Black or African American hairstyles are becoming a trend of late. Many trendy people are always on the lookout for the latest African American hairstyles to try out. It gives a funky, trendy and chic look to those who don black hairstyles, whether it is curls, braids, frizz, or twists. African American women on the other hand usually have to work with what they have, and style their hair to compliment the shape of their face and color their hair to flatter their skin tone color. Here are some popular styles influenced by African American hairstyles.

Braids

Braiding is a very popular African American hairstyle, both for women and for men as well. There are various types of braids, whether a portion of the hair, or the entire locks of hair. It is easily made, especially with braiding machine, but looks best when done by hand – although it is time consuming. There are box braids, micro-braids and a whole lot more variety of braids. It is extremely fashionable, but needs high maintenance as well as patience when donning braided hairstyles.

Cornrows

Cornrows are an extremely popular hairstyle which is heavily influenced by African American hairstyles, but is now donned by every culture, race and ethnics of the world. Cornrows are actually a type of braid which plaits hair together in a tight small braid that ties it right to the scalp. The locks of hair are braided to one another, making rows and rows, and sometimes spirals and circles on the scalp, making it look fashionable and artistic.

Dreadlocks

Various hairstyles of dreadlocks are only popularized after the rise of reggae music, sporting on musicians such as the legendary Bob Marley, Bobby McFerrin and others. It is an ethnic hairstyle, but brought into the scene by the African American population. Dreadlocks are quite hard to maintain. It could be naturally achieved if you leave your hair uncombed for a long time. However, saloon uses chemical and false tresses to speed up the process of creating the dreadlock look. Dreadlocks look very stylish and artistic.

Tight Ponytail

Ponytail is a very common hairstyle, and it suits even for African American women. One could be creative with various styles of ponytails. It enhances the neckline and the jaw, and for those with wide forehead could leave out some fringe at the front. It works well even with frizzy hair, wavy hair, or straight hair.

However, if you want to don African American hairstyles perfectly, consult a professional to suggest one that suits the shape of your face.