I can talk about loc styles for black women for hours and still not capture everything there is to say about the range and variety. Just last year I had a client who had the same freeform locs for about six years. One day she came and said she wanted to do something totally different, but she wasn’t ready to cut them. We spent hours putting in a bunch of different styles, and she left looking completely different than before, but still had the same hair. I feel not enough people talk about that. Most people see one style, but all loc wearers know there’s so much more to try and experiment with.
What I love most about this collection is that it really has something for everyone, from low maintenance styles to more complicated and high maintenance styles. Some styles are for everyday wear, and some are for when you want to walk into a room and let your hair do all the talking. So whether you’ve just gotten your locs or you’ve had them for a decade, I am sure you will find something that will make you want to get in my chair.
#1: Copper Locs Swept Into a Full Crown Updo
I always see how styles impact posture, and updos like this one seem to encourage taller stances and raised chins. The warm copper color compliments the locs and gathering everything into a full crown shape updo shows off the color from all angles while also keeping the neck and shoulders clear. The style isn’t too pulled back and severe thanks to the couple of face-framing pieces that were left out. To me, this is an event-ready updo that shows someone knows what they are doing with locs.
#2 Flat-Twisted Crown with Curly Loc Ends Flowing Down
I saved this style for last because it incorporated crown flat twists I had never seen before, and also top visual interest, and the rest of the locs are allowed to fall freely with ends curled. The color warm brown combination throughout provides uniformity to the style making it less busy. The control twists and some flowing length give two different textures for this style. The ends that are curled have a bounce to them, adding life to the style where a look this length could otherwise feel heavy. This style looks polished enough for an event, but also relaxed enough where it doesn’t look out of place on a regular Tuesday. I see why this has such versatility, and why people have locs for decades.
#3 Golden Highlighted Half-Updo with Cascading Curls
I absolutely love this set of highlights! They look as if they were done years ago giving that sun-kissed vibe that is very desirable. This is a HUGE compliment to someone who gets highlights in their locs. The half-updo is done quite loosely to the crown in an almost improvised way, while the remaining locs on one side are thick curls that cascade instead of just falling. I can see that this is definitely someone who has been growing their locs for a while because of the extreme density, weight, and the way the curls are set. There is no forced glam in this style, just the good color, good hair, and the confidence that comes from having your hair done long enough to achieve a look that is truly effortless.
#4 Two-Tone Chin-Length Locs with Bronde Ends
There are so many reasons to love chin-length locs and this example is one of them! The ends of the hair feature bronde, a color that sits between brown and blonde, and creates a soft two-tone effect. It keeps the style looking modern without being too trendy. Chin-length locs tend to work better on rounder face shapes as they help to elognate the face without adding additional width. Committing to a length in a style means you’re not hiding behind the length and shape of the cut is more defined. These locs are also in the early stages of maturity; being slightly more on the loose and soft side gives them an effortless texture that more mature locs tend to lose.
#5 Silver-Gray Loc Bob with a Clean Side Profile
A side view photo of a gray loc bob shows different things than a front facing bob photo. I can tell that this bob is really well cut. It balances nicely with the natural curve of the head and collar bone. The gray locs have no color gradation; only pure silver. The silver color makes the texture of the locs the focal point of the hairstyle. I really enjoy these types of styles because they make a statement based on shape and craftsmanship without the need for color or length. This style gives the impression that the person has spent a long time honing their look to achieve a finished product.
#6 Long Ombré Locs Pulled Back with Loose Ends
I find the relaxed, casual vibe of this look really appealing. It looks like she pulled some locs back from her ideal and the rest just sort of took care of itself. The brown ombre from the roots gives movement to the length even when the hair is hanging straight. The warm lighting really brings out the glow at the ends of the hair. The top section is loosely pulled back and no elastic is visible, suggesting that the locs are long and thick enough to hold themselves in place. I once had a client describe her ideal hairstyle as looking like she didn’t try, but also she couldn’t look bad. This looks exactly like that. The whole look feels effortless in a really genuine way that is hard to achieve.
