Dreadlocks remains the best hairstyle in Africa. It has become the most beloved and widely embraced hairstyle among both men and women in Kenya. It is not uncommon to find that at least four, or even half, of a group of 10 young Kenyans actively choose to wear dreadlocks.
This trends highlights the cultural significance and fashion appeal that dreadlocks have acquired within Kenya society. This demonstrates their widespread adoptions and acceptances among the younger generation.
The developments of dreadlocks for both men and women represents a captivating journey that intertwines culture, fashion and individuals expression.
Dreadlocks is believed to be the oldest hairstyle. Its evolvement has takes various decades and process to be pass from one generations to another.
Dreadlocks have emerged in four distinct phases. The Jazz age, the Rise of Rebellion, the Unisex Trend and finally the Modern Era.
In the Jazz age, which primarily spanned the 1920s, dreadlocks emerged as a distinctive hairstyle. At this era, dreadlocks emerge as a symbol of non-conformity and a rejection of traditional grooming standards. This era also celebrated rebellion, individuality and cultural expressions.
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The rise of rebellion era (1950-1970). Dreadlocks became a symbols of rebellion and cultural pride. Influential figures, including the likes of Bob Marley and leaders from the Civil Rights Movement and the Black Panther Party, actively sported dreadlocks as they rejected societal norms, using this hairstyle to make powerful statements of resistance.
The unisex era (1980-1990). In this era, dreadlocks hairstyle fashion were both embrace by both men and women. Showing that anyone could have this hairstyle.
Finally the modern era. Nowadays, dreadlocks are popular and seen as a form of self-expression and style. People of all background choose them to showcase their uniqueness.
Furthermore, throughout the history, freedom fighters and revolutionaries have actively embraced dreadlocks as potent symbols of resistance, cultural pride and defiance against oppressive regimes.
Some of the stories behind some instances where dreadlocks were worn are; The Rastafarian movement in Jamaica in 1930s. Rastafarians believed that growing dreadlocks is a sign of their devotion to Jah (God) and rejection of Babylon, which symbolizes the oppressive Western world and colonialism..
Another story of black Panthers and the Afro Hairstyle in South Africa. The South African government imposed laws that restricted the hairstyles of black individuals, such as the “Pencil Test”. Which sought to measure the “kinkiness”. In response, many black South Africans grew Afros or dreadlocks to challenge the government policies.
Not forgetting the fore fathers who fought for independences referred as the story of “Indigenous Movements”. The indigenous communities across the globe have used traditional hairstyles, often involving long uncut hair or intricate braids, to assert their cultural heritage and resist of colonial influence.
To dates, dreadlocks hairstyle continues to be embrace by both men and women in Africa. Despites being one of the most expensive, time consuming hairstyle that requires regular maintenances. It remain a popular choice, particularly among prominent individuals with “Kwenik”(money) to invest in its upkeep.
