Difficulty: easy–medium, 20–35 minutes. Maintenance: refresh with dry shampoo or re-spray texture, sleep on a silk pillowcase or loosely braid to preserve waves, and trim every 8–12 weeks to avoid split ends.

Textured Dutch Crown Braid into Low Braided Updo

Salon-ready textured Dutch crown braid that feeds into a low braided updo, ideal for medium-to-long hair. Best on medium to thick textures and natural waves; fine hair benefits from light teasing or clip-in extensions to add bulk. Start on dry, second-day hair: mist roots with dry shampoo and texturizing spray, use a tail comb to create a deep side part. Backcomb slightly at the crown for lift, then do a Dutch/French braid along the hairline, adding hair as you go and keeping the braid slightly loose. Gather the remaining hair at the nape and continue a three-strand braid or twist into a low bun, secure with an elastic and bobby pins. Gently pancake the braid for softness and pull a few face-framing strands for a lived-in finish. Tools: tail comb, boar-bristle brush, sectioning clips, elastics, bobby pins, optional 1 curling wand. Products: dry shampoo, sea-salt or texturizing spray, light-hold hairspray, smoothing serum and heat protectant. Difficulty: moderate — 20–35 minutes. Maintenance: sleep on a silk pillowcase, refresh texture with dry shampoo and re-pin loose pieces, and avoid heavy oils that weigh the braid down.

Textured Double Dutch Braids with Loose Crown and Beachy Finish

Suitable for medium to thick hair and shoulder-length to long lengths, this textured double Dutch braid with a loose crown gives a polished-but-lived-in look. For fine hair, add a texturizing powder or light extensions for bulk; very curly hair can be smoothed slightly at the root for cleaner Dutch sections. Styling technique: start on dry, second-day hair. Create a clean center part, spray roots with texture spray, then Dutch-braid each side from the hairline toward the nape, adding hair as you go. Keep the crown sections slightly looser and pull gently on braid loops (pancaking) to create width and softness. Secure ends with small elastics and lightly tug mid-lengths to enhance the undone effect. Tools and products: tail comb, sectioning clips, small clear elastics, boar-bristle brush, texturizing spray or powder, light smoothing cream for flyaways, flexible-hold hairspray, and optional curling iron to add waves beforehand. Difficulty level: intermediate — basic Dutch-braiding skills required. Maintenance tips: sleep on a silk pillowcase or wrap with a scarf, refresh with dry shampoo and reshaping of the braids, and avoid heavy oils that flatten texture. Re-tighten elastics or re-braid sections as needed every 2–4 days depending on activity.

Double Dutch Braids into Space Buns with Vivid Blue Extensions

Suitable for medium to thick, long hair and adaptable to straight or slightly wavy textures. Fine hair will benefit from clip-in extensions or light backcombing for fullness and grip; very curly hair should be smoothed with a leave‑in conditioner before braiding for cleaner tension. Technique: create a precise center part, section each side, and Dutch-braid from the hairline toward the nape, continuing the braid down the length. Secure ends with small elastics, then twist the upper portion into mini space buns and pin, leaving the lower braids or wrapping them into thicker pigtails as desired. Tools: rat‑tail comb, sectioning clips, fine-tooth comb, small clear elastics, strong hair ties, bobby pins, and extension clips if needed. Products: texturizing or sea‑salt spray for grip, light pomade or smoothing serum for flyaways, strong‑hold hairspray to lock shape, dry shampoo to extend wear, and color‑safe care for vivid dyes. Difficulty: intermediate — requires controlled tension and clean Dutch technique. Maintenance: sleep on silk, refresh with dry shampoo, retighten elastics after 1–3 days, and avoid frequent heat or harsh bleaching to preserve color and extension integrity.

Undercut Braided Mohawk — Double Dutch Braids into One Plait

This edgy braided mohawk pairs a close undercut with two Dutch (inside-out) braids that merge into a single plait. Suitability: best on medium to thick hair and straight to wavy textures for hold and fullness; fine hair can work with texturizing spray or micro-loop extensions for added grip. Styling technique: clipper the sides and nape to desired length (salon recommended), section a centered strip from hairline to crown, then create two Dutch braids from the front toward the back, incorporating hair tightly and joining into one braid at the occipital bone. Tools needed: clippers or trimmer (for undercut), tail comb, sectioning clips, brush, elastic bands, bobby pins. Products required: texturizing or salt spray for grip, lightweight pomade or edge control for smooth hairline, dry shampoo to add texture, and a light-hold hairspray to set. Difficulty level: intermediate — requires confident Dutch-braiding skills; undercut work best done by a professional. Maintenance tips: refresh the undercut every 2–4 weeks, sleep on a silk scarf to reduce frizz, use dry shampoo between washes, re-tighten or re-braid edges as needed, and deep-condition hair weekly to prevent dryness.

Performance hair is about durability and healthy hair management. My professional advice: distribute tension by using multiple braids rather than one overly tight ponytail, avoid tiny metal elastics that snag, and rotate styles to prevent repeated stress on the same sections. Prep with a light leave-in conditioner and use water-based gel or pomade at the roots for clean parts and reduced flyaways. After competition, remove pins gently, detangle with a wide-tooth comb, and apply a conditioning mist—deep condition weekly if you train often. Use a silk bonnet or pillowcase to reduce friction at night, and book regular trims to prevent split ends from working their way up the shaft. If you’d like a personalized match for your hair type and competition level, bring photos or stop by the salon and I’ll create a secure, comfortable style that fits your routine. —Lena, Senior Stylist