There’s something truly amazing about the hairstyles that South African women are rocking right now.

Straight-up styles are the new hotness, and we’re here to spill the tea on the trendiest looks.

From sleek and sophisticated to bold and edgy, there’s a straight-up style for everyone.

Whether you’re rocking cornrows, Fulani braids, or something totally unique, you’re sure to turn heads.

These styles celebrate creativity and individuality, from intricate cornrow patterns to sleek, straight-back braids that turn heads.

It’s more than just a look—these hairstyles tell stories, reflect personal style, and embrace heritage.

Let’s take a look

1. High Ponytail Cornrow Braids

This timeless style combines the sophistication of cornrows with the playful lift of a high ponytail.

Perfect for any occasion, it accentuates facial features while showcasing the intricacy of the braiding pattern.

The versatility allows you to pair it with casual or formal attire.

Adding accessories, such as beads or cuffs, can give it a personal touch that reflects your personality.

2. Jumbo Cornrow Braids

Bold and beautiful, these oversized braids create a statement look that is both chic and easy to maintain.

With fewer braids, the style requires less time to install while still looking stunning.

The thickness adds a touch of elegance, making it ideal for those who prefer a fuller appearance.

You can experiment with colors or highlights to make the style even more striking.

3. Updo Cornrow Hairstyle

The classic updo gets a refreshing twist with intricate cornrows that elegantly frame the head.

This design keeps hair off the neck, making it a comfortable option for warmer weather or special events.

Its versatility allows for a sleek, polished finish or a more relaxed look, depending on the occasion.

Pairing it with hair jewelry or colorful extensions can elevate the look further.

4. Beautiful Cornrows with a High Bun

A high bun combined with cornrows creates a look that radiates grace and poise.

This hairstyle highlights the scalp’s artistic braid patterns, adding depth to the overall design.

Ideal for professional settings or formal gatherings, it provides a regal aesthetic.

Enhancing it with subtle accessories or golden threads can make it even more enchanting.

5. Cornrow Ponytail Braids

Simple yet striking, this style brings together the neatness of cornrows and the versatility of a ponytail.

Its design can vary from sleek and straight to more voluminous textures, allowing for endless customization.

The style is perfect for active lifestyles, as it keeps hair secure and stylish.

You can also integrate trendy elements like ombré shades or decorative cuffs to modernize the look.

6. High Bun Ponytail with Sweet Cornrow Braids

This combination offers a fun and fashionable take on traditional cornrows.

The sweet details in the braiding pattern add a playful touch, while the high bun ponytail creates a striking silhouette.

It’s ideal for both everyday wear and special occasions, balancing functionality with flair.

Accessorizing with colorful beads or wrap threads can enhance its charm.

7. Tribal Braids

Rich in cultural significance, these braids are a stunning way to honor heritage while making a bold fashion statement.

They often feature unique patterns, intricate parting styles, and added accessories like shells or beads.

The creativity involved allows for personalization, making each style unique.

Perfect for anyone seeking a meaningful and stylish hair transformation.

8. Cornrows into a Large Bun

Merging practicality with elegance, this style draws cornrows into a voluminous bun that sits proudly on the crown of the head.

The bun’s size can be adjusted to suit different preferences, from subtle to dramatic.

It’s a great option for anyone seeking a protective style that exudes sophistication.

Adding metallic or jeweled pins can create a dazzling effect.

9. Wrapped Ponytail with In-Front-Of-the-Ear Braids

This creative look combines a sleek ponytail with delicate braids that frame the face by sitting just in front of the ears.

The wrapping detail on the ponytail adds texture and dimension, giving it a modern edge.

This style is ideal for those who love to experiment with bold, artistic hairstyles.

Incorporating vibrant extensions or metallic threads can further accentuate the design.

10. Beautiful Cornrow Ponytail

This chic and timeless style highlights the beauty of traditional cornrow patterns while offering the convenience of a ponytail.

It’s perfect for showcasing intricate braid designs and works well for any occasion.

The style’s simplicity makes it adaptable, whether worn casually or dressed up with sparkling accessories.

Its versatility ensures it remains a popular choice.

11. Updo Cornrow Braids

Elevating the hair into an updo creates a look that’s both sophisticated and practical.

This style keeps the focus on the scalp’s detailed braid work, which can be customized with various patterns.

Ideal for weddings, parties, or formal events, it provides a secure and elegant solution for keeping hair styled all day.

Adding pearls or small gems can bring an extra layer of glamour.

12. Cornrow Braids into a Faux Hawk

For those who love edgy, daring hairstyles, this is a showstopper.

