50+ stylish dreadlocks styles for ladies in 2024 (with pictures)

50+ stylish dreadlocks styles for ladies in 2024 (with pictures)

Dreadlocks are among the most iconic hairstyles of all time. They are eye-catching, easy to maintain, and versatile. There are many ways of styling dreads. Discover the latest stylish dreadlocks styles for ladies below.

Dreadlocks styles for ladies
Dreadlocks styles for ladies. Photo: @thikadreadmasters, @GoolsbyHairWorld, @morganmagicwork (modified by author)
Source: UGC

TABLE OF CONTENTS

You could explore various dreadlock hairstyles for ladies this year. Try out the curly, colored, long, short, and more styles. You need a professional hairdresser to do your hair so you can enjoy wearing these hairstyles.

Dreadlocks styles for ladies in South Africa

Dreadlocks take longer than most hairstyles when you go to the saloon. Nonetheless, every second you spend making and maintaining your loc is worth it. These are among the most long-lasting hairstyles you will ever try out. Have a look at diverse ways of styling long dreadlocks below:

Simple dreadlocks hairstyles

Starter locs styles for women
Starter locs styles for women. Photo: @_locmedown, @GoolsbyHairWorld (modified by author)
Source: UGC

Neatly done starter locs are among the best dreadlock styles for women with short hair. This style is less manipulative to your mane. You could wear it for formal and informal occasions.

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Mohawk dreadlocks styles for ladies

Mohawk dreadlocks styles
Black Mohawk dreadlocks with pink edges. Photo: @morganmagicwork (modified by author)
Source: UGC

Mohawks are an extraordinary way to wear your locs. These styles can adorn the head of anyone and look fabulous. If you use organic dreadlock grooming products and thoroughly dry your hair after each washing, your dreadlocks will always be clean.

stylish dreadlocks styles for ladies
Black Mohawk dreadlocks. Photo: @morganmagicwork (modified by author)
Source: UGC

Whether you have short or long dreadlocks, there are always many Mohawk styles to wear. Combining a stylish haircut with locs is one of the many ways you can rock your Mohawk dreadlocks.

Black Mohawk dreadlocks
Black Mohawk dreadlocks. Photo: @morganmagicwork (modified by author)
Source: UGC

Dreadlocks strands can be thin or thick, depending on how you initially grow them. Additionally, you can wear Mohawk dreadlocks in a regal beehive or bun style.

Black Mohawk dreadlocks
Black Mohawk dreadlocks. Photo: @loccdin (modified by author)
Source: UGC

Dreadlocks are versatile and beautiful. The truth is that the limitation to styling your dreadlocks is your or your stylist's imagination. If you want to create the unexpected, try mohawk dreads.

Black Mohawk dreadlocks with brown edges
Black Mohawk dreadlocks with brown edges. Photo: @GoolsbyHairWorld (modified by author)
Source: UGC

Dreadlock wearers can take this look and make it extraordinary. The cool thing about mohawk locs is that you can skip the hair gel and still make a strong statement with your hair.

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Mohawk dreadlocks
Mohawk dreadlocks. Photo: @GoolsbyHairWorld, @thikadreadmasters (modified by author)
Source: UGC

You can never go wrong with Mohawk dreadlocks styles. The style makes you stand out. It also has many variations and lets you be creative with your designs. For instance, you can wear mohawk locks with bangs.

Mohawk dreadlocks styles for ladies
Pink and brown Mohawk dreadlocks styles for ladies. Photo; @thebelairofhair, @mandcdrugstore (modified by author)
Source: UGC

For longer locs, consider shaving on the sides and making locs with the remaining hair. You can wear bright-colored dreads like pink or go for the usual subtle colors like brown.

