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Braids | Zikoko!
  • 20 Stunning Ghana Weaving Styles to Try Out in 2024

    It’s 2024, and while the girlies seem to be moving towards knotless French curls and micro kinky braids, we bring you 20 reasons why Ghana weaving should be at the top of your protective style list.

    What do Ghana weaving styles look like?

    Also called Ghana Braids, this style is a type of cornrow braiding that originated in Ghana. They require hair extensions and are usually braided straight back to achieve the signature dense look.

    ghana weaving

    Image: @_jkimble on Instagram

    Here are 20 of the hottest Ghana weaving styles you can easily recreate.

    Braids in a high ponytail

    ghana weaving braids in a high ponytail

    Ghana braids ponytail. Image: Maboplus

    If you love ponytails, this is perfect for you. You can switch this sleek high ponytail look up by braiding the ponytail into one large braid.

    Micro Ghana weaving

    micro ghana weaving

    Image: Kanyinz Blog

    This look might have you spending more time at the hairdresser’s, but if style longevity is what you seek, try the micro-sized braids. Micro styles also offer versatility. 

    Criss-cross Ghana braids

    criss-cross Ghana braids

    Image: iamcreation_of_beautyyy on Instagram

    For when you want to add a twist to the simple all-back braids.

    Ghana braids with curls

    ghana braids with curls

    Image: Laadey.com

    You can make the ends curly or add curly extensions between each cornrow. Doesn’t this just make you want to weave your hair too?


    RELATED: 10 Different Ways to Style Knotless Braids


    Ghana weaving up-do (or shuku)

    ghana weaving up-do

    Image: Yen.com.gh

    Because a stylish up-do will always work.

    Fulani-style braids

    fulani ghana braids

    Image: stylecraze

    If there were such a thing as a Ghana weaving constitution, it’d say this look isn’t complete without cowrie beads or some other local hair accessory.

    Large Ghana braids

    large ghana weaving braids

    Image: Laadey.com

    You don’t have to spend hours styling this, and it’s stunning too. Classic win-win.

    Double ponytails

    ghana weaving double ponytail braids

    Image: Dailyhindnews

    Channel 90s chic with this youthful double ponytail look. It also works with short braids.

    Ghana weaving with beads

    ghana weaving with beads

    Image: ThriveNaija

    For when you want to add a little razzle-dazzle.


    All hot babes WILL attend Zikoko’s Hertitude. Click here to buy your ticket and join them.

    Braided bun

    ghana weaving braided bun

    Image: Hairmotive

    The length of the braids will determine how full the bun will be. The longer the braids, the thicker the bun.

    Side-swept Ghana braids

    side-swept ghana braids

    Image: Laadey.com

    Why stick to a simple all-back look when you can try this side-swept beauty too? Again, this works for short and long braids.

    Ghana braids with wavy partings

    ghana braids with wavy parting

    Image: braidsby_veronica on Instagram

    One thing’s for sure; you’ll stand out with these wavy partings. They’re less common than the standard straight partings. And you don’t need to think too much about styling options because the partings are a whole lewk by themselves.

    Half-up braids

    half-up ghana weaving braids

    Image: Israel Ribeiro

    Save time by braiding only half of your hair and leaving the rest either as a curly or straight afro.

    Braided bob

    braided ghana weaving bob

    Image: Futibraids on Instagram

    Not every time long braids, sometimes go short. This look is pretty straightforward, but definitely not boring. You can experiment with different colours, plus it’s really easy to style.

    Jumbo feed-in braids

    jumbo feed-in ghana braids

    Image: Tantalstyles

    For when you’re in the mood for a simple, no-frills look.

    High curly bun

    high curly bun

    Image: Ghanabraidstyles

    After styling your braids in a basic high bun, crochet in some curly extensions to add a twist. 

    Ghana stitch braids

    ghana stitch braids

    Image: Savs styles

    You can’t go wrong with classic stitch braids. You can style this look into a low bun or with the ends braided together into a single ponytail.

    Ghana weaving with face-framing braids

    ghana weaving with face-framing braids

    Image: Gbemzy beauty

    For the babes with exotic foreheads who swear by face-framing styles.