The cornrows lead into a voluminous faux hawk that adds height and drama.

It’s a bold choice for anyone looking to stand out while maintaining the protective benefits of braiding.

Pairing it with bold makeup or statement earrings can amplify its impact.

13. Ponytail Wrapped in Copper Wire and Beads

This artistic take on the ponytail introduces a mix of textures and elements.

Wrapping the ponytail with copper wire creates a metallic shine, while beads add color and personality.

It’s a creative way to reinvent a classic style with modern, artistic flair.

Perfect for festivals or events where you want to make a memorable impression.

14. Cornrow Ponytail with Cuffs

Adding cuffs to a cornrow ponytail is a simple yet effective way to enhance the style’s aesthetic.

The metallic accents catch the light, drawing attention to the intricate braiding.

This look is ideal for anyone wanting to add a touch of luxury to their hairstyle.

It works beautifully with sleek or voluminous ponytails, making it adaptable to various occasions.

15. Large Jumbo Cornrows

Large jumbo cornrows combine boldness with simplicity, making them a favorite for those who want a dramatic yet low-maintenance style.

These oversized braids showcase clean, precise parting that creates a striking look, perfect for any occasion.

With their ability to last for weeks, this hairstyle offers convenience and elegance in one package.

Adding hair accessories like beads or cuffs can elevate the style further, letting your personality shine.

16. Top-Knot Ponytail with Pink Extensions

A top-knot ponytail enhanced with pink extensions merges playful energy with a sleek design.

This look is ideal for anyone wanting to add a pop of color to their hairstyle while keeping things chic.

The high placement of the ponytail creates a youthful vibe, and the pink extensions bring a unique touch of vibrancy.

Pairing this style with subtle makeup or bold accessories allows it to stand out even more.

17. Half Box Braids, Half Cornrows

Combining box braids with cornrows blends structure and versatility into one head-turning style.

The cornrowed section often creates intricate designs on the scalp, while the loose braids add movement and dimension.

This fusion not only provides a protective hairstyle but also lets you experiment with a variety of parting patterns.

It’s a great choice for anyone looking to make a statement with their hair.

18. Skinny Braids into a Pony

Skinny braids styled into a ponytail deliver a sleek and elegant appearance that suits casual and formal settings.

The thin braids offer a lightweight feel, making them comfortable to wear over long periods.

Gathering these braids into a ponytail creates a clean look, ideal for showcasing facial features or accessories.

Adding cuffs or beads to a few strands can personalize the style, making it even more unique.

19. Swooped-Up Playful Ponytail with Cuffs and Beads

This hairstyle brings a fun, youthful energy with its swooped-up structure and creative decorations.

The cuffs and beads add personality to the look, turning a simple ponytail into a piece of art.

Whether it’s styled high or low, this playful design works for everyday wear or special events.

It’s also an excellent choice for highlighting facial features and pairing with bold outfits.

20. Chunky Flat Twist Bun

Chunky flat twists styled into a bun combine elegance and practicality.

The twists provide a protective base that promotes hair health, while the bun adds a sophisticated touch.

This hairstyle is perfect for professional settings, weddings, or any occasion requiring a polished appearance.

Adding embellishments like pearls or subtle metallic accessories enhances the bun’s refined look.

21. Beautiful Stitch Braid Updo

Stitch braids arranged into an updo elevate traditional braiding techniques to an artistic level.

This style features neatly sectioned parts that create a clean, symmetrical look.

The updo aspect adds height and drama, making it a popular choice for formal events.

It’s an excellent option for showcasing intricate braid designs while maintaining a protective hairstyle.

22. Half Updo with Shoulder-Length Twists

This hairstyle offers the perfect balance between casual and stylish with its half-up arrangement.

Shoulder-length twists provide volume and texture, while the updo section keeps the look dynamic.

The versatility of this style makes it suitable for day-to-day activities and more formal settings.

Adding subtle hair accessories or colorful extensions can enhance its charm.

23. Flat Twist Updo

Flat twists styled into an updo provide a neat and polished appearance suitable for any occasion.

The twists lie close to the scalp, creating a smooth, uniform design that’s easy to maintain.

This hairstyle can be worn as a standalone statement or paired with accessories to make it more festive.

Its protective nature also makes it an excellent choice for promoting healthy hair.

24. Creative Braided Updo

This style takes traditional braiding to the next level with imaginative patterns and designs.

A creative braided updo allows for endless customization, making it a unique expression of personal style.

From intricate shapes to bold parting patterns, this look turns your hair into a canvas.

