Durag / Do-Rags
Looking for a Durag? Take a look at our wide range of du-rags, suitable for both men and women! Besides the fact that it's an incredibly easy and cool bandana to wear, a durag is also super handy to keep your hair together, or to protect your hair at night.
What is a durag (Do-rag)?
You may have seen the silky looking hair-tie worn by men and women in music videos, also by some of your favorite athletes and wondered what it is. This is called a durag (also spelled do-rag, duraq, dewrag or doorag). The term “dorag” originates from do; as in a hairdo. It is a close-fitting head scarf used to protect hairstyles.
Origin of durag
The origin of durag dates to the 19th century, where it was used mostly by women to hold back their hair while they worked, and to keep it covered while they slept. As early as the 1990s, some of our favorite rappers such as Nelly and Ja Rule brought durags to the mainstream media, wearing theirs as a fashion statement.
The primary use of a durag however, is to protect your hair and keep it tidy. It is highly functional for people with curly, wavy, or coarse hair and keeps your hair clean and protected from the elements.
What are durags made from?
The most common are the silky, shiny models. But durags can also be made of velvet, as well as polyester. Here at African fabs, we sell different types of durags:
Polyester with a silky touch – These have the traditional silky look and are breathable.
100% cotton – Unbleached cotton contains natural lignins that act as UV absorbers. These are great for the outdoors and would shield your hair and neck from the sun.
Luxury velvet durags - Velvets provide better compression for your hair compared to the traditional silky durags.
Who can wear a durag?
Society portrays the durag as something criminal and crude. In art, music, and fashion, durags are seen as a tribute to black tradition, a celebration of culture and a symbol of diaspora.
Durags can be worn by men and women of all cultures. Du-rags are like satin bonnets or stocking caps —used to preserve certain hairstyles.
Uses of a durag
- Reduces frizz – Durags help to keep in the moisture in your hair, hence preventing dryness.
- Preserves waves – For maintaining 360 waves, a durag keeps the hair in place and allows the curls to form after brushing.
- Hair tie – Used to keep hair away from your face. Might be used during workouts or out in a windy area.
- Fashion statement – Durags can be styled with almost any outfit. From streetwear to T-shirt and jacket, tracksuit pants or jeans and sneakers.
- Keeps hair clean – With durags being so close to the head, it keeps dirt from going to your hair and scalp. This is often seen with people working outdoors.
- Straightens hair – Used on damp hair to straighten hair out. Great for a bun or ponytail.
- Protection from sun damage – The sun can cause similar damage to your hair as regular perms. Light-colored headwear as well as cotton will offer the most defense against the rays.
Durag sizing
Durags are a one-size-fits-all and can be made tighter or more loose depending on the wearer.
What durag should I use?
Depending on your hair type as well as the purpose for wearing, the cotton, polyester or velvety durags will meet your need. See above for advantages of each.