Can White Women Wear Head Wraps?
Let’s drill it down to one specific question that we get a lot: can white women wear head wraps and turbans?
September 7, 2021
Cultural appropriation: what does it mean? And who does it apply to? Is it a broad stroke concept, or are there nuances? Are there circumstances that are allowed more than others? Who has the final say on what’s appropriating and what’s not?
If you’re left scratching your head trying to answer each of these questions correctly, you’re not alone. Who has the exclusive rights to specific items of clothing and culturally-influenced styles is a hotly debated topic that isn’t easily summarized in one neat article (for our summary, head to the link at the end of this article). So, for now, let’s drill it down to one specific question that we get a lot: can white women wear head wraps?
The short answer is simple: yes, if you are white, you can wear a head wrap. But will you experience potential scrutiny for doing so? In reality, you may.
WHITE WOMEN WHO ROCK HEAD WRAPS
HEAD WRAPS AND CULTURAL APPROPRIATION
For some, the idea of white women partaking in an aspect of a minority culture just feels wrong. Often, this sentiment is due to the complicated, painful history associated with segregation, systemic racism and discrimination of Black people largely enacted by white American culture. Black culture in particular has also used head wraps and head scarves for centuries to signify status, for convenience, and as an act of resistance towards slavery. As such, feeling uneasy is completely valid - we’re not here to shame or disrespect anyone’s opinion. We acknowledge that the idea of head wraps worn by those outside a specific culture isn’t comfortable for everyone. However, as an overarching message of our own, here’s our thoughts on white women wearing head wraps:
Besides culture, there are so many other reasons to wear a head covering. Personally, our founder, Tam (a Black woman), started wearing one because she wanted to look chic & care for her textured hair without sacrificing time. But for some, disguising hair loss while looking fab is the goal. Others feel drawn to the style for its versatility. To us, none of these reasons are wrong - at the heart of it all, it’s mainly about context and respect. No one race or culture has the exclusive license to head coverings. No matter who you are, everyone has a right to feel chic and confident in our products, and Loza Tam is all about inclusion - that means respecting and honoring the style’s many cultures, while also celebrating its beauty. After all, what good is culture if it can’t be shared with others?
Have you thought about wearing a head wrap but are still hesitant due to any of the reasons above? Consider the context: why would you like to wear one? Will it make you feel beautiful and comfortable? Are you simply curious what you’d look like?
With an open mind and curious heart, we encourage you to try one out and see for yourself. You deserve to feel confident, gorgeous, and chic as much as anyone else. Take a peek at a few of our faves to get you started (and don’t forget to take our style quiz before you buy to find the perfect fit for you!)
HEAD WRAPS DESIGNED FOR ALL WOMEN
Darling, want more recs? Take our quick personal style quiz! It’s like your trendy BFF: the one who listens and knows exactly what you’re looking for to feel the most chic and confident.
Prefer a human touch? Shoot us a text for help in real time: (703) 239-3308
ABOUT LOZA TAM
OUR STORY
Loza Tam was born in 2016 out of a frustration that many women experience when it comes to looking for high quality head wraps. We wanted to create head wrap that would allow women to leave their homes feeling confident, protected and chic -- without the effort (or tutorials) or scalp irritation. We're a Black owned head wear/headwrap brand that takes pride in elevating the style of the everyday woman.
Learn More
Save 10% OFF First Order
Enter your email address below to receive a code for 10% off your first head wrap and to be the first to be notified of new styles.