It’s perfect for events where you want to leave a lasting impression.

25. Side Cornrows and Curls

Combining side cornrows with curls offers a mix of structure and softness.

The cornrows provide a sleek foundation, while the curls add volume and movement.

This style works well for various face shapes and occasions, from casual outings to more formal events.

Adding highlights or ombre coloring can make the curls stand out even more.

26. Medium Rope Twists in a Half-Up Ponytail

Rope twists styled into a half-up ponytail bring elegance and playfulness together.

The twists offer a polished texture, while the ponytail keeps the look youthful and fresh.

This hairstyle is ideal for showcasing long hair or extensions and works beautifully with colorful bands or cuffs.

It’s also a great way to add dimension to medium-length hair.

27. Updo with Statement Chunky Braids

Chunky braids styled into an updo deliver a bold and confident look.

The larger braids create a striking visual impact, making this style ideal for those who want to stand out.

Paired with creative parting or hair accessories, the updo becomes a statement piece.

It’s a versatile option that works for both casual settings and high-profile events.

28. Long and Luscious Ponytail

A long, flowing ponytail exudes elegance and glamour.

This style works with straight, wavy, or braided textures, allowing for customization to suit personal preferences.

Adding extensions can enhance its length and fullness, making it a showstopper.

It’s perfect for highlighting your outfit and accessories, whether you’re heading to a formal event or a night out with friends.

29. High Pink Ponytail

This style is all about a sleek, high ponytail, secured at the crown, with the length dyed a pink.

This look is perfect for adding a pop of personality to any outfit, whether you’re heading to a festival or just want to brighten up a casual day.

Plus, it’s super easy to achieve, making it a great go-to style when you’re short on time but big on style.

30. Twisted Braided Bun

This look involves creating one or more braids, twisting them together, and then wrapping them into a chic bun.

This style is perfect for more formal occasions, like weddings or proms, but can also be dressed down for a sophisticated everyday look.

The twisted element adds a touch of visual interest, making it more dynamic than a standard bun.

31. Braided Bun with Accessories

Taking the braided bun to the next level is the addition of accessories.

Think delicate hairpins, sparkling clips, or even a decorative headband.

These additions can instantly transform a simple braided bun into a show-stopping masterpiece.

This is a great way to personalize your hairstyle and match it to your outfit or the occasion.

32. Red Braided Updo

This style combines the elegance of an updo with the fiery energy of red hair.

Imagine intricate braids woven together and styled into a sophisticated updo, all in a vibrant shade of red.

This look is guaranteed to turn heads and exude confidence.

It’s perfect for special events where you want to stand out from the crowd.

33. Blonde Cornrow High Ponytail

This style involves creating neat cornrows that lead into a high ponytail.

The contrast between the intricate cornrows and the smooth ponytail creates a striking visual effect.

This look is perfect for active individuals who want a stylish and practical hairstyle that stays in place.

The blonde hue adds a touch of brightness and freshness.

34. Box Braids With A Bun

Box braids are a fantastic protective style, and styling them into a bun adds even more versatility.

This look involves gathering your box braids at the crown and securing them into a high bun.

This keeps your braids out of your face and offers a stylish and low-maintenance option.

Plus, it protects the ends of your braids, promoting healthy hair growth.

35. Protective Cornow Updo

Similar to box braids, a protective cornrow updo combines style with hair care.

This style involves creating intricate cornrow patterns that are then styled into an updo.

This not only looks amazing but also protects your natural hair from damage.

It’s a great option for those who want a stylish and low-maintenance hairstyle that promotes hair health.

36. Half-Up Space Buns

For a fun and playful look, try half-up space buns.

This style involves sectioning your hair in half and creating two small buns on top of your head.

This style is youthful, whimsical, and perfect for casual outings or festivals.

It’s also a great way to keep your hair out of your face while still showing off some length.

37. Blue Cornrow Top Bun

Taking the cornrow bun to the next level is the addition of a vibrant blue hue.

This style combines the sleekness of cornrows with the bold statement of blue hair.

Imagine neat cornrows leading into a high bun, all in a striking shade of blue.

This look is perfect for those who want to express their individuality and stand out from the crowd.

38. Stunning Updo

The term “stunning updo” encompasses a wide range of elegant and sophisticated hairstyles.

This could involve intricate braids, twists, and curls, all styled into a polished and eye-catching updo.

This style is perfect for formal occasions like weddings, proms, or red-carpet events.

A stunning updo is all about creating a memorable and glamorous look.