Side-swept dreads hairstyles for women

Red side-swept dreadlocks
Red side-swept dreadlocks. Photo: @morganmagicwork (modified by author)
Source: UGC

Red side-swept dreadlocks will get the attention of everyone on the street. The roots of the locs are intentionally black so that the dreads match the skin complexion of a woman of color.

side-swept dreadlocks
Brown and black side-swept dreadlocks. Photo: @morganmagicwork (modified by author)
Source: UGC

Ensuring the shape of your short dreadlocks is unblemished for them to continue looking great. Palm roll them after each shower and whenever you have time. The process is simple, although it is somewhat lengthy.

dreadlocks styles for ladies
Black side-swept dreadlocks with brown edges. Photo: @morganmagicwork (modified by author)
Source: UGC

Roll each dread between your palm from root to tip to help shape and separate your dreads. Ensure you do this each loc at a time so they don't start to roll into each other.

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Black side-swept dreadlocks with blue edges
Black side-swept dreadlocks with blue edges. Photo: @loccdin (modified by author)
Source: UGC

Not all scalps love dreadlocks. Nevertheless, short dreadlocks are suitable for the scalp because they aren't as hefty as long ones.

Black side-swept dreadlocks
Black side-swept dreadlocks. Photo: @GoolsbyHairWorld (modified by author)
Source: UGC

The heavier your hair, the more pressure you'll put on your scalp. Therefore, spoil your scalp with weekly oil rubs and thoroughly wash the scalp when washing your dreadlocks.

Cornrows-plaited dreadlocks

dreadlocks styles for ladies
Cornrows-plaited short dreadlocks. Photo: @morganmagicwork (modified by author)
Source: UGC

Cornrows-plaited dreadlocks are a trendy way of styling your locs. This style is not limited to the length and volume of your hair. To keep dreadlocks as short as you need, trim them occasionally.

Cornrows-plaited short dreadlocks
Cornrows-plaited short dreadlocks. Photo: @GoolsbyHairWorld (modified by author)
Source: UGC

Wavy dreadlocks are fun, and they're extraordinary for an overnight style. For curlier locs and a softer look, the locs are highlighted in brown tones for a warm feel.

Cornrows-plaited long dreadlocks
Cornrows-plaited long dreadlocks. Photo: @morganmagicwork (modified by author)
Source: UGC

Your first locs can tighten in a few months, but it is not recommended to trim dreadlocks that aren't mature. Don't trim them for the first six months to a year, depending on your hair type and how rapidly your dreadlocks develop. If you trim too soon, you can hazard your style fraying at the ends.

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Cornrows-plaited short dreadlocks
Cornrows-plaited long dreadlocks. Photo: @GoolsbyHairWorld (modified by author)
Source: UGC

Drying your dreadlocks keeps them fit as a fiddle. After washing and rinsing them, squeeze out as much water as possible. You will likely leave some water in the hair. While your dreadlocks are still damp, pat dry them and permit them to air-dry.

Cornrows-plaited short dreadlocks
Cornrows-plaited short dreadlocks. Photo: @GoolsbyHairWorld (modified by author)
Source: UGC

Moisturize your hair to have solid-looking dreadlocks. You can do this in numerous ways! One great choice is to utilize hair oil that can infiltrate your strands to hydrate and seal in moisture.

Cornrows-plaited dreadlocks
Cornrows-plaited dreadlocks. Photo: @GoolsbyHairWorld (modified by author)
Source: UGC

Try to palm roll dreadlocks after every shower and whenever you have time. Roll each dread between your palm from root to tip to help shape and separate your dreads. Make sure you do this one loc at a time so they don't start to roll into each other.

Cornrows-plaited dreadlocks
Heart-shaped cornrows-plaited dreadlocks. Photo: @GoolsbyHairWorld (modified by author)
Source: UGC

You can start freeform dreads (letting your hair form locs unaided) at any length. You have to let your hair be. Use dread-friendly shampoo, and it will form locs when it's ready. Remember to separate the roots early, or you'll have one giant knot.

