When I first started working with clients who had locs, I’ll admit—I was intimidated. As a makeup artist, I’d spent years perfecting the art of highlighting cheekbones and creating the perfect smoky eye, but hair? That felt like uncharted territory. Then I met a stunning model during a fashion week preparation whose locs cascaded down her back like a work of art, and everything changed. She taught me that locs aren’t just a hairstyle—they’re a journey, a statement, and an incredible canvas for creativity.
Over the years, I’ve had the privilege of working with countless individuals who wear their locs with such pride and elegance. I’ve learned that the versatility of locs is absolutely breathtaking. Whether you’re headed to a corporate meeting, a beach vacation, or a glamorous evening event, there’s a loc style that will make you feel like the most confident version of yourself.
Today, I’m sharing fifteen of my absolute favorite classy loc styles that I’ve either created, witnessed, or been completely inspired by. These aren’t just hairstyles—they’re expressions of personality, culture, and pure artistry. Let me walk you through each one, sharing tips I’ve picked up along the way and the stories that make these styles so special.
The Classic High Bun
There’s something timelessly elegant about a high bun that never fails to make me smile. I remember preparing a client for an important business presentation, and she was nervous about making the right impression. We pulled her shoulder-length locs into a sleek high bun, and the transformation was instant. Her posture straightened, her smile widened, and she walked into that room owning every second.
What It Is
The classic high bun is exactly what it sounds like—your locs gathered at the crown of your head and twisted or wrapped into a neat, circular bun. It’s simple in concept but powerful in execution. The beauty lies in its clean lines and the way it frames your face, drawing attention to your bone structure and that gorgeous makeup we work so hard to perfect.
How It Works Best For
This style is absolutely perfect for professional settings where you want to look polished and put-together. I’ve found it works beautifully for anyone with medium to long locs, though even shorter locs can achieve a smaller, equally chic version. It’s ideal for those days when you want your face to be the focal point—whether that’s because you’re wearing a bold lip color or you’ve finally mastered that winged eyeliner you’ve been practicing.
The high bun also works wonders for active lifestyles. I’ve recommended it to clients who practice yoga, dance, or hit the gym regularly. It keeps everything secure and off your neck, which is essential when you’re working up a sweat.
How To Make It
Start with clean, well-moisturized locs—this is crucial because dry locs can lead to breakage when you’re manipulating them. Brush or smooth your locs upward toward your crown, gathering them as if you’re creating a ponytail. Secure with a hair tie that won’t snag or damage your locs; I always recommend fabric-covered elastics or loc-friendly ties.
Once secured, twist your locs together and wrap them around the base in a circular motion. As you wrap, tuck the ends underneath and secure with bobby pins that match your loc color. Here’s a trick I learned from a hairstylist friend: insert the bobby pins in an X-pattern for maximum hold. If you have shorter locs that tend to slip out, use a light holding spray or gel on the edges to keep everything smooth and in place.
For added elegance, leave a few thinner locs out at the front to frame your face softly, or wrap one loc around the base of the bun to hide the elastic—it’s those little details that elevate the entire look.
Side-Swept Goddess Locs
Oh, this style makes my heart sing every single time. I first encountered it during a red-carpet preparation where we were going for old Hollywood glamour with a modern twist. The way the locs draped over one shoulder created this incredibly romantic, ethereal vibe that photographs like an absolute dream.
What It Is
Side-swept goddess locs involve gathering all your locs to one side of your head, allowing them to cascade over your shoulder in soft, flowing waves. It’s dramatic without being over-the-top, and there’s something inherently feminine and graceful about the asymmetry.
How It Works Best For
This style is phenomenal for special occasions—dates, weddings, evening events, or any time you want to feel a bit extra. It works particularly well for those with longer locs, as the length allows for that beautiful draping effect. If you have an asymmetrical neckline on your outfit or statement earrings you want to show off, this style is your best friend.
