What is Durag? When to wear it? All about durag

Keeping your hair looking great is no small feat, especially when you have a hairstyle that requires as much upkeep as waves or braids.

To hold straight hair in place and lock in moisture, you should consider wearing a durag. This headwear is not only a stylish choice, but it also offers a wide range of benefits for your hair.

Moreover, it is deeply rooted in African American culture and has inspired countless historical movements in the United States. If you're trying to grow your hair out, make it look better, or want to learn more about their history, keep reading.

What is a Durag?

A durag - also called a do-rag - is a type of headgear designed to hold your hair in place. It comes in different fabrics, including silk, mesh and velvet, and features a bow at the back or front of the head. People of color have worn these head coverings for generations - they have deep cultural significance and provide protection for the hair. The history of the durag begins with the Ethiopian kings in the 19th century.

It also has a dark history related to slavery, but the early 20th century saw a change in meaning. The Harlem Renaissance, which ran from 1918 to the 1930s, saw the revival of African American music, art, fashion and politics - headgear was encouraged to maintain the hairstyles.

In the 1960s, it became a fashion item and a political statement; rappers and famous athletes started wearing it in the 90s. At that time, however, it received negative press due to its association with the rap scene. The NBA banned players from wearing them in 2000, and the NFL did the same in 2001.

Today, people wear this headgear to express themselves, preserve their hair, and reclaim their heritage. This headgear has remained a historical and political piece that provides benefits to the wearer and is a fashion statement.

Benefits of Wearing a Durag

The durag is not just a fashion accessory to tie your ensemble together, it is also a deeply cultural object, and it also brings amazing benefits to your hair. Whether you're rocking waves, maintaining braids, or want to exercise effectively, a durag can help you along the way. Depending on the hairstyle you have or want to have, there are different benefits to trying this headwear.

Maintain the waves

Waves, which are one of the most difficult hairstyles to maintain, require special patience and care to maintain their optimal appearance. To maintain 360° waves, you will need to brush your hair frequently. A durag keeps your hair moist, which prevents frizz and dryness. Plus, the way the fabric lays on the surface of the hair helps it grow in the right direction.

When should you wear a durag?

For best results, go through your brushing routine, apply moisturizer, then wear a durag before bed.

Fashion accessory

As we mentioned earlier, this headgear has a long history. Iconic celebrities such as Jay-Z, Drake and A$AP Ferg, Paul Pogba, Karim Benzema have all worn this headgear during their careers, and it quickly became a fashion statement again.

Men can pair durags with almost any outfit. They are perfect with street clothes for casual events or with super trendy outfits on the streets of Fashion Week.

You can wear it with a T-shirt and a jacket, sweatpants or jeans and sneakers. You can also try it with a logo-embellished durag , shirt, coat, and jeans. As it is very versatile, you can wear it any way you want and look great.

Maintaining hair cleanliness

In addition to improving hair texture, maintaining a certain style and being a fashion item, this headgear has an additional advantage: it helps to keep hair clean longer. A cloth stays close to the head, helping to keep dirt and grime from touching it. This is great for anyone exercising, going to bed, or in hot weather. For those who ride bikes, wearing a durag under your helmet can keep your hairstyle intact and prevent oils and sweat from coming into contact with your hair.

Durag Materials

When deciding which durag you prefer to try, you need to consider the occasion you're wearing it, the results you're trying to achieve, and your overall attire. While most of these fabrics look great, some will work better than others for your hair.

silk durag

Silky or silky durags are not only stylish to wear, they are also the most beneficial for your hair. They often use a mix of materials to create a soft, satiny texture, but some are made from pure silk. They are considered one of the best options for compressing and maintaining 360 waves and braids. You can find them in a wide range of colors and styles, with logos and brands like LV and Off-White on the front and printed on the fabric.

Velvet Durag

This is one of the most aesthetically pleasing durag styles. While they provide some compression and protection for your hair, their biggest benefit is styling. With a unique texture and comfortable fit, it's a popular choice among many people - we can see why. You'll find them in a wide range of shades and styles, and they'll look great with a suit or casual ensemble.

Mesh Durag

Wearing clothing too close to hair and skin in hot weather can cause sweating and discomfort. This is where the mesh durag comes in: light and breathable, it is also very elegant. Just like its velvet equivalent, it doesn't really preserve the hairstyle, but it is a good option for a workout on a summer day. Plus, they're awesome!

How to Tie a Durag

Before putting on a durag, you should perform a hair treatment routine. Start by brushing your hair thoroughly. Once you've gone through your hair enough times, wash it with shampoo or soap, then brush it again until it's all white. Right after, apply some grease in your hair. Rub a little between your hands until it's shiny, then distribute it evenly all over your head. Then brush again! Once all these steps are completed, you can put on your durag.

1. Put the durag on your head with the seam pointing directly towards the center of your face.

2. Shift the fabric to cover your hair, but not the entire forehead - just above the eyebrows is the most common location.

3. Pull the strings behind you, making an "X" with the two. Start by taking a coin and placing it on the side of your head, just above the ear and on the forehead. Make sure the fabric is flat to avoid any marks on your skin. Place it behind the opposite ear to hold it in place, and repeat the operation on the other side.

4. Once the two sides are wrapped around the forehead and fixed behind the ear, tie them together by making a knot or a ribbon. Make sure the knot is tight enough to hold the hair back, but not so tight that you can't undo it.

5. Pull the loose fabric a little to tighten it a little more, and assess the alignment of the pieces on your forehead.

FAQs

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