The traditional African Hairstyles have a rich cultural history. Gauri D. dives deep into the origins and symbolisms of these beautiful hairstyles that continue to rule the hairstyling industry even today.
Traditional African hairstyles have been the talk of centuries. It fascinates the entire world. From repression to acceptance, the tale of the beautiful black locks is as thrilling as it is inspiring. The traditional hairstyles were a means to symbolise one’s social status, spirituality, tribe, and marital status. The records of hairstyles declaring social hierarchy date back to the 15th century. Here is some history and various styles that have inspired the youth even today!
Rich cultural history of African Hairstyles
As the most evolved part of the body, many tribes believed the hair knots connected them to the divine. Keeping long hair and styling them in various ways according to stature and status thus became a way to connect with the divine. Special herbal treatments, combs and oils have been a part of this tradition for many centuries.
This changed with the transatlantic slave trades. In an attempt to dehumanize the slaves, the oppressors often shaved the heads, detaching the humans out of spirituality. This gave a different meaning to the braids and locks in the eurocentric era and therefore, braids transformed into a tool for slaves seeking freedom. The Cornrows became a way to communicate escape routes when scriptures were risky to be caught with.
The braided plaits resembled travel patterns and routes to avoid. The process of weaving and hiding small bits of gold and seeds for sustenance gave a new meaning to these beautiful braids. Thankfully, today they do not represent the means of escape, but a beautiful way of self expression. Many young would choose to honour their culture and tradition by wearing their hair in certain ways.
Here are some of the popular African hairstyles in USA that honour the rich African culture of knots and braids:
Bantu Knots
Rihanna rocked the Bantu Knots and the entire world ranged on this amazing hairstyle. Many go as far to call it an unofficial black hairstyle.
Originating from the Zulu tribe in South Africa, the style represents femininity and social status. Bantu Knots are created by dividing hair into many sections. These sections are styled with the gel and then twisted on themselves. This creates beautiful knots.
The hairstyle lasts upto 4 amazing weeks without any hassle. It is easy to manage, just remember to use some styling to keep them glowing.
Fulani Braids
This traditional African hairstyle originates in West Africa and is indigenous to the Fulani people. It is a symbol of identity among the Fulani people. It takes an awfully long time to achieve the best results with Fulani Braids but the results are stunning. It’s truly worth every painstaking second!
Cornrows with middle and side parting make Fulani braids and many choose to adorn them with accessories. These accessories famously include rings, beads, and sometimes conch shells. Today, traditional hairstyles are gaining popularity among many ethnic groups. Many celebrities have sported this cool hairstyle with great elegance. Alicia Key, Rihanna, Kim Kardashian, and Zendaya are some prominent personalities who have taken Fulani Braids on international stages.
Edamburu
Marvel’s Black Panther popularised and paid respect to Edamburu or the braided crown. This intricate crown of braids symbolises roya status. Popularly known as the braided crown, this hairstyle is native to the Mangbetu in Congo.
Edamburu is essentially an elongated crown that is intricately woven to replicate an elongated crown. It is a complex hairstyle, popular among the celebrities. Kim Kardashian adorned the hairstyle and looked nothing short of royal!
