Dreadlocks are more than just hair. For many women, they feel like home. They show who you are. If you have locs, or you want to start them, this list is for you. Here are 40 dreadlocks hairstyles for women you can try in 2026. Let’s dive in.
1. Classic Long Dreadlocks
Long locs never really go out of style. They hang past the shoulders and look strong and calm at the same time.
This style is easy to live with. You can tie them up, let them hang loose, or wear a bun. Just keep them clean and oiled. That’s really all you need.
2. High Top Dreads
This one is bold. All your locs sit up high on your head. It’s fun. It’s different. People notice it.
You can wrap the base with cloth, or leave it plain. Your neck stays cool too. Great for a night out or just a fun Tuesday.
3. Short Dreadlocks
Short locs are easy. Wash them fast. Style them fast. Done in minutes.
If your days are busy, this length is your friend. Wear them loose, or add a headband. And if you want them longer one day, they’ll grow just fine.
4. Dreadlock Bun
This is the “I have five minutes” hairstyle. Gather your locs. Twist them up. That’s it.
Great for work. Great for hot days. Great for the gym. Make it tight and neat, or loose and messy. Both look good.
5. Dreadlock Mohawk
Want to turn heads? Try this. Locs sit in the middle of your head. The sides are shaved or pinned flat.
It takes more work to set up. But it’s worth it for a big event, a concert, or any day you want to feel bold.
6. Two-Strand Twist Dreads
This style twists two small sections of hair around each other. Over time, they lock into neat little ropes.
It’s gentle on your scalp. It’s a good pick if your locs are new. The result looks clean and even.
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7. Blonde Dreadlocks
Blonde adds light and life to your look. Go all blonde, or just tip the ends.
Bleach can dry out hair, so add extra oil and conditioner. Works on short locs. Works on long locs too. Either way, it stands out.
8. Faux Locs
Not ready for real locs? Try faux locs. They’re made from extensions, so you can take them out anytime.
They come in many lengths and colors. Your real hair stays safe underneath. A lot of women try this first before going with real locs.
9. Dreadlocks with Undercut
This pairs locs on top with shaved sides. It feels fresh. It feels modern.
Your face shows more. Your head feels lighter. And styling takes less time since there’s simply less hair to deal with.
10. Half-Up, Half-Down Dreadlocks
Half your locs go up. The rest fall down. Simple as that.
Clip the top half, or tie it with a band. Your face stays clear, but you still get that free, flowing feel.
11. Dreadlock Ponytail
Quick, easy, and always looks put together. Just gather all your locs and tie them in one spot.
High for fun. Low for calm. Either way, it works for work, errands, or workouts. One of the fastest styles on this list.
12. Crochet Dreadlocks
This method uses a small hook to add loc extensions fast. You get length and fullness right away, no waiting.
Great if you don’t want to wait years for your own locs to grow long. They come in many textures and shades too.
13. Braided Dreadlocks
Some sections are braided. Some are locked. Together, they make a fun mixed pattern.
This is a nice way to blend new hair growth with older locs. Some women wear this for weddings or big events.
14. Side-Swept Dreadlocks
All your locs move to one side. It softens your whole look. It frames your face nicely.
Pin it in place, or let it rest on your shoulder. Works for a casual day. Works for a fancy one too.
15. Dreadlock Fade
Shaved sides. Long locs on top. The switch between the two is smooth, like a fade in a photo.
You’ll need trims to keep it sharp. But the payoff is a clean, bold look. Add color on top for even more style.
16. Decorated Dreadlocks
Beads. Shells. Rings. String. Add whatever you like to your locs.
This is your chance to show your style, your mood, even your culture. Decorate a few locs, or go big and decorate them all.
17. Dreadlock Bob
Locs cut to chin or shoulder length. Neat. Round. Simple.
Good if you want shorter hair but still love that loc look. Wear it straight, or add a light curl at the ends.
18. Ombre Dreadlocks
Dark roots. Light ends. A smooth blend between the two.
It’s an easy way to add depth without going full color change. Try black fading to brown, or dark brown fading to caramel. Looks best on long locs.
19. Basket Weave Dreadlocks
Locs are woven over and under each other, like a basket. It looks neat. It looks organized.
This is also a good protective style. It keeps hair from tangling. Nice for special days or just something new.
20. Dreadlock Updo
All your locs, gathered up high and neat. Great for weddings. Great for parties.
Twist them, coil them, pin them however you like. Your neck stays cool, and your earrings get to shine.
21. Temporal Dreadlocks
Small, thin locs near your temples. Just a little touch, not a full head.
Wear them with buns, braids, or loose hair. A gentle way to try the loc look without going all in.
Read: 20 Game-Changing Boho Braids & Curls to Try Now
22. Wrapped Dreadlocks
Fabric or yarn wrapped around parts of your locs. Adds color. Adds texture.
It also helps protect your roots and cuts down on frizz. Wrap just the tips, or wrap the whole length. Great for festivals and photos.
