Hey beauties! It’s Belle here, and today I’m beyond excited to talk about something that holds such deep cultural significance and endless style possibilities—dreadlocks. Throughout my years working with incredible women in Los Angeles and beyond, I’ve had the privilege of witnessing how dreads can be transformed into absolutely stunning hairstyles that celebrate heritage, individuality, and creativity.
I’ll never forget the first time I worked with a client who had gorgeous, mature locs that cascaded down her back. She came to me feeling like her styling options were limited, and by the time we finished creating an intricate updo, she had tears in her eyes. That moment reminded me that hair isn’t just about aesthetics—it’s about feeling empowered and beautiful in your own skin.
So let’s dive into these fabulous dread hairstyles that are taking the beauty world by storm!
High Bun with Dreads
There’s something incredibly elegant yet effortless about a high bun, and when you have locs, this style takes on a whole new dimension of beauty.
What Is It
A high bun with dreads involves gathering your locs at the crown of your head and securing them into a bun formation. Unlike traditional hair buns, dread buns have texture, weight, and personality. Each loc contributes to the overall aesthetic, creating a sculptural effect that’s both powerful and feminine.
How It Works Best for Different Occasions
I’ve styled this look for everything from corporate photoshoots to wedding parties, and it never fails to impress. The high bun works beautifully for professional settings because it’s polished and keeps hair off your face, giving you that boss-woman energy. For formal events, you can add decorative pins, gold cuffs, or even fresh flowers woven throughout the bun for a romantic touch. The height of the bun elongates your neck and highlights your facial features, which is why I often recommend this style for clients who want to showcase their bone structure.
How to Make It: Tips from My Experience
Creating the perfect high bun requires technique, but once you master it, you’ll be doing it in your sleep! Start by gathering all your locs at the highest point of your head. Use a strong hair tie that can handle the weight of your locs; I always recommend fabric-covered elastics that won’t snag.
Here’s my pro tip: don’t twist your locs too tightly before forming the bun. Instead, let them fall naturally and then arrange them in a circular pattern around the base. Secure with bobby pins, tucking the ends underneath for a cleaner finish. For extra hold, lightly mist the bun with a natural holding spray. And please, resist the urge to make it “perfect”—some loose locs framing your face add character and soften the overall look.
Side-Swept Dreads
If you’re looking for romance and drama, side-swept dreads are calling your name.
What Is It
This style involves sweeping all or most of your locs to one side of your head and shoulder, creating an asymmetrical look that’s absolutely captivating. It’s like wearing a living, breathing work of art that moves with you and catches light from every angle.
How It Works Best for Showcasing Your Features
Side-swept dreads are incredibly flattering because they create asymmetry, which naturally draws the eye and adds visual interest. This style works particularly well if you want to showcase one side of your face or if you’re wearing statement earrings on one ear. I often recommend this for clients with strong jawlines or high cheekbones because the sweep of the locs creates a diagonal line that complements angular features. For photoshoots or special occasions, this style is absolutely stunning because it gives you something to work with—you can drape your locs over your shoulder or let them cascade down your back.
How to Make It: Tips for the Perfect Sweep
Creating this look is simpler than you might think. Start with clean, moisturized locs—I can’t stress this enough. Part your hair deeply on one side, much further over than you normally would. I typically create the part about two inches from the ear on one side. Then, gently brush or smooth all your locs over to the opposite side. If you have thick locs, you might need to secure them with a few strategically placed bobby pins.
My secret weapon? A light oil or shine serum applied to the length of the locs. This gives them that gorgeous, healthy glow and helps them flow smoothly over your shoulder. For extra security during long events, I sometimes create a loose French braid along the side with less hair, then let the bulk of the locs flow freely on the opposite side.
Faux Hawk with Dreads
Now we’re talking about bringing some serious edge and attitude!
What Is It
A faux hawk with dreads is a bold style where the sides are either pinned down flat or styled close to the head, while the center locs are styled upward and back, creating that iconic mohawk-inspired silhouette. It’s fierce, it’s confident, and it makes a statement before you even say a word.