    Mohawk braids

    Mohawk braids

    Image: Black hair ideas

    This style works great for a bold look. You can style the mohawk into an afro if you prefer a shorter style.

    Half-up braids and bun

    half-up braids and bun

    Image: Pearl the stylist

    For when you want to give your half-up braid style a different look. This works great for fun, casual settings.

    Zig-zag braids

    Zig-zag Ghana braids

    I know what you’re thinking; zig-zags are so 2010. But if fashion can go back to the days of belt-sized skirts and small handbags, why can’t this style make a comeback?

    ALSO READ: How Much It Costs to Get Your Favourite Braids in 6 Nigerian Cities

    Don’t leave without getting your ticket to HERtitude 2023!
  • 8 Stunning Protective Hairstyles That’ll Also Save You From This Heat

    We don’t know if it’s because mercury is in “lucozade” or just Nigeria showing us shege in one of its many creative ways, but the weather is crazy hot and humid these days, and naturalista babes are literally facing the heat.

    Desperate times call for desperate measures, so here’s a list of quick and easy protective styles to save your tresses from this heatwave.

    Bantu knots

    Black model wearing bantu knots

    Image source: Claraito’s Blog

    What’s not to love about bantu knots? They’re relatively easy to style, look stylish, and most importantly, they’ll keep your neck free from the plenty of sweating you’re bound to do this period.

    Braids

    Black model wearing knotless braids styled into a bun.

    Image source: pearlthestylist_

    Hot weather is lazy weather, so just throw on your favourite box or knotless braids and keep them in a permanent bun. You won’t have to worry about styling your hair and it’ll stay away from your face. Win-win.


    RELATED: What Your Favourite Type of Braids Says About You


    Plain cornrows

    Black model wearing cornrows.

    Image source: Dimitrios Kambouris, Getty Images

    Before you ask, “all-back?” Hear me out. There’s nothing better than being able to pour water on your head, especially at times like these. Plain cornrows will allow you do just that without the fear of ruining your hairdo.

    Hair threading (AKA Irun kiko)

    Young lady with African threaded hair.

    Image source: Busayo Nyc

    This one has props for being hella cheap, and best believe you’ll stand out from the crowd. The best way to make this hairstyle is head bent between your local hairdresser’s legs. It’s the culture.

    Twists

    Young lady wearing two-strand twists.

    Image source: Coils and Glory

    You can do this with your natural hair alone or with kinky extensions. You don’t need to do much with them. But they’re great for multiple styles if you want your hair out of your neck, or just want to pour water on it.

    Braided up-dos (AKA Shuku)

    Black woman with a plaited up-do hairstyle

    Image source: Instagram (@slayedinbraids)

    Your hair might cause traffic in a cinema hall, but is it protected and safe from humidity? Hell, yes.

    ‘Fro ponytail

    Image source: Getty images

    There are days you’ll be too tired to do anything more than pack your hair in a ponytail, and that’s okay. Slap on a little edge control for cute baby hair — and pretend the heat won’t just melt it off in one hot minute — and you’re good to go.

    Good ol’ scarf

    Black woman wearing an ankara head wrap.

    Image source: Stylish gwin

    Or head wraps, if you’re feeling fancy. You might argue that it’ll bring more heat to your scalp, but it’s protecting your hair, isn’t it?


    Starts today. Read Jemima Osunde’s story here


    NEXT READ: 8 Natural Hairstyles That Won’t Stress Your Life

  • 10 Different Ways to Style Knotless Braids

    As a babe that absolutely loves knotless braids, it tends to feel like a waste of beauty when I just keep my braids in one or two styles for the entire duration I have them because, laziness. I did some research on how to style knotless braids and believe me when I say your style game is about to be elevated.

    High bun with a side sweep

    This style works great for when you have long braids, but the heat isn’t smiling at all. It’s easy too; just pack your hair in a regular bun, but leave out some braids in the front so you can sweep them to the side to add to the bun.

    Image source: ariyohairr

    Halfway double buns

    For when you want to show everyone you took Beyoncé’s ALIEN SUPERSTAR to heart. For this style, part your braids into two horizontal halves, let the lower half flow free and then style the upper half into two buns.

