20 Chicest Sew-In Hairstyles to Protect Your Natural Hair

Sew-in hair is a popular method to add volume and length due to its easy process and protective benefits. Sew-in hair involves sewing extensions into braided natural hair, providing a protective shield that promotes hair growth and reduces breakage. In this comprehensive guide, we'll explore what sew-in hair is, why it is considered protective, and provide a step-by-step tutorial on sew-in hair to achieve a seamless look with lace frontals. Additionally, we'll showcase 20 chicest sew-in hairstyles in 2024 that offer both style and protection for your natural hair. If you are also interested in these points, keep scrolling!

What Is Sew-In Hair?

Sew-in hair involves attaching hair extensions to your natural hair using a needle and thread. The process begins with braiding your natural hair into a specific pattern, typically cornrows, to create a foundation. The extensions are then sewn onto these braids, creating a secure and natural-looking style.

Sew-in extensions come in various textures, lengths, and colors, allowing you to achieve a wide range of looks, from voluminous curls to sleek, straight styles. They can be used to add length, volume, or even a splash of color to your hair.

Why Sew-In Hair a Protective Hairstyle?

Sew-in hair is celebrated for its protective qualities. By covering your natural hair with extensions, sew-ins shield your hair from environmental factors like sun exposure, pollution, and harsh weather conditions. This protective barrier helps reduce breakage, split ends, and other damage that can occur with daily styling and exposure.

Benefits of Sew-In Hairstyles:

1. Promote Hair Growth: By reducing the need for daily manipulation, sew-ins allow your natural hair to grow undisturbed.
2. Versatility: Sew-ins offer endless styling possibilities without compromising the health of your natural hair.
3. Low Maintenance: Once installed, sew-in hair requires minimal upkeep, making it an excellent option for those with busy lifestyles.
4. Longevity: With proper care, sew-in hair can last several weeks, providing a long-term styling solution.

How to Sew In Hair?

Follow this step-by-step guide for a seamless and natural look.

Step-by-Step Guide to Sewing in Hair

Products and tools that involved:

Thread and needle

Lace frontal and hair bundles

A pair of sharp scissors

A wide-tooth comb

A rattail comb

Hair glue

Edge-control (optional)

Mild Shampoo and hair conditioner (optional)

A hairdryer (optional)

Elastic bands (optioanl)

Step 1: Preparation:

• Cleanse and Condition: Start with clean, conditioned hair to ensure a smooth and secure foundation.
• Blow-Dry: Thoroughly dry your hair to prevent mold and mildew from developing under the extensions.

Step 2: Braiding Pattern:

• Choose a Pattern: Select a braiding pattern that suits your desired style. For lace frontals, a horizontal pattern across the front with vertical braids in the back is common, or you can cornrow all your hair straight toward the back if you like. Part your natural hair along your desired pattern with a rat-tail comb to ensure an even and clean look.
• Braid Hair: Create neat, tight cornrows according to your chosen pattern. Ensure the braids are secure, flat, but not too tight to avoid tension on the scalp.

Step 3: Installing the Lace Frontal:

• Prepare the Lace Frontal: Trim the lace with a pair of sharp scissors to match your hairline for a natural look.
• Attach the Frontal: Position the lace frontal on your head and sew it along the hairline, securing it to the braids. Secure the hair of the lace frontal to keep it away from your natural hair.

Step 4: Sewing in hair bundles:

• Measure and Cut: Measure the weft against your head horizontally and cut it to fit each section of your braids.
• Sew the Wefts: Using a curved needle and thread, sew the wefts onto the braids, starting from the back and working your way to the front. Ensure each weft is tightly secured.

Step 5: Blending and Styling:

• Blend the Frontal: Unravel your frontal hair, use a flat iron or curling iron to blend the lace frontal with the hair wefts for a seamless look.
• Style as Desired: Glue down your lace frontal. Slide down your baby hair with edge control for a sleek and polished look. Style the hair as desired, whether it's curling, straightening, or just naturally blowing out. Keep in mind that set your heat-styling tools at the lowest heat setting when styling your hair.

Tips and Tricks for a Seamless and Natural Look

• Use a Wig Cap: Wearing a wig cap can help create a smooth base and protect your natural hair.
• Bleach the Knots: For a more natural look, consider bleaching the knots on the lace frontal to match your scalp.
• Pluck the Hairline: Plucking the hairline of the lace frontal can create a more natural appearance by mimicking the look of a natural hairline.

