36 Hairstyles for Long Natural Hair 2024: Cute, Easy, Protective, Braided, Simple and More Ideas

As we step into 2024, long natural hair continues to shine with versatile and stylish options that celebrate its beauty and texture. Whether you have 4c curls or loose waves, finding the perfect hairstyle can be both exciting and rewarding. This article will explore 36 cute, easy, and protective hairstyles for long natural hair that will keep you looking elegant and feeling confident. From everyday styles to special occasions like weddings and proms, these ideas will inspire you to embrace your natural beauty.

Twisted Updo

The twisted updo is a quick and easy hairstyle perfect for both casual and formal occasions. This style features intricate twists pinned up to create a chic and sophisticated look. It suits round and square face shapes beautifully, highlighting their features.

To create a twisted updo, section your hair and twist each section before pinning it up. You can use hairpins to secure the twists and a natural hair gel to keep flyaways in check. A good leave-in conditioner will help maintain the style by keeping your hair moisturized and manageable.

Braided Crown

The braided crown is a timeless and elegant hairstyle that exudes regality and sophistication. Ideal for formal events such as weddings and proms, this style involves braiding the hair around the head to create a crown-like effect. It is particularly flattering for oval and heart-shaped faces and brings out the beauty of darker eye colors.

To achieve the braided crown, part your hair down the middle and start braiding from one side, working your way around the head. Secure the end of the braid with a bobby pin. For maintenance, use a light hold hairspray to keep the braids in place and a moisturizing spray to keep your hair hydrated.

Curly Ponytail

The curly ponytail is a simple yet cute hairstyle that showcases the natural curls of your hair. Perfect for a birthday party or a casual day out, this style is easy to achieve and maintain. It works well for all face shapes and can make your eye color pop with the right accessories.

To achieve a curly ponytail, gather your hair at the crown of your head and secure it with a hair tie. Use a curl-defining cream to enhance your curls and reduce frizz. Regular use of a deep conditioner will keep your curls healthy and bouncy.

Cornrows

Cornrows are a classic protective hairstyle that keeps your hair neat and stylish. Suitable for any occasion, from everyday wear to formal events, cornrows can be styled in various patterns and designs. This hairstyle is particularly beneficial for those with 4c hair, as it helps protect the hair from breakage.

To create cornrows, part your hair into sections and braid each section close to the scalp. You can add extensions for length and thickness if desired. Use a scalp oil to keep your scalp moisturized and prevent dryness.

Box Braids

Box braids are a versatile and protective hairstyle that can be worn for weeks at a time. Ideal for travel or when you need a break from daily styling, box braids can be styled in numerous ways, from updos to loose ponytails. This style is perfect for oval and round face shapes.

To achieve box braids, section your hair into small squares and braid each section. You can use synthetic hair extensions to add length and volume. To maintain the style, use a braid spray to keep your hair moisturized and prevent itching.

Afro Puff

The afro puff is a fun and easy hairstyle that celebrates the natural volume and texture of your hair. Great for a casual day or a birthday celebration, this style is simple to create and maintain. It suits all face shapes and highlights the natural beauty of your curls.

To create an afro puff, gather your hair at the crown of your head and secure it with a hair tie. Use a pick to fluff out your hair and create volume. A curl-enhancing mousse will help define your curls and keep them looking fresh.

Bantu Knots

Bantu knots are a stylish and protective hairstyle that works well for all hair types. This look is perfect for a night out or a prom, offering a unique and eye-catching style. It suits round and square face shapes and adds a playful touch to your look.

To create Bantu knots, section your hair and twist each section into a small knot. Secure the knots with bobby pins or hair ties. Use a setting lotion to keep the knots in place and a satin scarf to protect them while you sleep.

Twist Out

The twist out is a popular hairstyle that enhances the natural texture of your hair, creating defined and voluminous curls. Ideal for both casual and formal events, this style suits all face shapes and highlights the natural beauty of your hair.

To achieve a twist out, section your hair and twist each section before leaving it to set overnight. In the morning, unravel the twists and fluff your hair for volume. Use a curl cream to enhance the definition and a light oil to add shine.

Faux Locs

Faux locs are a protective hairstyle that mimics the look of natural locs without the commitment. This style is great for those who want to try locs temporarily and can be styled in various ways. It suits oval and heart-shaped faces and is perfect for a formal event or a wedding.

To create faux locs, section your hair and wrap synthetic hair around each section to create the locs. Use a setting mousse to keep the locs in place and a scalp oil to keep your scalp moisturized.

