I don't style my hair. Since I'm into anointing my hair with butters and oils, I wear wigs. Example, today was Aphogee Treatment day (1x per month) After the final deep conditioning I slathered on Shea, and Cocoa Butters and Recovery Moisturizer. I plaited my hair, pinned down the ends, slapped on my wig - And at the office, I look fabulous. Meanwhile, I'm letting my hair "marinate". To me, wigs are the ultimate protective style. And with so many options I'm not confined to one look. Just take care to remove the wig when you're in for the evening, and don't wear anything that rubs or pulls on the fragile hair at the temples or the nape of the neck.
Due to extreme stress, I've whacked off my hair 5 times in the last year. So I'm coming from a TWA to now having 7 inches of length. I hope this helps you.