The popularity of dreadlocks in recent years is undeniable. For those unwilling to endure the lengthy waiting period required for natural hair growth, alternatives like NLE Choppa Dreads have become increasingly appealing. Born on November 1, 2002, in Memphis, Tennessee, NLE Choppa, now based in Atlanta, Georgia, gained notable recognition with his single “Shotta Flow” released early last year, reaching the impressive position of number three on the Billboard Magazine R&B/Hip Hop chart.
In an interview with Billboard Magazine, NLE Choppa shared that his inspiration to become a musician was sparked by listening to Lil Wayne. He expressed, “I thought [that] this guy has everything I wanted too, so then I just started rapping.”
Guiding his career from the outset, NLE Choppa’s mother, Angela Potts, has been his manager since he first showed interest in hip-hop. Following the sudden surge in fame brought about by the breakthrough success of “Shotta Flow,” Potts made a strategic decision to relocate to Los Angeles for a more extensive network of connections and resources, a move that proved beneficial for her own professional growth. At just 22 years old, NLE Choppa not only stands out as a rising star but has also become a global sensation for his distinctive hairstyles. These unique styles have influenced fellow rappers, inspiring them to seek individuality in a crowded industry.
Top 7 NLE Choppa Dreads
When contemplating the most remarkable and stunning dreadlocks, thoughts inevitably gravitate toward the epitome of cool and exceptional styles. For those in search of the pinnacle of dreadlock excellence, we present our curated selection of the top 7 NLE Choppa dreads. These hairstyles stand as a testament to the absolute finest in the realm of dreadlocked aesthetics.
1 – Thick Twist Dreads
The Thick Twisted Dreads sported by NLE Choppa embody their name, featuring voluminous twists intricately braided into a unique style. Diverging from conventional dreadlocks, these hair strands are entwined into small loops instead of protruding straight out. Although they don’t cascade all the way down, their substantial length allows for effortless styling, enabling easy pulling back or braiding without appearing unkempt. Despite being artfully arranged into an unconventional formation, these twisted locks maintain a neat and robust appearance, surpassing the typical thickness associated with dreadlocks. This distinctive quality ensures that they stand out prominently, catering to individuals seeking a natural yet easily maintainable look.
Initiating with a one-inch-wide section of hair, the process of crafting twist dreads involves skillfully twisting the hair around itself until reaching the hair’s end. Whether utilizing a comb or fingers to secure the lock in place during the twisting process, the outcome is a collection of long, dense braids that gracefully fall along the sides. The final look bears a resemblance to cornrows or twists, particularly when the twists have settled in, exuding a distinctive charm.
2 – Thin Long Curly Dreads
For those seeking a distinctive NLE Choppa-inspired dreadlock style, the next option on our list features thin, straight, and curly hair—a fantastic choice for individuals desiring a hassle-free yet stylish look. These dreads, being thinner, reduce the likelihood of getting entangled in external elements when venturing outdoors. Their slender nature also minimizes the need for daily intricate styling, providing a practical alternative that doesn’t compromise on durability and manageability.
A straightforward approach to styling these dreads begins with ensuring clean hair. Commence by cleansing and moisturizing your scalp with a specialized product tailored to your hair type. Introducing argan or olive oil adds a glossy finish, ensuring your locks maintain a fresh appearance throughout the day. Enhancing volume is easily achieved by incorporating a volumizing shampoo and conditioning on a weekly basis. When applying products, it’s crucial to follow up with an antihumectant spray or gel to prevent flattening before the day concludes.
With clean, voluminous hair as your canvas, the styling process unfolds. Begin by sectioning off one side of your head using elastic bands or rubber bands. Subsequently, curl small sections of your hair into tighter curls until the entire head is styled. This meticulous yet rewarding process yields a visually captivating array of thin, long, and curly dreads, delivering a light, durable, and easily manageable hairstyle.
3 – Unconventional Curly Dreads
In the realm of distinctive dreadlock styles, NLE Choppa introduces an unconventional and glamorous twist that sets it apart from the ordinary. With a technique uniquely crafted by Choppa himself, these dreadlocks exude an extraordinary fullness, creating an illusion of perpetual movement. What truly captivates admirers is the natural texture of these locks, where curls appear to dance in place, fostering a sense of connection with nature and life’s vibrant essence. This style, with its one-of-a-kind charm, is an ideal choice for those seeking a fresh and individualistic look.
