High-top dreads consist of dreadlocks on the top of the head and short hair around the back and sides. This versatile and trendy hairstyle is a modern addition to the existing array of loc styles to choose from.
Whether your locs are short or long and whether you want to wear them up or down, high-top dreads will keep your look fresh. Why choose short or long hair when you can have both?
This post shows you 21 fun high top dread styles to try, plus helps you prepare for your first appointment and maintain your look once you have it.
What Are High Top Dreads?
High top dreads are locs styled on the top half of your head with tapered or faded hair on the back and sides. They are an alternative to full dreads that gives you more styling versatility.
This modern take on traditional locs allows you to experiment with different lengths and textures while keeping the sides clean and sharp. It’s the perfect combination of edgy and polished.
High Top Dreads vs. Full Dreads
Understanding the difference between these two styles helps you decide which is right for you.
High top dreads are a style consisting of dreadlocks on the top of your head, with the rest of the hair cut short. This gives you the freedom to style your locs in various ways while maintaining a neat, tailored look on the sides.
Full dreads are when you have your entire head of hair in dreadlocks, including the back and sides. This is the traditional loc style that maximizes your dreadlock length and coverage.
Which one is best for you is a personal preference. While a full head of dreads is the traditional look, high top dreads are a modern variation that allows you to experiment more with texture, length, and design.
Long High Top Dreads
Just because high top dreads are on the top half of your head doesn’t mean that they have to be kept short. You can tie longer dreads into a ponytail or bun for a variety of looks.
1. High Top Dread Ponytail with Fade
This dreadlock hairstyle features dreads gathered in a ponytail on top of the head, revealing a fade haircut on the sides. It’s practical for everyday wear while still making a statement.
The high ponytail keeps your locs secure and out of your face, making this style perfect for active lifestyles or professional settings.
2. High Top Dreads in a Bun
This look sweeps long dreads into a high top knot. The shaved sides show off a taper fade underneath, creating a clean, modern aesthetic.
Top knots are trending for good reason. They’re easy to create, keep your hair secure all day, and look stylish from every angle.
3. Clean Fade with Locs in a Bun
This dreadlock style features thin locs piled high atop the head and a clean fade on the rest of the hair. The contrast between the textured locs and smooth fade creates visual interest.
Thin locs are easier to style into updos and give you more flexibility with different looks. They also tend to be lighter and more comfortable for all-day wear.
4. Lightened High Top Locs with Fade
The man bun gets a modern twist with a loose gathering of long, lightened locs and a sharp fade along the hairline. Adding color to your locs creates dimension and makes them stand out even more.
Blonde or lightened tips are especially popular for creating an ombré effect that catches the light beautifully.
5. Interlocked Dreads with Buzzed Sides
These medium-length locs get a fun twist with an interlocking row pattern along the scalp. The look is finished with a top ponytail and shaved sides.
Interlocking creates a tighter, neater appearance along your scalp. This technique works especially well for creating patterns and designs in your locs.
6. Twisted High Top Locs in Ponytail
This style adds texture and dimension by twisting thin dreads around each other in a basket weave pattern. The dreads come together in a long ponytail at the back while the sides of the head are buzzed short.
Twisting your locs together creates intricate patterns that showcase the artistry of your style. It’s a great way to add visual interest without color.
7. Thick High Top Dreads with Buzzcut
In what might be called a dreadlock mohawk, this look features loose dreads on the top of the head and short-cropped hair on the rest of the head. The mohawk effect is bold and makes a strong style statement.
This edgy variation works great for those who want to push boundaries while keeping their look wearable for everyday life.
8. High Top Dreads with Blonde Accents
Hair color meets texture in this high top dreadlock style. Long, two-toned locs flow over a bald fade underneath, creating a striking contrast.
Color accents let you personalize your locs and make them uniquely yours. From subtle highlights to bold statements, the options are endless.
Thick High Top Dreads Ponytail
If you have thicker, more mature dreadlocks, you may want to try one of these high top ponytail looks. Mature locs have more weight and substance, creating dramatic ponytail styles.
9. Interlocked Dreads in a Thick Ponytail
Tight, smaller interlocked braids on the scalp blend into a thick ponytail of twisted locs. Complete the look with a sculpted fade along the hairline.
The transition from scalp braids to free-hanging locs creates a beautiful gradient of texture. This technique showcases the versatility of loc styling.
10. Colorful Thick Dreads with Fade
This show-stopper of a style features chunky long dreadlocks highlighted with a bold color and collected in a high top ponytail. Bold colors like red, purple, or blue make an unforgettable impression.
If you’re ready to stand out, vibrant loc colors are the way to go. They photograph beautifully and express your personality.
11. Long Twisted Dreads in High Ponytail
This high top dread hairstyle has slightly thinner twisted locs with a contrasting color and gathered atop the head in a high ponytail. The high placement elongates your silhouette and draws attention upward.
