Are you looking for a hairstyle that blends tradition with modern flair? The Patewo hairstyle is making a massive comeback in the fashion world today.
This classic Nigerian braiding style mimics the “clapping hands” motion. It offers a sophisticated look that highlights a woman’s facial features and natural bone structure.
Modern variations have transformed this traditional look into a versatile trend. From red carpets to office meetings, these styles provide elegance and protection for your natural hair.
Whether you prefer bold colors or subtle designs, there is a Patewo style for you. Explore these trending options to find your next signature look.
1. Classic Patewo with Shuku
The classic Patewo combined with a Shuku is a timeless choice for any woman. This style features braids meeting at the center and then flowing into a high ponytail or bun.
It provides an instant facelift effect by drawing the eyes upward and elongating the neck. This version is perfect for ladies who want a clean, professional appearance during the week.
To keep this look fresh, ensure your stylist uses a high-quality edge control. This prevents flyaways and maintains the sleek silhouette that makes this traditional style so famous.
2. Feed-in Patewo Braids
Feed-in Patewo braids offer a much more natural and seamless transition from your scalp. The technique involves gradually adding extensions to create a flat, realistic look.
This style is particularly gentle on a woman’s edges, preventing the tension often associated with traditional braiding. It is a top choice for ladies with thinning hairlines who need protection.
The feed-in method allows the braids to look like they are growing directly from your head. This creates a sophisticated finish that works beautifully for both casual and formal events.
3. Patewo with Curly Tips
Adding curly tips to your Patewo braids introduces a soft, feminine touch to the structured pattern. The contrast between the tight braids and the bouncy curls is stunning.
You can achieve this look by using hot water setting on rollers or attaching pre-curled extensions. It adds volume and movement to the hairstyle, making it feel more modern.
This variation is ideal for festive occasions or weddings where you want to stand out. The curls frame the face beautifully and add a youthful glow to your overall appearance.
4. Side-Swept Patewo
Side-swept Patewo breaks the symmetry of the traditional style for a more edgy and contemporary vibe. The braids are angled to one side of the head.
This creates a flattering silhouette that suits most face shapes, especially rounder faces. It offers a unique twist that sets you apart from the standard vertical braiding patterns.
You can accessorize the swept side with hair jewelry or decorative pins. It is a fantastic way to express your personality while keeping the cultural essence of the style intact.
5. Patewo with Zig-Zag Partings
For the woman who loves intricate details, zig-zag partings take the Patewo style to another level. The crisp, geometric lines add visual interest to the scalp.
This style requires a skilled braider who can maintain precision throughout the process. The resulting pattern is a work of art that captures attention from every angle.
It is a great way to modernize a traditional look without adding extra bulk or length. The clean lines provide a fresh, trendy aesthetic that looks great in any setting.
6. Ombre Patewo Braids
Color can completely transform a hairstyle, and ombre extensions are perfect for Patewo. This style usually starts with a dark root and fades into a lighter shade.
Popular colors for ladies include honey blonde, burgundy, or even subtle copper tones. The gradient effect adds depth and dimension to the braided rows as they meet.
Choosing a color that complements your skin tone can make your complexion pop. It is a fun way to experiment with color without dyeing your natural hair.
7. Patewo with Frontal Fulani Braids
Combining Patewo with Fulani-inspired frontals creates a rich, cultural fusion look. It often features a center braid or side braids adorned with beads and rings.
This hybrid style celebrates African heritage while maintaining a very fashionable and modern edge. It is a popular choice for cultural festivals and high-fashion photo shoots.
The frontal braids allow for extra customization around the face. You can choose different bead colors to match your outfit and enhance your personal style.
8. Jumbo Patewo
If you are looking for a style that takes less time in the chair, Jumbo Patewo is the answer. These thick, bold braids create a striking and powerful look.
The larger sections make the “clapping” pattern even more prominent and visible. It is a statement style that exudes confidence and works well for ladies with thick hair.
Maintenance is relatively easy, though you must ensure the scalp is kept hydrated. This style is perfect for a quick transformation that still looks high-end and intentional.
9. Micro Patewo Braids
At the opposite end of the spectrum are Micro Patewo braids, which offer incredible detail. These tiny braids create a very delicate and refined appearance.
