Random Acts of Flyness: Royal Locs
Photo Credit: Kynala Phillips
In 2019, we saw a vibrant reclamation of natural hair and unique braiding styles adorned with jewels, strings, and cuffs that resemble crowns. This trend of using gold and silver jewelry and colorful metallic yarn to spice up an everyday protective style is not new. We’ve seen women use their hair to establish status since the beginning of time. From filigree tube cuffs to cowrie shells, the ongoing celebration of natural Black hair continues to offer new stylish ways to make your braids, locks or fro pop.
In all cultures, hair can indicate religion, rank or age, according to author Tabora Johnson. While many cultures have rejected afro-centric aesthetics as being attractive, a large movement has brewed in the last decade that has made space for all kinds of Black hair on the mainstream stage.
This includes everything from intricate baby hairs to Fulani braids flowing down the center of someone’s scalp. We’ve seen celebrities like Alicia Keys, FKA Twigs and Solange decorate their hair with everything from laid edges to hair clips.
“African women have a rich history in terms of the ways they adorn their hair,” Brooklyn College professor Zinga A. Fraser told Magazine.
When a few students were asked why they choose to adorn their tresses with accessories many said the accents help their self-esteem and add to their everyday look.
With all the tools available to dress your hair like a literal crown, let’s take a look at which trends you should get into. Popular looks include Filigree tube cuffs, which can come in any color under the sun. Many choose to wear silver and gold cuffs which can be added to box braids, classic plaits, or to an afro. These cuffs can be found at any major beauty supply store near you.
Metallic threads are another great look for the braided belle. These stretchy cords also come in many colors. If you want to step outside the box, a fluorescent light green colored thread will make any braid stand out in a crowd. Unlike the cuffs, this thread can be installed in a variety of ways. It can be threaded in between cornrows, crisscrossed around individual braids or used as impromptu ponytail holders. A combination of thread and cuffs has become a staple in a lot of recent styles.
Cowrie shells and other beads have also crept back into the softest parts of our hearts. As more traditional braiding patterns come back into play, it’s easy to find a style that allows you to easily add beads and shells to the tips of your hair. Some choose to add beads on every braid or just on a few at the front. Cowrie shells and beads can be installed with a simple beading tool and rubber bands.
If you’re a spiritual heaux, concerned with the matters of the chakra, you can try adding healing crystals to your crown. These unique loc jewels can be found on Etsy shops like Conors Craft Corner and Nat and Grace. You can also try customized hairpins that spell out words like ‘Melanin’ and ‘Black’ that speak to your personal style. These stylish pins can be found on sites such as Oath Hair Co.
Originally published at http://kynalaphillips.wordpress.com on December 16, 2018.
