Dreadlocks are a versatile and unique hairstyle that has cultural significance and aesthetic appeal. While dreadlocks stand out on their own, adding hair accessories can take your style to the next level. Whether you’re looking for a casual, elegant, or bold look, the right accessories can help you express your individuality and enhance your dreads. In this article, we’ll explore various ways to style dreadlocks with hair accessories and offer tips to make your locks truly stand out.
1. Beads: A Classic Choice
Beads are one of the most popular and accessible accessories for dreadlocks. Available in various materials like wood, metal, and glass, beads can instantly add personality to your hair. Their size and placement allow for creativity.
How to Style: Slide beads onto individual locks, securing them by threading them through the end or midway up the dreadlock. Use multiple beads for a playful look or just one or two for a subtle touch.
Pro Tip: Mix and match bead colors and materials for a unique style. For a more polished appearance, choose beads that complement your outfit or personal style.
2. Hair Wraps: Add a Splash of Color
Hair wraps are another fun way to style your dreadlocks. Made from colorful threads or fabrics, wraps can cover an entire lock or just a portion, offering both texture and color. Hair wraps are often used to express personal style and creativity, making them a bold statement accessory.
How to Style: Start by wrapping thread or fabric around a dreadlock, working from the root to the end. Secure the wrap by tying a knot at the base or end of the lock. You can add charms or beads to the wrapped section for an extra flair.
Pro Tip: Use contrasting colors to make your wraps pop, or choose earthy tones for a more natural, laid-back vibe.
3. Dreadlock Cuffs: Simple and Stylish
Dreadlock cuffs are small metallic accessories that clip onto your locks. These cuffs are easy to apply and remove, making them a versatile choice for those who want a quick way to accessorize their dreadlocks.
How to Style: Simply open the cuff and place it around a lock, then gently close it to secure. You can add multiple cuffs to different sections of your hair for a more intricate look or stick with one or two for a minimalist style.
Pro Tip: Choose gold, silver, or bronze cuffs to match your other jewelry. You can also mix metals for an eclectic, trendy appearance.
4. Headbands and Scarves: For a Boho Vibe
Headbands and scarves are perfect for adding both style and function to your dreadlocks. Whether you’re keeping your locks in place or adding a pop of color, these accessories are great for everyday wear or special occasions.
How to Style: Wrap a scarf around your head and tie it at the back or side for a boho-chic look. Alternatively, use a stretchy headband to pull back your dreads and show off your face. Both accessories work well for any dreadlock length.
Pro Tip: Choose lightweight scarves for warmer days and thicker ones for cooler months. For added flair, leave the ends of the scarf hanging down the sides of your head.
5. Charms and Pendants: Personalize Your Locks
Charms and pendants offer a way to personalize your dreadlocks and make them stand out. These small accessories can be attached to individual locks, giving your dreads a unique and meaningful touch.
How to Style: Slide small charms onto your dreadlocks or attach them with small rings or elastic bands. You can place them near the tips or roots, depending on the look you want. Select charms that hold personal meaning, such as symbols, gemstones, or trinkets.
Pro Tip: Mix and match different shapes and sizes for an eclectic look, or stick with a single theme for a cohesive style.
6. Flowers: Fresh and Feminine
For a natural and feminine touch, try adding flowers to your dreadlocks. Whether you choose fresh blooms or faux flowers, this accessory is perfect for festivals, weddings, or any occasion where you want to feel connected to nature.
How to Style: Tuck flowers into your locks or secure them with small bobby pins or clips. You can create a full flower crown or place individual flowers throughout your dreads for a more subtle look.
Pro Tip: Opt for faux flowers for a long-lasting style, or choose fresh blooms for special occasions. Match the flowers with the season or your outfit for a coordinated appearance.
7. Elastic Bands: Functional and Fashionable
Elastic bands may seem basic, but they are incredibly useful for styling dreadlocks. Available in various colors and sizes, these bands can be both functional and stylish, helping you create a wide range of hairstyles.
How to Style: Use elastic bands to tie your dreadlocks into ponytails, buns, or updos. Choose bright colors for a fun, casual look, or go for neutral tones for a more understated style.
Pro Tip: Don’t pull the bands too tightly, as this can damage your dreads over time. For a trendy twist, wrap a few dreads around the band to conceal it.
8. Rings: Add an Edge
Small rings, often used for piercing, can be an edgy addition to your dreadlocks. These rings can be placed along the length of your dreads, giving them a punk-inspired look.
How to Style: Open the ring and slide it onto your dread, then close it to secure. Use multiple rings for a bold look, or add just one for a subtle accent. You can also attach rings to beads or hair wraps for an extra layer of style.
Pro Tip: Opt for stainless steel or hypoallergenic metals to prevent irritation, especially if you’re using multiple rings.
9. Tiaras and Headpieces: Elegant and Regal
For formal events or special occasions, tiaras and headpieces can add a touch of elegance to your dreadlocks. These accessories make a statement and can transform your look into something truly regal.
How to Style: Place the tiara or headpiece on the crown of your head, allowing your dreads to cascade around it. Secure the accessory with bobby pins to keep it in place throughout the event.
Pro Tip: Pair your tiara with other accessories like cuffs or beads for a cohesive and glamorous look. This style is perfect for weddings, proms, or other formal events.
10. Barrettes and Clips: Simple and Chic
Barrettes and clips are great for securing small sections of your dreadlocks while adding a decorative touch. These accessories come in various designs, from simple metallic styles to embellished and jeweled pieces.
How to Style: Use clips or barrettes to pin back sections of your hair or to hold loose strands in place. They work well for half-up, half-down styles or for pulling your dreads to one side.
Pro Tip: Choose clips that complement the color of your dreads or opt for eye-catching designs to make them stand out. You can also layer multiple clips for a more intricate look.
11. Leather Straps: Earthy and Rustic
For an earthy, rustic vibe, leather straps are a fantastic choice. Leather can be woven into your dreads, providing both texture and style. It’s a great option for those looking for a natural and laid-back accessory.
How to Style: Wrap a thin leather strap around individual dreadlocks, or use a wider strap as a headband. You can tie the leather into knots or weave it into a braid for a more detailed look.
Pro Tip: Use leather in neutral or earthy tones for a grounded, natural look. You can also pair leather wraps with wooden beads or charms for a bohemian style.
12. Shells: Beachy and Bohemian
Shells are often associated with beachy, bohemian styles, making them perfect for summer or vacation looks. Shells can be attached to your dreadlocks in a variety of ways, creating a natural, relaxed appearance.
How to Style: Slide shells onto your dreads using elastic bands or thread. You can also tie them onto beads or wraps for an added layer of detail.
Pro Tip: For a beach-ready style, pair shells with other natural accessories like wooden beads or feathers.
13. Feathers: Free-Spirited and Unique
Feathers are another popular accessory for dreadlocks, often used to create a free-spirited, bohemian look. These lightweight accessories add movement and texture to your hair, making them a standout addition.
How to Style: Attach feathers to beads or wraps, or secure them directly to your locks using small elastic bands or clips. Choose feathers in bright colors for a bold statement or natural hues for a more subtle look.
Pro Tip: Layer multiple feathers of different lengths and colors for a dynamic, eye-catching style.
Conclusion
Styling dreadlocks with hair accessories allows you to experiment with different looks and express your individuality. Whether you prefer simple beads or bold headpieces, there’s an accessory for every occasion. Use these ideas to enhance your dreadlocks and make your hair a true reflection of your personal style. With the right accessories, your dreadlocks can go from basic to extraordinary.