If you're visiting Africa or just looking for a new addition to your wardrobe, you might want to consider wearing a doek. A doek is a beautifully vibrant headwrap or headscarf worn by women, particularly in Africa. It has a rich cultural history and is an art form in itself. There are many ways to wear it, but for those new to the practice or curious about it, we put together a guide on how to wear a doek.
1. Choosing Your Doek
The first step in wearing a doek is choosing the right one. There are a variety of colors and patterns to choose from, so pick one that suits your style and purpose. Whether you choose a traditional design or opt for a more modern one, make sure it pairs well with your outfit.
2. Preparing Your Doek
Before tying your doek, make sure it is clean and ironed to remove any wrinkles. This will give it a neater and smarter look. Also, decide on which side of the doek you want to be visible while wearing it. The most common choice is the "show" side, which is usually brighter and more vibrant. Place the doek on a flat surface with the "show" side facing downwards.
3. Tying Your Doek
3.1 Basic Doek Style
The basic doek style is the easiest and most popular choice. Start by folding the doek diagonally to create a triangular shape. Place the folded doek on your head, ensuring that the point of the triangle is at the back of your head. Tuck the long ends of the triangle behind your ears, and tie them once or twice at the back of your head. Adjust the doek to your desired fit and style by arranging the folds as you prefer.
3.2 Bow Doek Style
The bow doek style adds a touch of elegance to your outfit. Begin in the same way as the basic doek style, but tie the long ends of the triangle into a bow at the back of your head. Adjust the folds to create a more layered look, and you're good to go. This is a great look for special occasions or a night out.
3.3 Turban Doek Style
The turban doek style is perfect for those bad hair days or a protective style. Make a loop with half the doek, and then position the loop at the front of your head. Take the other half of the doek and wrap it tightly around your head, making sure to cover your hair completely. Tuck in the remaining ends at the back of your head, and adjust the folds to create a fuller look.
4. Accessorizing Your Doek
You can add accessories to your doek to make it even more stylish. One of such accessory is to add earrings. Hooped earrings are a perfect option, as they complement the rounded shape of the doek. Massive necklaces can also be worn with the doek. Make sure though that you're not overdoing it by pairing too many accessories with the doek.
A doek is more than just a headwrap. With a perfect choice of your doek, a little creativity, and the right styling, you can turn it into a statement piece of your wardrobe. It's a fantastic way to pay homage to the African culture and style.
