Latest news with #ShuduMusida
News24
2 days ago
- Entertainment
- News24
Why tribal braids are this winter's go-to hairstyle
Hairstyles deeply rooted in tradition are making a confident return – and for African women, it's more than just a trend. Across the country, more and more women are turning to cornrows and tribal braids. At first, you wouldn't think much of it, but we continued to see intricate hair patterns flooding our social feeds and the streets. It's clear: this movement isn't just about convenience, it's about reclaiming identity through artistry. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Nomzamo Mbatha (Nxumalo)🇿🇦 (@nomzamo_m) What are tribal braids? Tribal braids are a type of protective hairstyle inspired by traditional African braiding patterns that are rich in symbolism and culture. Often incorporating cornrows, box braids, and intricate parting, tribal braids can include beads, cuffs or coloured extensions, with each pattern historically reflecting one's tribe, age, status or heritage. According to Allure, 'Tribal braids are deeply connected to African ancestry and identity, with roots in the Fulani, [Ghanaian] and Nigerian cultures, among others.' View this post on Instagram A post shared by Shudu Musiḓa (@shudufhadzomusida) The cultural code In South African communities –and across the continent –braiding has always been more than just a hairstyle. It's a form of communication, a living archive. Distinct patterns and techniques, which - according to okayafrica - often speak to a person's tribe, age, social status or marital position. To wear braids is to wear history. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Nambitha Ben-Mazwi (@ladynam_bm) The resurgence For years, the beauty space has been dominated by wigs, weaves and chemically treated styles. But the shift is underway as we see more diversity. South African hairstylist and salon owner Monique Dolamo has witnessed the shift firsthand. 'Tribal braids are reasonably priced, they last over a month and they're a protective hairstyle,' she says. 'Clients love that they don't have to stress about their hair every day –especially during the colder months.' But it's more than practicality. For Monique, each style is a collaboration between heritage and personal flair. 'I always advise my clients based on their face and head shape,' she adds. 'Recreating a hairstyle doesn't mean copying it – it means adapting it to suit the client, while still honouring the original inspiration.' View this post on Instagram A post shared by Minnie Dlamini (@minniedlamini) Taking a break from glue The return to braids also reflects a rejection of damaging practices. Monique says more women are ditching wigs – especially the glued-down kind – due to hairline damage. 'To be honest, some women don't have healthy hairlines anymore,' she explains. 'Glue blocks the hair follicles and suffocates the scalp. Your hairline can't breathe, so it doesn't regenerate properly.' Braids, in contrast, allow natural hair to rest. By tucking strands away, tribal styles protect against breakage, especially in winter, while supporting hair growth. With proper care, they can last for weeks – ideal for women balancing busy schedules with bold beauty. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Thembisa Liyema Nxumalo (@thembisamdoda) Not just a look – a legacy Whether worn as a bold fashion statement or a quiet nod to ancestry, tribal braids are more than a seasonal trend – they're a powerful return to self. 'Women are saying they're proud to be African – in every sense,' Monique says. 'They love how authentic they feel in braids. It's a whole new level of confidence.' So, as the temperatures drop, there's no better time to protect your crown with a style that's stood the test of time – and tells a story of pride, resilience and beauty. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Masasa Mbangeni (@madlomo2) Show Comments ()
IOL News
20-05-2025
- Entertainment
- IOL News
Shudu Musida's study break: dancing with nature and rediscovering joy
Shudu Musida at Lower Antelope Canyon in Page, Arizona, specifically on Navajo Nation land near the Arizona-Utah border. Image: Instagram In the wake of exam stress, former Miss South Africa, Shudu Musida, is embracing the power of travel to rejuvenate both mind and spirit. Currently a student at Columbia University in New York, Musida recently embarked on an adventurous journey across the stunning landscapes of the American Southwest, sharing her colourful experiences through vibrant Instagram posts. 'We're so focused on building for the future that we forget to live sometimes. I've missed myself... Anyway, post-exam mood 😂🎀,' she joyfully exclaimed, showcasing her infectious spirit while dancing amidst a backdrop of striking canyons. On this exhilarating trip, Musida explored iconic destinations across three states, including the awe-inspiring Zion National Park, where red-rock canyons meet lush valleys, offering breathtaking views that leave visitors speechless. At Bryce Canyon, she explored the unique geological formations known as hoodoos - marvels of nature standing tall in hues of orange and pink under a vast blue sky. Her wanderlust fuelled a remarkable visit to Antelope Canyon, a narrow slot canyon renowned for its wave-like structure and beams of sunlight piercing through the rocks - truly a photographer's paradise. Finally, she gazed in wonder at Horseshoe Bend, where the Colorado River curves dramatically, creating a picturesque vista that is nothing short of magical. Video Player is loading. Play Video Play Unmute Current Time 0:00 / Duration -:- Loaded : 0% Stream Type LIVE Seek to live, currently behind live LIVE Remaining Time - 0:00 This is a modal window. Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window. Text Color White Black Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Background Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Transparent Window Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Transparent Semi-Transparent Opaque Font Size 50% 75% 100% 125% 150% 175% 200% 300% 400% Text Edge Style None Raised Depressed Uniform Dropshadow Font Family Proportional Sans-Serif Monospace Sans-Serif Proportional Serif Monospace Serif Casual Script Small Caps Reset restore all settings to the default values Done Close Modal Dialog End of dialog window. Advertisement Next Stay Close ✕ Ad Loading But it wasn't just the stunning scenery that captivated Musida. With gratitude spilling over, she expressed her appreciation for the connections forged on this journey. 'I am still in awe of this @intrepidtravel trip hosted by my girl @wawa_gatheru. Thank you for introducing me to incredible women in social impact, on a journey to rest, reconnect, and remember the power of sisterhood,' she shared. Amid long drives and joyous laughter, Musida found solace and solidarity among her new friends, filling her spirit with the gentle beauty of shared experiences. 'It felt like we'd known each other for years,' she reflected, highlighting the transformative power of travel. As Musida savours the beauty of nature and the bonds of friendship, she reminds us all that sometimes, the best way to overcome challenges is simply to take a step back, breathe, and embrace the world around us.
