50 Stunning Bantu Knots Hairstyles: Protective Styling with Modern Flair

Bantu Knots are one of the most versatile and culturally significant protective hairstyles you can wear.

With their rich heritage originating from the Zulu tribes of South Africa, Bantu knots have evolved from a traditional style to a global fashion statement embraced by people of all backgrounds.

These iconic twisted knots not only protect your natural hair but work beautifully with all hair textures and lengths—from tightly coiled to straight, and from pixie cuts to long locks.

Whether you’re looking for a protective style, preparing for gorgeous defined curls, or simply wanting to make a bold fashion statement, Bantu knots offer incredible versatility with minimal styling tools required.

Therefore, here are 50 examples to awe and inspire you.

1. Rocking the Bantu Knots Queen Hairstyles

Being street and fierce while still keeping to your feminine and elegant side is not an easy thing to do. Still, you can always take a cue from this fierce looking lady and rock some Bantu knots just like she is.

Furthermore, you can add a golden choker to express your queen status and a statement ring, and you’re already there.

2. Box Knots Long Hairstyles

The colorful 90s meet boho chic with this idea for Bantu knots. In addition, they are even greater if you have long hair, as the Bantu knots will get twisted into pyramids or long funnels. Finally, add a pair of stylish bohemian earrings and a pastel colored one-shoulder shirt to get the look.

3. Bantu for Curly Hair

One way of copying this look is by dividing your hair into multiple strands. You can follow a beehive pattern as far as your scalp is concerned so that the weave looks even trendier.

As a consequence, it will become a fabulous way to style your short, curly hair with which you will immediately fall in love.

4. Simple Bantu Knots Hairstyles

Here is a back view of a lovely young girl who decided to go for the traditional and simple Bantu knots. If you want to try this yourself at home, you need to divide your hair following a radiant pattern.

Furthermore, you can complete the look with a pair of short statement earrings, preferably as colorful as you can find.

5. Embellished Bantu

At the opposite end of the simple Bantu knots are the embellished ones. For this look, not only will you be sporting the traditional weave of Bantu women in Africa, but you will also have to add some sparkles to them.

For example, this lovely lady has chosen to insert some golden hair jewelry pieces into her hair strands while weaving her knots. Finally, complete the look with some big golden hoop earrings to make it even more luxurious.

6. Bantu Knots Hairstyles with Braids

Who says Bantu knots have to stand alone? Add an element of surprise to the traditional hairstyle in the shape of finely knit braids. In addition, you can stick to two of them all the length of your hair partings, or you can go for the whole head for a spectacular view.

Due to the hairstyle’s intricate design, keep your makeup and jewelry in an undertone and as simple as possible. Therefore, you will not overdo it.

7. Lush Locks in Bantu Knots Hairstyles

Curls, knots, twists, coils. You name it. Bantu knots can incorporate them all and make them look great. Therefore, no matter how long your hair is, you can always tie it up in a Bantu knot.

In addition, keep them close to your head instead of the pyramid style if you want to go for elegance instead of flirty fun.

8. Bantu Goddess

Own the room you walk in and rule the world while you’re at it. Here’s a wonderful piece of inspiration for you with many Bantu knots tied tightly around the whole of the head. Furthermore, add a pearl nose ring and a dark and earthy toned makeup, and you cannot go wrong.

9. Bantu Knots on Relaxed Hair

Here is a wonderful idea for you to try at home if you don’t have a lot of time at your disposal. First of all, divide your hair into strands and loosely twirl it around your finger to create the Bantu knots. Finally, repeat the process as many times as you want all around the head.

10. Minimal Bantu Knots Hairstyles

How about a minimal take on the traditional Bantu knot weave? Divide your hair into four or five thick strands and twirl the knots. Seems like this lovely lady has added a 90s choker, a stylish pearl studded nose ring and a dark plum lip. You can look just as fabulous as she does if you try!

11. The Half Knot

You can also go for an interesting take on the Bantu knot hairstyle by only doing half of your head. Here’s a marvelous source of inspiration for you with a young lady wo has only knotted the front half of her hair and let the other part hang loose in natural curls over her shoulders. As a consequence, she looks amazing.

12. Bantu Knots on Short Hair

If you have short hair, then you are in luck. As a result, the small Bantu knots will look like little rose buds on top of your head. Finally, add some statement pieces of jewelry for a touch of pizzazz.

13. Fierce Bantu Knots Hairstyles

This awesome look combines the natural playfulness of the Bantu knots with the fierceness of a camo shirt. As a consequence, it will make you look incredibly stylish no matter how you choose to style it further.

