Tyla’s Braided Hairstyle Is a Protective Style Icon

Tyla stole the spotlight at the Glamour Women of the Year Awards with a half-braided hairstyle that is equal parts elegance, edge, and functionality. Instantly memorable and highly versatile, her cornrow-meets-curls look is not only a stunning red carpet choice but also a top-tier protective style.

A Blend of Tradition and Modern Glam

Protective hairstyles have long been celebrated for their ability to maintain hair health while providing a platform for self-expression. Tyla’s look cleverly fused sleek cornrows on one side with loose, voluminous curls on the other—delivering a dramatic contrast that honours her South African roots and embraces high-glam fashion trends.

What makes this style stand out is its ability to marry three aesthetics into one:

Classic cornrows – offering scalp protection and low maintenance
Elegant curls – adding softness and femininity
Undone-meets-sculpted vibe – juxtaposing structure and fluidity

Why This Look Belongs in the Protective Style Hall of Fame

Aside from its head-turning beauty, Tyla’s half-braided style checks several boxes for what makes a protective hairstyle worthy of being iconic:

Minimises heat damage due to minimal styling required
Keeps natural hair detangled and tucked away to reduce breakage
Versatile for casual, formal, and red carpet events
Can be worn on various hair textures
Personalised to reflect cultural identity and fashion taste

Recreate the Look with Expert Tips

If you're inspired to try this half-braided masterpiece, here are a few styling guidelines:

Section precisely: Create a clean parting to divide the braided side from the loose side
Use a tension-controlled braiding technique to safeguard edges and avoid scalp stress
Hydrate and seal curls with lightweight oils or creams to enhance shine and reduce frizz
Secure braids overnight with a silk or satin scarf to preserve the look

Why It Matters

Representation in beauty isn’t just about appearance—it’s about cultural respect, heritage, and identity. Tyla’s style not only dazzled onlookers but showcased a meaningful narrative woven through tradition and trend. In the world of fashion, moments like these help redefine what is “mainstream,” encouraging diverse voices and styles to shine without compromise. Protective hairstyles like Tyla’s provide a dynamic avenue for visibility, pride, and wellness for textured hair.

Ready to honour your hair while making a style statement? Explore protective options that celebrate your roots—shop now for products and accessories that protect and empower.

Source: Marie Claire
Published: 31 October 2025