I’ve also noticed it works beautifully for photoshoots because it creates natural movement and dimension in pictures. The one-sided volume adds visual interest from every angle.
How To Make It
Begin by creating a deep side part—and I mean deep, almost to the point where it feels dramatic. Gather all your locs to the opposite side, letting them rest on your shoulder. You can secure them loosely with a decorative clip or pins at the nape of your neck if needed, but I prefer letting them hang freely for a more natural flow.
To enhance the goddess effect, you can add some loc jewelry or gold cuffs scattered throughout. A little shine oil or serum will give your locs that lustrous, healthy glow that catches the light beautifully. If your locs are freshly retwisted and a bit stiff, gently work them with your fingers to create softer movement.
For an extra romantic touch, create loose waves by wrapping sections of your locs around a curling wand on low heat or using flexi rods overnight. The result is this gorgeous, tousled texture that looks effortlessly chic.
Crown Braid Updo
I’ll never forget the bridal client who came to me wanting something regal yet romantic for her wedding day. We created a crown braid with her locs, and when she looked in the mirror, tears filled her eyes. She felt like royalty, and honestly, she looked like it too.
What It Is
A crown braid updo involves braiding your locs around the perimeter of your head, creating a crown-like effect. The remaining locs can be tucked into the braid, left hanging, or styled into an additional bun or twist at the back.
How It Works Best For
This style is absolutely stunning for formal events, particularly weddings, galas, or cultural celebrations. It works wonderfully for anyone with medium to long locs and is especially flattering for heart-shaped and oval faces because it adds width and balance. The crown braid is also fantastic for summer events because it keeps your hair off your neck while still looking incredibly put-together.
How To Make It
Section off the locs along your hairline, working from one side of your head to the other. Begin braiding these locs, incorporating new sections as you work your way around your head—similar to a Dutch braid technique. The key is maintaining even tension so the braid sits comfortably without pulling.
When you’ve braided all the way around, you’ll need to decide what to do with the remaining locs. You can tuck them into the braid itself, securing with pins, or create a low bun at the nape of your neck. I love adding small flowers or jeweled pins along the braid for that extra touch of elegance.
Practice makes perfect with this one. The first time might feel awkward, but once you get the hang of the pattern, you can create this look in about twenty minutes.
Half-Up, Half-Down Style
This is probably my most recommended style because it’s so incredibly versatile and works for virtually every occasion. I wear my own hair this way constantly—it’s that perfect balance between casual and polished.
What It Is
The half-up, half-down style involves sectioning the top portion of your locs and securing them up and away from your face while leaving the bottom half flowing freely. It’s the best of both worlds—you get the elegance of an updo with the freedom and movement of wearing your hair down.
How It Works Best For
Honestly, this style works for everything. Casual brunches, work meetings, date nights, or just running errands while still looking pulled together. It’s particularly great for those transitional seasons when having all your hair down feels too warm, but you still want length and volume.
I recommend this style for anyone who wants to show off the length of their locs while keeping hair out of their face. It also works beautifully if you’re between retwist appointments and your roots need a little camouflaging.
How To Make It
Section the top half of your locs from temple to temple, creating a horizontal part about halfway up your head. Gather this section and secure it with an elastic. From here, you have options: twist the ponytail into a small bun, leave it as a ponytail, or create a small braid.
For a softer, more romantic version, don’t pull the hair too tightly. Allow some locs to gently frame your face. You can also leave two thin locs out on either side for a face-framing effect that I absolutely love.
Adding volume to the crown area makes a huge difference. Gently tease or lift the locs at your roots before securing the top section to create that gorgeous height that photographs so well.
Locs Style Base Ponytail
Sophistication in its purest form—that’s how I describe this style. It’s understated, elegant, and conveys a quiet confidence that I find absolutely magnetic.
What It Is
This is a Locs Style Base Ponytail positioned at the nape of your neck with one loc wrapped around the elastic base to conceal it. The simplicity is what makes it so stunning.