#7 Stacked High Bun with Face-Framing Loc Tendrils
This high bun has a sculpted quality that gives it a polished yet effortless appearance. The face-framing tendrils prevent it from looking overdone. I have done this style with clients going to weddings and clients going to business formal work events, and it suits all occasions because it is a classy yet not overly formal option. The key aspect is that the bun has to be full to maintain its shape. If your locs are on the thinner side, you may have to wrap them differently to achieve the same volume. But when everything comes together, as it does here, it’s a style that makes everyone want to know who did your hair.
#8 Black Locs with Teal Tips Draped Over One Shoulder
I appreciate the intentionality behind the color choice at the ends of the locs. With black locs, the color works as an accent rather than a focal point which is ideal for this sort of unconventional color choice. The dark locs with the subtle blue-green tip gives a nice editorial look. The hair contributes to the moody aesthetic of the picture and is just the right amount of color to steer clear of looking costume-y. I have seen teal locs that look like a costume too quickly for my taste and this is a nice change. The length of the locs gives them a beautiful drape and the thickness makes the weigh look really nice too.
#9 Deep Burgundy Pigtail Locs That Go On for Days
Pigtails can look good or bad on adult women but in this case, it works quite well and has to do with the length of hair. When hair goes past the waist, and is divided into two sections, it goes from childish to purposeful and slightly dramatic (in a good way). The uniform deep burgundy color looks like extensions or the color consistency was done well and the curled ends give shape to the pigtails so they don’t look like they just hang there. I wonder how this style holds up throughout the day though because the weight is pretty significant with that length, but the visual payoff is so worth it.
#10 Shoulder-Length Locs with Salt-and-Pepper Dimension
I admire how the grays are spaced out, creating an overall rich, multi tonal effect. At this length, the color has the most manageable volume while maintaining the full range of tones from dark brown to silver, and shoulder length is ideal for that. The curled ends give a polished look that suggests styling, rather than just letting it grow out. The length of these locs adds character, and, in this case, the style has a maturity that comes from experience. It shows someone who has worn locs long enough to know how she wants them to look.
#11 Golden-Tipped Shoulder Locs with Natural Movement
The thing that draws my attention the most is the gradient effect created by the golden color, which is most intense at the tips of the locs. It looks like the color was done gradually over time. The locs are long enough to have some presence, and the slight wave creates softness without the need for constant maintenance. The shoulder length locs hit that sweet spot. I would recommend this color and cut to anyone looking for a change. It still feels very grounded and everyday, but it adds a good amount of visual interest.
#12 Short Tapered Locs with Deep Side Part
I really love this style and I wish more people would consider going shorter with their locs instead of defaulting to length. The deep side part creates a nice asymmetry to the look which makes it feel a bit more intentional, and the tapering keeps it all structured. I don’t feel like she has to use any products or pins to keep it all held together. There’s a visual directness with short locs, especially with the way she is wearing them, that can’t be achieved with longer styles, and I love that. The style really doesn’t need any more explanation, and I love that about it. The soft reddish-brown undertone adds warmth without taking away from the shape, which is really the star.
#13 Side-Swept Locs with Golden Curled Ends at Sunset
These locs seem to have a certain feeling to their weight and the way they are currently Draping looks nice especially how they are all pulled to one side, almost sculptural. The lighter pieces throughout the dark base pick up the light warmth really well. The curled ends also help to keep the hair from looking too heavy. What I appreciate most is how effortless this style is. It is literally locs to one side, yet because of the quality, color and length it has such an impact. This is relaxation at its best, style and comfort all in one. This is a classic example of a style that lets the hair do all the talking.
#14 The Before and After That Speaks for Itself
Some transformations aren’t about *fixing* something, but rather expanding the potential of the now. The “before” here is gorgeous, healthy, voluminous natural hair. The “after” is bold honey blonde locs with curled ends that completely alters her vibe. I remember a friend of mine years ago who did something similar. She had a solid shoulder length wash and go, and then she added color and locs that were down to her waist. She said she felt prettier, and she felt like a different version of herself that she had been hoping to become for a long time. That’s the kind of transformation I get with this look. The color suits her golden blonde skin, and the curled ends give the hair lightness and not heaviness at the end. This is someone who really knew what she wanted when she walked in.