    Image source: daniisworld

    Halfway double pigtails

    If you think the halfway double bun is too dramatic, then you can just leave the buns as pigtails. Leave out one braid from each pigtail for a bonus look.

    Image source: Symphanisoto 


    RELATED: Gorgeous Low Maintenance Hairstyle Options for Women


    Half up bun

    This look legit gives Fulani princess vibes. To style this, part your hair in two horizontal halves and style the top half into a tight bun.

    Image source: Jamilaxamal

    Good ol’ high ponytail

    Because laziness will always win. It’s a cute style so why not? Pop out your scrunchie and pain relievers (to handle the inevitable headache this style will cause) and you’re good to go.

    Image source: Modelesque Nic

    Side part

    For when you want to rock your braids just as they are. This style works for a fun girls’ night out or when you just want to let loose.

    Image source: Hottest haircuts

    Beaded braids

    Beads always work. For best results, use them with short to medium braids.

    Image source: Black beauty bombshells

    Side ponytail

    This is styled like a regular ponytail, but just to the side.

    Image source: Beauty by lau

    Low bun

    This style works with medium or long braids. Pack your hair close to the nape of your neck, style it into a bun and you’re done.

    Image source: Britnee Dolce

    Side braid

    Add a new twist to the side part hairstyle by creating a simple side braid for a stylish, chic look.

    Image source: Unprocessed lifestyle


    NEXT READ: What Your Favourite Type of Braids Says About You

  • How Much It Costs to Get Your Favourite Braids in 6 Nigerian Cities

    Love it or hate it, braids are an intricate part of the Nigerian female beauty experience. Protective hairstyles are all the rave now. There’s something about not having to bother about styling your hair for weeks that makes up for all the stress of getting braided hairstyles.

    What does it cost to get your favourite braid styles, though? We asked six ladies in six Nigerian cities.

    Abuja

    — Ortega, 23

    People in this city spend crazy amounts of money on braids, but I never reach. I usually get regular box braids, which cost an average of ₦8k to ₦10k (including hair extensions and service charges) in a local saloon. But if you’re feeling bougie and you go to those fancy places, it can cost up to ₦20k — maybe ₦15k if they’re kind. Braiding natural hair is even more expensive.

    lady in a black hoodie spotting box braids
    box braids

    RELATED: The Secret Life of a Nigerian Hairdresser

    Lekki, Lagos 

    — Cynthia*, 29

    I’m a knotless braids girl, and it costs me an average of ₦50k to braid my hair. My salon has fixed prices for everything, and here’s the breakdown: I usually get a hair treatment before braiding which costs about ₦20k, and the braids and hair extensions cost about ₦30k. I think it’s a reasonable price because they also take out my old braids, and the salon has a superb ambience.

    black lady with a hoop nose rink spotting freshly made knotless braids
    knotless braids

    RELATED: 7 Ways to Spot a Rich Nigerian Woman

    Ado-Ekiti

    — Joke, 25

    I recently moved here, and while I don’t exactly love the city, I definitely can’t hate the budget-friendly hairstyling prices. I do all kinds of braids — kinky, cornrows, even ghana weaving and I typically spend between ₦7k to ₦8k, including hair extensions. Honestly, extensions take the bulk of the price because they’re more expensive here than in Lagos, but I can’t complain.

    black lady spotting kinky braids with charms in them
    kinky braids
    black lady showing her freshly made cornrows
    cornrows
    teenage girl in a pink shirt spotting freshly made ghana weaving packed in a pony tail
    ghana weaving

    Ilorin

    — Tope, 24

    My go-to braid style is definitely knotless braids, and it costs me around ₦10k to get them done. I use two hair extensions that cost ₦2,200 each, and the service charge is usually within the range of ₦4k to ₦5k. This doesn’t include relaxer application or washing, though, as that can involve an additional ₦2k.

    Osogbo

    — Maria*, 31

    I can’t be caught dead braiding my hair at a salon where I have to be “giving” the stylist hair extensions. So, I’m happy to shell out around ₦18k for simple cornrow braids (including hair extensions). It’s pretty expensive, but I’m paying for my comfort, so it’s worth it.