14. Sassy, Street, and Statement Banu Knots

Here is a look that combines all the elements you need to make it big. Sassy, street, and statement. The inky blue lip and the golden nose ring bring in the sassiness and the dollar pattern tank top is here to talk about being street. Furthermore, the Bantu knots are, of course, a statement.

15. Braided Hair and Bantu

This look is all about business in the front and party in the back. The way to get this look is by braiding one long and oversized braid in in the front and then a whole bunch of fun Bantu knots in the back.

16. Chestnut in Knots

Bantu knots are not just for ladies with dark hair. Here is a perfect example of some beautiful chestnut waves locked in the knots.

They look like a crown of flower buds over the head, which you can easily replicate at home. Apart from that, you can also add some big earrings and colorful makeup to complete the look.

17. Metal and Copper

Continuing the examples of colorful hair, here is a copper colored mane. The lady in the picture tied it all up in some beautifully arranged Bantu knots.

Additionally, she also styled it all with oversized slim silver earrings and a silver collar. Furthermore, the white dots are not compulsory. However, you can wear this look every day.

18. Short and Sweet Bantu Knots Hairstyles

When it comes to Bantu knots on short hair, the rule is simple. The thinner the strands of hair, the more knots you will have. As a consequence, here is a perfect example depicting this idea. Notice how she also chose to arrange her knots in straight lines perfectly. How clever and elegant!

19. Party Box Knots Hairstyles!

A great occasion for you to display your new Bantu knots hairstyle is at a party, of course. If you want to replicate this look, consider tying up your hair in an assortment of pyramid shaped Bantu knots. Furthermore, you can dress up in a fringe party frock and add a statement pearl earring.

20. Going Natural

If you are tired of your hair style and want a change, there is no need to go as far as cutting or dyeing it. Opposite of that, you can use your natural-colored locks to create some loose Bantu knots here and there.

As a consequence, you can watch how your whole face changes in a matter of minutes. Change really is easy, after all!

21. Hair Art with Bantu Knots Hairstyles

Embellishing Bantu knots can go further than just adding a braid or some golden studs. Here is an example of a fantastic piece of hair art. Adding some delicate elements made from your own hair right at the scalp level will help frame your face and bring up the knots even more.

22. Bantu Lolita

How can one make a little girl even sweeter than she already is? Add some Bantu knots in her hair, of course. This lovely young lady is a living proof that modern princesses are all the hype right now.

23. Checks and Squares

Take a cue from this example and part your hair into squares. Take the resulting strands and twirl them into Bantu knots.

As a consequence, seen from above, the result is fabulously geometric, not to mention stylish. Apart from that, even if you do them yourself at home, they will still look like you went to a professional salon.

24. Electric Vibes

Here is a fantastic take on the traditional color and style of the Bantu knots. You can obtain it by dying your hair one-half way through. In addition, you can get the same result bygone ombre. In order for this to work, we suggest you go for an electric color, just like the one you see in the picture. Choose a sea-foam green, electric pink or gaga yellow.

25. Bantu Knots Hairstyles on Transitioning Hair

If you are in the process of transitioning to your natural hair and are looking for a style that can get you through this difficult time, look no further. It’s Bantu knots to the rescue.

Allow your hair to heal and come back to its former glory. As we all know, Bantu knots are a very protective style toward the hair strands and will keep them safe and healthy.

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26. Zig and Zag and Zig Again

When talking about Bantu knots, the partings you do in your hair are just as important as the knots themselves. If you have this idea in mind, you can consider parting your hair in a zigzag pattern rather than a straight one.

27. Bantu Knots Hairstyles with Blonde Highlights

Yet another way of putting your Bantu knots as well as your hair per se into perspective is by tying in your blonde highlights. Most of all, lighter-colored hair will always stand out and bring some much needed perspective to your hair. Think in 3D!

28. Luscious Locks

Talk about stunning! Add some hair oil or product into your strands before you twirl them. Finally, after you’re done, the Bantu knots will look smart and sleek, thanks to it. Apart from that, the oil will also give your hair and your scalp that healthy glow we all desire.

29. Bantu for Blonde

Crazy for blonde and crazy for hair knots adds up to a fantastic light colored Bantu knot hair do. Don’t worry if your hair is too short. As a consequence, the knots will be tiny, but nonetheless wondrous to behold.

Furthermore, you can add a statement lip and some oversized pieces of jewelry to really make an entrance. You can also go for no jewelry at all if you want to look more natural and demure.

30. Braided Bantu Knots Long Hairstyles

How about, instead of twirling the hair strands you braid them? Take the long braids and twist them around your finger until you get the pyramid-shaped knots. In addition, you can go the extra mile, just like the lovely lady in the picture by adding some golden hair bedazzlement.