To achieve this dreadlock style, two methods can be employed: the NLE (No Locking Ends) Method and the TLC (Tight Locking Corners) Method. Beginning with the No Locking Ends Method, establish a base by twisting strands of hair together at the back of the neck using a rubber band.
Proceed by taking sections of hair from either side of the head, twisting them around themselves to form small, tight coils. It’s essential to maintain the tightness of these coils, using bobby pins if necessary. Repeat this process until all the hair transforms into intricate coils resembling tiny snakes stacked atop one another on the head.
Secure each coil in place using elastics or rubber bands to prevent excessive movement during further styling, ensuring a seamless sculpting process for your distinctive masterpiece.
4 – Contemporary and Creative Top Knot Dreads
The trendy and stylish Top Knot Dreads of NLE Choppa have gained widespread acclaim for their innovative approach to a classic style. This distinctive look begins with a central high ponytail, featuring one thick dreadlock followed by thinner and shorter ones cascading down. To add an extra touch of flair, one or two thin braids are typically wrapped around the base of the ponytail, elevating its uniqueness while preserving its inherent simplicity.
Achieving this captivating style is remarkably straightforward. Utilize wax or a suitable product to maintain strand cohesion as they grow. With a clean and dry scalp, section off hair near the ears and tie it into a ponytail at the nape of the neck. Create another ponytail around an inch or two higher than the first one, establishing the foundation for the top knot. Ensure both sections are approximately an inch wide for a seamless blend in the final styling.
Now, let’s delve into the styling process. Begin by combing out any knots that may have formed during the sectioning and tying process. Take both sections of hair and delicately twist them around each other until a secure yet elegant knot is formed. If necessary, apply additional wax or product to secure the elements in place, resulting in a chic and creative top knot dread look.
5 – Short and Unique Knotted Dreads
The next entry on the roster of NLE Choppa Dreads is the Knotted Dread, showcasing a distinctive appearance that sets it apart from conventional styles. Despite its unique aesthetics, the knotted design contributes to an abundance of texture and volume. Unlike a single solid piece of hair, this style is comprised of a multitude of coils twisted together, forming a captivating pattern at the back of the head while allowing for visible spacing between them. This intentional design not only adds a natural and fuller look when worn but also offers versatility, suitable for any occasion or outfit, particularly when showcasing these beautiful rows.
To achieve this iconic look, the styling process begins with washing the hair using a mild shampoo and conditioner, followed by thorough towel drying. Armed with a comb, the next step involves sectioning off the hair into individual locks. Each section is then twisted around itself, forming a tight bun atop the head—the degree of tightness in the twist determines the knot’s final appearance. Once all sections are knotted, proceed to take one lock at a time, pulling it through the loop created by the surrounding strands. This results in one loose strand on each side, which is then joined together to complete the distinctive and captivating Knotted Dread style.
6 – Natural and Easy to Maintain Semi-Freeform Dreads
Introducing a more manageable and hassle-free alternative to traditional dreadlocks, the NLE Choppa Semi-Freeform Dreads offer a softer, looser appearance that mimics the natural look of real dreadlocks. In contrast to the tighter and more tightly woven conventional dreadlocks, these semi-freeform dreads provide a relaxed aesthetic that requires minimal upkeep, ensuring easy manageability.
Styling these locks is as simple as brushing your hair. Initiate the process by washing your head with sulfate-free, paraben-free shampoos and conditioners that preserve the natural oils on the scalp. Prioritize detangling by using a wide-tooth comb or brush before thorough rinsing. While a detangler may be optional, depending on the desired curl type, it can be employed for added convenience.
Once clean and detangled, apply styling gel or pomade evenly throughout each lock, gently smoothing out knots with your fingers. Ensure that enough product is used, leaving the locks slightly damp yet dry on top when finished.