How It Works Best For
This style excels in professional environments, formal dinners, or any situation where you want to look refined without trying too hard. It’s perfect for showcasing statement necklaces or elegant earrings since the neckline is completely clear.
I’ve found it particularly flattering for those with longer neck lines and works well for all loc lengths, though it’s especially striking with medium to long locs.
How To Make It
Brush or smooth your locs back toward the nape of your neck, gathering them into a low ponytail. Position it just above where your neck meets your hairline. Secure with an elastic, then take one loc from the ponytail and wrap it around the elastic several times until it’s completely covered.
Tuck the end of the wrapping loc under the elastic and secure with a bobby pin. The key to this style looking polished is smoothness at the crown and sides. Use a light gel or edge control product to ensure everything lies flat without bumps or lumps.
For extra sophistication, consider the height of your ponytail carefully. Too high and it loses that sleek elegance; too low and it can look unfinished. Right at that sweet spot where your neck curves is perfect.
Twist with Loose Locs
Romantic, bohemian, and effortlessly beautiful—this style reminds me of garden parties and sunset beach walks. There’s something wonderfully whimsical about it.
What It Is
This involves taking sections of locs from both sides of your head, twisting them back, and securing them together at the back of your crown while leaving the remaining locs flowing freely down your back.
How It Works Best For
This style shines at outdoor events, casual weddings, festivals, or beach gatherings. It’s ideal for those with medium to long locs and works particularly well if you want to keep hair out of your face without committing to a full updo.
The twisted crown is also fantastic for those growing out shorter locs in the front, as the twists help blend different lengths beautifully.
How To Make It
Starting at your temple on one side, take a section of locs about two inches wide. Twist this section back toward the crown of your head, keeping the twist relatively loose for a softer effect. Repeat on the other side.
Bring both twisted sections together at the back center of your head and secure with bobby pins or a small elastic. You can cross them over each other or simply pin them side by side—both look lovely.
For added dimension, gently pull at the twists to loosen them slightly, creating more volume and that coveted “undone” look. A few decorative pins or small flowers woven into the twists add a beautiful finishing touch.
Basket Weave Updo
This style never fails to turn heads. I remember creating it for a fashion show, and the photographers couldn’t stop shooting from every angle because the detail work is just that stunning.
What It Is
The basket weave updo involves intricately weaving your locs together in a pattern that resembles basket weaving, creating a textured, dimensional updo that’s truly a work of art.
How It Works Best For
This is reserved for special occasions when you want to make a statement—award shows, galas, high-fashion events, or cultural celebrations. It works best with medium to long locs and requires some patience and practice (or a skilled stylist) to execute properly.
The style is particularly striking on those who love intricate detail work and aren’t afraid of a bold, artistic hairstyle.
How To Make It
I’ll be honest—this is one style I recommend having done professionally the first few times so you can observe the technique. The basic concept involves dividing your locs into sections and weaving them over and under each other in an alternating pattern, similar to weaving a basket.
Start at the back of your head with horizontal sections. Take the first section and weave individual locs over and under locs from the section above. Continue this pattern, working your way up and securing sections as you go.
The ends are typically tucked under and pinned in place, creating a seamless finish. This style can take an hour or more to complete, but the result is absolutely worth it. The key is maintaining even tension throughout and using plenty of pins to secure everything.
Messy Top Knot
When I’m rushing between client appointments or just want to look effortlessly stylish without much effort, this is my go-to. It’s the “I woke up like this” style that actually requires intention but looks wonderfully carefree.
What It Is
A messy top knot involves gathering your locs at the crown of your head and twisting them into a loose, deliberately imperfect bun. The messier, the better—that’s the beauty of it.
How It Works Best For
Perfect for casual days, creative work environments, or whenever you want to look stylish without appearing overly done. This style works for virtually all loc lengths, though longer locs create a fuller, more dramatic knot.