While they take longer to install, the results are long-lasting and very versatile. The fine lines give the hairstyle a velvety texture that is soft to the touch.
This style is perfect for women who want a low-maintenance look that lasts for several weeks. It provides a sophisticated finish that is appropriate for any high-level corporate environment.
10. Patewo with Beaded Ends
Beads are the ultimate accessory for any braided style, and they pair perfectly with Patewo. Adding beads to the ends of the braids provides weight and rhythm.
You can choose wooden beads for a natural look or crystal beads for a bit of sparkle. The sound of the beads moving adds a unique sensory element to your style.
This look is deeply rooted in tradition but remains a favorite among modern trendsetters. It is a playful yet elegant way to finish off your braided masterpiece.
11. Criss-Cross Patewo
The criss-cross Patewo introduces an intersecting pattern at the front or back of the head. This technique adds complexity and a modern architectural feel to the hair.
It is a great way to secure shorter hairs at the nape or temples while creating a design. This style is particularly popular among younger women seeking a fresh vibe.
The overlapping braids create a sturdy structure that holds up well during physical activities. It is a functional and fashionable choice for the active, modern woman.
12. Patewo with Low Bun
A low bun offers a more conservative and graceful variation of the Patewo style. Instead of going up, the braids culminate at the nape of the neck.
This positioning is very comfortable and avoids putting too much weight on the crown. It is an excellent choice for formal evenings or weddings where elegance is key.
The bun can be styled as a simple knot or a more elaborate braided flower. This versatility allows you to transition from day to night with total ease.
13. Goddess Patewo Braids
Goddess Patewo incorporates loose, wavy strands of hair into the braided pattern. This creates a soft, ethereal look that is incredibly popular right now.
The loose tendrils give the style a more relaxed and romantic feel compared to standard braids. It is a perfect choice for vacation or a special date night.
To maintain the “Goddess” look, you will need to apply a light mousse to the loose curls. This keeps them defined and prevents tangling over time.
14. Short Patewo Bob
The Patewo bob is a chic, shoulder-length variation that frames the face perfectly. The braids are cut and sealed at the ends to create a blunt or curved edge.
This style is very youthful and manageable, making it great for women with busy lifestyles. It offers the beauty of braids with the ease of a short haircut.
You can add a slight curve inward at the ends to mimic a traditional bob. This creates a structured look that is both trendy and incredibly flattering.
15. Patewo with Gold Cuffs
Hair jewelry like gold cuffs can instantly elevate a simple Patewo style. Placing these metallic accents along the braids adds a touch of luxury and royalty.
The gold contrasts beautifully against dark hair, drawing attention to the precision of the braiding. It is an easy way to dress up your hair for an event.
Cuffs are adjustable, allowing you to move them around or remove them whenever you like. This flexibility makes them a favorite accessory for fashionable women everywhere.
16. Tribal Patewo Fusion
Tribal Patewo fusion mixes different braiding techniques from across the continent. It may include thicker base braids with thinner decorative braids layered on top.
This style is bold and culturally significant, representing a modern take on African identity. It is often seen on fashion runways and in creative communities.
The complexity of the design makes it a true conversation starter. It is best suited for women who are not afraid to be the center of attention.
17. Patewo with Heart Design
Incorporating a heart shape into the side of your Patewo is a trendy and cute detail. The braider uses the parting to create the silhouette of a heart.
This adds a personalized and creative touch to the traditional pattern. It is a popular choice for Valentine’s Day or just to show a little self-love.
The heart can be small and subtle or large and prominent depending on your preference. It demonstrates the incredible artistry that can be achieved with cornrows.
18. Blonde Patewo for Fair Skin
For ladies with lighter skin tones or those who love high contrast, blonde Patewo is stunning. Using blonde extensions creates a bright, sun-kissed appearance.
You can opt for a full blonde look or mix it with your natural color for a highlighted effect. This choice is very daring and perfect for the summer months.
The light color makes the intricate braiding pattern even more visible to the naked eye. It is a confident choice that looks great with vibrant summer outfits.
19. Patewo with High Ponytail
The high ponytail Patewo is the ultimate “cool girl” hairstyle. The braids meet at the very top of the head, and the ends are left long and flowing.
