Braid - History

History

Hair braiding is an ancient art, practiced by the Ancient Egyptians as long ago as 4000 BC. Today it has become a “hot “ fashion trend with many styles, weaves and colorful ornamental beads. Not only women but also men have embraced this beautiful art, creating color and style beyond our ancestors wildest dreams.

How and where did braiding begin? Hair braiding, as we know it today, has long been custom in West Africa. The different and often complex designs signify the social status, age group and village a girl has come from. The braid patterns are made up of different geometrical patterns and can become quite complex for special occasions, such as marriages.

Braiding is traditionally a social art. Because of the time it takes to braid hair the women took time to socialize while braiding and having their hair done. It begins with the elders making simple knots and braids for younger children. Older children watch and learn from them, start practicing on younger girls and eventually learn the traditional designs. Here in America you see mothers and grandmothers braiding and putting colorful beads in little children’s hair. This carries on a the tradition of bonding between elders and the new generation.

The difference between ancient and modern braiding: Nowadays, as well as the colorful beads and intricate designs of our ancestors, hair weaving has become part of the traditional braiding technique. This opens the door to a whole new assortment of styles and looks. The Hip Hop industry has taken hair braiding and weaving to a whole new level of popularity and style, allowing people from all walks of life to enjoy creating a fashion statement with hair braids and weaves. Hair weaves range from real hair to a vast array of different colors and textures made from synthetic hair. The traditional beads are also being developed into all sorts of shapes and sizes.