How It Works Best for Making a Statement
The faux hawk is all about confidence and personality. This style works incredibly well for women who aren’t afraid to stand out and want their hair to reflect their bold spirit. What I love about this style is how it elongates the face and draws attention upward, creating a lengthening effect that’s incredibly flattering. It also showcases the sides of your head, so if you have an undercut design, this is the perfect opportunity to show it off.
How to Make It: Creating Height and Drama
Creating a faux hawk requires effort, but the payoff is worth it. Start by sectioning your locs into three parts: left side, right side, and center strip running from your forehead to the nape of your neck. Take the side sections and pin them flat against your head using bobby pins. I like to create a sleek look by applying a bit of gel or edge control to smooth down any baby hairs.
Now for the fun part—the center section. Backcomb or gently tease the base of these locs to create volume and height. Then, style them upward and slightly back, securing the base with pins and elastics as needed. My pro tip: use a strong-hold spray to keep everything in place, especially if you’re going to be out all day. And don’t be afraid to really go for it with the height—this is not the time to be shy!
Braided Updo with Dreads
This style brings out my romantic side every single time.
What Is It
A braided Updo involves taking locs from around the perimeter of your head and braiding or twisting them together to create a crown-like effect around your head. The remaining locs can flow freely down your back or be styled into an updo. It’s ethereal, feminine, and has this timeless quality that I absolutely adore.
How It Works Best for Romantic Occasions
The braided updo is perfect for weddings, garden parties, romantic dates, or any time you want to channel soft, feminine energy. It frames your face beautifully and has this vintage-inspired quality that photographs incredibly well. This style works particularly well if you have medium to long locs because you need enough length to create the crown. I often recommend this for clients with round or heart-shaped faces because the crown creates width at the temples and adds dimension.
How to Make It: Weaving Your Updo
Creating a braided updo takes patience, but it’s worth every minute. Start by sectioning off the locs around the front and sides of your head—imagine you’re creating a headband with your own hair. Divide this section into two or three parts, depending on how thick you want your crown. Begin braiding these locs together, incorporating new locs as you work your way around your head.
Here’s what I’ve learned: keep consistent tension as you braid. Too tight and it’ll look severe; too loose and it won’t hold. When you complete the circle, tuck the end of the braid under the beginning and secure with bobby pins. For extra romance, I sometimes weave in ribbons, small flowers, or decorative pins.
Half-Up, Half-Down Dreads
This is probably one of the most versatile and universally flattering styles in my repertoire.
What Is It
The half-up, half-down style involves sectioning your locs horizontally—taking the top portion and securing it up while leaving the bottom section flowing freely. It’s the perfect marriage of practicality and beauty, giving you the best of both worlds.
How It Works Best for Everyday Versatility
What makes this style so special is its incredible versatility. Need to look professional for a meeting? The half-up keeps hair controlled and polished. Going out for drinks after work? The flowing bottom section adds movement and femininity. This style is particularly flattering if you want to show off your locs’ length while keeping hair away from your face. I also love this style for transitional seasons when unpredictable weather means having the top secured prevents hair from blowing into your face.
How to Make It: Finding the Perfect Balance
Start by deciding where you want to create the horizontal division—I typically section from the top of the ears straight back. Gather the top section and secure it with a hair tie. Now, here’s where you can get creative. You can leave it as a simple ponytail, twist it into a bun, braid it, or create a top knot.
My favorite variation is to create a loose, slightly messy bun with the top section. It adds height and visual interest while maintaining that effortless vibe. For the bottom section, I like to define the locs by applying a light oil or cream, then gently separating them so they hang beautifully.
Low Ponytail with Dreads
Sometimes the most elegant styles are the simplest ones.
What Is It
A low ponytail with dreads involves gathering all your locs at the nape of your neck and securing them into a ponytail. Don’t let the simplicity fool you; this style exudes sophistication and timeless beauty.