#15 Burgundy Bob Locs with a Center Part
The burgundy is not screaming red, but rather a subtle deep mulled wine that reveals itself gradually. That kind of subtlety is what makes this color choice so ideal for a more concise look. A center-part bob is clean and symmetrical, harmonizing with the rich hue rather than distracting from it. This is the sort of style where throwing on a graphic tee and jeans is perfectly acceptable because the hair is the centerpiece. There’s not much effort involved, maybe some loc moisturizing spray if you want to keep it hydrated, but the effort to impact ratio is fantastic with this one.
#16 Space Buns with Waist-Length Highlighted Locs
Space buns on locs can have a cute or costume-y vibe, and this one is leaning into cute. The buns are proportional, and the rest of the hair is doing its own thing below. The golden highlights scattered through the dark locs create a sun-touched look and go perfectly with the playful shape of the buns. The curly ends at the bottom keep it all feeling organic. There’s not an overly constructed look. You need significant length to pull this off without the buns looking tiny and awkward, and you can see here that the length more than supports the style. The look is youthful without trying to be young, which is an important distinction.
#17 Silver Locs in a Soft Shoulder-Length Bob
I love silver locs at this length; there is a quiet confidence that I appreciate. The hair is not looking for attention; it is simply there. The curled ends soften the bob shape while still keeping it natural. Fully embraced silver is also beautiful. A mentor of mine said years ago that the most elegant thing a woman can do is stop fighting her hair, and that is what I think every time I see this style. The length is pragmatic, the upkeep is effortless, and the total vibe is someone who is completely comfortable.
#18 Curly-Ended Locs in a Half-Up Style with Blonde Highlights
The volume on this is amazing. What I think works about it is that it does not look styled for volume, it looks like the hair just naturally has that much space. This is the whole appeal of mature locs. The blonde highlights woven in add movement and visual texture, and the curled ends are full enough at the bottom to feel like their own occasion. I appreciate that the half up section isn’t pulled tight or too clean and that it is gathered loosely at the crown with pieces falling where they want. That casualness, mixed with this much hair, creates a look that feels abundant and easy.
#19 Silver and Black Locs Gathered in a Low Twisted Updo
I’m having the same convo with clients each time I see their locs starting to gray. Should you dye it or let the gray hairs show? This is the best argument I’ve seen for letting it ride. The gray/white mixed in with the black locs is TRUE color contrast and a colorist would NEVER be able to replicate that. The low twisted updo shows off that contrast so well. The face framing curls also help in softening the style. It truly has a show stopping elegance that comes from the hair itself and not any styling. If you are thinking about the process and are unsure, save this to your camera roll!!
#20 Classic Curly-Ended Bob Locs in Warm Brown
I always see a certain style and think, this is the one I would use to reply to someone asking me what professional locs look like. This is the style. The bob shape is cut and shaped nicely and uniformly, the warm brown tint is subtle enough to look natural but not too plain, the curled ends give just enough movement to keep it from looking too rigid. There is no fuss here, no coloring tricks, or excessive partings. Just well done locs cut to a good length and styled simply, and it looks great.
#21 Shoulder-Length Reddish-Brown Locs with Flipped Ends
I see a slight warmth in this color that people tend to miss, especially when they go for the more bright reds. This reddish brown color is in that sweet spot where depending on lighting it can be seen as natural or as deliberate. The outward flipping ends create a blunt locs style that wouldn’t have as much playfulness. I’ve seen this color executed poorly far too many times where a few weeks later it ends up muddy and flat, but here it looks rich and dimensional, and shows that the application was deliberate. The shoulder length is forgiving and it’s also low maintenance and easy to style when you need to. It also looks really good in photos from the side like this.
#22 All-Over Copper Locs with Side-Swept Volume
I really like the color choice! Covering your locs with copper is a big change, and she is clearly all in. The side-swept locs combined with the vintage Hollywood look, is something you don’t usually see with locs, and I think that’s what makes it so interesting. The softened locs at the ends are a nice touch, and they help balance out the color, which is a nice compliment. The volume looks healthy and well-maintained too. The look is great! If you’re planning on a full color change with your locs, she shows what it looks like done well. You will want to invest in a color-depositing conditioner so your new tone doesn’t get brassy.