23. Dreadlock Crown Braid
Your locs wrap around your head like a crown. Pretty. Regal. Simple.
Keeps hair off your shoulders on hot days. Add small pins or flowers to make it extra special.
24. Wet and Wavy Dreadlocks
A little gel gives your locs a soft, shiny, wavy look. Fresh and healthy.
Works best on shorter or newer locs. Great for summer. Keep your locs moist and the wave stays all day.
25. Tapered Dreadlocks
Short at the back and sides. Long on top. This shape flatters your face.
It’s easier to manage day to day. Works with real locs. Works with faux locs too.
26. Dreadlock Space Buns
Two little buns, one on each side. Fun and playful.
Quick to make once you practice. Great for outings, festivals, or workout days. Tight and neat, or loose and messy. Your choice.
27. Dreadhawk
Half dreadlocks, half mohawk. Locs run down the middle. Sides are shaved or flat.
It’s a bold pick. Good for concerts, parties, or creative photo days. Not shy at all, and that’s the point.
28. Beaded Tip Dreadlocks
Small beads at the ends of your locs. Simple. Fun. They even move and click when you walk.
Beads come in many colors and sizes. Match them to your outfit or your mood. Works on any length of locs.
29. Dreadlock Pigtai
ls
Two sections, one on each side. Fun, young, full of energy.
Great for casual days or workouts. Tie them high for playful. Tie them low for calm. Also keeps long locs under control.
30. Dreadlocks with Bangs
A few locs stay loose in the front. The rest stay pulled back or styled as usual.
This softens your face. Gives a fresh feel. Works on short locs. Works on long locs too. Just trim the bangs now and then.
31. Fishbone Dreadlocks
A special parting method that looks like fish bones along the loc. Often done when locs are just starting out.
It gives a neat, detailed look even after locs grow older. Best done by a skilled stylist. After that, it needs very little daily work.
32. Slicked Back Dreadlocks
All your locs pulled back and smooth. Clean. Polished.
A little gel keeps flyaways down. Nice for work or formal events. Pair with simple earrings for an easy, put-together look.
33. Multi-Colored Dreadlocks
Different colors on different locs. Bold. Fun. Full of life.
Great if you love standing out. Try purple and blue, or red and orange. Touch up the color now and then to keep it bright.
34. Curly Dreadlocks
Extra volume. Extra texture. Locs with a soft curl to them.
Curls form naturally over time, or you can help them along. Feels softer than straight locs. Keep them moist to keep the curl strong.
35. Partial Dreadlocks
Some hair is locked. Some hair stays loose. Mixed together in one style.
Good if you want to try locs without going all in. You can always turn it into a full head of locs later on.
36. Dreadlock Extensions
Instant length. Instant thickness. Added right onto your own locs.
No waiting years for your hair to grow. Comes in many colors and textures. Great if you want a new look fast for an event.
Read: 40 Best 90s Hairstyles That Will Never Go Out of Style
37. Dreadlock Flower Bun
Locs arranged to look like flower petals. Romantic. Detailed. Lovely for weddings.
Takes a bit more time to set up, but it’s worth it. Add small flowers or pins for extra charm.
38. Zig-Zag Dreadlocks
A zigzag part across your scalp. Fun. Different. Geometric.
No extra accessories needed, the pattern speaks for itself. Often done when retwisting your locs. Works on short or long locs.
39. Layered Dreadlocks
Locs cut at different lengths. Adds movement. Adds shape.
Keeps long locs from feeling too heavy or flat. Frames your face nicely too. A regular trim keeps the layers looking sharp.
40. Flat Twisted Dreadlocks
Locs twisted flat, close to the scalp. Smooth. Neat. Simple.
This is a good protective style. Keeps locs safe and tangle-free. Style them in rows or patterns, whatever you like. Good for both daily wear and special days.
Bottom Line
There you have it, 40 dreadlocks hairstyles for women to try. From simple buns to bold mohawks, there’s something here for every mood and every day. Your locs will grow and change with you, and that’s part of the fun.
Whether you just started your locs, or you’ve had them for years, there’s always something new to try. Keep them moisturized. Keep them clean. And most of all, have fun with your hair.
FAQs
1. How long does it take for dreadlocks to fully lock? It usually takes about six months to a year. It depends on your hair type. Curlier hair tends to lock faster.
2. Can I wash my dreadlocks often? Yes, wash them often to keep your scalp clean. Use a shampoo with no residue, and dry your locs all the way. This keeps mildew away.
3. Do faux locs damage your natural hair? Not usually, as long as they’re put in and taken out the right way. Problems happen when they’re too tight or worn too long. Give your hair a break between styles.
4. What’s the best way to keep locs moisturized? Use a light, water-based moisturizer. Add a bit of natural oil, like coconut or jojoba. Do this a few times a week for soft, healthy locs.
5. Can I color my dreadlocks? Yes, you can. Go slow, and use gentle dye when you can. Deep condition after coloring so your locs don’t dry out.
