Talking Heads: Head Dress of Ga Women in 2012

Abstract

This study examines the head dress of Ga women as it is worn now in 2012. It investigates why the wearing of traditional head dress is no longer common and seeks to understand the choices Ga women are currently making in what head dress to wear. It further inquires into whether the head dress of Ga women reflects their status, role and beliefs as much of the literature on African head dress describes. The study finds that traditional head dress is now viewed mainly as the preserve of those who practice Ga traditional religion and that ordinary Ga women are choosing not to wear traditional head dress because it is closely associated with this sphere. Chemically straightened hair is now the first option of choice for Ga women used along with braided extensions and European type hairstyles achieved through use of hair extensions, additions and attachments. Through a case study this research demonstrates that traditional head dress has been worn in the past by ordinary Ga women as a fashionable choice. However, it is now seen as old fashioned and out of date. The case study also demonstrates that Ga women have always made choices outside of their traditional head dress and borrowed from other ethnic groups as well as adopted global trends. This study explores Ga women’s attitudes to the wearing of traditional, natural and other types of head dress today and the current influence of the media and Euro-American ideals of beauty on their head dress choices.