Twisted locs tend to be lighter than traditional dreads, making them more comfortable for high ponytails that you’ll wear all day.
Short High Top Dreads
High top locs are not just for long hair. The looks below highlight trendy short dreadlock styles. These may be worth trying if it’s your first time getting locs.
12. Short Twisted Locs with Tight Fade
Ideal for those with thin hair, twisted dreadlocks can help make your hair appear thicker. If you’re starting your loc journey, you can opt for short high top locs with a tight fade.
Starting with shorter locs means less maintenance time at each appointment. As your locs mature, you can decide whether to keep them short or let them grow longer.
13. Short Dreads with Tight Fade
Short locs with shaved sides make a perfect choice for those beginning their dreadlocks journey. Locs are considered a protective hairstyle, which means they can help protect your natural hair from breaking.
This protection helps you grow your hair longer if you wish. The tight fade keeps everything looking fresh and clean between loc maintenance appointments.
14. Interlocked Dreads with Tight Fade
This one-of-a-kind look mimics a French braid with interlocking small twists woven into two larger locs. The creativity continues with a tight bald fade and sharply angled edges.
Creative parting and interlocking patterns let you turn your locs into wearable art. Work with your loctician to design custom patterns.
15. High Top Dreads with Low Ponytail
High top locs can be pulled into a topknot or a low ponytail in the back. This particular look features a taper fade with thin top locs pulled into a low pony.
Low ponytails are more subtle than high ones but still keep your locs neat and controlled. They work great for professional environments.
16. Short and Thick High Top Dreads
While many short dreadlock styles have thin locs, short locs can also be thick. Seemingly effortless chunky locs pair here with a precision fade.
Thicker locs create a bolder look even when kept short. They have more visual weight and make a stronger statement.
17. Thin High Top Dreads with Fade
Mid-length locs hang loose over a taper fade in this on-trend style. Thin locs have more movement and flow, creating a softer overall appearance.
They’re also lighter on your head, which some people find more comfortable. The loose styling keeps the look casual and relaxed.
18. Short High Top Dreads with Shaved Design
These locs hang forward instead of backward for a stylish twist. Shaved lines in the fade and the beard take the whole look up a notch.
Adding designs to your fade personalizes your style even further. From simple lines to complex patterns, designs add artistic flair.
High Top Braids with Fade
To mix up the high top look, you could get braids instead of locs. Braids offer a similar aesthetic with different maintenance requirements.
19. Braids in Large Geometric Sections
In this style, small braids are pulled from large angular sections of hair, which makes a geometric pattern on the top of the head. The look can be completed with a fade or buzz cut on the sides.
Geometric patterns create a modern, architectural feel. They showcase precision and planning in your hairstyle design.
20. Braided Dreads in Small Geometric Sections
Similar to the previous style, these braids are pulled from smaller sections of hair, making a tighter geometric pattern with more high-top braids. The smaller sections create more intricate designs.
This style takes longer to install but creates stunning visual impact. The detail work showcases your braider’s skill.
21. Braids with Beads
High-top braids can be accessorized with decorative elements such as beads, cuffs, or rings. Accessories add personality and can be changed out to match different outfits or moods.
Beads create movement and sound as you move, adding another dimension to your style. Choose colors and materials that express your personal aesthetic.
How to Prepare for Getting High Top Dreads
The first step toward any loc hairstyle is to get locs if you don’t already have them. Locs grow in stages and need training to hold their shape consistently over time.
If you don’t have locs, you’ll ask your hairstylist for starter locs. The loctician will determine what type of method to use to keep your hair in place, such as palm rolling, twisting, or braiding.
While it can take anywhere from three to six months for your locs to form, you can get the sides of your hair cut the way you want. A buzz cut, undercut, or fade can match your desired high top locs look right from the start.
Choosing Your Loc Method
Different methods create different looks and require different maintenance schedules. Discuss with your loctician which method works best for your hair type and lifestyle.
Common methods include comb coils, two-strand twists, braids, and interlocking. Each has its own timeline for maturation and maintenance requirements.
Cost and Time Investment
Understanding the financial and time commitment helps you plan for your high top dreads journey.
How Much Do High Top Dreads Cost?
Starter locs can range anywhere from $50 to $200 depending on your location and the stylist’s rates. Hairstylists may also charge separately for a haircut to go with your locs.
The price varies based on your hair length, the thickness of locs you want, and the method used to start them. Urban areas typically have higher prices than smaller towns.
How Long Does It Take to Get High Top Dreads?
Since only the top half of your head will need locs, it will take anywhere from four to eight hours to get dreads installed. It may take longer if you want microlocs or other very thin locs installed.
Once your locs are in place, you’ll just need to keep up with loc maintenance and haircuts to maintain your style. The initial installation is the most time-intensive part.