To maintain these semi-freeform dreads, gather all the locks into one section near their base or where they naturally sit on your head. Twist them into a loose knot and secure it tightly with an elastic band. This step is crucial for keeping the dreadlocks together while you sleep, preventing them from tangling overnight and ensuring a hassle-free maintenance routine.
7 – Stylish Undercut Dreads
The Undercut Dreads style embraced by NLE Choppa combines the length of dreadlocks at the back and sides with a textured, long top that is styled with gel or wax. This look is essentially an updated take on the classic undercut hairstyle, preserving the length and texture on top while incorporating the distinctive feature of dreadlocks on the sides and back.
To achieve this stylish blend, start by combing your hair backward using a comb or brush. Divide your hair into smaller sections and secure each section with a tight-fitting hair tie, ensuring comfort throughout the day.
Continue this process until all your hair is tied up into small sections. Then, twist each section into itself, creating a rope-like appearance rather than individual pieces of hair. For those with bangs or sideburns extending past the top of the ears, consider twisting them separately before tying them into their own sections. This step-by-step approach results in the unique and stylish Undercut Dreads, offering a harmonious blend of length, texture, and the distinctive charm of dreadlocks.
Frequently Asked Question
How does NLE Choppa maintain his iconic dreadlock styles?
NLE Choppa maintains his iconic dreadlocks through a combination of regular washing with sulfate-free, paraben-free shampoos and conditioners. He also emphasizes detangling using a wide-tooth comb or brush, followed by the application of styling gel or pomade to each lock. This routine helps preserve the natural oils on the scalp while keeping the dreadlocks well-groomed.
What sets NLE Choppa’s Semi-Freeform Dreads apart from traditional dreadlocks?
NLE Choppa’s Semi-Freeform Dreads differ from traditional dreadlocks in their softer, looser appearance. These dreads provide a more natural look, resembling real dreadlocks, while requiring less maintenance. They are a suitable alternative for those seeking a relaxed aesthetic without compromising manageability.
How does NLE Choppa achieve the Knotted Dread style?
The Knotted Dread style is achieved by twisting sections of hair around each other to form small buns on top of the head. The tightness of the twists determines the final appearance of the knots. After the knots are formed, one lock at a time is pulled through the loop created by the surrounding strands, resulting in a unique and captivating knotted dread look.
What is the characteristic feature of NLE Choppa’s Unconventional Curly Dreads?
NLE Choppa’s Unconventional Curly Dreads stand out due to their knotty design, providing ample texture and volume. Unlike solid pieces of hair, these dreads consist of coils twisted together, creating a pattern at the back of the head with visible spacing between them. This intentional design adds a natural and fuller look when worn.
How does NLE Choppa style his Contemporary and Creative Top Knot Dreads?
NLE Choppa’s Contemporary and Creative Top Knot Dreads begin with a high ponytail at the center, featuring one thick dreadlock followed by thinner ones cascading down. To style, the hair is twisted into a loose knot, and one or two thin braids are wrapped around the base of the ponytail for an extra touch of flair. The result is a stylish top knot dread look.
IN CONCLUSION
In conclusion, NLE Choppa Dreads dreadlock styles showcase a diverse range of unique and innovative looks that have become synonymous with his identity. From the thick twists of the Thick Twist Dreads to the artistic flair of the Unconventional Curly Dreads, each style reflects his creativity and individuality. The Semi-Freeform Dreads provide a more manageable alternative, offering a softer and looser appearance with minimal upkeep.
The Knotted Dread style introduces a distinctive knotty design, providing texture and volume, while the Contemporary and Creative Top Knot Dreads combine a high ponytail with braids for a stylish and eye-catching effect. The Natural and Easy to Maintain Semi-Freeform Dreads offer a practical solution for those seeking a dreadlocked look without the challenges of traditional maintenance.
NLE Choppa’s approach to styling his dreadlocks involves careful washing, detangling, and the use of products like gels and pomades to achieve the desired texture and hold. Each style reflects not only a commitment to individual expression but also a versatility that allows for different looks, catering to a range of preferences. Overall, NLE Choppa’s dreadlock styles stand as a testament to the ever-evolving and creative nature of personal expression in the world of hair and fashion.