When I wore my hair relaxed straight, I braided it and now that I am texlaxed, I get my twisted with afro kinky hair because I feel it looks better with my hair this way.
I kept my braids in for 6-8 weeks at a time depending on how well it wears and I do the same wiwth my kinky twists. I would get my hairline (back and front) freshly done at about 3-4 weeks to keep it looking fresh and avoid it matting up on me too quickly.
As far as versatility, I can't help with this since I only either wear it pulled back loosley or back in a ponytail.
I either use a dry shampoo or have my stylist gently wet shampoo it every 2-3 weeks, spray in some leave-in treatment, allow it to air-dry and apply moisturizer/shine. To avoid matting, I oil my scalp and massage it carefully paying special attention to my hairline every other day.