9 Cute Styles For Awkward Length Natural Hair

2 comments Oct 15, 2021

@damnthatschev


Watching your hair grow after your big chop can be very exciting. It can feel like magic as you get to know your new texture(s) and find out what your natural hair likes. You might love your TWA, or be counting down the days till waist length. Either way, everyone hits that growth benchmark known as The Awkward Phase eventually. Awkward length natural hair can be difficult to style. It might be tempting to hide it away under wigs and protective styles until the phase passes, but here are a few styles we think could work instead. 

1. Bantu Knots

Bantu Knotted Natural Hair

@alexusvallen

Bantu Knots are a super cute and super easy style for awkward length naturalistas looking to switch up their look. 

2. High Puff 

High Puff on Natural Hair

@forthecoils

The high puff is a well known go to style. And it’s almost made for awkward length natural hair. For hair that’s too short to pull into a ponytail, the high puff gives the illusion of a large full high ponytail. 

3. Two Strand Twists

Two Strand Twists on Natural Hair

@ahairstory

Much like a few other styles on this list, two strand twists are cute no matter what length you’re rocking. Install this super easy super cute hairstyle when you need something that will last through the week. 

4. Bantu Knot Out

Bantu Knot Out on Natural Hair

@miissycurls

With a bantu knot out, you will get a voluminous and glamorous look for any occasion. And the best part about it is it’s a two in one style. Where the knots as they are, then take them down for big juicy curls.

5. High Puff w/ Bangs

High Puff with Bangs on Natural Hair

@damolaakintude

Here’s a fun twist on a natural hair staple, and a great way to add variation to your go to high puff.

6. Sleek Bun

Sleek Bun on Natural Hair

@istina.manners

Sometimes you just need to get all your hair pulled back and out of the way. That’s when a sleek bun is the perfect choice. Just grab your favorite gel and brush and go to work. 

7. Flat Twisted Updo

Flat Twisted Updo on Natural Hair

@lovelyshair

This is an elegant style for when you want something a little more elevated. With a flat twisted updo like this, you could stretch this style for a week or two. Just make sure to keep your scalp and hair moisturized.

8. Finger Coils

Finger Coils on Natural Hair

@stylesby_wayne

Though a bit tedious to install, finger coils are pretty simple. All you need is wet hair, a moisturizer, and a setting moose or gel. Make it your own by experimenting with different coil sizes. Just keep in mind the larger the coil the more likely you’ll experience frizz. 

9. Own It With A ‘Fro! 

Afro Natural Hair

@abbyjahaira

At the end of the day, it’s important to remember that your natural hair is beautiful no matter the length. The Awkward length phase is only as bad as you make it. Embrace it every now and then with an afro. 


How do you deal with your awkward length natural hair? Share in the comments.  


2 comments


  • Nicole C. August 11, 2026 at 12:18 pm

    This “Awkward” length that my hair has right now is causing me to call on Jesus…randomly. My twist outs don’t TWIST OUT to my liking and I just don’t know too much how to navigate This Length without it being relaxed. I’ve tried bantu knots (actually that is my go to after washing my hair to help it dry). I’ve tried the twist outs and puffs, but I guess it is something personal for ME that I don’t really prefer the outcomes- guess I’m just not used to this “Natural Hair” process I got forced into due to being unwell. NEVERTHELESS, I FORGE FORWARD and will figure it out as I go.


  • Coco Roney August 11, 2026 at 12:18 pm

    My big chop was in April 2021. My sides were shaved and my top was maybe 1 inch of hair lol. I focused on hair care/treatment with my chop vs styling. I kept the styling simple with just a leave in and either a mousse or gel just to form my curls. It was more important for me to do aloe and deep conditioning treatments, figure out what shampoo and conditioners worked best to provide hydration. I’ve had high porosity hair all my life so I want to see if my hair post chop would retain water/moisture; and it does now. Yay! I wasn’t thinking about growing my hair out; It just happened lol. But I was able to do individual braids in September . So for now I’ll stick to my finger coils, wash n go, and braids until I can do the suggested styles. Good luck ladies and gents on your healthy hair care and TWA journey. Feel free to follow me @cocoroney


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