Bantu knots themselves are not offensive, although some people dislike the term. It can be offensive for women outside of the black community to wear Bantu knots as it is an issue of cultural misappropriation. Celebrities such as Khloe Kardashian and Adele have previously created a debate about who can and cannot wear Bantu knots. Bantu knots have a cultural and ancestral association, and for just anyone to opt for this look ignores their significance.
Bantu Knots Hairstyles:
1. Bantu Knots + Short Hair
If you want to grow out your natural hair or you’re looking for a great protective style, then look no further than Bantu knots. Bantu knots with short hair are just one of the options with this versatile style. Although you won’t have much length with these mini knots and will need to twist tighter, the result is just as impressive. It is a fantastic way to protect your hair and take a break from heat styling, resulting in stronger locks. It is a basic look, but that is also appealing as you are sticking to the more traditional route. Be sure to apply a setting lotion for maximum effect.
2. Bantu Knots + Long Hair
Among the many benefits of Bantu knots is that it lends itself well to various styles and can be created on both long and short hair. The great thing about Bantu knots with long hair is that you can get a bit more experimental with your look. You can opt to put all of your hair into the knots, creating large knots that make a statement. Or go for a more relaxed and glam half up and half down style. Long hair also lets you get creative with accessories, including gold beads or cuffs.
3. Bantu Knots + Braids
Among the many benefits of Bantu knots is that they help retain hair growth and give you a break from heat styling. They are also incredibly versatile and can be created using various hair textures and lengths. Plus, you can get super creative with your appearance, for example, combining Bantu knots with braids. You want to section the hair, but instead of twisting as you would for Bantu knots, you only need one extra step; braid the hair into a French braid. You then twist it up and wrap it. This look creates a stunning, textured finish with more definition. Plus, when you do unravel your hair, you can expect lovely curls.
4. Bantu Knots + Natural Hair
Bantu knots can be traced back to the Zulu tribes in South Africa and can be worn with pride because of their cultural and ancestral association. They are sometimes also referred to as Zulu knots for this reason. It is a technique in which the hair is sectioned off, twisted, and wrapped to create a knot. Bantu knots look great with natural hair. Create your Bantu knots with freshly washed and well-moisturized hair to lock in the moisture and prevent frizziness. That said, you do need to allow some time for your hair to dry to prevent breakage caused by the twisting process. Embrace your natural locks with these cool and symbolic knots!
5. Bantu Knots + Straight Hair
When it comes to styling Bantu knots, it is not just one option for all. Bantu knots on straight hair can give you more length; it can also make styling easier and prevent frizziness. Combining Bantu knots with straight hair creates an interesting contrast if you opt to do a half-up, half-down, or ponytail look. Keep in mind that with longer hair, you need fewer sections; this will determine the size of your curl and the number of curls you will get.
6. Bantu Knots + 4C Hair
One of the best things about Bantu knots is how versatile the look is, and it lends itself well to a variety of hair textures and styles. 4C hair tends to experience more shrinkage than others, but Bantu knots is a style that is not restrictive and can absolutely be worn by those with 4C hair. Another benefit is that this look is low maintenance and easy to achieve and will lock in moisture, facilitate growth, and require little manipulation. You may want to straighten or stretch your hair beforehand for extra length, but this is not a requirement.
7. Bantu Knots + Dreads
Bantu knots are so adaptable and can also be worn with other hairstyles, including dreadlocks. This is a great way to keep your hair away from your face and off your neck in the warmer months, leaving you cool and looking great. It is a wonderful protective style for dreadlocks, but no matter how you choose to wear your Bantu knots, there are some definite pros. Plus, it doesn’t require heat or chemicals and therefore won’t cause damage. They are also easy to achieve and inexpensive.
8. Bantu Knots + Weave
If you are looking for a way to get waves or tight, springy curls without heat, then Bantu knots are the alternative you have been looking for. The style can be created using natural hair, but you can achieve this by using a weave if you want more length. A weave can help you get big Bantu knots; it is also a way to update your weave and can be done using curly or sleek textures. When creating your hairstyle, remember that the more knots you have, the more curls. With this in mind, you can opt for only a few knots, leaving the rest of your hair loose, or go big and bold.
9. Bantu Knot Twist Out
Bantu knots can be stunning for any occasion and can be dressed up or down. If you are looking for a glamorous option, then Bantu knot twists out could be it. A twist out refers to the process of installing twists and then unraveling them the next morning, resulting in a stunning curly pattern. If you love definition, this is the look for you. This is a cool and fashion-forward combination, creating interesting textures, framing your face, and enhancing your features.
10. Big Bantu Knots
If you’re looking for a style that makes a statement, then look no further than big Bantu knots. Large knots will definitely get you noticed and is a great option for someone with long or thick hair. There are so many ways to rock this look; whether you want to braid them first, pair the knots with another hairstyle, such as a half up and down hairdo, or you can add a bit of color to make them even more eye-catching. The larger sections you use to part your hair will also result in bigger curls when you unravel them.
11. Bantu Knot Out
Bantu knots look great, but you also get a gorgeous head of curls when you let them unravel. What is not to love about this? You basically get two looks in one. This process is called a knot out because, as the name suggests, you are taking the knots out — the smaller the knot, the tighter the curl. The result is a tight curl with a lot of spring. When doing this, unravel the knots carefully and separate the coils. This can be done every day if you love the effect; knot your hair before bed and unravel them in the morning.
12. Bantu Knot Mohawk
If you love interesting updos but want something that oozes with attitude, then you need a Bantu knot mohawk. It is a really fun look that is also relatively easy to achieve and maintain. Get creative by either styling your hair with Bantu knots in the shape of a mohawk at the top of your head or keep them only at the base, leaving your curls loose at the top. Get ready to grab everyone’s attention and make a statement! You can create this look with hair extensions, a weave, or your natural hair, depending on its length.
13. Bantu Knots Half Up Half Down
Women have taken inspiration from the traditional style and adapted it to suit their preferences, resulting in a wide variety of different looks that are perfect on all hair lengths and textures. Undoubtedly one of the most stunning styles to try is the Bantu knots half up and half down. There is something glamorous about this approach; it is excellent for more formal occasions or simply wanting to express yourself and your feminine side. The process will keep your hair away from your face and is a fantastic alternative to a headband or hair clips. The contrast between leaving your hair loose and opting to get Bantu knots at the top of your hairline is spectacular. Plus, it is a great way to show off your facial features.
