Last week a client said, “I want something that protects my hair, but I don’t want to look like I’m just surviving winter, I want to look like I’m THRIVING in it.” What a great attitude to have while pulling some winter looks! Winter 2026 is bringing some of the most exciting looks when it comes to hair protection. The options are so good right now. There are braids in fun colors and some twisted-up dos that are red carpet ready but also perfect for a Tuesday Target run.
I love to see the attitude shift when it comes to hair protection. People are REALLY starting to understand that they don’t have to settle for one or the other. You don’t have to choose between looking cute and having healthy hair come March. You’ll be able to do both! Last month, I had a week where every single client looked amazing because they all had unique styles. There’s so much variety available this season. So with that in mind, let me show you 15 of my top styles that I love!!
#1: Half-Up Braided Situation with the Prettiest Loose Curls
If I get to do a little play with the chair because there’s a lot happening. The smaller braids at the crown are doing all the structural stuff. Then, loose curls flowing down (like they woke up that way- spoiler, they did not). The contrast between the braids and the curls gives a lot of dimension and honestly it looks beautiful in photos. If your hair is medium to thick, you will love how full this looks without feeling heavy. I will say, be honest with your stylist about the tension, because those crown braids can get tight if someone is heavy handed, and we don’t want that.
#2: Twisted Updo with Those Perfect Face-Framing Curls
I love how some loose curls frame the face and give the vibe of, “I put in effort, but am not trying too hard.” Those big coiled twists stack up really nicely, and the framing curls soften it all. The gold accessories really add some nice details. It elevates this from a protective style into something you can wear to a holiday party or a wedding. You could even wear this to brunch if you’re feeling yourself. Just a heads up: the twists do take a while to install, but once it’s all done, you’re golden.
#3: Twisted Braids with That Clean Geometric Parting
I’ll admit my enthusiasm for this service might come off as strange, but I appreciate the effort that went into creating this elaborate part and the twisted braids. This truly makes the style feel more sophisticated and architectural. I like the length of the braids too, and how they add texture, as that gives the style more volume without adding bulk. There is a lot of balance going on here. I won’t lie, the install time on something with this level of precision is not quick, so find a braider who actually enjoys the detail work because you can TELL when someone rushed through it.
#4: Defined Twisted Curls with Just a Kiss of Highlights
I think the subtle highlights in this hairstyle are wonderful because they do what highlights are supposed to do! They reflect light and create the illusion of shimmering curls. The twisted curls look very neat as though each curl was individually styled. The parting is very clean and nice, and the highlights are lovely. If you are considering recreating this look, do yourself a favor and purchase a really good curl defining cream. This is going to be one of those hairstyles that will get you random compliments from people. No kidding.
#5: Cornrows with That Ombre Moment at the Tips
The ombre effect in these cornrow braids is great! The way the color at the end of each braid really pops while the top looks clean and professional is amazing. It adds flair to the ends of the braids without being too extreme. What I also really like about these braids is that you can choose the length of the braids, which is super cool. Once it’s in, this style is perfect for the winter, even under a beanie! Just keep in mind that the installation will take a while, especially if you are thinking about having the colored ends in a specific arrangement.
#6: Curly Half-Up with Braids That Actually Frame Your Face Right
This style harnesses the braids for two purposes: giving you structure and also providing a built in face frame, which is genius! The natural curls on top are super voluminous and bouncy so the whole thing feels FUN. You can’t be in a bad mood with this hair. The braids hold everything in place and the curls just need a little refresh. A good curl refresher spray is your best friend with this one, just scrunch and go. I especially love this for the busy girls who don’t want to spend 30 minutes styling every morning.
#7: Burgundy Twisted Locks in a Top Knot That I Can’t Stop Thinking About
I enjoy it when a customer shows interest in adding color to their twists. My first question is usually what made them choose that color, as it usually relates back to their personality in some way. For example, choosing burgundy means \”I am edgy and I know how to dress\” and I am here for it. The color goes really well with these twists styled half-top knot as they are also full of character. The color really stands out at every angle creating a nice glow. The top knot is very flattering as it adds some nice height to the overall look. Bright colors like these will fade after some time and will require touch ups to keep them the same level of vibrancy. However, when you first get them it is a great feeling and will definitely change how you present yourself when entering a new room.
