Style shifts with time, but that doesn’t mean starting from scratch every year. For many Black women over 40, it’s more about updating what already works—finding looks that feel fresh, flattering, and in step with who you are now. Hair can be a form of expression, comfort, and confidence all at once, and trends are just suggestions, not rules.
In 2025, these 18 hair trends are standing out for all the right reasons—low-maintenance cuts, rich color choices, and protective styles that are both beautiful and practical. And on the flip side, a few once-popular looks are starting to feel a little tired. If you’re thinking about switching things up, this list can help you spot what’s current and what’s probably ready to retire.
Trend 1: Natural Curls
Natural curls have made a triumphant return in 2025, celebrating the beauty and versatility of Black hair. Many find joy in embracing their natural texture, relishing the freedom and authenticity it brings.
This trend highlights the individuality and unique beauty of each curl pattern, encouraging a move away from chemical relaxers. Stylists are seeing a surge in requests for curl-enhancing products and techniques, making it a beloved choice.
Whether worn in a soft afro or defined ringlets, natural curls offer a youthful, vibrant look that resonates with self-love and empowerment.
Trend 2: Silver Highlights
Adding a touch of silver to natural hair is all the rage for Black women over 40. This trend beautifully marries maturity with modern flair, delivering a sophisticated yet fresh appearance.
Silver highlights accentuate facial features and provide a subtle glow, making the wearer appear radiant. It’s a testament to aging gracefully and embracing life’s seasons.
Stylists recommend this trend for those wanting to enhance their natural gray or add a bit of sparkle to their locks. Silver highlights are both elegant and eye-catching, perfect for any occasion.
Trend 3: Asymmetrical Bob
The asymmetrical bob is a contemporary twist on a classic cut, offering a bold statement for Black women over 40. This style provides an edgy look while maintaining elegance.
The uneven lengths create movement and draw attention, setting it apart from traditional bobs. It’s a versatile option for those seeking a low-maintenance yet stylish haircut.
Celebrities and fashion icons are embracing this trend, making it a popular choice for those desiring a fresh, current look. The asymmetrical bob is a chic choice, effortlessly blending modernity with timelessness.
Trend 4: Bold Hair Colors
Bold hair colors are making waves in 2025, with Black women over 40 embracing vibrant shades like electric blue, fiery red, and deep purple. These colors offer a fun and creative way to express individuality.
Such hues are attention-grabbing and convey a sense of adventure and confidence. Stylists suggest pairing bold colors with simple outfits to let the hair take center stage.
For those unafraid to stand out, bold colors provide a refreshing change. It’s a trend that celebrates creativity and allows personal style to shine brightly, making a powerful statement.
Trend 5: Braided Updos
Braided updos are a timeless choice that continues to captivate in 2025. These intricate styles offer elegance and sophistication, making them ideal for formal occasions.
Featuring a variety of braid patterns, from cornrows to twists, braided updos allow for creativity and personalization. They’re both stylish and functional, keeping hair neatly in place.
This trend is perfect for those seeking a regal look. Braided updos highlight facial features and complement evening gowns, making them a favorite for weddings and galas.
Trend 6: Locs with Accessories
Locs adorned with accessories are a striking trend in 2025, offering a blend of traditional and contemporary elements. These stylish additions like beads and cuffs infuse personality into the hair.
Locs are a symbol of strength and culture, and adding accessories elevates their visual appeal. This trend suits those who love to experiment with their look and add unique touches.
Whether for everyday wear or special occasions, accessorizing locs provide endless possibilities for creativity and self-expression. It’s a celebration of heritage and individuality.
Trend 7: Short Afro
The short afro is making a strong comeback in 2025, offering a chic and easy-to-maintain style. This look celebrates natural texture and showcases the beauty of Black hair.
Ideal for women seeking a fuss-free hairstyle, the short afro requires minimal styling yet exudes elegance. It’s a timeless choice that never seems to go out of fashion.
A short afro symbolizes confidence and self-assurance, appealing to those who embrace simplicity without compromising on style. It’s a classic yet contemporary look that resonates with many.
Trend 8: Soft Waves
Soft waves are a gentle and feminine trend that continues to charm in 2025. This style adds a touch of elegance and is perfect for any occasion.
Creating soft waves is easy with the right tools, offering a carefree and romantic vibe. They’re suitable for both short and long hair, making them versatile.
Soft waves frame the face beautifully, highlighting natural beauty and adding a graceful touch. This trend is perfect for women seeking a subtle and sophisticated hairstyle that is effortlessly chic.
Trend 9: Pixie Cut
The pixie cut continues to be a favorite in 2025, offering a bold and modern look. This low-maintenance style is perfect for women over 40 who desire a fresh change.
Short and sassy, the pixie cut brings out facial features and adds a youthful appearance. It’s a practical choice for those leading active lifestyles.
Many love the pixie cut for its simplicity and elegance, making it a staple in the fashion world. It’s both daring and classy, appealing to those who embrace confidence and individuality.
Trend 10: Afro Puffs
Afro puffs are a playful and youthful hairstyle that continues to enchant in 2025. These voluminous puffs celebrate natural hair texture and offer a fun look.
Ideal for casual outings or relaxed settings, afro puffs are easy to create and maintain. They represent joy, creativity, and a carefree spirit.
Many women love afro puffs for their charming and lively appearance. This trend is perfect for those who enjoy experimenting with styles that convey joy and individuality in every puff.
Trend 11: Long Box Braids
Long box braids are a classic choice that remains trendy in 2025. These braids offer versatility and a protective style for natural hair.
Box braids allow for creativity in color and length, providing endless styling options. They are both practical and stylish, making them a popular choice.
