There is no time frame that you have to keep while you transition to natural hair. Transitioning means to grown your perm out and your new growth to come in. Many women either may decide not to transition at all and go directly to the big chop (bc) or transition for up to 2 or 3 years. It just depends on your preference and comfort level. There are many hairstyles that you can use while you are transitioning such as roller sets, cornrows, buns and flat twist just to name a few. Three types that I used for the 3 to 4 months while I transitioned were kinky twists, twist outs and braid outs and when those styles didn't work out for the following day or so, I bring out my trusty scarf. Below is a couple of websites that list some more hairstyles for transitioning.