There are many reasons to wear a head wrap; for every person you will usually find that a head wrap holds a different meaning. Personally, I enjoy wearing head wraps because they serve as a protective layer for my natural hair on days when I don't want to touch my hair, it locks in moisture, and it's a great stylish addition to every outfit.
The History of Headwraps in Africa
The African head wrap has stood the test of time and history. Women have been wearing them for centuries – throughout many regions. It is still important to many Black women today.
Originating in sub-Saharan Africa, the head wrap was designed using traditional colors and kente like patterns.
Traditionally, head wraps often told a story of who a woman was. They let the community know about a woman’s age, marital status or wealth at a single glance. And similar to today’s accessories, head wraps were used to enhance a woman’s beauty.
Unfortunately, when African women first arrived in the United States, the head wrap became a sign of their enslavement. However, as Black community began fighting for freedom and equality, the traditional scarf reemerged as a symbol of pride and Afrocentric celebration.
Why Wear an African Headwrap?
The headwrap’s crowning glory is its versatility. There are so many reasons to wear a head wrap:
· To avoid styling your hair during the day: If you don’t feel like doing your hair in the morning, large head wraps are a great way to keep your coils in check.
· To express your style: Today, many Black women wear head wraps for style and simplicity. The untied head wrap can be shaped in many unique and attention-grabbing ways.
· Celebrate African heritage: As more women come to love their natural hair, many have started incorporating fashion headwraps into their daily look as a point of pride. African head coverings and similar garments like caftans are also worn for cultural celebrations.
· To add style and meaning to church wear: Instead of the traditional Sunday hat, some women prefer to wear a patterned or jeweled headwrap.
I usually wear my wraps in two different styles. One style showcases my hair out in the front with a top knot, and the other style has all of my hair tucked in the wrap, creating a knot in the back. On a good hair days I'll wear the top knot, and on a bad hair days I'll wear the knot in the back.
No matter what way you’re wearing it, an head wrap is a sophisticated, easy way to add color and standout style while celebrating your heritage and unique beauty.
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