40. Braided High Ponytail with Front Side Braids

This style combines the classic high ponytail with intricate braid work.

Imagine a sleek high ponytail with two or more braids starting at the front hairline and incorporating into the ponytail.

This adds a touch of detail and visual interest, elevating the simple ponytail into something truly special.

It’s a dynamic look that blends sportiness with sophistication.

41. Cornrow Braided Bun

We have the cornrow braided bun, a style that combines the sleekness of cornrows with the elegance of a braided bun.

This look involves creating cornrows that lead into a thick, intricately braided bun.

This style is both stylish and practical, keeping your hair neatly in place while showcasing beautiful braid work.

42. Jumbo Braided Ponytail

This style is all about making a statement with a thick, voluminous braid that extends into a high ponytail.

Imagine a tightly woven, chunky braid starting at the nape of your neck and continuing down to your desired length, then transitioning into a sleek, high ponytail.

This look exudes confidence and is perfect for those who love bold, eye-catching styles.

43. Cornrow Bun

The cornrow bun is a classic style that combines sleekness and structure.

This look involves creating neat cornrows that lead into a polished bun, usually positioned high on the head.

The contrast between the intricate cornrows and the smooth bun creates a striking visual.

This style is not only stylish but also practical, keeping your hair neatly in place.

44. Jumbo Box Braids Bun

Taking the classic bun to the next level, the jumbo box braids bun offers an effortless cool vibe.

This style involves gathering your jumbo box braids into a high bun, creating a voluminous and eye-catching look.

The size of the braids adds a unique texture and dimension, making this style stand out.

45. Braided Top Knot Bun

The braided top knot bun is a chic and simple style that’s perfect for everyday wear.

This look involves creating a braid, usually a French or Dutch braid, that is then wrapped into a high bun at the crown of the head.

This style is both stylish and practical, keeping your hair neatly secured while adding a touch of elegance.

46. Half-Up Braided Bun

For a more playful and practical option, consider the half-up braided bun.

This style involves sectioning your hair in half, braiding the top section, and then wrapping it into a bun.

The bottom section of your hair is left down, creating a balanced and versatile look.

It offers a nice balance between a full updo and wearing your hair completely down.

47. Double Braided Buns

Why have one bun when you can have two? The double braided buns style is all about doubling the fun and creating a symmetrical and eye-catching look.

This involves creating two braids, one on each side of the head, and then wrapping them into two separate buns.

This style is playful, youthful, and perfect for festivals or casual outings. It’s a fun twist on the classic bun style.

48. Braided Bun with Undercut

For those who want to add an edgy twist to their braided bun, consider incorporating an undercut.

This style combines the elegance of a braided bun with the boldness of an undercut.

The contrast between the shaved section and the styled bun creates a striking and unique look.

This is a great option for those who want to express their individuality and make a statement.

49. Braided Bun with Feed-In Braids

Feed-in braids create a natural-looking transition from your natural hair to the braids, making the style appear more polished and refined.

When styled into a bun, this creates a sophisticated and eye-catching updo.

This style is perfect for those who want a neat and polished braided look.

50. Braided Bun with Faux Locs

For a textured and trendy look, consider styling your faux locs into a braided bun.

This style involves gathering your faux locs and braiding them into a bun, creating a voluminous and eye-catching updo.

The texture of the faux locs adds a unique dimension to the style.

This is a great option for those who want a stylish and protective hairstyle.

51. Messy Braided Bun

The messy braided bun is all about embracing a relaxed and effortless vibe.

This style involves creating a braid and loosely wrapping it into a bun, allowing some strands to fall out for a more undone look.

This style is perfect for those who want a quick and easy yet stylish look.

It’s all about embracing natural texture and creating a relaxed and effortless vibe.

52. Halo Braided Bun

The halo braided bun is a romantic and elegant style that creates a beautiful halo effect around the head.

This involves creating a braid that wraps around the crown of the head and then is styled into a bun, creating a delicate and eye-catching updo.

This style is perfect for special occasions like weddings or proms. It offers a soft and romantic aesthetic.

53. Braided Bun with Color Highlights

Adding color highlights to your braided bun is a great way to personalize your style and add a pop of color.

This involves incorporating highlights or lowlights into your hair before braiding it into a bun.

The color adds dimension and visual interest to the style. This is a great way to express your individuality and create a unique look.

54. Intricate Braided Bun Designs

These styles involve creating complex braid patterns and incorporating them into a bun, creating a truly unique and eye-catching updo.

These styles are perfect for those who want to make a statement and showcase their braiding skills. They are true works of art.