We explore the popular protective style in the newest episode of Crowned.
Byrdie
Welcome toCrowned,our new series all about the history of Black hair.
In our newest episode, we examine the history of Bantu knots.
Byrdie
Join us in learning more.
This series is researched by Christine Forbes and Oluwatobi Odugunwa.
When we think of natural hairstyles with rich history and lasting popularity, Bantu knotsalwayscome to mind.
Still, Bantu knots have been around for centuries.
Read more, ahead.
The neatly separated twists date back to the Zulu Kingdom in Africa, where they held great meaning.
Because of this, raised styles like Bantu knots are considered sacred.
The Process
The technology of Bantu knots is straightforward and allows for a lot of creativity.
you might achieve Bantu knots on straight, wet, or stretched hairthe choice is yours.
We prefer a small amount of edge controlto keep flyaways at bay.
The size of your sections is up to you.
If your hair is longer, you may prefer larger sections.
At the same time, shorter hair might sway to smaller areas.
Once your parts are secured, you twist your hair in one direction from base to end.
Then, you wrap the hair around itself to create a knot-like shape.
Finally, you could secure the ends with a good tuck, hairpin, or rubber band.
In 2016,Valentino revealed a campaignfeaturing the hairstyle on primarily white models.
Last year, Adele sparked debate after posting a photo in Bantu knots to her Instagram.
She recently addressed her choice to leave the controversial post on her page.
“And it did.
I totally get why people felt like it was appropriating.”
The CROWN Act is currently passed in seven states.
Defining the term bantu | south african history online.
