How to rock a durag
More than just a hair accessory, the durag is a forthright symbol of cultural history, strength and individuality that continues to firmly stand the test of time. The durag has been sported by celebrities such as Rihanna (the first woman to wear a durag on British Vogue), Eminem, Jay-Z and 50 Cent and was also spectacularly fashioned in Ru Paul’s Drag Race by the self-defined ‘ebony enchantress’ Symone.
Whether to protect your hair or embody the power of African and African-American heritage, the durag really is an undeniable statement piece.
So, What is a Durag?
The durag - known also as a "doorag", "do-rag, or "wave cap” - is often made from specific materials like silk or polyester. Initially developed to help protect the patterns on Afro-Caribbean hairstyles like waves or braids, the durag quickly gained mass popularity and became a unique fashion statement of black culture. Wearing a durag is more than hair protection, but is also a symbolic nod to heritage, pride and identity.
The History of The Durag
Durags originated amid the 19th Century in working-class black communities. Whilst originally intended to protect hairstyles, this transformed due to its place amongst notable black pride movements over the years.
The durag was also embedded within the birth of hip-hop culture, with many global and underground artists proudly wearing their durags in music videos, concerts and in everyday wear.
As a fashion piece within itself, the durag has been sported on fashion runways. And while it has been embraced by other cultures, the celebration of its roots continues to remain firm.
Photo Cred: Scott Gries / PA Archive/Press Association Images / Getty Images
Mastering the Durag Tie
Wearing a durag is easy when you know how, but perfecting the art of tying it is a must:
Step 1 - Start Clean
Make sure your head is clean. The point of the durag is to protect your hair from harsh elements, not keep the dirt locked in! Keep the hair groomed and clean to promote the effectiveness of the durag's purpose.
Step 2 - Place the Durag at the Centre of your Head
Place the open centre over your head, ensuring it is evenly covered. The durag ends should be at the back of your head and hang evenly on both sides.
Step 3 - Cross, Then Find a Secure Fit
Start to cross the ends of the durag at the back of your head, then bring them forward, before looping them back around. Ensuring the fit is snug but not too tight, you should begin to knot the ends together. Two fingers should be able to fit between your durag and your hair. If it is too tight, loosen until you have found a desirable fit. Allowing the durag to be too tight will result in headaches or possible scalp irritation.
Step 4 - To Hang or Not to Hang
Whether you choose to let the remaining material hang by your neck is up to you. Some people prefer to tuck the excess durag fabric into the knotted end at the back. Others prefer to let it flow. This is entirely dependent on your own preference.
Photo by Nico Marks
Some people opt to wear a hat over their durag, whilst others rock it as is. There is no right or wrong way here as the durag can be customised to work with your own aesthetic. As long as it protects your hair, you’re good to go. If you want to make it fashionable, there are many ways to do this. As the durag can hang high or low and comes in a variety of colours, you can individualise it in multiple ways.
Conclusion
The durag spans many generations and has adopted different meanings to folk across the world. However you choose to wear a durag, wear it with pride. Whilst some accessories may slip into the background, the durag in all its simplicity, is a powerful accessory steeped in tradition, culture, pride and legacy. This is certainly no wallflower.
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