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Heart-shaped cornrows-plaited dreadlocks
Heart-shaped cornrows-plaited dreadlocks. Photo: @GoolsbyHairWorld (modified by author)
Source: UGC

If you use the twist-and-rip method to get loose dreads, you want your hair to be around five inches to start. If you start shorter, you risk then unraveling in the early stages.

Simple dreadlocks styles for ladies

Green dreadlocks
Green dreadlocks. Photo: @morganmagicwork (modified by author)
Source: UGC

Backcombing can make dreads firm or loose depending on how you backcomb your locs and hair. You can start around four inches, but you risk them unraveling when they're that short. Hence, wait until your hair is six inches.

Orange dreadlocks
Orange dreadlocks. Photo: @GoolsbyHairWorld (modified by author)
Source: UGC

If you use the crochet method, you’ll end up with firm, stiff dreadlocks that will likely hold together well during the early stages. You can start with around six inches of length.

Red dreadlocks
Red dreadlocks. Photo: @thikadreadmasters (modified by author)
Source: UGC

If you have kinky, coarse hair, you can start your dreads when your hair is anywhere between one and four inches long. If you have loose, curly hair, you’ll want to wait until your hair length is three to six inches.

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Burgundy dreadlocks
Burgundy dreadlocks. Photo: @magicdesignerskenya, @supernaturalhairnbeauty (modified by author)
Source: UGC

If you have thin, straight hair, start your dreads at four to eight inches. Regardless of your hair type, waiting until it is longer than the minimum length is best.

Purple dreadlocks
Purple dreadlocks. Photo: @kalijordanhairdesign, @greylocs (modified by author)
Source: UGC

Your hair goes through various stages as it forms mature locs; if it's too short, your locs will not want to stay in place. The longer your hair, the more knots you'll quickly form and keep.

Multi-colored locs
Multi-colored locs. Photo: @Jojo's House of Beauty, @dejavusalonbb (modified by author)
Source: UGC

If you start your locs with very short hair, they'll look like small pokey things sticking out from your head for a while. Nonetheless, you can own the style, get dreadlock extensions, or cover them with a beanie.

Double loc strands twisted into one

Double loc strands twisted into one
Double loc strands twisted into one. Photo: @GoolsbyHairWorld (modified by author)
Source: UGC

Double loc strands twisted into one combine the dreadlocks and twisting. Twisting helps the dreads to lock and become flexible faster after waxing. You can also dye the edges.

Stylish up-do dreadlocks

dreadlocks styles for ladies
Black half up-do locs. Photo: @locluster, @bee_beautifullylocd (modified by author)
Source: UGC

After waxing your locs, you hold a section of them in a ponytail or bun and leave other strands hanging over your shoulders. Consider curling the hanging dreadlocks to add complexity to the style.

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Stylish up-do black dreadlocks
Stylish up-do black dreadlocks. Photo: @morganmagicwork (modified by author)
Source: UGC

If you need your locs to look professional for work, dreadlock extensions might be the way to go as they grow out. You'll want at least three inches of hair if you want dreadlock extensions.

Stylish up-do black dreadlocks
Stylish up-do black dreadlocks. Photo: @morganmagicwork (modified by author)
Source: UGC

Many people notice that their hair appears much shorter when their locs mature. The process can take months or years, depending on your hair type, how you maintain your dreads, and other factors.

Stylish up-do black dreadlocks
Stylish up-do black dreadlocks. Photo: @morganmagicwork (modified by author)
Source: UGC

Curly and kinky hair mature faster than silky and straight hair. While locs mature, expect to lose some hair length. Methods like backcombing cause more hair shrinkage than crocheting.

Stylish up-do black dreadlocks
Stylish up-do black dreadlocks. Photo: @morganmagicwork (modified by author)
Source: UGC

You'll notice loops, bubbles, and shrinkage as your hair locks. If you wait longer, your hair will gain more length as the dreads mature.

dreadlocs for women
Stylish up-do brown dreadlocks. Photo: @loccdin (modified by author)
Source: UGC

Growing healthy locs takes time and patience. It takes years to grow long dreadlocks unless you get extensions or start with extremely long hair. Some people shave their heads to start wearing dreads from scratch even when they have healthy hair.