#23 Honey-Tipped Bob Locs with Natural Curl Pattern
This could be the most versatile outfit in the collection. The bob length hits just right at the jaw. The honey blonde tips seamlessly blend into darker roots with no obvious line, and the whole style has that toasted, lived-in quality that I find really appealing. The most stand out quality for me is the last curl – it’s not uniform, some curl tighter than others, and that’s exactly what makes it look non-factory. I’ve recommended this length to clients who were hesitant to go any shorter, but want something that feels lighter and more purposeful. It works on a very wide range of face shapes because it really doesn’t do too much in any one direction, it just frames and moves.
#24 Half-Up Topknot with Copper-Kissed Locs
Your half-up hairstyle is suitable for many environments, not just for the occasion. Because of the height of your topknot, most of the focus will fall to the loose hair that you have styled throughout the rest of your hair, rather than the topknot itself. Many people will not notice that the ends are curled, and many will see the image and ignore that detail, but those who do notice will appreciate the silhouette that it gives. These styles can make it seem as if they are braided in parts because of all the twisted hair, even if that is not what you wanted to do.
#25 Cornrow-to-Curls High Ponytail with Burgundy Peeking Through
Just look at the architectural work at the base! The cornrow construction is indicative of a clean design, and it’s as though the lines become a canvas for the rich waterfall of curling locks that cascade all the way beyond her waist. The subtle burgundy interwoven with the predominately black locs keeps drawing me in. It’s one of those color choices that will present itself when in motion or under direct light, adding a small hidden depths to the whole look. The best colored locs are the ones you don’t notice right off the bat. The length is dramatic. No arguments here. The maintenance is more than a one or two weekends commitment. While this style allows for time investment to be a pay off, it’s true that the presence that is created doesn’t rely on anything loud.
#26 Pinned Loc Updo with Loose Curls at the Nape
The better you get to know this aesthetic, the more you enjoy it. The updo collects the locs in a way that feels more free than restricted. The loose curls nape of the neck soften the silhouette without the loss of structure. My favorite part of it is that it is very easily not trying to be an uptight updo, nor is it just a chill, easy breezy toss-up sort of thing. It’s a little more relaxed than either, which makes it spot on for easily a dozen or so different occasions. Do you have thick hair? Are you feeling patient? Have a few bobby pins? Then you have everything needed to recreate this. Oh, and of course, you will need locs that are mature enough to hold the shape without coming undone throughout the day.
#27: High Top Locs with Side-Swept Bangs That Actually Work
I love the high tops! The bangs are doing a great job framing her face and also adding some nice texture and volume to the hair. Whoever did her edges did a great job! I like hairstyles that look nice and are easy. You may have to shift those bangs a bit but it’s worth it.
#28: Golden Locs Twisted Into a Bun That Means Business
I enjoy the hair colour. The fade from dark roots to bright golden locs adds depth to the entire updo that almost looks sculptural. It is one of those styles that you have a new appreciation for something from every angle. You do need somewhat good hair density to pull this off as the bun relies on that fullness to create the shape. If you want to keep a sharp contrast colour, it will need to be done again every few weeks. But when it’s fresh? Come on.
#29: Long Twisted Locs with Braided Roots That Go Hard
The structure that the root braiding creates is very interesting. The locs have so much weight that movement is almost theatrical. The base braids may be tight for the first few days if you’re scalp is sensitive so make sure to communicate to your stylist the level of tension you are comfortable with. If you are planning on wearing some statement earrings as well, then you will have a lot going on!
#30: Twisted Locs with Curls That Frame Everything Perfectly
Curls have a stunning beauty that captures the attention of everyone. When they fall on the face and curl in a specific way, it elevates the entire look and style. If you want your locs to look just as good, you will most certainly need some good cream that enhances curl. Once the styling gets older, you will want to do some recurling to keep the look elevated. Otherwise, it will just get an everyday look and not a styled look.