31. Shiny and Chic

If you do your Bantu knots at home, you can always start when your hair is still wet after washing. In this way, not only will the knots keep their shine and glamor, but your hair will be curly after you take them down.

32. Spider Web and Coils

Continuing the countdown of all the ways in which you can style your parting strands of hair, here is the spider web. It’s probably safe to say that this one falls into the ‘hair art’ category as well.

However, while it is possible for you to do this at home instead of a salon, you might need some help getting it right. At least at first.

33. Long and Tall Bantu Knots Hairstyles

Remember this tip – the longer your hair, the taller your Bantu knots will be. In this example, for instance, you can clearly see that that young lady has some serious locks. Therefore, her Bantu knots look like little funnels of glamor and style.

34. Bantu on Curly Hair

Deciding to tie your curly hair into Bantu knots might just be the best decision you ever made. Therefore, if it seems that your deeply curly hair has a mind of its own, now you can put it in its rightful place with this hairstyle. As a bonus, it will look natural and fuzzy.

35. Thin Bantu Knots Hairstyles

So, another way to go if you have long hair is to tie it up in multiple very thin Bantu knots. You can replicate this look by dividing your hair into thin strands and then twirling them around until you get funnel-shaped knots.

The great part about this hairstyle choice is that some of the knots will stand straight while some will be a little flop sided. As a consequence, the result is a very natural looking one.

36. Two-Toned Bantu Knots Hairstyles

Instead of the golden hair jewelry we showed earlier, you can always use your natural hair to embellish your Bantu knots. Tie them carefully, in such a way that the blonde highlights surround the base of the knot, leaving just a dark tip.

37. Less Is More

Less truly can be more when it comes to this beautiful hairstyle. Divide your hair into two sections, one in the front of your hair and one in the back.

Furthermore, add some shiny hair product and tie two large knots near the forehead and the back of your neck. Dramatic makeup is a must here, to compliment this one of a kind do.

38. Multiple Bantu Knots Hairstyles

Fine hair can also be tied up in multiple, small Bantu knots. Keep them as close to your scalp as possible for a gorgeous 90s vibe. The lovely lady in this example has managed to make all her knots the same size, shape, and height. As a consequence, she does look wonderful and pretty.

39. Bantu Knots in a Crown

This stunning way of tying your Bantu knots will leave you feeling like a queen. Seeing as there is a front row of tall funnel-shaped knots going all the way from the left side of the head to the right, it looks like the lady has a crown on her head. Talk about a regal style!

40. Braids and More Braids

This style encompasses as many braids as you possibly can. Not only does the model have some tiny braids right where she parted the strands of hair, but the locks which she used to twirl and make the knots are braided as well.

41. The Colors of the Rainbow in Your Hair

So, in case you are going to a party or to a fun New Year’s Eve celebration, here’s a bold proposition for you – multi-colored Bantu knots. You can dye your hair permanently or temporarily in as many colors as you want.

First of all, divide your mane into several strands according to color. You can mix them up for a rainbow look or have separate hues. As a consequence, when you tie the Bantu knots, they will look like a colorful piece of art.

You can do as the lovely lady in the picture and add a statement jewel on your head as well.

42. The Knot-Down

Bantu knots are not useful only when tied up but also when you let your hair loose. Therefore, if you keep your hair damp or apply some fixing product right before you twirl them into position, the hair will become wavy or curly after you disassemble them.

Moreover, you can let your hair dry out on its own during the night or use a blow dryer if you’re on the run.

43. Geometric Patterns

Geometric patterns might have been the rage in the 90s but they were there for a reason. It makes the proud owner of such a hairstyle feel elegant, sophisticated, and fancy. In addition, this way of doing your weave works for both parties and a fun day at the office or a casual Friday.

44. Purple Bantu Knots Hairstyles

If you have short hair and you make your Bantu knots small and thick, they look like little rose buds. Moreover, if you color your hair in an appropriate hue, the resemblance will be uncanny. Therefore, if you were looking for next summer’s top festival look, then search no more, because you found it!

45. The Simple Bantu Knots Hairstyles

Simplicity must never be overrated because there is much beauty to be found in it. Therefore, tying some simple Bantu knots without many embellishments may produce a wonderful effect, especially if you are doing it for your child.

As a result, she can wear it anywhere, including in kindergarten or school.

46. Street Style Bantu

Bantu knots can also be a very efficient hairstyle for when you don’t have too much time on your hands. First of all, you have to wash your hair in the morning shower and then quickly tie it in some knots.

Finally, allow it to dry off naturally as you make your way toward the office or school. Go for natural makeup as well, to complete the look.

