The Rise of The Teeny Weeny Afro (TWA)

Extract from Hairdressers Journal:

Some salons and stylists may have seen a noticeable rise in requests for the teeny weeny afro (TWA) which reached its popularity peak during the natural hair movement - a signifier that many clients are still choosing to embrace their natural texture. But what exactly is the TWA? We spoke to the experts to find out what it is, and the styling tips you can offer your clients.

What is The TWA?

The TWA is an acronym for the teeny-weeny Afro, Pashcan-el Mitchell, Avlon Educator tells us: “It is a very short, cropped afro hairstyle worn by people with naturally curly or coily hair. Clients will often opt for this style when starting their natural hair journey and want a big chop to start embracing their natural curls.” Jennie Roberts, Sheamoisture ambassador also shares: “It’s a bold, chic and low maintenance option that allows the natural texture of the hair to shine.”

The term TWA gained popularity during the natural hair movement of the early 2010s and describes an afro of approximately two inches in length or less explains Chloé Elliott, for Shedid & Parrish, adding: “At this time, many black women were deciding against redoing their relaxers and were instead choosing to allow their natural hair texture to grow out. For many clients, the teeny-weeny afro marked the start of their natural hair journey. It also marked a shift in them getting to know their hair in its natural texture after having spent years chemically treating it or having someone else do it for them.”

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