20 STYLES OF DREADLOCKS TO TRY TODAY

There are so many styles of dreadlocks you can try as a lady who loves to keep the dread or locs hairstyle.

Each has its unique look and maintenance requirements.

The Deadlock is known as one of the most versatile and traditional natural hairstyles for African women.

You can either have the dreads made with your natural hair or have an artificial locs extension installed.

1. Long Dread Style

The long dread style is known for its iconic and eye-catching features and varies in length, thickness, and textures.

However, the maintenance of this hairstyle is crucial as it needs to be kept neat and healthy as you occasionally wash, retwist, and separate the locks to prevent merging.

2. Dread Braid Style

This is a fusion of traditional dreadlocks and braids, creating a unique and versatile hairstyle.

It combines the texture and structure of dreads with the intricate patterns and aesthetics of braids.

Some popular variations of this hairstyle are; half dreads half braids, braided roots with dreaded ends, intertwined braids and dreads, and then, cornrow dreads.

You can style it according to your preference.

For maintenance, regular care, moisturizing, and professional touch-ups are advised.

3. Short Dread Style

For those looking for that versatile and trendy look that incorporates short-length dreadlocks.

Maintenance of this hairstyle involves regular washing, retwisting, and moisturizing.

However, you should consult with a professional who would explain what suits your face shape and is suitable for your face look.

This style allows for personal expression and creativity as it is quite fashionable and practical.

4. Medium Dread Style

Also known as medium-length dreadlocks or locs, is a versatile and stylish hairstyle.

For variations, the length, thickness, and texture should always be taken into consideration.

It is adaptable and easily customizable to suit various personalities and fashion preferences.

There are wide range of styling possibilities whether your preference is a neat and polished look or a more natural and freeform appearance.

Maintenance is also done by washing, retwisting, and moisturizing.

READ ALSO: 25 Unique Dreadlocks Hairstyles for Black Women in 2024

5. Yarn Dreads

Known also as yarn braids or faux dreads are popular protective hairstyles and the yarn is used to create unique deadlock-like extensions.

Now, if you are considering dreadlocks for a permanent hair look, you can experiment with this style for a while.

It offers a creative and versatile way to experiment with different hairstyles while providing a protective option for natural hair.

For maintenance, you can simply wash but you should know that it takes longer to dry.

Take care of the scalp by cleaning and moisturizing, and finally, you can re-tighten if it’s loose or with a bit of hair growth.

6. Cornrow Dreadlocks

Combination of two distinct African hair styling techniques, cornrow, and dreadlocks, into a unique and virtually striking hairstyle.

You can have the cornrow braided close to the scalp while the dreadlocks are matted and locked into rope-like strands.

It is another dread style with structure and texture.

As for its maintenance, this hairstyle requires regular upkeep to maintain a neat cornrow and healthy dreadlocks.

Try to keep the scalp clean and the roots of the cornrows may need to be rebraided periodically to maintain a tidy appearance.

Avoid buildup and ensure the lock is done correctly.

7. Wavy Dreadlocks

Combining the unique texture and style of dreadlocks with the loose, flowing appearance of wavy hair.

Some features and considerations include but are not limited to; texture and volume, natural and versatile look, length variations, thickness, color options, and so on.

Among its benefits are its low maintenance requirement, protective style and comes with unique look.

As for maintenance, washing, retwisting, moisturizing, and frizz control should be done.

Also, know that this style is quite customizable to suit individual preferences and lifestyles.

8. Bohemian Dreads

Bohemian dreads or boho dreads are popular loc hairstyle that combines elements of traditional dreadlocks with a free-spirited bohemian aesthetic.

This hairstyle can be styled in numerous ways, updos, half-up half-down styles, ponytails, and buns.

You can be creative by applying variations of accessories as well as styling to suit different occasions from casual to formal events.

For maintenance, bohemian dreads require low maintenance compared to some other dread hairstyles but they do require regular care to keep them looking their best.

Incorporate regular washing, occasional deep conditioning, and careful separation to prevent matting.

9. Rasta Dreads

This is known simply as dreadlocks or dreads and they are popular hairstyles within the Rastafarian culture.

A style of dread with both a fashion statement and a spiritual symbol.

For appearance, take note of the form, length, and texture.

As for style variations, the natural look, colored dreads, accessories added, and updos and/or styles should all be considered.

As a symbol for the Rastafarian community, it signifies a deep connection to African hairstyle and a rejection of Western norms.

For maintenance, use the twisting and palm rolling technique to form and tighten the locks, wash, and care to keep the scalp healthy and locks clean.

Go further by re-tightening and re-twisting to maintain the look especially if you have new growth at the roots.

10. High Top Dreads

This is all about how you style your dreads.

This dread incorporates a modern twist by focusing on volume and height at the crown of the head.

Some of the key features of the dread look include high volume at the top, tapered sides, length and thickness adaptable to your taste, and the versatile nature of the style.

You can style this look in an updo, half up half down, with accessories as well as in variations of colors.

The maintenance of this style of dread should include regular washing, retwisting, and moisturizing as keeping it neat and new should be your goal.

11. Dyed and Coloured Dreads

This offers a vibrant and personalized twist on the traditional dreadlocks be it natural or artificial.

A combination of the natural textured look of dreads with the versatility and boldness of various hair colours.

Your colour of choice can be bold, with natural tones, pastels, ombre, and highlights.

The professional or you (DIY) can use dip dye, full dye, partial dye, and tie-dye techniques.

And when it comes to maintenance, a regular touch-up, moisturizing, color-safe product application should be encouraged to preserve the colour for a longer duration.