Maintenance and Care
Proper maintenance keeps your high top dreads looking fresh and healthy. Establishing a good routine from the start prevents problems down the road.
Regular Appointments
If you have a fade or buzz on the sides or back of your hair, you’ll probably want to get a haircut appointment every three to five weeks to maintain your fresh look.
Retwist appointments to maintain your locs need to happen every four to six weeks depending on loc stage and hair type. Consider pairing your haircut with your loc retwist or retightening appointment to save time.
Daily and Weekly Care
Between appointments, proper home care is essential for healthy locs. Here’s what you need to know.
Shampoo and condition every two to three weeks. You’ll want to wash often enough to remove the buildup of sweat, oil, and dirt but not so often that you dry out your hair. Make sure to use products specifically designed for locs.
Regular hair products can cause loosening or unraveling. Invest in quality loc-specific shampoos and conditioners for best results.
Carefully dry your locs. Getting the water out of your hair is important to prevent mildew growth. Whether you squeeze, wrap, palm roll, or air-dry your locs in the sun, make sure they are completely dry.
Wet locs can develop odors if not dried properly. Use a hooded dryer or sit in the sun to ensure thorough drying.
Moisturize your scalp regularly. Hydrating with a lightweight oil can keep your hair healthy as well as prevent itchiness and dandruff on your skin. Focus on your scalp rather than the locs themselves.
Good scalp health is the foundation of healthy locs. Keep your scalp clean, moisturized, and free from buildup.
Sleep on a satin pillowcase. Protecting your hair with a satin pillowcase or bonnet can help prevent your locs from breaking or unraveling. Cotton pillowcases absorb moisture and create friction.
Satin or silk materials let your locs glide smoothly as you move during sleep. This prevents frizz and maintains your style longer.
How to Ask for High Top Dreads
High top dreads are a modern twist on the traditional dreadlock style. If you’re just starting the loc journey, you’ll want to ask for starter dreads on top and a short buzz or fade on the rest of your head.
A professional loctician should have all the essential knowledge, including how to form various types of dreads and what haircut numbers to give you the look you want. Bring inspiration photos to show exactly what you’re looking for.
Be specific about the type of fade you want – low, mid, or high. Discuss whether you want a taper or a skin fade. Clear communication ensures you get the exact look you’re envisioning.
FAQ About High Top Dreads
How long does it take for high top dreads to lock?
It typically takes three to six months for your locs to begin locking and forming a solid structure. Full maturation can take one to two years depending on your hair type and care routine.
During the early stages, your locs will be fragile and require gentle handling. Be patient with the process and trust your loctician’s guidance.
Can I get high top dreads with short hair?
Yes, you can start locs with hair as short as two to three inches. Your loctician can use various methods to start locs on shorter hair, though you may need to wait for some growth to achieve certain styles.
Starting with shorter hair means you’ll see the loc formation process from the beginning, which many people find rewarding.
Do high top dreads damage your hair?
When properly installed and maintained, locs are actually a protective style that can help your hair grow longer and healthier. The key is avoiding locs that are too tight and maintaining a healthy scalp.
Damage usually comes from improper installation, neglect, or removing locs incorrectly. Work with an experienced loctician to minimize any risks.
How often should I retwist high top dreads?
Most people need retwists every four to six weeks to keep their locs looking neat. The exact timeline depends on your hair growth rate, hair type, and personal preference.
Some people prefer the neat look of freshly retwisted locs, while others embrace a more freeform aesthetic. Find what works for your style and budget.
Can I color high top dreads?
Yes, you can color your locs just like any other hair. However, chemical treatments can make locs more fragile, so work with a professional experienced in coloring locs.
Many people opt for semi-permanent colors or natural dyes to minimize damage. Always deep condition after coloring to maintain loc health.
What’s the difference between high top dreads and a dread mohawk?
High top dreads typically have locs covering the entire top portion of the head, while a dread mohawk has a narrower strip of locs running down the center. Both feature short sides.
A mohawk creates a more dramatic, punk-inspired look, while high top dreads offer more coverage and styling versatility.
Making Your Decision
High top dreads offer the perfect blend of traditional locs and modern styling. They give you the protective benefits and cultural significance of locs while allowing for creative expression through fades, colors, and styling.
Whether you choose long locs you can style into ponytails and buns, or short locs for easy maintenance, high top dreads are a versatile choice. The contrast between textured locs and clean-cut sides creates a look that’s both edgy and polished.
Take time to browse different styles and find what speaks to you. Bring inspiration photos to your consultation and discuss your hair goals with your loctician. With proper care and maintenance, your high top dreads will be a source of pride and style for years to come.
To get started on your high top look today, find a local loctician who specializes in the style you want. Look for professionals with strong portfolios showing high top dreads and check their reviews to ensure they have experience with this specific style.
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