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Stylish up-do black dreadlocks
Stylish up-do black dreadlocks. Photo: @dnkenya (modified by author)
Source: UGC

You should use a sulfate-free shampoo to wash your hair weekly for the first three months. You can expect your hair to grow a half-inch per month.

Stylish up-do black dreadlocks
Stylish up-do black dreadlocks. Photo: @dnkenya (modified by author)
Source: UGC

If you have short hair (3-4 inches), you can start dreading it as it grows. Do not comb it. Instead, wash it weekly, and section your hair with your hands. Your locs will appear short and look like your hair stopped growing, even though it is growing and maturing.

Chunky locs

Chunky dreadlocks styles for ladies
Chunky black and brown locs. Photo: @massimo_rastas, @locd_goals (modified by author)
Source: UGC

The versatility of locs is endless. If you are into voluminous hairstyles, try chunky black and brown locs. They are effortless to style and manage. You can roll them to one side of the head and secure the twist with hair pins.

Bun-styled dreads

Bun-styled dreads
Bun-styled black and brown dreads. Photo: @dreadmaster_llc, @allilohtheehairdoctor (modified by author)
Source: UGC

Nothing beats a neatly done bun. Bun-styled dreads are perfect protective hairstyles and will also give you a facelift, bringing out the beauty of your glowing skin. The style suits anyone who wants to keep the locs away from their faces.

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stylish dreadlocks styles for ladies
Bun-styled dreadlocks. Photo: @morganmagicwork (modified by author)
Source: UGC

If your hair is between 6-12 inches, it’s the perfect time to start growing your locs. You’ll form locs faster, and they’ll be less likely to unravel if you start with this length, whether you use backcombing, freeform, or other methods.

Bun-styled dreadlocks
Bun-styled dreadlocks. Photo: @Tz Dreadlocks Salon (modified by author)
Source: UGC

If you start your locs with long hair (over a foot), you'll notice a lot of shrinkage before you see any growth. Reaching maturity should take about a year, and you'll notice they look longer. You'll also notice less shrinkage compared to starting with shorter hair.

Ombre locs

Ombre locs for ladies
Ombre locs for ladies. Photo: @locd_goals, @laflarenyinc (modified by author)
Source: UGC

Ombre locs hanging over your shoulders or styled in a messy bun never disappoint. The color blends well with all skin complexions. You can never be out of fashion with these styles.

Black locs with brown ends

dreadlocks styles for ladies
Black locs with brown ends. Photo: @dreadmaster_llc, @locd_goals (modified by author)
Source: UGC

Black locs with dark-brown or honey-brown ends are trendy hairstyles for ladies. You can hold your dreads in a heart-shaped style or a simple high bun with a few bangs falling on your face.

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Black locs with brown ends
Black locs with brown ends. Photo: @theurbanhairsalon (modified by author)
Source: UGC

You can blend two colors to give your dreadlocks hairstyle intricate details. The highlight looks better. Consider mixing black and brown shades if you want to style your locs.

Red copper dreadlocks

dreadlocks styles for ladies
Red copper dreadlocks. Photo: @locd_goals, @locd_goals (modified by author)
Source: UGC

Locs exude confidence and add a slight vibe of playfulness to your look. They are perfect for expressing your creativity. Red copper dreadlocks should be your go-to look if you are after an attention-grabbing style.

Pussycat locs

Pussycat locs
Pussycat locs. Photo: @styledby_danni_v, @locologist (modified by author)
Source: UGC

Pussycat locs are a playful but unique way of wearing your locs. The hairstyle also gives you a facelift. Dyeing the edges of your locs makes them stand out. It also gives the illusion of neatly done parts, especially after waxing.

