Growing up, I didn’t see a lot of people with dada, the Nigerian lingo for locs. As a matter of fact, it was considered an affront to society’s orderliness. Nowadays, locs are making incredible waves.
As a kid, a ‘normal’ Igbo young man was expected to be on a low cut or even go bald. Deviating hairstyles were viewed suspiciously.
Young men with knotted hair attracted much attention, and it was not always a positive one. They were judged as deviants who have become conduits for evil. Musicians and athletes, who wear these hairstyles were, however, ‘tolerated’ as they are presumed to be assuming a persona that matches their brand.
There was also a traditional religious belief and myth associated with locs. A child born with locs is unique, especially among the Yorubas and Igbos, and they ascribe to them somewhat supernatural powers, such as gift of healing and ability to foresee the future, among others.
Nowadays, the narrative has changed. Locs that was, hitherto, perceived to be dirty and mystic, is fast becoming a modern expression of fashion.
It is really intriguing that locs is no longer the exclusive reserve of musicians, athletes and celebrities. Today, models, actors and actresses, doctors, and even people working in the corporate world are growing locs on a massive scale.
Irrespective of the misconceptions and perceptions of the older generation about locs, people see other people with locs and get inspired to wear one themselves, not minding the stigma.
You can call it a trend or a movement. Either way, locs has become socially acceptable. Unlike decades ago, you could get a job with locs; you can wear locs and live a normal life, your culture or religion notwithstanding.
A popular style for men and women, locs continue to be a favorite style nowadays. With its complexity and uniqueness, rocking locs can be the perfect way to express yourself.
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