This style provides a sleek, snatched look that emphasizes the cheekbones and jawline. It is a favorite among celebrities and social media influencers.
Wrapping a few braids around the base of the ponytail hides the hair tie for a polished finish. It is a sporty yet glamorous look for any occasion.
20. Two-Step Patewo
The two-step Patewo features two layers of braids, usually with one set overlapping the other. This creates a 3D effect that adds incredible volume to the hair.
It is a more complex version of the style that requires a very skilled hand. The depth created by the layers makes the hair look thick and lush.
This is a great option for ladies who want a more substantial hairstyle that feels very secure. It works well with both medium and long hair extensions.
21. Patewo with Side Cornrows
Adding thin cornrows to the sides of a main Patewo pattern creates a beautiful contrast in sizes. The smaller side braids lead the eye toward the central design.
This variation is very neat and keeps the edges of the hair well-protected. It is a balanced look that combines different textures and widths effortlessly.
The side cornrows can be braided in different directions to create a unique flow. This adds a customized feel to the overall aesthetic of the hairstyle.
22. Bohemian Patewo
Bohemian Patewo is all about a relaxed, “undone” look that still looks intentional. It features braids mixed with loose, wavy extensions throughout the head.
This style is perfect for women who love the boho-chic aesthetic. It feels lighter and less restrictive than traditional tight braiding styles.
Because of the loose hair, this style requires a bit more maintenance to prevent frizz. However, the effortless beauty it provides is well worth the extra care.
23. Wine-Colored Patewo
Wine or burgundy is one of the most flattering colors for women of color. A wine-colored Patewo offers a sophisticated and warm vibe that is perfect for autumn.
The deep red tones provide a subtle pop of color that isn’t too overwhelming. It looks professional enough for work while still being very trendy.
This color looks particularly beautiful when the braids are sleek and shiny. Using a light oil sheen will help the rich wine tones truly sparkle in the light.
24. Patewo with Intricate Parting
Intricate parting takes the “clapping” concept and adds swirls or geometric shapes. The scalp becomes a canvas for the stylist to showcase their creativity.
This style is ideal for someone who wants a look that is completely unique. No two intricate parting designs are exactly the same, giving you a custom finish.
The clean lines of the parting are the star of the show here. Ensure you wear a silk scarf at night to keep the parts looking sharp for as long as possible.
25. Traditional Bridal Patewo
The bridal Patewo is the pinnacle of elegance for a traditional wedding. It is often styled into an intricate updo and adorned with expensive beads or coral.
This style is designed to complement traditional attire and heavy jewelry. It holds the hair securely throughout a long day of celebrations and dancing.
For a bride, this style represents a beautiful connection to cultural roots. It is a regal choice that ensures all eyes are on the woman of the day.
How long does a Patewo hairstyle typically last?
A well-installed Patewo hairstyle usually lasts between 3 to 5 weeks. This depends on your hair growth rate and how well you maintain it at night. Using a silk or satin bonnet is essential to prevent the braids from frizzing prematurely.
Is the Patewo hairstyle painful to get?
The pain level depends on the skill of your stylist and the sensitivity of your scalp. While some tension is needed for a neat look, it should never be unbearable. Always communicate with your braider if the braids feel too tight to avoid scalp damage.
Can I do Patewo on short natural hair?
Yes, Patewo can be done on short hair as long as there is enough length to grip. A skilled stylist can use the feed-in method to extensions seamlessly even with shorter strands. It is a great protective style for women transitioning or growing out their natural hair.
How should I wash my hair while in Patewo braids?
You can wash your scalp using a diluted shampoo mix and a small cloth or spray bottle. Focus on the exposed scalp lines and avoid soaking the entire length of the braids too often. Always ensure the hair is completely dry afterward to prevent any dampness or odor.
What are the best hair extensions for this style?
The best extensions for Patewo are typically high-quality kanekalon or pre-stretched braiding hair. These materials are lightweight and can be dipped in hot water to achieve a smooth finish. For styles with curly tips, human hair or high-quality synthetic curls work best.
Is Patewo a professional hairstyle for the office?
Absolutely, Patewo is considered a very neat and professional hairstyle for women. Its structured and symmetrical nature gives it a polished look that pairs well with corporate attire. Choosing natural hair colors can further enhance its professional appeal in conservative environments.
