To get Sparks' smooth, shiny curls, apply a leave-in conditioner, like Ouidad Curl Recovery Whipped Curls Daily Conditioner & Styling Primer, $26, to damp hair and let your hair air-dry. If you have larger, looser curls like Sparks', use a diffuser on your blow-dryer on medium-low heat to dry your hair. The attachment will help distribute heat more evenly, giving your natural hairstyle a more uniform spiral and shape.
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Viola Davis' Dyed Natural Hairstyle
If you like to keep your hair super-short, updos aren't an option. What is? Color. Coloring your close crop a lighter shade will also emphasize the texture and can easily be done at home.
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Janelle Monáe's Pomp
The best part of having wild curls? Natural volume. Put it to good use and create a retro-inspired pompadour like Janelle Monáe's natural hairstyle.
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Esperanza Spalding's Fearless 'Fro
Esperanza Spalding's larger-than-life natural hairstyle is relatively low-maintenance, but the one thing you still can't skimp on: moisture. Gently work a product packed with moisturizing shea butter and oils, like Shea Moisture Raw Shea Butter Reconstructive Elixir, $9.74, through wet hair using a non-tangling brush if necessary. Then, set hair in twists and allow it to air-dry -- the twists will help set your hair and also keep it from tangling as it dries.
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Thandie Newton's Natural Hairstyle Top Knot
One style that works no matter what type of hair you have (greasy, thin, curly, thick) is the top knot. For a more romantic effect, pull down a few face-framing ringlets.
It's safe to say we're in the midst of a natural hair movement. A slew of African-American stars have been showing off natural hairstyle ideas that prove chic doesn't always mean sleek. We love that these kinky, curly, natural hairstyles are less stressful on the hair and don't require being chained to the flat iron for 20 plus minutes every morning.
Whether you're just transitioning into a natural hairstyle and don't know where to start, or you're a natural hair care veteran who has fallen into a style rut, these hairstyles are your fix -- they're easy and a breath of fresh air guaranteed to keep your curls inspired.
