Let's be honest: professional hairstyles can sometimes be a minefield. We all want to have a cool hairstyle that reflects us — one that is stylish and trendy — but we also want to come off as professional and mature. How do we meet these demands and portray our own personal style?
In the past, being experimental or wearing your natural hair out would’ve been frowned upon; and there was very little room for flexibility in the hair department. Fortunately, things have changed and there is much more flexibility in terms of how black women wear their hair.
So whether you’ve got an important remote client video call, and a potential job interview, or in need of general hair inspiration for work – we’ve got you covered.
P.S. All of these professional hairstyles are heatless – so there's very little effort involved!
1. Slick Back Bun With Flicked Baby Hairs
Image Credit: @jalsnaturalcurls
Looking for a hairstyle that means business but still shows your personality? This slick bun is perfect for work or any occasion and we just love the subtle flicked baby hair detail.
2. Flat Twist Bun With Silk Scarf
Image Credit: @breezyspuffs
Flat twists are a favourite of ours at Afrocenchix, because they are a simple alternative to cornrows and very quick and easy to do. Don’t forget to add a silk scarf accessory to make the style more sophisticated.
Editor's Tip: Searching for everything needed to keep your hair in top condition while in twists or braids? Our Braid Care Set contains the products to help you keep your looking great.
3. Slick Back Bun With Side Part
Image Credit: @_otuure
4. The Wrapped Office Bun
Image Credit: @esthernaturelle
Looking for a way to revamp your bun or plait? Why not try wrapping it! We suggest using a silky piece of material so it doesn’t suck all the moisture from your hair.
5. Flat Twist With Puff
Image Credit: @danielaapryl_
Want to know how to do a like this puff on natural hair? Check our quick and easy tutorial and you'll also learn how to moisturise your hair using the LOC/LCO methods.
Product recommendation: Our Moisture Surge Set delivers intense moisture to thirsty tresses so you can do the LOC/LCO method and say goodbye to dry hair!
6. Boardroom Braids
Image Credit: @naturalhair_hope
These boardroom braids are both a great protective professional hairstyle and can be an easy way of keeping your natural hair looking sophisticated with minimal effort.
7. The Business ‘fro
Image Credit: @tayloranise
Who said wearing your natural hair out and proud isn’t a professional hairstyle? We love when we see naturalistas wearing their afros in the workplace.
8. Corporate Cornrows
Image Credit: @dudanahs
Cornrows in a corporate setting? Yes, please! We’re all about cute protective hairstyles in the professional world.
9. Simple Bun
We love this reimagined slick back bun with a side part, the cute leave-outs are fun and flirty but not over the top for work.
High or low, layered or plain, a bun is a professional and protective hairstyle that can be done in minutes. The best part about this hairstyle is that it’s so easy to do! Try experimenting with the size or style of your bun to find the perfect look for you.
10. Cornrows
Trying to grow your hair long and also want to keep it healthy? Cornrows are one of the best protective hairstyles and can also be very professional. You can also make them a little more interesting by tying them up into a high bun. Trust us, there are loads of different ways for you to get the most out of this particular professional hairstyle.
11. Natural Curls
Curls are a great way to go. In the past leaving your hair natural might have been considered unthinkable, but times have changed. Just make sure you create a healthy hair routine to make sure your curls/coils look and feel their best.
12. Braids
Braids can be a great way of keeping your natural hair safely tucked away, while looking sophisticated in any office/work setting. Braids will get you through busy days and can be one of most protective of professional hairstyles if looked after well.
13. Short Crop
Rocking a short crop means less maintenance, making it a great option for busy professionals. A natural pixie cut, for example, is an elegant and trendy look that’s also very suitable for the workplace. Style meets function.
Styling tip: Make sure to lock in moisture by following the LOC/LCO method with your Moisture Surge Set.
14. Twisted Updo
A perfect and versatile protective style that can later produce beautiful spiral curls without heat. It requires very little work to put a twisted updo together and looks great for every work occasion, whether it’s a standard day in the office, a client meeting uptown or remote video call.
Speaking of updos, there are a variety of ways for you to style your twists — from ponytail to cute buns. Don’t be afraid to experiment so you can find a style that suits you.
15. Ponytail/Puff
Last, but by no means least, is the ponytail. A tried-and-tested favourite, ponytails have been a professional hairstyle for decades — perhaps even longer. Consider playing around with the placement of your ponytail by trying high, middle or low styles, as well as accentuating your look by adding buns, clips, accessories and more to your hair.
When it comes to choosing a professional hairstyle, it’s all about keeping it simple. Rules regarding hair in the workplace have relaxed over the years but ultimately the best professional hairstyles are those that you can achieve quickly and easily, and give you more room to be yourself.
Other articles:
12 Ways to Make Transitioning to Natural Hair Easier
6 Hair Habits to Start Adopting During Lockdown
Caring for Afro Hair — How to Save Time