While Bantu knots are definitely a cute look, Adele was accused of cultural appropriation for styling her hair this way as she is not Black. As noted by NaturallyCurly, Bantu knots have been around for more than a century and "are a traditional African hairstyle." The word "Bantu" refers to hundreds of ethnic groups in southern African that speak the Bantu language. The outlet added that Bantu knots are "a staple for Black women around the world, especially those wearing their hair in natural styles."
The look has been seen on non-Black celebs and models, under the name "twisted mini buns," which has led to a lot of controversy over the years. Khloé Kardashian was notably slammed for wearing the style and calling herself "Bantu babe" in 2016. Like Adele, Kardashian was accused of cultural appropriation.
"In regards to hair, cultural appropriation is particularly offensive because Black women have to fight for our natural beauty to be featured and valued," Banke Awopetu-McCullough, a professor at Monroe Community College told Ebony. "When white women rock our styles without at least giving credit, it's another example of the ways Black women are marginalized."
