What makes a superstar unforgettable? Is it the record-breaking awards, the soulful music, or something harder to put into words—like a style that sparks memories and turns heads everywhere you go? For millions of Nigerians, Tems signifies not just musical brilliance, but also an explosive transformation of beauty standards. Let’s take a bold, inside look at how her hairstyles are quietly rewriting the story of Nigerian hair fashion, blending old Nollywood nostalgia with today’s fierce global flair.
Anyone who’s been following Tems knows: the two-time Grammy winner’s impact goes far beyond her lyrics. Her beauty choices—especially her iconic hairstyles—have become a cultural statement. But what’s the secret sauce? One thing’s clear: whether she’s rocking a flipped bob straight out of a Lagos salon, playful feed-in braids, or modern cornrows, Tems is not afraid to tap into childhood memories and local trends, then flip them on their heads. It’s the type of style confidence that says, “I sabi myself die!” Can you remember those barbing posters you’d see at every street corner? Tems reportedly turns them into global red-carpet looks, and somehow, it all feels brand new.
Dive deeper, and you’ll notice that Tems doesn’t stick to just one signature hairstyle. She switches between curly extensions and intricate braids with a freedom most busy Nigerian women can only dream of. Experts in the local hair scene explain that her approach is both stylish and practical—it takes less time and gives more flexibility for artists with a busy schedule. As Lagos-based stylist Amaka O., who specializes in celeb looks, notes, “Tems dey show young women say, you fit change your entire aura with just a new hairstyle, without stress.” Have you ever tried switching your hair because of an impromptu owambe? You go understand!
Now, let’s break down the most viral Tems hairstyles that have been lighting up Instagram feeds, sparking salon conversations, and—let’s be real—even causing small fashion wahala at home!
1. Tems’ Flipped Bob with Stitch Braid Accents: Bringing Old Nollywood Back to Life
The internet went wild when Tems appeared on The Jennifer Hudson Show in 2024 with a flipped bob that looked straight out of a 90s movie. But this bob? It was not your ordinary roadside style—Tems fused the old vibes with modern chic, tossing in some stitch braids for good measure.
Here’s where the magic happens: the front of her hair features perfectly crafted stitch braids (those neat, close-to-the-scalp cornrows you see on Lagos kids heading to school). The rest of the hair is styled into a flipped bob that bounces just above the shoulders, with a half-up, half-down finish that feels soft and sophisticated. The result? A style that instantly made every Nigerian auntie want to update her salon look, while Gen Z fans raced to TikTok for tutorials.
Forget those salon posters gathering dust—Tems is breathing new life into them and giving them premium sauce!
How It’s Achieved: According to stylist reports, the look uses weaves or extensions, styled with heat to create that signature “flip.” For the braids, natural hair and extensions are plaited into those signature lines near the hairline. If you’ve ever seen its effect at a local wedding, you know it steals the show—no dulling!
2. Met Gala Slick-Back Braid: All Eyes on Tems’ Sleek Perfection
Let’s talk about true fashion drama! At the Met Gala, Tems hit the scene with a slicked-back braid that reportedly had stylists gushing worldwide. It’s one of those looks that commands attention—intense, powerful, and absolutely Nigerian in essence.
What sets this style apart? It’s all about the details—the hair is pulled back tight and smooth, then fashioned into a show-stopping single braid that flows with grace. But the real talking point? Her baby hairs, styled into playful, circular patterns that demand a second (and third) look! If you know Lagos girls, you’ll know there’s a certain pride in “laying your edges”—Tems takes it up a notch and inspires a whole new beauty movement.
How It’s Achieved: According to stylists, you’ll need a heavy-duty gel and expert-level edge control. Attach braid extensions the Nigerian way, then spend time carefully shaping the baby hairs with a small brush and product. Fashion insiders say this look opens up your face and lets your earrings and makeup shine. Perfect for parties, red carpet events, or even that next Sunday service—if you want to scatter ground with style!
