When the weave looks like a mop – let it go!

THE braid life has been absolutely good to me through most of winter. I’ve enjoyed walking out of the shower, into my outfit for the day and heading straight to work without worrying about combing my hair. It’s been quite the easy life, hassle free and yes, time saving. But it’s time to say goodbye to the good old braids! I mean, there have been in there for over six weeks now – it’s about time. There’s been so much hair growth it’s become untidy, some braids are dangling loose and I’m beginning to fear for my hairline. 

My hairdresser has even started sending reminders that the braids have to go! You know it has reached unprecedented levels when, your hairdresser who has scores of other clients to worry about, remembers you’re long overdue for an appointment. Of course, some can push for eight weeks and get away with it by styling their braids into all sorts of funky dos but please don’t push it for so long with a weave. I bet the hair would’ve even started giving off the dreaded stench of old moisturiser or petroleum. You know what I’m talking about. That synthetic weave won’t look too pretty when the ends resemble a scrubbing brush – the kind I’d use to brush my shower floor clean. The weave would’ve become so hard and brittle with some bobble in it and there you are, still holding on. 

We might as well take your weave out and use it as a scourer! It’s even worse when it’s a short weave. Have you noticed how, if it’s kept for too long, ends up looking like a mop? It loses shape, the strands are scattered and it looks like it’s just sitting there, waiting to mop the next liquid spillage. While we’re at it, can we talk about weave and braid colour for a second. Come on now, can we really be plating blonde braids over black hair? I get that fashion trends are evolving but no, that just looks clumsy – especially when it gets old. If the reason you’re not getting rid of the weave is because you’re cash strapped, why not keep your hair natural and low maintenance? Save yourself some money on regular weave purchases and an arsenal of hair products by keeping your hair short or natural. Too many women put themselves under so much pressure such that they can’t do without weaves. 

 

They believe the only way one can be considered beautiful is when they’re wearing a weave. That’s such an inferiority complex and lack of self-confidence, it actually breaks my heart. Girl, you can rock your hair short or even go bald and still turn some heads! A lot of women are not comfortable cutting their hair short because they feel longer hair covers up for a lot of their flaws but that’s actually far from the truth. The secret lies in making sure your make up and jewellery are on point. Go for a more defined eyebrow and bold lipstick and you’ll be just fine. The jewellery will be useful in ensuring you don’t look too plain.

Regardless of whether you’re channeling bold colours or subtle highlights, any colour-change you do will always make a statement against your short layers. But, while trends like Instagram-inspired highlights and pastel strands are having a moment, it’s hard to say whether or not they’ll become certified classics. I admit, protective hairstyles are good, especially during harsh weather conditions such as winter but don’t abuse them. Sure, the weave and braids will lock in your hairs’ moisture and help prevent breakage but learn to let them go in good time. You need a shampoo and some air – don’t deprive yourself of that little bit.