How It Works Best for Sophisticated Elegance
The low ponytail is your secret weapon for polished, professional looks that still feel approachable and chic. It works beautifully in corporate environments, formal dinners, or any setting where you want to look put-together without trying too hard. This style is incredibly flattering for showcasing your facial features because it pulls everything back and away from your face without the tension of a high ponytail. The low placement is also much more comfortable for all-day wear.
How to Make It: Achieving Sleek Perfection
Creating a flawless low ponytail starts with preparation. Make sure your locs are moisturized and have a nice sheen. Gather all your locs at the nape of your neck, smoothing any flyaways as you go. Secure with a strong elastic that can handle the weight.
Here’s my signature touch: take one loc from the ponytail and wrap it around the elastic to hide it, securing the end with a bobby pin underneath. This small detail elevates the entire look and gives it that professional, finished appearance. If you want to add extra flair, consider wrapping decorative thread or ribbon around the base.
Twisted Updo with Dreads
This is where artistry meets elegance, and I absolutely love creating this style.
What Is It
A twisted updo involves sectioning your locs and twisting them into various patterns before pinning them up into an intricate updo. Each twist adds dimension and texture, creating a style that looks complex and stunning but is actually quite achievable with practice.
How It Works Best for Special Events
The twisted updo is your go-to for when you really want to make an impression. It’s perfect for weddings, formal galas, award ceremonies, or any event where you want to feel absolutely stunning. What makes this style particularly special is its three-dimensional quality. Unlike flat styles, the twists create depth and movement that catches light beautifully.
How to Make It: Building Your Masterpiece
Start by dividing your locs into sections—I typically work with four to six sections depending on the density and length of the locs. Take each section and twist it firmly from root to tip, then coil it into a rosette or spiral shape. Pin it securely to your head, making sure the pins are hidden within the twist.
My technique is to start from the bottom and work upward, building the updo as I go. This creates a more stable base. For extra security during long events, I use both bobby pins and hair pins, crossing them in an X formation for maximum hold.
Dreadlock Bun with Accessories
When you want to add some personality and flair to a classic style, accessories are your best friend.
What Is It
This style takes the classic bun and elevates it with decorative accessories like beads, cuffs, wraps, pins, or jewelry. It’s about expressing your personal style and adding elements that make the look uniquely yours.
How It Works Best for Self-Expression
The accessorized bun works for absolutely any occasion—you just adjust the type and amount of accessories based on where you’re going. Subtle gold cuffs for work, bold statement pieces for parties, or natural elements like wooden beads for bohemian vibes. This style is perfect for women who want their hair to tell a story or reflect their personality. It’s also fantastic for celebrating cultural heritage—incorporating traditional beads or wraps that honor your roots.
How to Make It: Adorning Your Creation
Start by creating your base bun—it can be high, low, messy, or sleek depending on your preference. Once the bun is secured, you can begin adding your accessories. For beads, thread them onto individual locs before forming the bun. Cuffs can be slipped onto locs at various points—I like to stagger them at different heights for visual interest.
My pro tip: don’t overcrowd. Sometimes less is more, and a few well-placed pieces make more impact than overwhelming the style with too many accessories.
Side Bun with Dreads
Asymmetry and elegance come together beautifully in this underrated style.
What Is It
A side bun positions your gathered locs to one side of your head rather than at the center or back. It creates an asymmetrical silhouette that’s both romantic and modern, offering a fresh take on the traditional bun.
How It Works Best for Modern Elegance
The side bun is perfect for women who want something different from the standard updo. It works beautifully for semi-formal events, date nights, cocktail parties, or anytime you want to look polished but not too serious. This style is particularly flattering if you have an asymmetrical outfit or want to showcase one side of your face.
How to Make It: Perfecting the Placement
The key to a great side bun is choosing the right placement. I typically position it just behind and slightly below the ear on one side. Gather all your locs to your chosen side, smoothing them as you go. Create your bun using your preferred technique—twisted, coiled, or wrapped.
Here’s what I’ve learned: a side bun requires more pins than a centered bun because it’s working against gravity in an unusual way. Don’t skimp on the bobby pins—use as many as needed to make it feel secure and stable.