12. Fishtail Dreads

The dreadlocks a classic and romantic attributes while combining the intricate fishtail braid style with the unique texture of dreadlocks thereby creating a distinctive and eye-catching look.

For appearance, the key features you notice immediately include; the texture, braiding, and volume.

As for its maintenance, it does require regular care to keep it clean and tidy as well as can be redone periodically to maintain a neat appearance.

This dread style involves blending traditional and contemporary hairstyling techniques.

13. Ponytail Dreadlock

A combination of the classic ponytail with the textured and unique look of dreadlocks.

This style of dread can vary in thickness, length, and neatness depending on personal preference and maintenance technique.

The formation of this hairstyle can be natural, twist and rip, backcombing, and interlocking.

For the ponytail creation, it should be gathered, secured, and styled into a; high-ponytail, mid-level ponytail, or a low ponytail.

You can customize according to your preference when it comes to length, thickness, colour, accessories, or a partial ponytail.

Lastly, for maintenance, you can regularly wash, retighten, or retwist for a neat look and even go further by applying oils or moisturizers that you trust.

14. Half Up Half Down Dreadlocks

This style of dread combines the elegance of loose hair with the structured, unique appearance of dreadlocks.

You can style into sections of two parts, the top section which can be as simple or elaborate as desired, and the bottom section which provides a flowing, natural look.

Some of its key features include versatility, texture and volume, length, accessories, and so on.

While for maintenance, everyone knows regular care regime should be practiced to keep it neat particularly the upper section where the hair is pulled back.

The three (3) styling tips are; sectioning, securing, and enhancing.

And if you are looking to keep your hair out of your face, this is your go-to dread hairstyle.

15. Pink Dreadlocks

For ladies who prefer to change up their hair looks from time to time.

This is a dynamic and eye-catching hairstyle that combines traditional elements of dreadlocks with the contemporary appeal of vibrant colour.

Say you want a bold and vibrant look, with a modern colourful twist, this should be your style of choice when it comes to dreads.

For styling, however, you can have it in an updo style, half-up style, ponytails, buns, and intricate braids.

They can be adorned with beads, cuffs, wraps, and other hair accessories to add more flair and personality.

As for maintenance, regular washing with residue-free shampoo, palm rolling method to maintain shape, and periodic root tightening are advised.

However, if you do use synthetic dreadlocks, washing should be less frequent.

16. Mohawk Dreads

For ladies who prefer the edgy appeal, a combination of mohawk with unique texture and style of dreadlocks should do.

The key features include the mohawk and dreadlocks.

When styling, it can be in the form of an updo, buns, coloured dreads as well as an addition of beads and other accessories according to your preference.

And as far as maintenance is concerned, a regular shaving and trimming can be adopted to maintain the mohawk shape.

For a long lasting hairstyle, include regular washing, retwist or retightening once in a while using the palm-rolling technique as it is essential you keep the style intact.

This hairstyle always makes a powerful statement on the lady who wears the look.

17. Dread Twist

For women, this refers to a specific hairstyle that combines elements of dreadlocks and twists.

A unique, versatile, and culturally rich option that offers a distinctive and expressive look.

When it comes to the cultural significance of the style, it is an expression of identity with a deep-rooted history.

You can also style the dread twists in various ways including updos and buns, half-up half-down styles, side-swept, ponytails, and so on.

Accessories like beads, cuffs, and scarves can also be added to enhance the look.

Maintaining dread twists requires regular upkeep to ensure the twists and dreads remain neat and defined.

You should remember to use a comfortable protective hair styling technique at night before bed.

18. Faux Dreadlocks

Also known as faux locs are a popular protective hairstyle. It has the appearance of traditional locs created by wrapping synthetic or natural hair extensions around a person’s natural hair.

Some of the benefits of this hairstyle are that it is protective, versatile, and requires low maintenance.

For the installation of the faux locs hair extension, you can use any of these three (3) methods; crochet method, wrapping method, and individual crotchety method.

When caring for and maintaining the hairstyle, washing and moisturizing regularly is advised.

However, to further make it a long-lasting hairstyle, always remember to wear a silk or satin scarf, or bonnet with a pillow case which can help protect the locs and reduce frizz.

19. Dread Updo Bun

Another stylish and elegant dreadlocks hairstyle popular among women is the dread updo bun.

It involves gathering and arranging the dreadlocks in a bun at the crown of the head or nape of the neck.

Make sure to clean and moisturize as well as section the hair properly when you prepare to style your dread into a bun.

There are however, variations of styling that you can try such as; the classic bun, messy bun, braided bun, and decorative accessories to name a few.

You can also finish up the look by adding finishes like; edge control, spray to shine, and hold spray to keep the style in place.

Remember, this is another versatile and adaptable hairstyle when it comes to dreadlocks which means you can wear the look for different occasions, from everyday wear to special events.

Feel truly sophisticated and chic in appearance with this look.

20. Crotchet Soft Dread

The crotchetsoft dreads, also known as crotchet braids or crotchet twists are a protective hairstyle popular for women.

It can be from natural hair that is for a more authentic look and feel or synthetic fibers from brands like kanekolon or Toyokalon.

The installation technique is done using a crotchet hook to loop the hair through natural braided cornrows.

This hairstyle comes with the added advantage of a process that is less time-consuming than the traditional braiding methods.

The crotchet hair extension comes in different lengths, thicknesses, and colours as preferred by the individual.

You can style in an updo, half-up half-down styles, and free-flowing looks.

As for maintenance, this dread hairstyle requires low maintenance as to other protective styles. You can wash and condition it with proper care as this helps it last longer and remain fresh.

Conclusion

Now, you can see all the different styles of dreadlocks within this post, and remember that the choice of style often reflects personal identity, lifestyle, and maintenance preferences.