Head wraps have been used for centuries as a fashion accessory and to protect the scalp and hair. In fact, this was why head wraps were first worn. The African headwrap is one of the most popular statement hair accessories.
The History and Cultural Significance
Going back to its roots, it is so much more than just a fabric to cover the head. Dating as far back as pre-colonial times, this unassuming “piece of fabric” tells a story of wealth, marital status, religion, mourning or reverence, ethnicity and even family lineage. With so many years of history behind it, an African headwrap is far more than just a fashion trend. It is a symbol of tradition and a people who remain unbroken today.
In 1735, the Negro Act was passed, stipulating what black people were allowed to wear. At about the same time in Louisiana’s Spanish colony, the Edict of Good Government was passed and stated that all black women must wear their natural hair bound in a “kerchief “ or “tignon”. These were enforced as there was a concern that European men found black and biracial women more attractive.
Therefore, this piece of clothing was a tool used to discourage enslavers from pursuing “less worthy” women. In addition, white women insisted on this dress code to set a clear distinction between the mistress of the house and an enslaved person. As a result, headwraps became a symbol of slavery and inferiority in Europe and the Americas. Despite this new meaning, the black women subjected to slavery refused to accept this new definition of the dress code of their ancestors. Instead, they found their unique ways to express themselves using headwraps.
The headwrap was an object of oppression from one vantage point. Later in the 1960s and 1970s, African-Americans began to embrace their heritage as a means of rebellion and pride. An African headwrap is a reminder of that which is already within - strength, royalty, and the legacy of an unbreakable people.
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African Headwrap has grown beyond the African and Global Black Community, finding its way into editorial magazines and runways as a unique expression of Black identity and culture and an appreciation of black culture by other non-black cultures. African headwraps are worn today for practically any occasion and by so many different people regardless of their heritage.
The Igbos/Ibos from Nigeria call it “Akwa-isi” or “Ichafu”, Yorubas call it “Gele”; a tribe in South African call it “Doek”.
Why Wear African Headwraps?
The versatility of the African headwrap leaves it with so many functions:
- Self-expression: Tying the headwrap to your desired style is a form of self-expression.
- Alternative to hairstyling: Headwraps can stand on their own as a protective hairstyling.
- Celebrate African heritage: This is an apparent reason and absolutely worth noting.
No matter your outfit, the African headwrap is an easy way to add a touch of colour and sophistication to your style.
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Choosing Your Head Wrap
First of all, the most important thing when you choose a head wrap is your personal taste. There are so many different colors, designs, patterns and styles that you might be spoilt for choice. There are a couple of other things to consider too. First of all, think about the size you need and how you want to tie your wrap - a shorter wrap won’t be as versatile so try a wrap that’s 60-72 inches long.
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Materials
These ankara headwraps are made wax fabric, 100% cotton. Our headwraps are 2 yards of 100% cotton fabric in African print.
At African fabs, we endeavour to share this unique piece of African clothing with the world. Regardless of your culture, you can wear our headwraps, and we make them easy to style.
At Nkeoma, we offer head wraps, head scarves and bonnets so that you can make a style statement and protect your hair the way you want to.
Customers often ask us if we have a manual on how to tie an African headwrap. Because there are many possible headscarf styles, and it is hard to explain by just text, we decided to make an instruction video. If tying an African headwrap is still too difficult for you.. no worries! Check out our Easy headwraps! These are partially pre-wrapped headwraps, containing a high quality satin liner to protect your hair!
We offer two kinds of headwraps, the standard 100% cotton headwrap and another one we call “Easy headwraps”.
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Different Ways to Tie a Head Wrap
Now that you’ve selected your head wrap, it’s time to learn about the different ways to tie it. When it comes to tying an African head wrap, it might seem complicated but there are some easy instructions that you can follow. To tie a headwrap, you must first prep your hair underneath, as this forms the foundation of the style. You can leave your hair down or put it up depending on the shape you would like to achieve with the scarf. With so much room for customisation, you mostly cannot go wrong with headwraps.
Here are a few popular styles:
Front Knot
If you’re not feeling your hair then the front knot is the style to keep it covered. Place your scarf around the back of your head and hold each end at the side of your head. You want the ends to be balanced and have roughly the same amount of fabric on each side. Keep twisting until you’ve created a knot at the front of your head. This style of head wrap is perfect if you’re wearing your hair straight (or working with a straight weave). It’s easy to do and looks great.
Bow Tie
Put the head wrap on your head, covering it from your forehead to the top of your neck, and tie a knot. Make a big bow and try to make it as symmetrical as possible on both sides.
Wrapped High Ponytail
A wrapped high ponytail head wrap is beautiful for locs or braids. All you need to do is tie your hair into a high ponytail, on the top of your crown. Tie your hair back in a low bun and work out where you want to wear your wrap. Then drape it over your wrap. Hold the ends firmly, pulling it into a ponytail. Twist the length of it. Hold the knot with one hand, while you wrap the longer pieces around your fingers.
Head Wrap for Braids
If you’re wearing braids as a protective style, or just because you like the look, then adding an African head wrap is a great way to keep them in great condition. They’re also a perfect choice if you just want to change your look for the day.
Nefertiti Head Wrap
The Nefertiti Head Wrap looks stunning, and far more complicated to do than you might think.
Where to Buy Head Wraps
Here are a couple of places to purchase:
- Fanm Djanm (www.fanmdjanm.com)
- The Wrap Life (www.thewraplife.com)
Headwraps are a timeless fashion trend across the globe. It has its origin from different cultures in different parts of the world. From Africa to the Middle East to Asia, they come in different colours, shapes, patterns, and sizes. A piece of fabric tied around the head in an intricate or simple style which can be worn on special occasions or a casual day at home.