Women love long box braids for their elegance and ease of maintenance. This trend suits those who appreciate both tradition and modern flair, offering a timeless appeal.
Trend 12: Mohawk Braids
Mohawk braids bring a daring and unique flair to 2025, perfect for those looking to make a statement. This style combines boldness with intricate braid patterns.
The mohawk braid is versatile, allowing for variations in thickness and design. It’s an ideal choice for women who enjoy standing out and embracing creativity.
This trend offers a mix of rebellion and sophistication, capturing attention wherever it’s worn. It’s a choice for the fearless, echoing strength and individuality in every braid.
Trend 13: Twists
Twists are a beloved style in 2025, offering a simple yet elegant option for Black women over 40. This hairstyle celebrates natural beauty and provides a protective style.
Creating twists is straightforward, and they can be worn long or short. They’re perfect for those seeking a refined look without excessive styling.
The charm of twists lies in their versatility and timelessness. They offer a graceful appearance, appealing to those who appreciate understated elegance and practicality.
Trend 14: Halo Braid
The halo braid is an ethereal and regal trend for 2025, offering a graceful and elegant appearance. This style is perfect for formal occasions and special events.
Creating a halo braid involves wrapping braids around the head, resembling a crown. It’s a timeless and sophisticated choice that enhances any outfit.
Women love the halo braid for its beauty and romantic charm. This trend is ideal for those seeking a fairytale-like hairstyle that exudes poise and femininity.
Trend 15: Crochet Braids
Crochet braids continue to be a hit in 2025, offering a versatile and stylish option. This trend combines modern techniques with classic braid styles.
Crochet braids allow for a wide range of looks, from curly to straight. They’re easy to install and maintain, perfect for busy lifestyles.
This trend appeals to women who seek both style and convenience. Crochet braids offer a chic and contemporary appearance, making them a favorite for everyday wear and special occasions alike.
Trend 16: Colored Tips
Colored tips are a subtle yet impactful trend in 2025, adding a pop of color to natural hair. This style allows for creativity without a full commitment to bold colors.
Adding color to the tips provides a playful touch, enhancing the overall look. It’s a great way to experiment with colors like pink, purple, or blue.
Women love colored tips for their modern and fun appeal. This trend suits those who enjoy adding a dash of excitement to their hairstyle while keeping it sophisticated.
Trend 17: Faux Hawks
The faux hawk is a bold and daring trend for 2025, offering a unique and edgy style. This look is perfect for those who want to make a statement without committing to a full mohawk.
Creating a faux hawk involves styling the hair upward, creating a mohawk-like appearance. It’s an ideal choice for women who enjoy experimenting with bold and creative styles.
This trend captures attention and showcases individuality. The faux hawk is a choice for those who embrace confidence and are unafraid to stand out in the crowd.
Trend 18: Sleek Ponytail
The sleek ponytail is a classic and polished trend for 2025, perfect for both casual and formal settings. This style offers a clean and elegant look.
Achieving a sleek ponytail involves smoothing the hair back and securing it tightly, creating a refined appearance. It’s a favorite for those who appreciate simplicity and sophistication.
Women love the sleek ponytail for its versatility and timeless appeal. This trend is ideal for those who want to look effortlessly chic and put-together, no matter the occasion.
Outdated Pick 1: Tight Ringlets
Tight ringlets, once popular, have fallen out of favor in 2025. This style, while charming, now feels dated and less aligned with modern trends.
The trend has shifted towards more relaxed and natural curls, moving away from the rigid structure of tight ringlets. It’s a reflection of the broader move towards authenticity and individuality.
For those looking to update their style, exploring softer waves or natural curls is recommended. These options offer a more contemporary look, embracing the beauty of natural texture and fluidity.
Outdated Pick 2: Bowl Cuts
Bowl cuts, once a staple of the past, are now considered outdated in 2025. This style lacks the sophistication and modern flair that many seek today.
The trend has evolved towards more dynamic and versatile cuts, leaving the bowl cut behind. It’s viewed as a relic of previous fashion eras.
For those seeking a fresh look, exploring asymmetrical bobs or pixie cuts is recommended. These modern styles offer a sleeker and more stylish alternative, capturing the spirit of contemporary fashion.
Outdated Pick 3: Heavy Bangs
Heavy bangs, which once dominated the hairstyle scene, have lost their charm in 2025. This style feels cumbersome and lacks the lightness of current trends.
The preference has shifted towards softer, wispy bangs that frame the face with grace. Heavy bangs are now seen as impractical and less flattering.
For a modern update, consider light, feathered bangs that complement facial features beautifully. These alternatives offer a fresh take on bangs, embracing a more contemporary and elegant look.
Outdated Pick 4: Crimped Hair
Crimped hair, a nostalgic relic of past decades, is no longer in vogue by 2025. This textured style doesn’t align with the smooth and sleek trends of today.
The focus has shifted to more natural and polished looks, leaving crimped hair looking out of place. It’s a reminder of the evolving nature of style.
For those seeking to stay current, opting for soft waves or sleek ponytails is advised. These choices provide a more refined and fashionable appearance, suitable for today’s aesthetic.
Outdated Pick 5: Beehive Styles
Beehive styles, once a symbol of high fashion, have become a thing of the past by 2025. These voluminous updos appear dated and out of sync with modern sensibilities.
Today’s trends favor more understated and effortless styles, leaving beehives in the history books. The shift towards simplicity and natural elegance marks a departure from such dramatic looks.
For those interested in contemporary hairstyles, exploring braided updos or halo braids is recommended. These options offer a sophisticated and relevant alternative, embracing the grace of current trends.