It’s ideal for running errands, coffee shop work sessions, or lazy weekend days when you still want to look put-together.
How To Make It
Flip your head upside down and gather all your locs at the crown, securing with an elastic. Don’t worry about smoothness—this style embraces texture and imperfection. Twist the locs loosely and wrap them around the base, but here’s the key: don’t wrap them too neatly.
Allow some locs to stick out at odd angles, let the bun sit a bit asymmetrical, and pull out a few face-framing pieces. The goal is controlled chaos. Secure with pins wherever needed, but don’t overthink it.
For extra volume, backcomb the locs slightly before creating the knot, or pull them apart gently after the bun is secured to create that perfectly imperfect fullness.
Elegant Chignon
Timeless grace—that’s the only way to describe a proper chignon. I’ve created this style for countless events, and it never disappoints. There’s a reason it’s been a staple for generations.
What It Is
A chignon is a sophisticated, low bun typically positioned at the nape of the neck. With locs, it takes on additional texture and depth that makes it even more stunning than traditional versions.
How It Works Best For
This is your classic formal hairstyle—perfect for black-tie events, weddings (as a guest or bride), opera nights, or any occasion requiring serious elegance. It works beautifully with medium to long locs and is especially flattering for those wanting to showcase their neck and shoulders.
The chignon is also wonderful for mature, refined looks and professional settings where understated elegance is key.
How To Make It
Gather your locs at the nape of your neck into a low ponytail. Instead of wrapping them into a traditional bun, separate the ponytail into two or three sections. Twist each section individually, then wrap them around each other and the base of the ponytail, creating an interwoven effect.
Pin each section securely as you wrap, creating a rounded, full bun that sits low on your neck. The key difference between a chignon and a regular bun is the positioning (lower and more to one side) and the softer, more romantic shaping.
Smooth any flyaways with a light styling product, and consider adding a decorative hairpiece or vintage clip for extra sophistication. The chignon should look polished but never too stiff or severe.
Faux Hawk with Locs
Bold, edgy, and unapologetically confident—this style is for those who aren’t afraid to stand out. I love creating this look because it completely transforms someone’s entire vibe.
What It Is
A faux hawk involves styling your locs upward along the center of your head, creating height and drama while keeping the sides sleek and close to your head. It’s punk rock meets high fashion.
How It Works Best For
This style is perfect for concerts, parties, fashion-forward events, or anytime you want to make a serious statement. It works particularly well for those with medium to long locs and suits individuals with oval or heart-shaped faces beautifully.
If you have an edgy personal style or work in creative industries where bold expression is celebrated, this is your style.
How To Make It
Section your locs into three parts: center and both sides. Smooth the side sections down toward your ears, securing them with bobby pins or styling gel to keep them sleek and flat against your head.
Take the center section and begin backcombing or twisting the locs to create volume and height. You can twist them all together, create multiple smaller twists, or even braid them into a raised design. Secure the base with pins and use a strong-hold styling product to maintain the height.
For extra drama, add loc jewelry, colored wraps, or metallic accessories along the raised center section. The contrast between the sleek sides and voluminous center is what makes this style so striking.
Braided High Bun
Classic meets intricate—this is another favorite for formal occasions where you want something special but not overly dramatic.
What It Is
This involves braiding your locs before wrapping them into a low bun, creating beautiful texture and detail that elevates a simple bun into something extraordinary.
How It Works Best For
Weddings, formal dinners, graduation ceremonies, or professional headshots all benefit from this polished, detailed style. It works best with medium to long locs and is especially flattering for those who want a sophisticated look that still has visual interest.
This style also photographs exceptionally well because the braid adds dimension and texture that shows up beautifully in photos.
How To Make It
Start by creating one large braid with all your locs, or divide them into two or three sections and braid each separately. The braid can be a traditional three-strand braid or something more intricate if you’re feeling adventurous.
