It is seen on women of all ages. Different forms, styles and colors are readily available to customers. Beyoncé, athletes and even women at Florida A&M use it. Not to mention, have become a staple in the black community. What am I talking about? Hair weaves of course.
All women want to feel valued and are constantly looking for ways to express themselves. In today’s society, hair has evolved into an important outlet of self-expression. Wearing a weave for some women is like carrying a wallet for men. They never leave home without it.
Weaves reflect our personalities and attitudes. Unique styles help some become more individual among the crowd, while others gain a sense of comfort with their weave. Even though I don’t wear weave, the saying, “If it’s nappy, no one’s happy,” is true from my standpoint. Appearance matters, because looking your best translates to feeling your best.
Extensions are not a way for blacks to lose our heritage and become more European. In fact, it is strengthening and diversifying our culture. Heritage is something that is built within us over the years. Our culture is learned from our families and ancestors: that defines who we are.
How we wear our hair is simply a matter of preference. Weaves bring versatility that no other hair product produces and that is what people envy. A young woman could be walking through campus one day with long dark hair and have short light hair the next. The ability to transform at the slightest whim makes weaves highly valued and cherished. This unique product makes our culture stand out among others. These positive attributes define weave-wearing women.
Over the years, negative labels have been associated with weaves and the women who choose to wear it. Weave has been a victim of “guilt by association.”
Weaves off the shelves don’t look bad; it is how people wear them. One bad weave does not represent all the women who maintain and take care of their hair.
We do not wear weaves to mold into a social norm, but to enhance the beauty we already possess. We wear weaves for convenience, reliability and happiness. Regardless of the hair we choose to wear, being a happy and healthy human being starts with acceptance of ourselves, even if it means wearing hair that bought in the store.