JCZC Photography 2011
The gasps and looks of disappointment said it all, followed by “why did you cut your looong, straight hair??” Never mind that it wasn’t my hair lol, but this short curly “Afro-looking hairstyle” threw me into the world where hairstyles arguably have an influence upon some aspects of our lives, the reactions and dynamics which follow.
From the long, straight weave of Naomi Campbell and Tyra Banks, to the short curls of Ajak Deng and so forth...and how about for women such as myself? As I was sitting with a group of great female friends over the weekend, we discussed how some of our friends ensure their hair is straightened if they have a big meeting with an “important” client at work, some cut their dreadlocks in the hope of snaring that long-awaited executive job, amidst the cries of some friends’ toddlers, “Mummy, why isn’t my hair nice and straight like that?” (pointing to a picture of a non-African/black friend). In the past, I have also thought once or twice (in fact, way more than that!) before venturing outside the house with my thick Afro.
So even in these times where women are so independent and increasingly empowered, why does the thought of a hairstyle that is more natural to their African heritage, still bring slight palpitations and a balancing of, “Will I get the job. Will he still fancy me” jitters?
It’s far from easy for some, but whether you want a hip-length straight weave, curly weave or want to go natural etc, wear your hairstyle with pride knowing you chose it for a reason, other than one outside of yourself!
From the long, straight weave of Naomi Campbell and Tyra Banks, to the short curls of Ajak Deng and so forth...and how about for women such as myself? As I was sitting with a group of great female friends over the weekend, we discussed how some of our friends ensure their hair is straightened if they have a big meeting with an “important” client at work, some cut their dreadlocks in the hope of snaring that long-awaited executive job, amidst the cries of some friends’ toddlers, “Mummy, why isn’t my hair nice and straight like that?” (pointing to a picture of a non-African/black friend). In the past, I have also thought once or twice (in fact, way more than that!) before venturing outside the house with my thick Afro.
So even in these times where women are so independent and increasingly empowered, why does the thought of a hairstyle that is more natural to their African heritage, still bring slight palpitations and a balancing of, “Will I get the job. Will he still fancy me” jitters?
It’s far from easy for some, but whether you want a hip-length straight weave, curly weave or want to go natural etc, wear your hairstyle with pride knowing you chose it for a reason, other than one outside of yourself!
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