Mohawk-Inspired Center Part Style
This style brings edge and artistry together in the most beautiful way.
What Is It
The mohawk-inspired center part style involves creating a strong center part and styling the locs on either side to sweep upward and toward the center, creating height and drama reminiscent of a mohawk but with more versatility and elegance.
How It Works Best for Bold Statements
This style is for the woman who isn’t afraid to be noticed. It works incredibly well for artistic events, fashion shows, concerts, creative photoshoots, or any occasion where you want to showcase your confidence and unique style. The center part mohawk is particularly striking on women with oval or heart-shaped faces because the height and width it creates balance facial proportions beautifully.
How to Make It: Building Height and Drama
Start by creating a clean center part from your forehead to the nape of your neck. Divide your locs into left and right sections. Working on one side at a time, gather small sections of locs and twist or backcomb them at the roots to create volume. Then, pin them toward the center part, angling them upward to create height.
Repeat on the other side, making sure both sides are symmetrical in height and placement. The goal is to create a raised “ridge” along your center part that gives that mohawk-inspired effect.
Goddess Locs Wrapped Style
This style celebrates texture, length, and absolute goddess energy.
What Is It
Goddess locs incorporate wrapped or curly extensions that add length, volume, and a softer texture. The wrapped style involves gathering these locs and styling them in various ways that showcase their unique texture and movement.
How It Works Best for Maximum Volume
Goddess locs are perfect for women who want dramatic length and volume or who are transitioning to locs and want a protective style that still gives them versatility. They work beautifully for all occasions, from casual to formal, depending on how you style them. The texture and movement photograph incredibly well, and the wrapped sections catch light beautifully.
How to Make It: Working with Wrapped Texture
When gathering goddess locs for updos, be gentle to avoid disturbing the wrapping. For a wrapped bun style, gather your goddess locs and loosely twist them into a bun, allowing the curly ends to cascade out for texture and movement. Secure with pins, but don’t pull too tightly—you want to maintain that soft, romantic quality.
My favorite technique for goddess locs is the half-up style, where you pin the top section up and let the bottom section flow freely. This showcases both the wrapped sections and the curly ends beautifully.
Pinned Back Sides with Volume on Top
This style is all about creating beautiful proportions and showcasing your face.
What Is It
This style involves pinning the locs on both sides of your head back and away from your face while leaving the top section loose with volume, and allowing the back to flow freely. It creates a beautiful frame for your face while still showing off length and texture.
How It Works Best for Face-Framing Beauty
This style works wonderfully for everyday wear, professional settings, brunch with friends, or semi-formal events. The pinned-back sides are particularly flattering for women who want to showcase their facial features, wear statement earrings, or simply keep hair away from their face for practical reasons. I often recommend this style to clients with round or square faces because the volume on top creates length and the pinned sides create the illusion of a more oval shape.
How to Make It: Creating the Perfect Frame
Start by sectioning off the locs on either side of your head, from your temples back to behind your ears. Leave the top center section and the back loose. Pin each side section back, securing them with bobby pins or decorative clips. I like to create a slight twist in each section before pinning for added texture and interest.
For the top section, create volume by gently backcombing or teasing at the roots, then smooth the surface layer for a polished finish. The placement of where you pin the sides makes a huge difference—pin them higher for a more dramatic effect, or lower for a subtler, more relaxed look.
Waterfall Dreads Style
This romantic, flowing style never fails to take my breath away.
What Is It
The waterfall style involves creating a cascading effect with your locs, where they flow over and around each other in sections, creating movement and dimension. It’s inspired by the waterfall braid technique but adapted for the unique texture and weight of locs.
How It Works Best for Romantic Occasions
The waterfall style is perfect for romantic dates, engagement photos, weddings, garden parties, or any occasion where you want to embody feminine, flowing beauty. This style is incredibly photogenic because it creates dimension from every
Loc Ponytail with Curly Ends
This style brings together structure and softness in the most beautiful way.
