A durag, also spelled do-rag, is a type of headgear designed to hold hair in place and protect it. It is a close-fitting cloth tied around the top of the head to protect the hair, and it may be worn to accelerate the development of long curly/kinky hair, waves or locks in the hair, to maintain natural oils in hair, to stop hair breakage, to manage hair in general, or to keep hair, wave patterns, and braids from shifting while sleeping. Durags are also worn as an identity-making fashion choice, popular in Black culture and African-American culture. The modern durag has a long history, originally worn by field workers in Southern plantations, and in the 1990s, it became the signature look of hip-hop culture. Durags come in different fabrics, including silk, mesh, and velvet, and they may have a knot at the back or front of the head. They are used to maintain specific haircuts, such as waves or tresses 360, and to keep hair out of the eyes and stop sweat during exercise or sun damage.