20 Chicest Protective Sew-In Hairstyles for Inspiration

1. Fluffy Afro Curly Bob Sew-In:

This style features tight afro curly hair in a bob shape. The frontal hair is wrapped around into a small bun, with the bottom section of fluffy, bouncy curls naturally flowing, adding volume and texture. Two small braids flow in the front and frame the face adding a youthful and playful vibe to the look while protecting your natural hair

2. Sleek High Puff Sew-In:

When you gather all that hair into a high puff, the trick to ensuring such a polished edge is to leave out a small portion of natural hair around the edge when sewing. Apply edge control or light oil to make the edges more clean and sleek. Gather all the hair at the crown of your head to create a high, fluffy puff and secure it. This style offers a polished and voluminous look, ideal for both casual and formal settings.

3. Sew-In Ponytail:

Achieve a sleek ponytail by sewing in extensions that add length and volume. This versatile style can be worn high for a dramatic effect or lower for a more subdued look.

4. Voluminous Curly Mid-Length Bob Sew-In:

Opt for a mid-length bob with loose, voluminous curls that bounce with every step. This style is perfect for those who want a glamorous yet manageable length.

5. Curly Low Puff with Face-Framing Wavy Hair in the Front:

Combine a low puff at the nape of your neck with wavy tendrils that frame your face. This style is soft and romantic, perfect for highlighting facial features.

6. Half Space Buns, Half Sew-In Curls:

Add a playful twist by creating two space buns on the top half of your head while leaving the rest of the hair in loose curls. This fun and quirky style is perfect for festivals or casual outings.

7. Middle Part Loose Curly Bob:

A classic bob with a middle part and loose curls offers a timeless look. The even distribution of curls adds symmetry and chic, suitable for any occasion.

8. Burgundy Half Up Half Down Sew-In:

This bright style allows you to experience bold hair shade without commitment and to make a statement with your hair. Gather the top half of your hair into a sleek ponytail while leaving the bottom half free-flowing and naturally wavy.

9. Curly Sew-In with Scarf:

Accessorize your curly sew-in with a colorful scarf tied around your head. This can not only hide the tracks of weaves but also adds a touch of style and can be used to match your outfit or add a pop of color.

10. Super Long Loose Wavy Hair Sew-In:

Achieve a glamorous look with super long, loose waves that cascade down. This style exudes charm, texture, and length, ideal for those who desire a carefree look but stand out from the crown.

11. Sew-In Curly Hair with Front Stitch Braids:

Combine intricate stitch braids at the front with voluminous curls at the back. This style offers a unique and eye-catching look, blending protective braiding techniques with loose curls.

12. Sew-In Curls with Front Straight-Back Cornrows:

Pair straight-back cornrows in the front with voluminous curls in the back for a bold contrast. This style is both protective and fashionable, ideal for those who desire a simple tribal vibe.

13. Sew-In with Middle Part Front Braids:

Create a regal appearance with middle part front braids that flow into loose waves. This look is elegant and perfect for formal occasions, such as weddings or parties.

14. Pixie Cut Sew-In:

Opt for a short and sassy pixie cut sew-in for a modern and edgy style. This low-maintenance look is great for those who prefer shorter hair and a practical and easy-to-maintain look.

15. Side Part Sew-In:

A side part sew-in offers a sleek and sophisticated look that flatters any face shape. The asymmetry adds an elegant touch to the look and softens the face angles and features.

16. Afro Curls Sew-In with Side Braids:

Combine voluminous afro curls with side braids for a bold and edgy protective style. This look blends the texture of curls with the sleekness of braids.

17. Sew-In with Curly Fringe:

Add a curly fringe to your sew-in for a playful and trendy look that frames the face. The bouncy curly fringe can not only soften your facial features but also perfectly hide the tracks of sew-in hair. This style is great for adding dimension and highlighting your features.

18. Half Bantu Knot Half Sew-In:

Create a unique look by styling the top half of your hair in Bantu knots while leaving the bottom half in loose curls. This style is both protective and cute, perfect for making a playful and young look.

19. Natural Blow Out Sew-In:

Achieve a natural blow-out look with light yaki hair that mimics the texture of the natural hair of black women. This style offers volume and movement, perfect for a natural yet polished appearance.

20. Sew-in curls with Fulani Braids in the Front:

Pair traditional Fulani braids in the front with sew-in curls for a culturally rich and stylish look. This combination highlights the beauty of braided patterns and the fullness of curls, ideal for those who desire a tribal look.

Sew-in hair is not only a protective hairstyle for black women but also a versatile solution. These sew-in hairstyles should inspire you to experiment with different looks while protecting your natural hair. If you have more ideas about sew-in hairstyles, feel free to drop your comments below.

Conclusion

Sew-in hair offers not only protection but also versatility for natural hair. By experimenting with various sew-in hairstyles, you can find the perfect look that suits your personality and lifestyle. Remember, using high-quality human hair extensions is crucial for achieving a seamless and natural appearance. For premium quality sew-in hair extensions, visit elfinhair.com and explore our wide range of human hair lace frontals and bundles for sew-in.

Embrace your natural beauty with Elfin Hair and don't be afraid to try new styles to express your unique beauty!

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