Goddess Braids

Goddess braids are a larger version of cornrows, creating a bold and beautiful look. This style is ideal for special occasions like weddings and proms, offering an elegant and sophisticated appearance. It suits all face shapes and can be accessorized with beads or hair cuffs.

To create goddess braids, part your hair into large sections and braid each section close to the scalp. Use hair extensions for added length and volume if desired. Maintain the style with a braid spray to keep your hair moisturized and looking fresh.

Halo Braid

The halo braid is a stunning and elegant hairstyle that creates the illusion of a crown made of hair. Ideal for weddings, formal events, and proms, this style is both romantic and sophisticated. It suits oval and heart-shaped faces and beautifully frames the face.

To achieve a halo braid, part your hair in the center and start braiding from one side, circling around your head like a halo. Secure the braid with bobby pins and use a light-hold hairspray to keep it in place. Maintain the style with a hydrating spray to keep your hair moisturized.

High Puff

The high puff is a cute and easy hairstyle that highlights the natural volume and texture of your hair. Perfect for casual outings or a birthday celebration, this style is simple to create and maintain. It works well for all face shapes.

To create a high puff, gather your hair at the top of your head and secure it with a hair tie. Use a pick to fluff out your hair and create volume. A curl-defining gel will help keep your curls in place and reduce frizz.

Flat Twists

Flat twists are a versatile and protective hairstyle that can be worn in various styles. Suitable for both casual and formal occasions, flat twists work well for all face shapes and can be styled in different patterns.

To achieve flat twists, part your hair into sections and twist each section close to the scalp. Secure the ends with bobby pins or hair ties. Use a twisting cream to enhance definition and keep your twists looking fresh.

French Braids

French braids are a classic and elegant hairstyle that never goes out of style. 

Perfect for any occasion, from casual outings to formal events, French braids work well for all face shapes and can be styled in various ways.

To create French braids, part your hair down the middle and start braiding from the top, incorporating more hair as you go down. Secure the ends with hair ties. Use a smoothing cream to keep your braids sleek and reduce frizz.

Rope Twists

Rope twists are a stylish and protective hairstyle that adds a unique twist to your look. Ideal for both casual and formal occasions, this style works well for all face shapes and highlights the natural beauty of your hair.

To achieve rope twists, section your hair and twist each section tightly before wrapping it around itself. Secure the ends with hair ties. Use a twisting gel to enhance definition and keep your twists in place.

Afro Mohawk

The afro mohawk is a bold and cute hairstyle that combines the volume of an afro with the edgy look of a mohawk. Perfect for a night out or a birthday party, this style suits all face shapes and makes a statement.

To create an afro mohawk, section your hair into three parts: the middle and two sides. Pin up the sides and fluff out the middle section to create the mohawk. Use a curl cream to define your curls and a pick to add volume.

Marley Twists

Marley twists are a protective and stylish hairstyle that mimics the look of natural locs. Ideal for long-term wear, this style suits all face shapes and can be styled in various ways. It is perfect for both casual and formal occasions.

To create Marley twists, section your hair and twist each section using Marley hair extensions. Secure the ends with hair ties. Use a moisturizing spray to keep your twists hydrated and looking fresh.

Space Buns

Space buns are a fun and easy hairstyle that adds a playful touch to your look. Perfect for festivals, casual outings, or a birthday celebration, this style works well for all face shapes.

To create space buns, part your hair down the middle and create two high ponytails. Twist each ponytail into a bun and secure with bobby pins. Use a curl-enhancing gel to keep your buns in place and reduce frizz.

Half-Up Half-Down

The half-up half-down hairstyle is a cute and versatile option that showcases the natural beauty of your hair. Ideal for any occasion, this style suits all face shapes and highlights your features.

To create a half-up half-down look, section the top half of your hair and secure it with a hair tie or clip. Leave the bottom half loose and use a curl cream to define your curls. A light-hold hairspray will keep your style in place.

Side-Swept Curls

The side-swept curls hairstyle is elegant and cute, perfect for formal events like weddings and proms. This style involves sweeping all the curls to one side, creating a voluminous and glamorous look. It suits oval and heart-shaped faces and can enhance any eye color.

To achieve side-swept curls, part your hair deeply on one side and use bobby pins to secure the hair at the nape of your neck. Use a curl-defining cream to enhance your curls and a light-hold hairspray to keep the style in place. Regular use of a moisturizing conditioner will help maintain the curls’ health and bounce.

In conclusion, these 36 cute, easy, and protective hairstyles for long natural hair in 2024 offer a variety of options for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a quick everyday style or an elegant look for a special event, these hairstyles celebrate the beauty and versatility of natural hair. We encourage you to leave your comments below, share your favorite styles, and let us know which looks you’ll be trying this year.