What Is It
A loc ponytail with curly ends involves gathering your locs into a ponytail (high, low, or mid-level) and adding curly or wavy extensions to the ends, or if you have goddess locs, showcasing the natural curly ends. It creates a stunning contrast between the textured locs and soft, flowing curls.
I absolutely love this style because it gives you the best of both worlds—the sleekness of a ponytail with the romantic movement of curls. It’s versatile, beautiful, and works for so many different occasions.
How It Works Best for Versatile Glamour
This style works for everything from workout sessions (high ponytail) to formal events (low ponytail with dramatic curls). The curly ends add movement and femininity while the ponytail keeps everything secure and manageable.
I often create this look for clients who want something special but still practical. The ponytail ensures comfort throughout long events, while the curly ends provide that wow factor for photos and first impressions.
This style is particularly flattering for oval and heart-shaped faces, and the placement of the ponytail can be adjusted to complement your features. A high ponytail elongates the neck and face, while a low ponytail creates elegance and sophistication.
How to Make It: Blending Texture and Curls
If you’re adding curly extensions, start by creating your ponytail at your desired height and securing it firmly. Then attach the curly extensions using your preferred method—whether that’s wrapping, sewing, or clipping them in.
For goddess locs with natural curly ends, the process is simpler—just gather and secure the ponytail, making sure the curly ends are visible and well-defined. Apply a curl-defining cream to enhance the texture and reduce any frizz.
Conclusion
After all these years in the beauty industry, working with incredible women and their beautiful locs, I’ve come to understand that hair is so much more than just aesthetics—it’s about identity, culture, confidence, and self-expression.
These fourteen dread hairstyles represent just a fraction of the possibilities available to you. Each style tells a story, each technique offers an opportunity for creativity, and each look allows you to express a different facet of who you are. Some days you might feel romantic and soft, choosing the braided crown or waterfall style. Other days, you might want to channel your inner warrior with a faux hawk or mohawk-inspired look. And that’s the beauty of it—you get to choose.
What I love most about working with locs is the connection to heritage and culture that they represent. These hairstyles aren’t just fashion statements; they’re celebrations of Black beauty, resilience, and artistry that has been passed down through generations. Every time I style locs, I’m honored to be part of that legacy, helping women feel beautiful while staying connected to their roots.
Throughout my journey from those early days in the studio to working with clients in Los Angeles and beyond, I’ve learned that the most important element of any hairstyle isn’t the technique or the products—it’s the confidence of the woman wearing it. You can execute a style perfectly, but if the person doesn’t feel beautiful and empowered, it doesn’t matter.
My hope is that these styles inspire you to experiment, play, and have fun with your locs. Don’t be afraid to try something new or put your own spin on these looks. Maybe you’ll combine elements from different styles to create something uniquely yours. That’s what creativity is all about.
Remember, your locs are your crown, and you deserve to wear them in ways that make you feel absolutely magnificent. Whether you’re getting ready for a major life event or just want to switch up your everyday look, there’s a style here for you. And if a style doesn’t work out perfectly the first time, that’s okay—beauty is a practice, not a destination.
Take care of your locs, moisturize them, treat them with love, and they’ll reward you with endless styling possibilities. Invest in good products, be patient with the styling process, and most importantly, enjoy the journey. Your relationship with your hair should be one of appreciation and joy, not frustration or stress.
As I always say, beauty is not about perfection. It’s about confidence, creativity, and feeling empowered to express yourself however you choose. Whether you’re rocking a simple low ponytail for work or an elaborate twisted updo for a special celebration, what matters is that you feel like the best version of yourself.
So go ahead and try that style you’ve been admiring. Experiment with accessories, play with different placements, and don’t be afraid to step outside your comfort zone. Your locs are versatile, beautiful, and ready to be transformed in countless ways. All you need is a little courage, some bobby pins, and the willingness to embrace your unique beauty.
Thank you for letting me share these techniques and insights with you. I hope they serve you well and help you fall even more in love with your gorgeous locs. Now go out there and show the world what you’re working with—because trust me, you’re absolutely stunning.
Stay beautiful, stay confident, and never forget that you’re wearing a crown that no one can take away from you.