Once braided, coil the braid(s) around the base at your nape, creating a circular bun shape. Pin securely as you wrap, ensuring everything feels stable and won’t come loose throughout your event.
The beauty of this style is in the texture—the braid creates a rope-like appearance that adds so much visual interest to the bun. You can position it center or slightly off to one side for a different effect.
Asymmetrical Pinned Updo
Artistic, modern, and absolutely stunning—this style is for those who appreciate avant-garde beauty and aren’t afraid of asymmetry.
What It Is
This involves pinning your locs up in an asymmetrical pattern, creating a sculptural updo that’s deliberately unbalanced in the most beautiful way. One side might be swept up dramatically while the other has locs artfully cascading down.
How It Works Best For
Art gallery openings, fashion industry events, editorial photoshoots, or any occasion where creative expression is valued. This works for various loc lengths, though medium to long locs provide more styling flexibility.
If you have a strong personal style and love being a bit different, this is your perfect match.
How To Make It
This is where you get to be truly creative. Start by deciding which side will have more volume or height. Begin pinning locs up on that side, creating interesting angles and curves as you work. You might twist some sections, leave others straight, or create loops with your locs.
The opposite side might be swept back simply, or you could leave a few locs loose to cascade over your shoulder. There’s no single correct way to create this—it’s about what feels balanced yet intentionally unbalanced to you.
Use plenty of bobby pins and don’t be afraid to experiment. Sometimes the best looks come from happy accidents. A strong-hold spray helps maintain the sculptural shapes throughout the evening.
Loc Ponytail with Volume
Big, bold, and beautiful—this style is all about celebrating the fullness and length of your locs with unabashed confidence.
What It Is
A high or mid-height ponytail that emphasizes volume and movement, allowing your locs to cascade dramatically while the base showcases their thickness and texture.
How It Works Best For
Perfect for active days, casual outings, or whenever you want your locs to be the star of the show. This works especially well for those with thick, full locs and is ideal for showing off length.
Younger clients love this style for its energetic, vibrant vibe, though it truly works for any age if you have the confidence to carry it.
How To Make It
Gather your locs at your desired height—mid-crown works beautifully for most face shapes. Before securing with an elastic, backcomb or gently tease the base to create lift and volume. Secure the ponytail, then assess the volume.
If you want even more drama, carefully separate the locs in the ponytail, pulling them apart to create additional fullness. Some people achieve this by wrapping sections around a curling iron to add bends and curves that create more body.
Wrap one loc around the elastic base for a polished finish, and apply a light oil or shine spray to make your locs glisten. The key is confident volume—this isn’t a demure style, so embrace the fullness.
Velvet Grace Loc Style
Elegance with a twist—literally. There’s something inherently graceful about a side bun that I find absolutely captivating.
What It Is
A bun positioned to one side of your head rather than center back or top. It creates beautiful asymmetry while maintaining a polished, formal appearance.
How It Works Best For
Formal events, romantic dinners, or anytime you want to look elegant without being too traditional. This style works wonderfully with medium to long locs and is particularly flattering when wearing statement earrings on the opposite side.
The side bun also works beautifully if you’re wearing an outfit with an asymmetrical neckline or a dress with details on one side.
How To Make It
Gather your locs to one side—I usually prefer the left side, but choose whatever feels natural to you. Position the gathering point just behind your ear, angled slightly downward toward the nape of your neck.
Secure with an elastic, then twist or wrap the locs into a bun shape. The positioning is key—too high and it looks unintentional; too low and it lacks that elegant lift. Pin securely, using the X-pattern technique for maximum hold.
For added sophistication, create a few loose waves in the locs before forming the bun, or leave a few wispy locs out to softly frame your face on the opposite side.
Twisted Low Ponytail with Accessories
This final style is something truly special—a protective yet stunning look that I’ve seen take years off someone’s appearance while highlighting their best features.
