12 Protective Hairstyles for Transitioning from Summer to Fall

Cornrows are great because they protect your hair, but they don’t add too much volume, so you can still wear a hoodie or your favorite hat. They can also easily be turned into a ponytail or bun, so they’re convenient and stylish.

Marley Twists use a two-strand twist technique and will keep your hair defined while protected. This look can be used with natural hair or extensions, so you can choose your own adventure with these.

Another form of classic braids, knotless braids are created using your natural hair at the root, not extensions, which takes out any extra tension that could form, and they’ll be less likely to break. These braids can also be easily styled into a ponytail or bun.

Faux Locs are a super stylish way to change up your look, especially with a different color of braiding extensions. Because of the way the extensions are wrapped around your natural hair, your hair will be protected from cold temperatures and wind.

Goddess locs are a little more boho compared to faux locs, as the ends are unsealed, but you can customize the style with beads and cuffs to dress it up or dress it down.

Box braids always win, and they’re super versatile—you can make the braids as small or large as you want, and you can weave in threads to add a pop of color.

If you’re looking for a way to change up your braids, check out Fulani braids, which are wonderful because you can style them a number of ways, including putting beads on them.

Outside of the braid realm, twist-outs are fantastic because the look is more voluminous while keeping your hair protected. The coils keep your hair safe, and it’s easy to play with the twists and create larger ones for a bolder hairstyle.

You can never go wrong with general extensions—they really give your hair a break and allow you to put your hair in any kind of style you could want without worrying about damage. Set it and forget it!

The pineapple hairstyle is a great overnight hairstyle to keep your curls tight and prevent your hair from becoming frizzy. Since the curls are loose at the top of your head, you won’t have to worry about them becoming damaged from sleep or the weather.

This one might be self-explanatory, but wraps are helpful because they keep your head protected from the outside weather, and silk and satin ones keep your hair smooth and shiny.

The long pony requires no braids, and it’s super easy. With the curls swept up at the back of your head, you won’t have to worry about tension of breakage from the hairstyle or cold weather.