Hairstyles for the chill
Adopt these protective styles from the runways set to have a major moment this year
As the temperature starts to dip and we approach the autumn/winter season, we can’t help but cast our mind to what kind of protective style we will be rocking in the colder months. The runways are changing the protective styling game, as well as the way in which we see how to protect our hair from the elements and over-manipulation such as combing and tugging.
No longer are protective styles timeconsuming or complicated, with the unsung braiding heroes such as twists and cornrows being elevated at the shows of fashion brands Simone Rocha, Fendi and Max Mara. Having styles in your arsenal that are easy to do at home, and still look good, is the mood of protective styling this year.
Whether you’re trying to grow your hair, restore it or prevent damage, protective hairstyles can go a long way in helping you to keep your hair healthy.
2. Bantu knots
A major trend in the 1990s, Bantu knots have made a comeback and are one of the easiest styles to create.
To prepare the hair, ensure that the scalp is well nourished by applying an oil spray to the scalp and massaging the scalp in circular motions to moisturise hair and stimulate growth.
Take a small section of the hair and start gently twisting it from root to tip until the hair starts to twist into itself. Secure the twisted bun with a small elastic or hair clip and continue to repeat the same step until the whole head is done. Finish off by applying an edge tamer to the hairline.
1. Cornrows
Cornrows are not going out of style anytime soon, and this year they are getting more airplay than ever. A staple for protective styles such as wigs and a protective style in its own right, cornrows are being combined with sparkling accessories or
3. Mixed-texture braids
We know that box braids are a popular protective hairstyle and a go-to for most, but this time around, try mixing up your braids’ texture.
You can try combining twists with normal three-piece braids, piling thick braids up high onto the crown of the head while leaving some out, or even undoing some random braids halfway to create a romantic, bohemian look. fashioned into low braided buns to give them a new lease on life.
Before braiding, be sure to spray the hair with a mixture of water and leavein conditioner to hydrate as well as give the hair some elasticity when gently detangling. Start at the front of your head and separate each section
Take your cue from the Simone Rocha show and add some elevation by playing around with different lengths, adding beading or interweaving ribbons and ornate hair accessories.
Maintain your braided protective hairstyle by wearing a silk scarf or bonnet when going to bed at night to retain the hair’s hydration and protect from any breakage. into three even parts.
Braid as you normally would, and add hair to each strand as you continue braiding down the back of your head and secure the hair with a clear elastic band. Pin up the braid ends into a low bun or leave loose and accessorise with clips or ribbons.
4. Flat twists
If you’re not a pro at braiding your own hair, flat twists are a great protective style option as they are not only easy but versatile.
Before twisting the hair, apply a styling product such as a hydrating styling butter.
Section the hair into two for a Dutch braid finish or four or more sections to create a more cornrow-like finish.
Start with either the two, or three, strand method, and use a roll-and-tuck motion to achieve the perfect flat twist and don’t forget to secure ends with hair elastics.
Once all the sections have been twisted, finish off with an edge tamer to neaten up the edges.