#31: Layered Braided Locs with All the Volume Up Top
The possibility of each individual section being able to work on its own, while also working together to form a cohesive whole, is really engaging, which is part of the reason I could look at this style for ages. The crown area has plenty of volume and keeps the style playful, while the design within the structure achieves that well. Let’s not kid ourselves; this is going to be very time-consuming. You will most likely have to re-braid this regularly to keep the look, and controlling frizz will absolutely need to be part of your daily routine. If you like a style that generates a huge amount of questions wherever you go, this is definitely going to be worth the time needed to maintain it.
#32: Shoulder-Length Twisted Locs with Braided Accents at the Scalp
What I like about this style is that it is the perfect length for some movement, but long enough to get stuck in everything. The scalp braids are just detailed enough to not make the style too complicated, and for, her coily hair, they really do look great. This style has the versatility to work at brunch and in a work meeting, which is much more difficult than it seems.
#33: Short Locs with Natural Curl Definition That Does the Talking
I love short locs because they help you own and celebrate your hair’s uniqueness. In this case, the texture is definitely coming through! The gentle layers give it volume without looking like you are trying too hard, and that is the vibe. This is actually very low maintenance compared to a lot of what is on the list, but don’t sleep on scalp care because buildup at this length would show faster than you’d think.
#34: Curly Locs with That Natural Shine You Can’t Bottle
The first thing I see is the shine which makes me think the moisture is from the hair and not the products used. I like how the curls feel like they are floating, and even with all the density it adds to the light aesthetic. This is the type of look I love the most. I appreciate even more that it looks good in everyday life and still takes beautiful pictures. These curls will stay defined and not get crunchy with a nice moisturizing spray.
#35: Half-Up Locs with Height That Changes Your Whole Silhouette
This is simple, but collecting the top section like this changes the overall proportions, and the added height is really flattering on most face shapes. You get the best of both worlds with the contrast of sleek pulled up hair and textured locs falling down. This hairstyle is great for anyone with locs who feel their hair is one-dimensional and want to switch it up without making a big commitment. Just make sure to do your root maintenance as the pulled back section will showcase all the grown out roots.
#36: Cascading Locs with a Soft Wave That Feels Effortless
I find it difficult to explain simpler styles. This one is very well-balanced. The locs gently frame the face and look full without being heavy. The slight wave adds movement to the locs and that sort of movement is usually what I prefer over something more polished. She likely gets her locs retightened on a regular basis but for day-to-day wear, this style is as easy as it gets.
#37: Burgundy Twisted Locs Swept Into a High Bun
I like the color choice here. The deep burgundy color compliments her skin beautifully, and combined with the high bun, curled bangs, and face-framing strands, this is a hairstyle that is clearly very special and exciting without being too much. I would suggest this style for medium to thick hair since more density is preferred to achieve that full bun look. This style does require a bit of upkeep to maintain the tight curls around the face, but honestly with this color and the way it elevates the overall look, everything else is secondary.
#38: Sun-Kissed Curly Locs That Just Look Happy
Your locs look like they are enjoying themselves! I love how the highlights catch the light, and the curl definition is so satisfying. I would reccomend this for people with medium to coarse hair types, and higher density is ideal for that fullness. Also, color-treated locs can become really dry so regular deep conditioning is like a non-negotiable.
#39: Short Twisted Locs on a Braided Foundation
The design created from the bottom up is nice, plus the braided base here is good for both the look and maintenance of the hair. The short twisted locs on top have a great curl pattern that adds character without depending on extra length. This is practical and looks good, plus it’s not going to come apart before your next appointment. One of those styles where you just do your thing and it works with you.
#40: High Ponytail with Highlights That Catch Every Bit of Light
The placement of these highlights is super nice and rather than look dyed, they look sun-kissed. I also love the way high ponytail locs are styled. Just a heads up though, if you wear hairstyles like this a lot you should let your edges rest because the tension builds up over time and can cause issues. This is really nice for special occasions or a handful of days every week.
