By Josephine Agbonkhese

Beyond being fashion statements, hairstyles are a mark of identity for different societies around the world.

Therefore, over the years, Nigerian hairstyling, like every other aspect of the Nigerian culture, has evolved; and grown into a medium of self-expression.

As we celebrate 60 years of independence as a nation, Vanguard Allure reminisces on top hairstyles rocked by Nigerian women at different times in history.

Cornrows

Regarded as one of the most well-known styles of all times, this hairstyle has remained a classic since the 1960s and 1970s when it became popular. It has evolved into sophisticated looks with the use of attachments, making this supposed conservative hairstyle fit for almost all occasions.

Afro

Afro hairstyles have constantly been in and out of vogue since the 1960s to early 70’s when they became popular among Nigerian women and men. It involves leaving untreated hair to stand tall. Today, the natural Afro hair is being replaced by extensions.

Chignon
The chignon, which can be traced to ancient Greece where Athenian women commonly wore it with gold or ivory handcrafted hairpins, has been worn over the years by Nigerian women for special occasions like weddings, dinners, etc. This elegant hair style, effortlessly exudes royalty and it’s a choice hair style for Black tie events.

Classic thread

A popular method for growing and straightening the hair without having to use a hair straightener, hair threading has been part of hair care routine for many generations among women in Sub Saharan countries including Nigeria. Remember the puff-puff hairstyle? That’s one of its variants. Treading is very similar to faux locs but in this case, the hair is woven together, giving it the vintage look.

Ghana weaving

Also known as fishbone, Ghana braids are African cornrow protective hairstyles made with hair extensions but in a sleeker and trendier way. This versatile hairstyle emerged in the late 1990s and has since grown into a globally accepted hairstyle. Every Nigerian woman has probably rocked it at some point too, using either wool or regular attachments.

Million braids
This hairstyle hit the beauty scene like a storm. Although it takes hours to do, the result is always amazing. With the growth in fashion though, it is now being made into wigs, saving women the stress of sitting in the salon for hours.