What It Is
Your locs are wrapped around your head in a crown-like formation, with ends tucked under and pinned for a seamless, elegant finish. It’s regal, protective, and absolutely gorgeous.
How It Works Best For
This style excels at formal cultural events, weddings, or any occasion where you want to honor tradition while looking contemporary and chic. It works best with longer locs that have enough length to wrap around your head at least once.
It’s also wonderful for those in-between retwist appointments or when you want to give your locs a break from manipulation while still looking polished.
How To Make It
Begin by parting your locs down the middle from front to back. Take one side and begin wrapping it around your head, following your hairline. Keep the wrap relatively flat against your head, securing with pins every few inches as you go.
When you reach the back, continue wrapping with the other side, overlapping the first wrap slightly. The ends can be tucked under the wrapped sections and pinned invisibly.
For added security and smoothness, use a light gel on your edges and a silk scarf to set the style for about fifteen minutes before removing. The result is a sleek, sophisticated crown that stays put all day or night.
Conclusion
As I sit here thinking about all these beautiful styles, I’m reminded of why I fell in love with working in the beauty industry in the first place. It’s not just about hair or makeup or fashion—it’s about helping people feel like the most confident, authentic version of themselves.
Throughout my journey from that small-town girl in Georgia to working with incredible people in Los Angeles, I’ve learned that beauty truly does come from within. But there’s also something magical about the way a gorgeous hairstyle can unlock that confidence, helping it shine through even brighter.
Your locs tell a story—your story. They represent patience, commitment, and a journey that’s uniquely yours. Whether you started your loc journey years ago or you’re just beginning, each style you choose is another chapter in that beautiful narrative.
I’ve watched clients transform not just in appearance but in how they carry themselves when they find a style that truly resonates with them. The woman who wore the high bun to her presentation? She texted me afterward saying she got the promotion. The bride with the crown braid? She still sends me photos from her anniversary celebrations, her hair styled the same way because it made her feel so special.
These fifteen styles are just starting points—templates for your own creativity and expression. Don’t be afraid to modify them, combine elements from different styles, or create something entirely new. Some of my favorite looks have come from clients who said, “What if we tried this instead?” That willingness to experiment, to play, to have fun with your hair—that’s where the magic happens.
Remember that not every style will work for every occasion or every mood, and that’s perfectly okay. Your locs are versatile enough to match wherever life takes you. Professional meeting in the morning? High bun. Date night in the evening? Side-swept goddess locs. Lazy Sunday at home? Messy top knot. You have the power to transform your look to match your day, your outfit, or your feelings.
I also want to emphasize the importance of caring for your locs between styles. Moisturize them regularly, protect them at night with a satin bonnet or pillowcase, and don’t manipulate them too frequently. Healthy locs are beautiful locs, regardless of how they’re styled. Think of styling as the accessory to already gorgeous, well-maintained hair.
And here’s something I tell every client who sits in my chair: confidence is the most important accessory you’ll ever wear. You can have the most intricate, perfectly executed hairstyle in the world, but if you don’t own it—if you don’t walk out that door believing you look absolutely stunning—it won’t have the same impact.
Your locs are beautiful. You are beautiful. Whether you choose a simple low ponytail or an elaborate basket weave updo, wear it with pride. Wear it with joy. Wear it like you know you’re absolutely incredible—because you are.
As I always say, beauty isn’t about perfection. It’s about confidence, creativity, and feeling empowered to express yourself however you choose. These loc styles are tools in your beauty arsenal, ways to show the world different facets of who you are. Some days you’ll feel classic and elegant. Other days you’ll feel bold and edgy. Both versions are authentically you, and both deserve to be celebrated.
So go ahead—try that style you’ve been eyeing on social media. Book that appointment with a loc stylist you’ve been following. Experiment in front of your mirror on a quiet Sunday afternoon. Your locs are waiting to be styled, and the world is waiting to see you shine.