African braids are old form of art that is part of Africa’s tribal customs. It actually originates way back in 3500 BC in Egypt. Every region and tribe in Africa have its own distinct style of hair braiding. With African hair braiding, you can give your hair a rest, it is an easy and cool way to forget about hair styling for months. Most back women are sporting braids since they are gifted with strong black hair which can hold braids well.

Below are some African Braids Hairstyles:

African Braids Traditionally Serves as a Social Art

As a result of the time it takes to braid hair, people have often taken time to socialize while braiding and having their hair braided. It begins with elders making simple knots and braids for younger children. Older children watch and learn from them, start practicing on younger children, and eventually learn the traditional designs. This carries on a tradition of bonding between elders and the new generation.

Cornrows Is A Trademark Of The Hip-Hop Culture

Over the years, cornrows, along with dreadlocks, have been the subject of several disputes in the American workplace as well as universities. Some employers and educational institutions have deemed them unsuitable for the office and have banned them , sometimes even terminating employees who have worn them.

African Braids Is A Means Of Communication

In some regions, a braid was a means of communication. At a glance, one individual could distinguish a wealth of information about another, whether they where married, mourning, or of age for courtship, simply by observing their hairstyle. Braids were a means of social stratification. Certain hairstyles were distinctive to particular tribes or nations. Other styles informed others an individual’s status in society. In the 1950s, braids seemed to make a resurgence. At the same time, the Afro also was becoming popular for blacks in America.

Traditional African Braids

We are mesmerized at how perfection is achieved so effortlessly when an African American sets her hand to braiding. These are trophy winning braids… perfect sections, perfect tension and perfect braids!

In conclusion, African braided hairstyles are quite common among modern women, especially traditional looks like box braids and large long braids that go well with the 90’s revival and street wear fashion trends that are popular at the moment. There are African hair braiding styles for different occasions. Adding braids to any hairstyle add interest and create a boho chic look which I love for the summertime. For a more  edgy look, go bigger and messier.