Stylish pussycat dreadlocks
Stylish pussycat dreadlocks. Photo: @morganmagicwork (modified by author)
Source: UGC

Over time, the weight of long dreadlocks can strain the scalp and neck, so it's important to consider the potential impact on comfort and posture. When washing locs, they are much heavier because they absorb nearly twice their weight in water and take about two days to dry naturally.

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Short dreadlocks styles for ladies

Short messy dreads
Short, messy dreads. Photo: @justgotlocd, @mmlocdnluv (modified by author)
Source: UGC

Natural hair looks like messy locs when you wear dreads for the first time. They might appear unkempt but will look better with time. You can consider dyeing them with subtle colors like brown to add fun to the hair.

dreadlocks styles for ladies
Colored short, messy dreads. Photo: @msbubbles92, @70sumnlocs (modified by author)
Source: UGC

Coloring your locs gives them an added beauty and makes them stand out. You can do bright colors like red or subtle colors like brown. On top of this, you can consider a side or middle part style for your short, messy dreads.

Short messy dreads
Short, messy dreads. Photo: @locdndreads, @koilsandlocs (modified by author)
Source: UGC

Accessories do more than elevate the look of your locs. Beads make your hair look more stylish. If you are looking for ways to wear your hair, consider accessorizing them with beads.

Long dreadlocks styles for ladies

Bun-styled dreadlocks
Bun-styled dreadlocks. Photo: @eamon256 (modified by author)
Source: UGC

Hanging long dreadlocks are heavy. Therefore, you can wrap them in a bun to put the weight on the back of the head. Also, the longer they get, if you don't tie them up at night, you can practically strangle yourself with your hair. It takes some getting used to having long locs.

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Bun-styled dreadlocks
Bun-styled dreadlocks. Photo: @eamon256 (modified by author)
Source: UGC

Dreadlocks become heavy as they grow longer, especially if they are thick and dense. The weight of dreadlocks can vary depending on hair texture, length, and the method used to create and maintain them.

dreadlocks styles for ladies
Black dreadlocks. Photo: @locd_goals, @msbubbles92 (modified by author)
Source: UGC

Do not be deceived by the simple side-swept dreads locs. They are perfect for thick and voluminous hair and do not require much effort to style. You can flaunt cornrow-styled dreads to formal and informal occasions. They are among the neatest and simplest dreadlocks styles for women.

dreadlocks styles for ladies
Cornrows-plaited dreadlocks. Photo: @morganmagicwork (modified by author)
Source: UGC

When washing your dreads, you'll need to use a low-buildup shampoo that can deal with your scalp simultaneously. Additionally, rinse them after using a shampoo and conditioner so they do not build up on the scalp and cause irritation.

If you have contemplated starting your locs journey, you have many stylish dreadlocks styles for ladies to try before switching to braids, weaves, and other hairstyles.

Briefly.co.za published pictures of creative hairstyles for black women. Braids are some of the most stylish and protective hairstyles.

These styles look stylish in many different ways. It's all up to you what you choose and how you would like to style them. You can begin expressing your creativity through braids hairstyles today.

Source: Briefly News

Authors:
Priscillah Mueni avatar

Priscillah Mueni (Lifestyle writer) Priscillah Mueni is a lifestyle and entertainment content creator with more than 4 years of experience. She graduated from Meru University of Science and Technology with a Bachelor of Technology in Civil Engineering in 2019. In 2023, Priscillah finished the AFP course on Digital Investigation Techniques. She has been writing articles on Briefly.co.za since 2019. Email: pshmueni@gmail.com

Peris Walubengo avatar

Peris Walubengo (Lifestyle writer) Peris Walubengo is a content creator with 5 years of experience writing articles, researching, editing, and proofreading. She has a Bachelor of Commerce & IT from the University of Nairobi and joined Briefly.co.za in November 2019. The writer completed a Google News Initiate Course. She covers bios, marketing & finance, tech, fashion & beauty, recipes, movies & gaming reviews, culture & travel. You can email her at perisrodah254@gmail.com.