47. Bantu on Weave

So, if you’re looking for a new hairstyle which is quick and easy for your weave, why not try the Bantu knots? Moreover, if you pair them up with glamorous smokey eye makeup and some big golden earrings, you will look like the queen of the night, no matter where you go.

48. Bantu Knots Hairstyles from Dreads

In case you have dreads, and you want to breathe new life into them, you can twirl them around in a few well-designed Bantu knots. Apart from that, going for the loose kind instead of the very tight ones will make your hair look natural and relaxed.

49. Glamourous Bantu

These creative Bantu knots were made by braiding the hair first and then choosing some of those braids and twirling them around into knots. As a result, they are very fresh and urban, making you look smart and sassy as you walk down the street.

50. Bantu on Thin Hair

Finally, here is a great example of how you can go urban and stylish with your hairstyle even if you have thin hair. As a consequence of following it, you can turn your up do into some amazing and thin Bantu knots.

Furthermore, you can add a statement lip and thick eyebrows, as well as a big pair of earrings and a choker.

Why Bantu Knots Continue to Be a Timeless Style

Bantu knots remain a beloved hairstyle not just for their visual appeal, but because they offer practical benefits for hair health. As a protective style, they minimize manipulation, reduce breakage, and promote length retention while celebrating cultural heritage.

Whether you’re looking to protect your natural hair, create defined curl patterns when unraveled, or simply make a bold fashion statement, Bantu knots provide incredible versatility for all hair types, textures, and lengths.

With endless styling possibilities and the ability to work with virtually any hair type, Bantu knots truly are a universally flattering protective style worth mastering!

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Frequently Asked Questions About Bantu Knots

How long do Bantu knots last?

Bantu knots typically last 1-2 weeks when properly installed and maintained. To extend their lifespan, sleep with a satin bonnet or on a silk pillowcase, refresh the edges as needed, and keep your scalp moisturized with a light oil. The tightness of the twists and how well you protect them at night will significantly impact how long they maintain their neat appearance.

Are Bantu knots good for hair growth?

Yes, Bantu knots are excellent for promoting hair growth as they’re a protective style that minimizes manipulation, reduces breakage, and protects ends from environmental damage. By keeping your ends tucked away and limiting daily styling, your hair experiences less mechanical damage, which can lead to length retention. Remember to properly moisturize your hair before installing Bantu knots and avoid creating them too tight to prevent tension on your scalp.

Can I do Bantu knots on straight hair?

Absolutely! Bantu knots work wonderfully on straight hair, though the technique may differ slightly from curly hair. For straight hair, apply a styling mousse or light gel for grip, section your hair, twist each section tightly, and then coil it around itself to form the knot. Secure with a small elastic if needed. Straight hair Bantu knots typically create dramatic, crimped waves when unraveled, making them perfect for heatless curls.

How do I keep my Bantu knots from unraveling?

To prevent Bantu knots from unraveling, start with slightly damp hair and use a styling product with good hold. Twist each section very tightly from root to tip before coiling it around itself. For extra security, you can use bobby pins to secure each knot or small, clear elastic bands. Making sure your sections aren’t too large also helps prevent unraveling. At night, wear a satin bonnet or use a silk pillowcase to minimize friction that can loosen your knots.

Do Bantu knots damage hair?

When done correctly, Bantu knots should not damage your hair. To ensure they remain protective rather than damaging: avoid twisting too tightly at the roots which can cause tension and breakage; properly moisturize your hair before installing; don’t leave them in for excessive periods (more than 2-3 weeks); and be gentle when taking them down by using oil to help loosen the knots. If you experience any pain or discomfort during installation, the knots are too tight and should be redone.

Reader Success Stories

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Sarah T.

“I never thought I could create Bantu knots on my fine hair, but these step-by-step instructions made it possible and my curls after taking them out were amazing!”

Used: Pattern Beauty Leave-in Conditioner + Eco Style Gel

Maya J.

“Following the Zendaya tutorial transformed my unruly curls into these defined spirals that lasted for 3 days!”

Used: DevaCurl SuperCream + Pattern Strong Hold Gel

Tasha W.

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Used: Camille Rose Curl Maker + Mielle Organics Oil

Emma R.

“Used your Blake Lively tutorial for my wedding day hair and received so many compliments!”

Used: Kenra Thermal Styling Spray + Living Proof Full Thickening Cream

Jasmine H.

“Your curly updo tutorial helped me create this elegant style for my sister’s wedding. So much easier than I expected!”

Used: Ouidad Advanced Climate Control Gel + Moroccanoil Luminous Hairspray

Dana L.

“Even with my super short curly pixie, your styling tips gave me this defined look that frames my face perfectly!”

Used: Bumble and Bumble Curl Defining Cream + Innersense I Create Hold

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