Your hairstyle is a powerful way to express confidence, beauty, and personality. Whether you prefer short cuts, voluminous curls, protective styles, or sleek looks, there are plenty of hairstyles that enhance your features and complement your individual style.
For plus-size Black women, the key is to choose flattering hairstyles that frame the face, add volume in the right places, and embrace natural beauty. Here are some of the best hairstyles to try, along with styling tips to bring out the best in your hair.
1. Layered Curls with Volume
Soft, voluminous curls add movement and frame the face beautifully.
How to Style:
- Use a curl-defining cream or mousse to enhance natural curls.
- Add long layers to shape the face and reduce bulk.
- Use a diffuser to increase volume without frizz.
Best for: Round or oval face shapes, medium to long hair lengths.
2. Shoulder-Length Bob with Side Part
A bob with a side part is universally flattering and creates angles that slim the face.
How to Style:
- Keep the length at or slightly below the shoulders.
- Opt for a silk press or blowout for a sleek look.
- Tuck one side behind the ear to create a sculpted effect.
Best for: Heart-shaped, round, or oval faces.
3. Tapered Cut with Defined Curls
A short tapered cut with natural curls on top is bold and beautiful.
How to Style:
- Keep the sides short and the top longer for height and definition.
- Use a curl sponge or finger coils for a defined look.
- Add color accents like honey blonde or auburn for extra dimension.
Best for: All face shapes, especially oval and round faces.
4. Long Box Braids or Goddess Braids
Braided styles offer length, versatility, and protection while being easy to maintain.
How to Style:
- Choose waist-length or hip-length braids to elongate the face.
- Opt for chunky goddess braids for a regal, voluminous effect.
- Style into a half-up bun, ponytail, or side-swept look for variety.
Best for: Any face shape, works with natural or added extensions.
5. Asymmetrical Bob with Layers
An asymmetrical bob creates a modern, stylish look while adding angles that elongate the face.
How to Style:
- Keep one side slightly longer than the other for a slimming effect.
- Use a silk press or flexi rods for sleekness or soft curls.
- Add caramel or honey highlights for a vibrant touch.
Best for: Round, oval, and heart-shaped faces.
6. High Bun with Baby Hairs
A high bun is elegant, elongates the neck, and draws attention upwards.
How to Style:
- Use edge control to style baby hairs for a polished look.
- Wrap the bun in braiding hair or extensions for added volume.
- Add accessories like gold cuffs, hairpins, or scarves.
Best for: All face shapes, great for formal or casual occasions.
7. Shoulder-Length Afro with Layers
A soft, layered afro adds volume without overwhelming the face.
How to Style:
- Use a pick comb to shape the hair into a rounded afro.
- Keep the crown slightly higher than the sides for a flattering silhouette.
- Moisturize with a leave-in conditioner and curl-enhancing cream.
Best for: Oval, heart, and round face shapes.
8. Side-Swept Curls with Undercut
A bold, stylish look that mixes femininity with edge.
How to Style:
- Keep one side shaved or closely cropped.
- Let the longer side cascade into soft curls or waves.
- Add color accents like deep red or platinum blonde for contrast.
Best for: Round, oval, and heart-shaped faces.
9. Long, Layered Locs
Locs can be styled in various lengths and textures to complement any face shape.
How to Style:
- Opt for long, layered locs to create length and movement.
- Style into updos, curls, or half-up styles for versatility.
- Use accessories like beads, wraps, or gold cuffs to personalize.
Best for: All face shapes, great for protective styling.
10. Curly Pixie Cut
A curly pixie cut frames the face while being low-maintenance and stylish.
How to Style:
- Keep the top longer for volume and dimension.
- Use a curl activator or mousse to define natural curls.
- Slick down the sides for a sleek, tapered look.
Best for: Oval, round, and square face shapes.
Tips for Choosing the Right Hairstyle for Your Face Shape and Features
- Round Faces: Opt for long layers, asymmetry, or volume on top to create height.
- Oval Faces: Most hairstyles work, but avoid too much bulk at the sides.
- Heart-Shaped Faces: Soft waves, side parts, and shoulder-length styles work best.
- Square Faces: Layered bobs, curls, and side-swept styles add softness.
Final Thoughts
The best hairstyle is one that makes you feel confident, stylish, and comfortable. Whether you choose a short, structured cut or long, flowing braids, embracing your natural beauty and personality is what truly makes a hairstyle shine.
Which of these styles would you love to try? Let us know your favorite looks!