The durag or more accurately, the durag cap is a very basic piece of clothing that has gained a political stance in the black community. It is a hair accessory, which is effective in the nourishment of hair, a symbol of ethnic pride, and a piece of jewelry. Here, we will make sure to cover almost all aspects related to durags; where they came from, where they are now, the different styles that are used, and much more.
A History of Headwraps: Advertising from Necessity to Culture
The durag as with many fashions today has its roots in civilization dating back to many centuries ago. Thus, headwraps were used for several purposes, namely to shield their heads from the scorching sun, dust, and excessive sweating. 19th Century America scarf and headwraps were used by enslaved people to control and style their hair while working.
Thus, the durag, while in Harlem during the Renaissance period of the 1930s the said headgear is turned into a Black self-care tool and pride. Black men regard it as a product that he assists in retaining hairstyles such as waves and braids among them. The Civil Rights Movement of the 1960 called for the blacks to stand up for themselves and thus entrenched the durag’s identification with black liberty.
Hip hop culture mainstreamed the durag during the nineties and this had an influence to fashion. Current artists and hip hop artists such as the late 2Pac and Sean ‘Jay Z’ Carter were also known to where durags, not only as headdresses but as trendy wear as well. Presently, the durag is a substantive part of men’s wardrobes, regardless of their age and ethnicity.
The Many Uses of a Durag
The durag serves several purposes:
- Hair Maintenance: Durags are important for retaining of several Black hairstyles. They assist in getting hair on a flat surface hence achieving the much-needed waves and curls. It also guards hairstyles such as braids and locs from frizz and they also guard against the development of the locs coming undone.
- Hair Protection: Durags shield hair from the exterior environment so to speak. They protect hair from wind, sun and dust and keep it in a healthy state, well moisturized.
- Sleep aid: Durags, worn at night, reduce hair rubbing on the pillowcase, preventing breakage and tangles.
- Fashion Statement: Durags come in various colors, materials, and patterns, making them fashionable accessories for personal expression.
Tying Your Durag: A Step-by-Step Guide
This headwear can be worn and styled in various methods to fit any kind of hair and the degree of tightness that one desires.
Here’s a basic method:
- Lay it flat on a chop or any flat surface. The wider part of the durag should be at the front, with the fabric slightly loose on your head for the best look.
- Place the durag on your head and tilt your head forward so the straps are resting on your hair. The narrow part of it should ideally be placed at the back part of one’s head.
- Pull the sides of the durag up and over your ears then fasten the strings at the top of your head at the crown. Depending on the required level of compression, tightness can be again varied on the same scale.
- The remaining portion of the tail should be tucked under the band or you use the fastener if there is one on your durag.
Tips:
- Choose a satin or silk durag to minimize friction and protect your hair from damage while sleeping.
- Loosen the durag depending on the comfort level, or depending on the if the hair has been styled or not.
- Trial and error is the best way to find the most suitable method for tying a durag.
Durag Styles: Waves to 360s
It highlights that the durag can be worn to attain different kinds of hairstyles.
Here are a few popular options:
- Waves: Durags are very important in establishment and sustenance of curve patterns. This enhances the definition of S-shaped waves by pressing hair strands in a specific direction.
- 360 Waves: This hairstyle requires a durag to create and maintain circular wave patterns around the head consistently.
- Braids: A durag is headgear designed to maintain cornrows or braids and prevent frizzy hair overnight.
- Locs: These can be used especially to create a hold and definition on locs.
Beyond Black Culture: The Universal Appeal of Durags
Although the durag is attributed to Black people’s culture, it is worn by other people in the modern society. Not restricted to the black community anymore, more people of different color and nationality are cozily fitting into the durag for various reasons more than for looks.
FAQs about Durags
Concerning the use of durag, one might pose the question:
Is it possible to wear a durag for anyone? Absolutely! Durags are for anyone who wishes to have and maintain good hair or style it in a particular way.
Is there variation in durags? Yes, durags are made from different type of fabrics but they mostly preferred from satin, silk and mesh. They also come in
