Thick hair is a blessing, but it comes with its challenges. Managing volume and texture can feel overwhelming, but the right hairstyle can make your locks look effortlessly gorgeous. Whether you want something sleek and polished or bold and voluminous, we’ve got you covered. Here are 25 hairstyles that will make your thick hair shine, along with tips on how to achieve each one!
Elegant Updos for Thick Hair
1. Messy Bun with Volume
Perfect for casual outings or lazy days, this bun is easy to create and full of texture.
- How to achieve it: Start by gathering your hair into a high ponytail, but don’t pull it all the way through on the last loop, leaving a loose bun. Gently tug on sections to create volume and secure with pins. Pull a few strands around your face for a soft, messy look.
2. Low Twisted Bun
A go-to for formal occasions, this style keeps your thick hair in check while looking polished.
- How to achieve it: Divide your hair into two sections. Twist each section and wrap them around each other into a bun at the nape of your neck. Secure with bobby pins and finish with a spritz of hairspray for hold.
3. Braided Updo
Combining braids and an updo, this hairstyle is elegant and practical.
- How to achieve it: Start by braiding a section of hair near your crown. Gather the rest into a low bun, tucking in the braid as you pin everything in place. Add subtle accessories for extra glam.
4. Classic High Bun
This timeless style emphasizes the natural volume of thick hair while keeping it sleek.
- How to achieve it: Smooth your hair back into a high ponytail. Twist the ponytail tightly and coil it around the base to create a bun. Pin it securely, and apply hairspray to tame any flyaways.
5. Knotted Bun
For a unique take on the classic bun, try this knotted version.
- How to achieve it: Divide your hair into two sections. Tie them in a knot at the back of your head, then continue knotting until you run out of length. Tuck the ends in and pin everything in place.
Braided Hairstyles for Thick Hair
6. Chunky French Braid
Show off your hair’s thickness with this bold, textured braid.
- How to achieve it: Start at the crown and divide your hair into three sections. Cross each section over the middle, incorporating more hair as you go. Secure at the end with a clear elastic and gently pull on the braid to loosen it for a fuller look.
7. Fishtail Braid
This intricate braid looks stunning with thick hair, creating a mesmerizing effect.
- How to achieve it: Split your hair into two sections. Take a small piece from the outer edge of one section and cross it over to the other. Repeat until you reach the end, secure with a tie, and fan out the braid for added volume.
8. Double Dutch Braids
Sporty yet stylish, these braids are perfect for keeping thick hair neat and under control.
- How to achieve it: Part your hair down the middle and create two Dutch braids (braiding under instead of over) on each side. Secure the ends with elastics and tuck them into buns or ponytails for extra flair.
9. Crown Braid
For a regal, romantic look, the crown braid is a winner.
- How to achieve it: Create two French braids starting near your temples. Wrap them around your head like a crown and pin them in place. Pull out a few pieces for a softer finish, and you’re ready to dazzle.
10. Side Braid with Loose Waves
This style combines the charm of braids with the elegance of flowing waves.
- How to achieve it: Braid one side of your hair, starting near the temple. Let the rest of your hair flow into soft, loose waves created with a curling iron. Secure the braid at the back with a pin or clip.
Ponytails and Half-Up Styles
11. High Ponytail with Volume
Bold and striking, a high ponytail is a classic that flatters thick hair.
- How to achieve it: Smooth your hair back into a high ponytail, securing it with a sturdy elastic. Tease the ponytail for extra height and wrap a small section of hair around the base to hide the elastic. Finish with shine spray for a sleek look.
12. Low Sleek Ponytail
Chic and minimalist, this ponytail is perfect for any occasion.
- How to achieve it: Apply smoothing serum to your hair and part it in the middle. Gather your hair into a low ponytail and secure with a sleek elastic. Run a flat iron over the ponytail for a polished finish.
13. Bubble Ponytail
Fun and trendy, the bubble ponytail works beautifully with thick hair’s natural volume.
