The Edmonton Journal wrote an article "untangling the difference between real and fake 'locks" and, naturally, came to us for an interview on the subject:

Vancouver's Knotty Boy markets dread products, styling and removable extensions made from organic and synthetic materials.

Founder Adrianna Hepper believes demand is partially linked to the popularity of hip-hop and rap-metal.

"I've got a sense that the majority do it as an anti-conformity statement," Hepper says.

"They are trying to make a statement and show they're concerned with deeper issues than appearances."

Hepper concedes extensions fulfill a customer's desire for instant gratification. But she insists radical extensions can be even more in keeping with individuality.

"It's a service for people who find regular dreads too tame or difficult to maintain," she says, noting Europe's blossoming cyber-goth movement features wildly coloured dread wigs and elaborate extensions complemented by dramatic make-up. "These are people who are using themselves as a canvas for creative expression."

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