The Stylists Have Spoken: These Are the Top 5 Natural Hair for Winter

Whether you’re looking for a new hair color, style or cut for winter, we’ve got you covered for the entire season. To start the next few months on the right foot, we asked a panel of hair experts to share their picks for the top natural hair trends for winter. Plus, to make it easier for your stylist (and for you to get the exact look you want), we’ve pulled reference photos and product recommendations to maintain your style at home.

Meet the Experts:

• Brittany Johnson is a cosmetologist and senior brand marketing manager for Mayvenn.
• Jasmine Rilington is a cosmetologist and founder of The Glam Room.
• Oliver Adams is a hair colorist and top artist for Wella Colorcharm and Clairol Professional.

Let’s face it: We love ourselves a chic bob moment from time to time. In 2022, this classic style surged in popularity (see: Zendaya and Ciara for reference) and it’s continuing the momentum in the colder months ahead. While a regular bob will do just fine, a wet look is what naturalistas are eyeing this season. To achieve the look, Brittany Johnson recommends applying a curl gel (or cream) through your strands for a strong hold and definition. “You can also simply scrunch the product into the hair if you’re not ready to rock the extreme version of the ‘wet look,’” Johnson explains. “This [method] will allow it to have movement and versatility, while still being totally wearable.”

Another option if you’re not too keen on trying out the wet style on your natural strands, Johnson suggests trying a wig to test out the trendy look instead. “Accentuating a closure wig’s natural texture not only allows for less styling time, but it also creates a fun twist on a full protective style. Plus, you can opt to rock textured bangs without ever snipping or straightening your own hair,” says Johnson.

Shop our recommendations: Mayvenn Short Bob Wig ($165; $115), Ouidad Curl Quencher Moisturizing Styling Gel ($26)

We saw boho braids and locs pop up in the fall, so it’s no surprise we’re adding knotless braids to the bunch this winter. “This look is so popular right now due to how low-maintenance it is,” says Jasmine Rilington. “[Boho knotless braids] don’t require much fixing and look amazing on all hair types. In my opinion, this style also goes with any look. You can wear [knotless braids] down, up, etc.” Bottom line: You can never go wrong with a protective hairstyle during the winter, especially when there’s an array of looks to try all season long. Just remember to protect your hair at night using a bonnet (or head wrap) and invest in a scalp serum to protect and soothe your scalp during next few weeks.

Shop our recommendations: Bomba Curls Dominican Forbidden Oil ($22); Sunday II Sunday Soothe Me Daily Scalp Serum ($28)

If you like to spruce up your curls, ‘clouding’ is the latest trend that’s adding a pop of color to your swirls. “Clouding is a great way to accent your natural shape and flow,” explains Oliver Adams. “It’s a highlighting technique in which a stylist scrunches the formula into the curls using their hands. This color trend can create a dramatic all-over look, soft highlights or a multi-dimensional ombre.” Now, you can attempt to recreate this style at home, but Adams suggests leaving this trend to the experts. One more thing: You’ll want to stay on top of your monthly touch-ups and invest in a hydrating wash routine to keep the color vibrant for the winter months.

Shop our recommendations: Clairol Professional Shimmer Lights Shampoo ($12); Clairol Professional Shimmer Lights Conditioner ($17)

Whether you have 3B or 4C locks, this technique will always be a game-changer for curly gals. “No matter the season, wearing your curls in their natural form is a go-to style,” explains Johnson. “This look can encourage them to flourish during the winter months while allowing you to focus on hydration and maintaining overall hair health.”

It all starts with finding a method that works for your hair type. You can try dividing each section using double twists, French braids or even curling rods. Leave them overnight or for a few hours before unraveling and marveling at your pattern. Johnson also notes hair bundles can add more volume to your natural curls, and a curly cut can shape and fluff your hair for the season. “Ask your stylist for layers that create volume and shape to ensure that your style sets the way you want it,” adds Johnson.

Shop our recommendations: Mayvenn Curly Bundles (Starting at $59); Satin Bonnet ($10)