- How to achieve it: Create a high ponytail and secure it with elastics spaced a few inches apart down the length of your hair. Gently tug each section to create “bubbles” for a playful, voluminous look.
14. Half-Up, Half-Down Knot
This style combines elegance with a touch of casual charm.
- How to achieve it: Take the top half of your hair and twist it into a loose knot at the back of your head. Secure with pins, leaving the rest of your hair flowing down. Add soft curls for extra texture.
15. Twisted Half-Up Style
Effortlessly stylish, this twisted look keeps your hair off your face while showcasing its fullness.
- How to achieve it: Take small sections from either side of your head, twist them back, and pin them together. Let the rest of your hair cascade down for a relaxed yet refined look.
Loose Hairstyles for Thick Hair
16. Beachy Waves
Thick hair looks effortlessly glamorous with soft, beach-inspired waves.
- How to achieve it: Use a large-barrel curling iron to curl sections of your hair away from your face. After curling, run your fingers through the waves to loosen them. Finish with a lightweight texturizing spray for that tousled, windswept vibe.
17. Straight and Sleek
A classic, polished look that showcases the shine and health of thick hair.
- How to achieve it: Apply a heat protectant and use a flat iron to straighten your hair in small sections. Use a smoothing serum to combat frizz and enhance shine for a flawless finish.
18. Big, Bouncy Curls
Turn heads with voluminous curls that highlight the density of thick hair.
- How to achieve it: Use a medium-barrel curling wand and curl your hair in sections, holding the iron vertically. Let the curls cool, then gently brush them out for a bouncy, glamorous look.
19. Loose Layers
Layers add movement and make thick hair feel lighter without sacrificing volume.
- How to achieve it: Ask your stylist for long layers tailored to your face shape. Style at home with a round brush and blow-dry for a soft, natural finish.
20. Natural Texture with Defined Ends
Embrace your thick hair’s natural beauty with a defined, undone look.
- How to achieve it: Apply a curl-defining cream or mousse to damp hair and let it air dry. Use a diffuser to enhance natural waves or curls, and apply a touch of serum to the ends for definition.
Short Hairstyles for Thick Hair
21. Textured Bob
Short and chic, a textured bob offers a modern, carefree vibe.
- How to achieve it: Ask for a layered bob that complements your hair’s natural thickness. Use a texturizing spray to create piecey, defined strands for a trendy finish.
22. Pixie Cut with Volume
This bold, edgy cut is perfect for making a statement.
- How to achieve it: Request a layered pixie with longer strands on top to play with volume. Style with a small amount of pomade or styling cream to create definition and lift.
23. Asymmetrical Lob
A longer bob with an asymmetrical edge adds movement and flair to thick hair.
- How to achieve it: Keep one side slightly longer for a dramatic effect. Blow-dry straight for a sleek look or add soft curls for texture.
24. Blunt Cut Bob
A blunt bob highlights the density of thick hair for a bold, sleek look.
- How to achieve it: Ensure the ends are cut straight across for maximum impact. Style with a flat iron for a smooth, sharp finish, or let your natural texture add a bit of edge.
25. Layered Shag
Retro and fun, a layered shag gives thick hair plenty of texture and character.
- How to achieve it: Ask for choppy layers throughout your hair, focusing on face-framing pieces. Use a texturizing product to enhance the messy, carefree aesthetic of this cut.
Conclusion
Thick hair is a canvas for endless possibilities, from glamorous updos to playful short cuts. Whether you want to embrace its natural volume or create a sleek, polished look, there’s a hairstyle here for every mood and occasion.
Pro Tips for Thick Hair:
- Invest in high-quality tools, like a strong hairdryer and wide-tooth combs, to make styling easier.
- Use lightweight products to avoid weighing your hair down.
- Regular trims keep your thick locks healthy and manageable.
Which of these styles will you try first? Share your favorites in the comments below, and don’t forget to pin this post for your next hair inspiration day!