Adorned Identities: Traditional Hairstyles of Igbo Women and Girls (1900-1930)

In Igbo culture, hairstyles signify beauty, status, and spirituality. Between 1900 and 1930, women and girls showcased intricate designs, adorning their hair with various ornaments.

The written record

The crested hairstyle Ojongo remained popular until the mid-20th century and is a distinctive element in Igbo art representing women. Women adorned their hair with various ornaments such as thread, feathers, shells, bone, wood, beads, Igbo currency, coins, or cloth.

They also used mud mixed with colorful ores, yellow and red camwood powder or paste, palm oil, and charcoal for styling. The threaded hairstyle Isi/Ishi Owu remains popular among married women in rural areas even today.

Historical context

Hairstyles:

1. Ojongo (Crested Hairstyle): Popular until mid-20th century, characterized by raised patterns.
2. Isi/Ishi Owu (Threaded Hairstyle): Enduring popularity among married women in rural areas.
3. Egbodo (Braided Hairstyle): Intricate patterns, often with cowry shells or beads.

Adornments:

1. Thread
2. Feathers
3. Shells
4. Bone
5. Wood
6. Beads
7. Igbo currency (Manillas)
8. Coins
9. Cloth

Styling Techniques:

1. Mud mixed with colorful ores
2. Yellow and red camwood powder/paste
3. Palm oil
4. Charcoal

Cultural Significance:

1. Represented marital status
2. Symbolized spirituality
3. Demonstrated artistic expression
4. Reinforced community affiliation