Here are some hair styling techniques used in traditional Nigerian weddings ¹ ²:

- Brides often wear elaborate headpieces called "gele," which are intricately tied head wraps.
- Brides wear their hair in "iro" and "buba," which is a vibrant wrapper.
- Brides wear their hair in "aso-ebi," which is a matching traditional attire.

Traditional weddings often feature specific hair styling techniques that reflect cultural customs, traditions, and ceremonial practices. While these techniques vary widely depending on the cultural background and regional customs of the wedding, some common hair styling techniques used in traditional weddings include:

1. **Elaborate Updos**: Many traditional weddings feature elaborate updo hairstyles that are intricately styled and adorned with ornate hair accessories such as flowers, beads, jewels, or traditional headdresses. These updos often symbolize elegance, sophistication, and ceremonial significance, serving as focal points of the bride's overall bridal look.

2. **Braided Hairstyles**: Braided hairstyles are a popular choice for traditional weddings in many cultures, symbolizing unity, strength, and interconnectedness. Braids can be styled in various ways, including intricate braided updos, side braids, fishtail braids, or crown braids, depending on the cultural customs and personal preferences of the bride.

3. **Hair Jewelry and Accessories**: Hair jewelry and accessories play a significant role in traditional wedding hairstyles, adding a touch of glamour, symbolism, and cultural significance to the bride's look. Common hair accessories include tiaras, crowns, hairpins, combs, veils, and traditional headpieces, which are often passed down through generations or chosen to complement the bride's attire and cultural heritage.

4. **Traditional Headdresses and Veils**: In many cultures, traditional wedding attire includes headdresses or veils that hold cultural or religious significance. These headdresses may vary from region to region and can range from intricate headpieces adorned with beads, pearls, or feathers to traditional veils symbolizing purity, modesty, or marital status.

5. **Natural and Floral Accents**: Some traditional wedding hairstyles incorporate natural elements such as flowers, leaves, or herbs, which hold symbolic meaning and cultural significance. These natural accents may be woven into braids, tucked behind the ears, or arranged as floral crowns or garlands, adding a touch of natural beauty and symbolism to the bride's hair.

6. **Cultural Customs and Rituals**: Traditional wedding hairstyles often incorporate cultural customs, rituals, and superstitions that are passed down through generations. These customs may include specific hair styling techniques, colors, or adornments that hold symbolic meaning and significance within the cultural context of the wedding ceremony.

Overall, traditional wedding hairstyles reflect the rich cultural heritage, customs, and traditions of the bride's cultural background, serving as expressions of identity, symbolism, and ceremonial significance on one of the most important days of her life.