Dreadlocks Styles for Ladies (Dread Styles)

Dreadlocks are a hairstyle in which the hair is allowed to grow into long, matted, ropelike strands. The hair is not combed or brushed, but is instead allowed to naturally mat together over time. Dreadlocks styles for ladies are often associated with certain cultures and lifestyles, such as Rastafarianism and reggae music.

They can be formed in a variety of ways, including backcombing, twisting, or simply allowing the hair to grow and tangle over time. Black women dreadlocks styles can be worn by people of any race or ethnicity, although they are most commonly associated with people of African descent.

Types of Loc Styles for Women

There are many different types of dreadlock styles for ladies, and the options can vary depending on factors such as hair length, texture, and personal preference. Here are a few popular dreadlock hairstyles for ladies.

Traditional Dreadlocks

These are the classic style of dreadlocks, with long, thick ropes of matted hair. These loc styles for women have never dated and still remain relevant to this day.

Sisterlocks

These are smaller, thinner dreadlocks that are created using a specific technique. Sisterlocks require more maintenance and are typically more expensive than traditional dreadlocks.

Faux Locs

These are temporary dreadlocks that can be created using synthetic hair or yarn. Faux locs are a great way to try out the dreadlock look without committing to a permanent style.

This dread style involves braiding the hair and then wrapping synthetic hair around the braids to create the allusion of dreadlocks.

Fauxlocs can be styled in different thicknesses and lengths. They are a great way to experiment with the dreadlock look without the long-term involvement.

Half-up, half-down Dreadlocks

This style involves pulling the top half of the hair up into a bun or ponytail, while leaving the bottom half of the hair loose in long, flowing dreadlocks.

Bob-length Dreadlocks

Shorter dreadlocks can be a fun and funky look. Bob-length dreadlocks can be styled in a variety of ways, including updos, braids, and twists.

Colored Dreads

Dreadlocks can be dyed in a wide range of colors, from bright, bold hues to subtle, natural-looking shades. Although dying is more popular with other women’s hairstyles like frontal weaves and tribal braids, dying dreadlocks still looks cool. It does require quite a lot of effort to maintain.

Mohawk Dread Styles

This dreadlock styles for ladies involves shaving the sides of the head and leaving a strip of long, flowing dreadlocks down the middle.

Bantu Knot Dread Style

This bantu knot style dreadlock is popular in certain tribal customs. Other African women like to flex it whenever, and not just for special occasions.

Other Loc Styles for Women

The History of Dreadlocks

Dreadlocks trace their origins back to ancient civilizations, with evidence suggesting their existence in various parts of the world.

One of the earliest instances can be found in ancient Egypt, where mummies with well-preserved dreadlocked hair have been discovered. The ancient Egyptians, notably the priests and spiritual leaders, considered dreadlocks as a symbol of devotion to their deities.

Similarly, the Vedic scriptures of India, dating back over 2000 years, mention the practice of wearing matted or knotted hair as a symbol of asceticism and spiritual commitment.

Hindu sadhus, or holy men, have been maintaining dreadlocks as a part of their religious practices for centuries.

African Roots

In Africa, dreadlocks have a deep-rooted history and cultural significance. Various ethnic groups across the continent have embraced this hairstyle, each with its own unique practices and interpretations.

The Maasai warriors of East Africa, for instance, have been wearing dreadlocks as a symbol of strength and courage.

The Rastafari Movement

Perhaps the most widely recognized association with dreadlocks is the Rastafari movement, which emerged in Jamaica during the 1930s.

Rastafarians, inspired by the teachings of Marcus Garvey and the coronation of Haile Selassie as Emperor of Ethiopia, adopted dreadlocks as a symbol of resistance against societal norms and a connection to their African roots.

For Rastafarians, growing and wearing dreadlocks is not just a hairstyle but a spiritual journey. The “Nazarite vow,” inspired by the Bible, emphasizes the refrain from cutting hair as a sign of dedication and purity.

Bob Marley, the legendary reggae musician and a prominent figure in the Rastafari movement, played a pivotal role in popularizing dreadlocks worldwide.

Pop Culture and Modern Influence

Dreadlocks gained mainstream recognition and acceptance during the counterculture movements of the 1960s and 1970s. As a symbol of rebellion and nonconformity, the hairstyle became synonymous with the hippie movement and the quest for personal freedom.

In recent decades, dreadlocks have transcended cultural and ethnic boundaries, becoming a popular and fashionable hairstyle across the globe.

Celebrities, musicians, and athletes from various backgrounds have proudly embraced dreadlocks, contributing to its mainstream acceptance. Loc styles for women are now also really popular, with many different dread styles being worn.