3. French Curled Boho Braids: Voluminous Elegance for Every Queen
Tems’ glamorous French curl braids with boho waves are quickly gaining legendary status. It’s a modern re-imagination of the classic box braid; but here, you’ve got curly, textured hair and free-flowing curls mixed in.
The magic is in the movement—loose curls are worked into the braids and left hanging, making the style appear both well-packaged and playfully unbothered. Stylists report this look is soft enough for everyday use, but bold enough for big occasions. Local Lagos influencer Nneka A. put it this way: “Once you do those French curls, no person go whine you again. Your confidence go dey top level.”
How It’s Achieved: French curl hair extensions are used to braid the hair; then, as you work downwards, some curly extension pieces are tied or crocheted on and left to dangle. This blends the neatness of braids with the wild beauty of loose curls—Naija style!
4. Half-Up Cornrows, Loose Waves: Salon Versatility Redefined
For those who love to play with colours and textures, this style is one to copy. Tems wore this half-up, half-down masterpiece at the iconic Coldplay Wembley performance, and again later in Marbella in an alternative shade.
The upper half is sectioned and braided into neat, straight-back cornrows, all tied to a single point. The lower part? Left free as loose, wavy extensions that move and flow with every step. Some sections reportedly feature Shuku-inspired twists, celebrating classic Yoruba tradition with a worldly twist.
How It’s Achieved: Start with neat, cornrow braids in the front, add matching extensions to boost volume, and attach wavy curly hair to the back for a soft, blended finish. As Abuja-based hair expert Dolapo F. advises, “This one dey serve you confidence anywhere you waka—date, interview, even small business pitch.”
5. Messy Braids and Beads: “Crazy Tings” Energy with Modern Rebelliousness
If Tems’ “Crazy Tings” music video taught us anything, it’s that beauty does not always mean perfection. This throwback look, reportedly inspired by childhood games and street markets, features chunky, long box braids laced with different types of beads and cowrie shells. The result? An “undone” style bursting with energy and youthful pride.
The Look: Bold, bouncy braids swing with every move. Colourful beads and cowries (locally sourced from Lagos or Ibadan according to stylists) finish off the ends, each one telling a small story of African heritage. The vibe is effortlessly “messy perfect,” echoing the real-life hustle and vibrant creative spirit found right here on Nigerian streets.
Tems’ Hairstyle Revolution: More Than Just Style – A Local and Global Impact
Beyond the glitz, Tems’ hair journey carries deeper social meaning. According to the UNESCO Afro-hairstyle report (2022), traditional African braids, beads, and natural textures have been central to identity and self-expression for centuries—but were sometimes seen as “unprofessional” or outdated. Now, with global icons like Tems boldly reclaiming these styles, more young Nigerians are celebrating their roots with pride, finding new ways to remix old trends for today’s digital age.
Local stylists also point out the economic boost: each viral Tems style can send hundreds of customers flocking to neighborhood salons, supporting small businesses and fueling innovation. From Lagos Island to Port Harcourt to Abuja, women and men alike are dusting off forgotten styles, modernizing them, and wearing them like a badge of honor. As for the younger generation, they’re not just following trends—they’re starting their own.
Globally, Tems’ looks spark conversations about cultural appreciation and representation in mainstream fashion. More international celebrities are experimenting with African braids, beads, and cornrows on red carpets and magazine covers, showing the ripple effect of Nigerian influence worldwide.
Ready to Transform Your Look?
If you’ve been itching for a fresh start, Tems’ viral hairstyles are a goldmine of inspiration—and everyday Naija salons are making it easier than ever to try them for yourself. Whether you’re expressing your heritage, keeping up with beauty trends, or just want to stand out, remember: your hair is your crown, and in Tems’ world, there’s no shame in shining!
What’s Your Take on Tems’ Hairstyles?
Which of Tems’ headline-making styles would you love to try—or remix in your own way? Do you think more Nigerian artists should celebrate traditional hair trends, or is it important to keep refreshing the narrative? Drop your thoughts in the comments and join the conversation!
Love exploring new Nigerian fashion and beauty stories? Share your experiences with us! Have an entertainment gist, celebrity moment, or unique style you want to feature? We’re excited to hear from you.
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