    Ibadan

    — Favour*, 22

    I’m not much of a braids person. The most I’ve done is crochet braids, and that’s because I hate sitting in one place for too long. The price for every braid session varies depending on the type or number of hair extensions I use, but the service charge is always around ₦3k to ₦4k. If I factor in hair extensions of maybe ₦5k, my total budget would be around ₦8k to ₦9k.

    black woman with arm tattoos, spotting kinky braids
    kinky braids

    *Some names have been changed for the sake of anonymity.

    NEXT READ: Give Women One of These Eight Things and They’ll Love You Forever

  • What Your Favourite Type of Braids Says About You

    This one is for the sweet babes who love — and amazingly don’t mind — getting braids and living their best protective style lives. 

    So, whether you prefer knotless braids or the multiple other braid styles available in the black girl universe, read what your favourite type says about you below.

    Box braids

    You’re either a Gen Xer cosplaying as a younger person, or you don’t exactly like change. Everything in this life would stay the same if it were up to you, and $1 would still exchange for ₦65. 

    Box braids

    Knotless braids

    You consider yourself hip and fun, and you’ll do anything to make sure others know it, too — even if it involves spending the minimum wage on one braiding session. Seriously, where you dey see this money?

    Knotless braids

    Cornrow braids

    You don’t like stress, and you’re definitely not about that sitting-in-the-salon for six hours life. You laugh at the face of those that claim that beauty is pain. For here?

    Cornrow braids

    RELATED: The Hair Struggles Naturalistas Can Relate To

    Braided ponytails AKA “shuku”

    You’re very bold because that’s the only reason you wake up in the morning and decide you want to rock shuku. Did all the years of forced shuku hairstyles in secondary school do nothing to you? Don’t you need a break?

    Braided ponytails

    Micro braids

    No one can convince us that your middle name isn’t Patience. Why else would you decide to stay put for five market days just to get braids? You seem like the type of person who’ll stop at nothing to slay, and we can’t even judge.

    Micro braids

    Senegalese twists

    You’ve been here a while but you’re still a young babe at heart. Fashion trends don’t easily influence you, and you just stick to what you love.

    Senegalese twists

    Double Dutch Braids

    You just get your hair braided so you can rest from combing and styling your hair. We feel you, sis. It’s not easy.

    Double Dutch Braids

    Ghana Weaving

    If you’re really honest with yourself, you’d admit that you take advantage of salon time to get out of the house. You enjoy having “me” time and you’ll do anything to get it — even if it involves sitting through seven hours of pain and torture.

    Ghanaian braids

    Kinky Braids

    You’re in the same group chat with the Senegalese twists babe, you do you at all times. You’re probably a champion for zero plastic use and sustainable environmental practices.

    Mohawk Braids

    You’re a bad bitch, and anyone who talks anyhow is very likely to collect wotowoto. Rumour has it that you’re a closet softie, but who dares come close enough to find out?

    NEXT READ: Things They Don’t Tell You about Locking Your Hair

  • 15 Things That Are Too Real For Every Woman That Has Gotten Her Hair Braided

    1. When the hairdresser takes forever to start

    Nobody has time to waste o.

    2. Then she finally starts after keeping you waiting for a long time but you still know you’ll be spending the whole day

    https://twitter.com/Vness0808/status/556166400029769730
    It better be worth it.

    3. When someone else comes to join her and they start pulling your hair in two different directions

    What is this tug of war now?

    4. And your hair hurts a lot and you have to hold back the tears

    Because big girls don’t cry.

    5. So you stylishly feel around and you realise you still have a long way to go.

    https://twitter.com/breeze_ways/status/624024242934263808/photo/1
    Is this even life?

    6. Then when you finally think you have have two plaits left, she splits It into ten plaits

    What is this multiplication miracle now?

    7. But you finally finish and remember that the hair has to be dipped in boiling water

    Wahala.

    8. Then you look in the mirror and see your amazing braids

    Perhaps it was worth the struggle.

    9. Then the tightness and soreness sets in

    Can’t even pack the hair up.

    10. Then random people start to touch your hair

    Talking about ‘it’s fine’, abeg.

    11. And you have to keep telling people not to touch

    Is it your hair?!

    12. And your braids start to fall out

    Already?

    13. And then it’s time to take them out

    Double wahala.

    14. Then you start to miss them

    The irony.