19 Crochet Hairstyles for Natural Hair That Prove This Technique’s Endless Versatility

The Gist

• Crochet styles offer the versatility of braids, twists, locs, and curls with significantly less installation time than many traditional protective styles.

• Celebrity hairstylist Kim Kimble says crochet styles can last up to six weeks with proper scalp care and maintenance.

• From bohemian locs to curly bobs and knotless-inspired braids, these 19 looks prove crochet hair is anything but one-dimensional.

Crochet styles don't always get the same level of attention as knotless braids or sew-ins, but ask anyone who has sat in a stylist's chair for eight-plus hours, and they'll tell you: crochet hair is one of the most time-effective protective styles. This versatile technique delivers the look of individual braids, twists, curls, or loose textured hair in a fraction of the time, making it a favorite for anyone who wants maximum impact with minimal time spent.

"Crochet styles are low-maintenance protective styles that give your hair a rest and break from the rigamarole of daily styling," says celebrity hairstylist Kim Kimble. Part of the appeal lies in its endlessly customizable options. One appointment can leave you with beachy boho braids worthy of a tropical vacation, while the next can transform your look into a head full of voluminous curls worthy of a red-carpet moment.

The installation itself is surprisingly simple, relying on a latch-hook tool to attach extensions to a braided foundation, but the finished result can look remarkably natural. There are two ways to achieve the look. The first technique involves braiding your hair into straight-back cornrows or a beehive and weaving the kinky, coily tresses in with a latch-hook crochet needle. The second involves parting your hair into small box-shaped sections, braiding each section, and looping in pre-braided extensions.

Beyond the aesthetics, crochet styles offer something even more valuable: a chance to give your natural hair a breather. "Crochet styles last about a month to a month and a half," says Kimble, "with oiling and using scalp serums being the best way to maintain your natural hair in between."

Meet Our Expert

• Kim Kimble , a celebrity hairstylist who has crafted styles for entertainers like Beyoncé and worked on the set of the HBO hit series Euphoria

Ahead, discover crochet hairstyle ideas that prove this underrated protective style deserves far more hype.

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Side Swept Braids

A deep side part instantly gives Quinta Brunson's braids a polished, face-framing effect. The lightweight plaits are styled to one side for an elegant, low-maintenance look that works just as well for everyday wear as it does for special occasions.

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Long and Wavy

Solange Knowles can wear almost any look, especially the long and wavy style. You can crochet in wavy braiding hair and blend the top with your natural hair.

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Curly Middle Part Bob

The classic short middle part bob is perfect for any season. This style frames nicely along the face and lets you show off those kinky curls. 

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Bantu Knots

Bantu knots pay homage to Southern African culture, and Southern country belle Tanner Adell rocked this look for the Country Music Television awards. Geometrically part your hair and wrap the crochet hair into knots. This style helps to prevent moisture loss and conceals your ends to avoid breakage.  

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Knotless Braids

Crocheting your hair to achieve a knotless braid style is one of the best ways to get this look without putting too much tension on your scalp. Beauty creator Miya March demonstrates this in her easy-to-follow YouTube hair tutorials . 

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Bohemian Locs

Get vacation-ready like Halle Bailey with waist-length bohemian locs. This look is perfect for those beach photos or resort selfies.

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Curly Lob

Big, bouncy curls are always gorgeous, and this shoulder-grazing bob proves it. Skai Jackson's defined ringlets create stunning volume and shape while maintaining a natural-looking texture. The side part and softly sculpted edges give the style extra polish, making it a perfect choice for anyone who wants to try a crochet installation that delivers maximum fullness with minimal daily styling.

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Passion Twists

Passion twists are a versatile style that can be worn as a side part, middle part, or up into a ponytail. Using the crochet technique, you can get this look with half the install time. 

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Wavy Middle Part Afro

This wavy afro has a looser curl texture that embodies a boho chic look. This protective style takes minimal maintenance and can last up to several weeks. 

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Jumbo Faux Locs

Jumbo faux locs can come in a wide variety of colors and textures. You can accessorize this look using hair wraps and loc jewelry. 

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Medium Locs

Chloe Bailey frequently changes up her look by adding faux locs on top of her natural locks. Go bold with your loc looks using different colors to make a hair statement.   

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Side-Part Ombré Waves

Tennis star Venus Williams sports a pink, wavy ombré side part hairstyle while roaming the streets of Italy. You can part your hair into small sections, and crochet the two-toned braiding hair in for a beautiful wavy look.

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Bixie Cut

The bixie cut is a great short style to wear when you want a break from lengthy hairstyles. This creator opted for hair that's voluminous, mimicking the texture of 4b curls.

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Jumbo Plaits

Singer Ciara leveled up her look with a beautiful jumbo plait hairstyle. Widely section your hair, crochet in the braiding hair, and flexi-rod the ends for those bouncy curls. 

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Medium Plaits

Simone Biles wore these dirty brown medium plaits that are gold medal-worthy. You can achieve this ombré effect by mixing brown and blonde crochet hair and braiding it down.  

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