Due to awareness of one’s root, especially as Africans in diaspora, many ladies are beginning to express their “Africaness” through creative hairstyles that originates from the continent.
As the hair industry continues to rake in billions of dollars each year, there is reportedly a sustained increase in the affinity for traditional African hairstyles. These days, most people want to have some affinity with the colourful continent.
Although men often complain about their wives spending hours at the salon, women have come to understand the need to look good yet stand out and as a result, ladies are getting pretty creative with their afro.
Since IBIENE is about enjoying even the little things of life, we have taken the time to make it easier for you to pick the perfect simple yet unique hairstyles that will get heads turning. Whether you are on a budget or have enough money to splurge, here are five hairstyles that you can have done to look and feel great!
Two-stranded twist:
This twisted hairstyle will succeed in covering the side areas of your face. Most times these twists are worn down instead of pinning them up. It is very durable and can last for a while, usually up to two weeks. After then, you can unravel your twists for the beautiful twist-out hairstyle.
Braided up bun:
If you have long braids or twists and sometimes are tired of wearing them loose, then you should pull your hair into a bun from time to time, to put all the focus on the face instead of highlighting the hairstyle.
Bantu knots:
This is a cute, flirty hairstyle traditionally worn by African women. These knots work well with just about all hair types. They are not actually knots! Instead, they are small, coiled buns secured against the side of the head. Many celebrities have rocked this style.
Box braids:
The box braids are perfect for an oval-shaped face because they frame the face properly. Furthermore, you can make so many more beautiful designs with it by twisting them in any direction you like. Some go a little extra by adding colours of their choice.
Patewo (Yoruba interpretation for Clap your hands):
This is one hairstyle that is popular amongst women living in western Nigeria. The hairstyle is woven in the shape of two hands clasped together. Rather than having hair woven to the back, the shaft is entwined at the middle in order to take a firm shape.
Fulani Hairstyle:
The Fulani hairstyle is an artistic and flamboyant hairdo adorned by women mainly from Northern Nigeria. The hair is long, part plaited and decorated with beads. Due to its durable nature, Fulani women favour this fashion as it complements their nomadic nature.
Suku (pronounced shoo-koo):
Unlike cornrows which are woven towards the rear of the head, Suku is oftentimes woven with the wefts pointing to the sky. Depending on the dexterity of the stylist, it can be shaped in such a way that it does not look tattered or scattered.
A good hairstyle is one of the most important elements of looking good and every woman sure wants to look her best always. So go ahead and rock these hairstyles, repping Mama Africa!
Do you have any question or comment? Please share with us in the comment section.