A close look at vintage hairstyles rooted in culture that we’re excited to see reimagined this year
Classic never goes out of style, especially when it comes to hair. This year, as with other passing years, old vintage and traditional hairstyles are being revived with a modern flair, blending nostalgia with contemporary beauty trends in a way that feels relatively new but always recognisable.
We saw it firsthand in 2025 — these styles were everywhere. The iconic side-part braided bob with sew-ins had all the it girls in a chokehold, while the reimagined pàtẹ́wọ̀ with buns and base combo took over social media. Variations of koroba braids also had their moment, reminding us of the endless creativity woven into our hair culture.
One thing I love about us as Black women is the care and pride we put into our hair. Trends may come and go, but our styles remain steadfast. As we reflect, learn, and breath new life into the hairstyles that defined our childhoods and communities, here are some vintage looks we’d love to see revived or reimagined this year.
Thread (Irun kiko)
After Wunmi Mosaku graced the 2026 Golden Globes red carpet in her authentic thread braids, it felt like a collective reminder once again that African hair — in all its forms — belongs anywhere and everywhere.
Threading is a style many of us grew up with, and while it never truly disappeared. This year, we’d love to see it take centre stage again, explored through fresh reinterpretations and modern variations.
Read also: Why can’t I wear braids to the club? Revisiting the timeless debate and setting the record straight
Blow outs
When it comes to “vintage”, the 90s blowout definitely fits perfectly. Worn by countless icons, including Whitney Houston, the style became a staple for its volume, softness, and undeniable glamour. Though it’s not something you’d want to do all the time, thanks to the heat involved. However, there’s no denying how beautiful it is when worn occasionally. It truly has the power to transport you to another era. We even saw a resurgence of this look on the runway last year, notably at the House of Aama show, which celebrate culture and heritage.
Shuku and base
As I mentioned earlier, most of these styles have always been around. What’s exciting is seeing the current generation wear them in ways we might not have thought of before. Another look we’d love to see this year is the shuku and base. After gaining some traction last year, this classic style is re-emerging under new names; from ponytail cornrows to updated variations with curled tips, boho strands, and more. We’re definitely looking to see even more of it.
Read also: Side-part hairstyles are having a moment — and they’re cooler than ever
Tanavoho braids
Personally, one of the cutest hairstyles. This is a style traditionally worn by Malagasy women in Madagascar. It comes in so many variations — from bubble braids to basket braids, and really any braided look that features those rounded, bubble-like sections. It’s effortlessly cute, playful, and full of character, and I’d love to see more of it everywhere this year.
The natural afro
Another look I’m excited to see this year is afros — just natural, full, beautiful afros. There’s something so powerful about Black girls owning their texture, letting it breathe, and letting that fro rise and shine exactly as it was meant to. Beyond just looking stunning, wearing your hair naturally is a sign of confidence and self-love – and I’m honestly rooting for more of this in 2026.
More than trends, our roots
There are so many more styles we’d love to see this year — it’s too much to count. That’s the beauty of Black hair: it’s rich, diverse, and full of endless possibilities. If you have a social media app handy, take some time to explore, learn, and celebrate the creativity behind these styles. As much as we love the usual, let’s give the lesser-known styles their moment, experiment, and reimagine what our hair can do.
Read more: Cornrow alternatives — explore these low-maintenance hairstyles
