Bantu knots may have reached peak star power in the mid-2000s, but they’re a forever favorite among those looking for a protective style. “Bantu knots are considered a protective style because the ends of the hair are tucked away, keeping them protected and unexposed from outside elements,” says Los Angeles-based hairstylist Erinn Courtney. Plus, they offer a two-in-one deal. You can wear your Bantu knots for a while and then you can take them out, and voilà—you have effortless, heat-free curls. “Another extremely popular way to wear Bantu knots is to untwist them after a couple of days for gorgeous bouncy, wand-like curls,” adds celebrity stylist Whitney Eaddy, the founder of Juices & Botanics.
What more could you ask for?
The style might have been popularized through the natural hair community, but Bantu knots have been around for more than 100 years. They are believed to have originated with the Zulu tribes of Southern and West Africa, and they have remained a popular hairstyle for Black people throughout the world ever since.
Looking for Bantu knot inspiration? We’ve got you covered. Keep scrolling for 27 gorgeous Bantu knot hairstyles to try today.