#8: Geometric Braids with the Cleanest Finish You’ve Ever Seen
The space between braids makes me happy. Best braid designer of the year goes to them. This is literally art that you can frame. The ends are clean and for weeks to come, they will stay just as polished which is exactly what you want for your winter protective style. If your hair is on the thicker side this will suit you best as you have more hair to fill out each section so it doesn’t look thin/sparse. The install, I will warn you, is time consuming, but the longevity of the style makes every second in the chair worth it.
#9: Long Twisted Curls That Just Flow
Twisted curls that reach your shoulders are perfect for a slow-motion hair flip. Each twist is defined and stunning while remaining face framing and flattering to your whole look. Because of all the volume, the clean part adds to the overall neatness. If your hair is naturally coily or curly, you are in luck because these will blend perfectly into your texture. Keeping this in mind, you will want to do a lot of upkeep and re-twist them often. To keep the curls looking fresh instead of frizzy, you need to wear a satin bonnet to bed every night, no exceptions.
#10: Curly Braids with Fiery Red Highlights That Actually POP
The highlights create a nice and almost natural effect to the hair and reflect the light beautifully. I also like the choice of a single shade of red as opposed to doing an ‘all over color;’ this red seems to interlace with the curls beautifully. Long and textured braids can sometimes be overwhelming but the curl braids at the end are done nicely and give a gentle touch. If you want to keep the curls from going flat, I would suggest a lightweight mousse for volume.
#11: Twisted Braids That Melt Into the Softest Face-Framing Curls
I love the use of different textures in this style. The face framing twists seem to turn into curls as well, and that’s giving what it needs to. From a practical standpoint, the medium length is just right. It’s long enough to feel like hair is there but not long enough to be getting caught in the coat zipper every five seconds, which is a real winter problem if you’ve been there. The combination of straighter twists in the back and softer curls in the front is super dimensional as well. Just keep in mind that the twisting process takes a while, so don’t book it on a day where you have to be somewhere in two hours.
#12: Cornrows That Flow Into the Prettiest Soft Waves
Two in one styles, just like this cornrow and wavy combo, are always such a great look. For this style, the cornrows are braided very close to the scalp, so the cornrow style is doing a great job of being protective for the scalp. The release into soft waves gives a great contrast to the structured rows. Overall, this is super elegant, feels very light and is a great look. When I have cornrow clients, I always recommend to listen to your scalp. If you are feeling too much tension in the style, no style is worth the tension damage. Always prioritize comfort!
#13: Curly Braids with the Sleekest Laid Edges
Let’s discuss the EDGES because they are doing God’s work rn. The braid detail is super fun and the curls at the ends add a playful touch! But honestly, I keep coming back to the edges and they are LAID. To achieve this look you definitely need a soft bristle brush and some good edge control, that’s just the truth. The mix of textures here is really nice – you’ve got the sleekness at the hairline, the structure of the braids, and then the softness of the curls – and it all works together so well! This is an amazing everyday style that still feels very thought out.
#14: Ombre Faux Locs Going from Black to Burgundy and I’m Obsessed
Ombre fauxs are a MUST HAVE. The color melting from a deep black at the roots to a rich burgundy at the ends is gorgeous. It takes a timeless style and transforms it into something more high fashion. These are a super dramatic length so they’ll be totally stunning with winter layers. The locs will peek out from your coats or cascade down over a scarf. So amazing! The layers mean the locs will have movement, and won’t be stiff and boring. They’ll sway beautifully and catch the light. I have to say though, it’s really important to go to someone who knows how to WORK the tensions with faux locs! If the wraps are too tight, you’re going to feel it at the base and it is NOT going to be a fun time!
#15: Twisted Lob with a Side Part That’s Giving Effortless Cool
Considering the fact that I love lobs, a TWISTED lob is a completely different level. It really brings the questions, “who does your hair?” and allows you to feel smug giving the answer. Side parts really do take the cake with the way they highlight your natural asymmetry. With the added twist, it really flatters the cheekbone highlight. It also really frames and brushes your face and shoulders when the length of the twists hits that point. Instead of the high-maintenance styles we are used to, we need low-maintenance chic styles during the winter months. We are all juggling coats and scarves and trying to avoid that static electricity. This hair style does not require your constant attention. To maintain the done look, you will need to re-twist often, but the best part is, this style will look good even when you don’t have your hair done. It’s perfect for the winter months and means hair doesn’t have to be your personality.
Enter your email and get this picture and description straight to your inbox, and you'll also get new hair ideas ❤️
🔒 We don't spam or sell emails. See our Privacy Policy.