The Different Types of African Turbans: Our Complete Guide

Turban, headwrap, gelé, headscarf... behind these words lie very different styles, each with its own history and use. Here's an overview of the main types of African turbans, to help you choose yours according to the occasion.

The classic everyday turban

This is the most common form across the continent: a simple fabric, tied directly on the head, worn both to protect hair and to assert a style. It is also called a head tie in English-speaking countries. Its advantage: it adapts to all materials and all skill levels.

The Nigerian gele, the ceremonial version

The gele is a tall, sculpted structure, reserved for special occasions (weddings, baptisms, religious festivals). Traditionally more rigid and imposing than the classic turban, it signals social status and the importance of the event. Our Glam Gélé Luxury Wedding captures its spirit in a ready-to-wear form.

The braided and embellished turban

A more contemporary version, the braided turban incorporates twists or elaborate patterns directly into the fabric, sometimes enhanced with rhinestones or pearls for a crown effect. This is the case with the Crystal Crown Turban, designed for evening wear and ceremonies.

The wax / Ankara turban

Made from the emblematic wax fabric (geometric patterns, vibrant colors), this type of turban carries a strong cultural identity. Each print can refer to a specific traditional motif. Our Ankara Soleil Turban and Ankara Empress Turban models illustrate this style well, found in our African Aura collection.

Not sure which model suits you? Take the 6-question quiz →

The pre-tied turban, the practical revolution

This is the great evolution of recent years: turbans already structured and sewn, which can be put on like a cap in a few seconds, without any tying technique. The Kente Glory Turban is a good example: a result worthy of a well-tied turban, without spending ten minutes every morning.

How to choose your turban type according to the occasion

• Daily / office: classic or pre-tied turban, satin material, sober color.
• Wedding / ceremony: gele or ornate braided turban, from our Ceremonial Turbans collection.
• Cultural affirmation: Ankara wax turban, strong patterns and colors.
• Glamorous / evening effect: models from our Crown Collection, braided and sparkling.

FAQ — Types of African turbans

What is the difference between a turban and a gele?

A turban is the generic term for any headwrap. A gele is a Nigerian variant, taller and more structured, reserved for major ceremonies.

What type of turban should I choose to start?

A pre-tied model is ideal for discovering headwraps without investing in learning a tying technique.

Do wax turbans and classic turbans have the same meaning?

Not quite: the classic turban is primarily functional and stylistic, while the wax turban often carries cultural symbolism related to the fabric's pattern itself.

Back to blog