A Guide to Black Hairstyles Celebrated by People of Colour

Black hairstyles are as diverse and vibrant as the cultures they come from. With each style carrying its unique history and significance, understanding these hairstyles can offer insight into the beauty of Black culture and tradition. This guide delves into popular hairstyles, shedding light on their origins, meanings, and the modern-day evolution within the world of beauty. From the voluminous Afro to intricate Bantu Knots, and versatile Box Braids, each hairstyle reveals a piece of heritage and cultural identity. Additionally, we explore the beauty industry’s cultural nuances, including hair terminologies and methods, providing a comprehensive look at these timeless styles.

A guide that unpicks hairstyles, slang, and more celebrated by people of colour

AFRO

The Afro is more than a hairstyle; it’s a symbol of cultural pride and identity. Originating during the civil rights movement of the 1960s, it became a statement of political resistance and social change. The Afro embraces the natural curl pattern of Black hair, celebrating its inherent beauty and texture without alteration.

Modern iterations of the Afro include the TWA (teeny weeny afro) for shorter styles and the Blowout Afro for an exaggerated volume. Many artists, celebrities, and activists continue to wear the Afro as a tribute to their roots and as a bold statement of self-acceptance.

BANTU KNOTS

Bantu Knots are a timeless cultural hairstyle with African origins, often seen adorned by women in tribes across the continent. The style involves sectioning the hair and twisting each part into small knots, forming a unique and striking look that can also be unraveled to create beautiful curls.

Beyond their aesthetic appeal, Bantu Knots are highly practical, offering a protective style that helps to retain hair moisture and promote growth. Over time, this hairstyle has been adapted and proudly worn by people of all ages as a homage to their African ancestry.

BOX BRAIDS

Box Braids, understood universally, are a popular protective style that involves braiding hair in square-shaped sections. These braids can be worn in a variety of lengths and thicknesses, often incorporating colorful extensions for added flair.

Aside from being visually appealing, Box Braids serve as a low-maintenance hairstyle, allowing for hair growth and protection against breakage. This style’s versatility and historical roots in Africa make it a favorite among individuals seeking a culturally expressive hairstyle.

CLOSURE

A closure is a hairpiece that mimics the natural scalp, used primarily in sew-in weaves and wigs. Designed to blend seamlessly with natural hair, closures are available in various textures and lengths, offering a realistic and protective styling option.

Closures ensure a natural-looking part line, providing the wearer with confidence and style versatility without exposing their natural hair to heat or manipulation. They represent an innovative advancement in hair styling that respects and celebrates Black hair.

CORNROWS

Cornrows, with their enduring appeal, are a traditional African braid style where the hair is braided close to the scalp in a series of straight or intricate patterns. This functional style dates back to ancient Africa, serving as a practical yet fashionable means of managing hair.

Touted for their ability to last several weeks, cornrows offer a canvas for creativity. Known for their protective qualities, they allow for hair growth and are still a staple choice for many, often adorned with beads or rings for added beauty.

CURL TYPE

Understanding Curl Type is key to embracing and caring for curly hair. Black hair is categorized by a spectrum of curl patterns, ranging from loose waves to tight coils. These curl types fall into categories of 3A to 4C, with each type having its unique care needs.

Different curl types require specific products and styling techniques to maintain health and definition. Embracing one’s natural curl pattern fosters self-acceptance and promotes the beauty of naturally curly hair.

(DREAD)LOCS

Distinguished by their rope-like appearance, Locs are a harmonious fusion of nature and culture. Often misunderstood, locs embody spiritual, cultural, and historical significance and have roots in various cultures, notably among the Rastafari movement in Jamaica.

Locs require care and patience, forming naturally or with the help of specialized techniques. They provide a long-lasting and unique style celebrated in numerous cultures globally, epitomizing a connection with one’s self and heritage.

SNATCHED (EDGES)

“Snatched edges” refers to the carefully slicked-down baby hairs on the hairline, a popular styling choice among Black women. The practice has cultural roots, with intricate designs and patterns showcased as an art form.

While maintaining healthy edges can be challenging, products such as edge control gels and brushes are staples for achieving the desired polished look. This attention to detail in styling underscores the value of precision and personal expression in Black hair culture.

THE CROCHET METHOD

The Crochet Method is a versatile hair technique where extensions are looped and secured onto cornrowed hair using a latch hook. This method provides a protective style with a natural-looking finish and can mimic various hair textures and styles.

Ideal for individuals seeking low-maintenance style, the crochet method offers flexibility in appearance and longevity, catering to different tastes and lifestyles. It allows wearers to experiment with new looks while preserving their natural hair’s health.

WIGS

Wigs offer limitless possibilities for those looking for a temporary change or protective style. From lace fronts to full lace varieties, wigs come in numerous textures, colors, and lengths, suiting any desired look.

Wigs have a storied history in Black culture, representing an avenue for versatility and creativity without heat or chemical damage to one’s hair. They empower individuals to explore identity and style without constraints, echoing the broader narrative of self-expression in Black hair culture.

Summary of Main Points

Hairstyle	Description
AFRO	Symbol of cultural pride; natural curl pattern.
BANTU KNOTS	African origin; protective and moisture-retentive.
BOX BRAIDS	Versatile protective style; promotes hair growth.
CLOSURE	Realistic scalp mimic; protective hairpiece.
CORNROWS	Traditional African style; long-lasting and creative.
CURL TYPE	Range from 3A to 4C; requires specific care.
(DREAD)LOCS	Cultural significance; spiritual and long-lasting.
SNATCHED (EDGES)	Stylized baby hairs; precision and expression.
THE CROCHET METHOD	Protective and versatile style; natural finish.
WIGS	Limitless styling possibilities; protective.