#41: Twisted Roots with Caramel Highlights That Add Just Enough
It is wonderful that people want some color! These caramel highlights are a great way to do that. They keep the overall vibe while brightening and lightening the whole look. This style actually takes a lot more skill than your average style. The twisted roots look more interesting and add character, but do require more maintenance than a standard retwist. So, if you like to wait a long time between appointments, consider that before you decide to get them!
#42: Sunset Ombre Locs That Are Basically Wearable Art
Honestly, a sunset brown and orange ombre on locs is a bold choice. However, the execution of this style is at the highest caliber. Watching the locs fall to perform a color show is so neat. The base braid really does serve as a great anchor for the whole style. It’s also quite decorative. For something this bold, regular color adjustments would be expected. However, if you view hair as self-expression, this style choice is perfect.
#43: Golden Shoulder-Length Locs That Glow from the Inside Out
These have that quality where the highlights look like they’ve been there for ages in the best possible way; grown in and solid gold and natural looking. The shoulder length is so versatile and the tight curl pattern gives it this fullness that reads as healthy and thick. When compared to some of the more elaborate looks, this style is relatively easy to maintain, however, color treated locs need consistent moisture to keep them from looking dull. A good leave in conditioner is a big help here.
#44: Long Locs with a Creative Part That Makes It Personal
The unique way the locs are parted elevates them from just a beautiful set of long locs to something more unique and artistic that feels really custom to her. Such a small detail really changes the entire look of the style and this makes me want to inspire my clients to think about the parting as part of the design rather than a functional aspect of the style. These locs have a gorgeous bouncy and coily texture that holds everything appropriately in place. With locs this long, the commitment is definitely there but the payoff is great and I would say it’s worth it.
#45: Burgundy Curly Locs with All the Warmth and Volume
I feel the burgundy color does great things for her skin tone. It pulls out a lot of the warmth and makes everything look even richer. The tight curls add a lot of volume and texture to it, and since it’s one of those colors that changes depending on the lighting, I think that’s fun. If your hair thickness is in the medium to high range, this is going to be a great style for you because it’s the thickness that helps the curls stand out the most. The curl refresh routine will help maintain that lush look.
#46: Curly Locs on a Twisted Base with Creative Parting
The first aspect that got my attention was the base’s twist. It is a really useful design element. The base’s twists offer a lot of form and guidance for the locs, and the curls on top give all the character! For most people, this is totally manageable, but the twists do need some regular defining, otherwise they’ll begin to merge, and that alters the whole appearance. A light holding product that won’t cause any of them to stick together is the ticket here, something that gives hold without making the curls stiff also shouldn’t be an issue.
#47: High Twisted Bun with Curls Falling Where They Should
I love how the high bun and flowing curls of this style create a lovely breezy effortless vibe. The color variation is a bonus and together with the root braids, this style has a lot of visual interest. This is a look where the upkeep is definitely deserved. The curls in this style need frequent upkeep and also a medium to high amount of hair density is required to achieve that bun volume.
#48: Twisted Locs with Clean Edges and a Butterfly That Makes It
The butterfly accessory really took the twisted loc hairstyle to another level. I loved it so much that I wanted to stop and discuss it. It’s also really nice that the edges are laid all the way and the medium locs are clean and polished so they look great for any occasion. This just goes to show how small accessory choices can really elevate an entire look. The edges will require consistent maintenance to always look that good but the locs are the main part of the hairstyle and will need the least amount of work. Truly the dream.
#49: High-Volume Locs Up Top with Braided Details in the Back
The front-to-back contrast is brilliant. From the front, you get this really volumized, free-flowing loc situation, and then you turn around and there’s this whole intricate braided pattern going on at the back. I love when a style has a reveal like that. The reddish-brown color ties it all together and adds life to the whole thing. Knowing that there is something happening from every angle is what makes getting ready more fun. The front will be pretty forgiving between appointments, but the braided section will definitely need regular upkeep.
#50: Twisted Updo with Braided Crown Detail
This top bun with braiding shows off a ton of character while also proving to have a lot of practicality. The coily texture and medium density give the bun an enlarged appearance. The braided section elevates what would just be utilitarian. I won’t say it is a quick style to do, but once complete, it will hold well and give a fantastic look from above, which is particularly important if you are shorter, as most views of your hair will be from above.
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