History of Braids - What you didn't know!

“Braids are not just a style. This craft is a form of art.”

Did you know that braids have a long history on the African continent? They are not simply hairstyles, but carry the stories of the people. Because of the kinky texture of the hair of African people, braids were a way to maintain and protect their hair.

Braids can be traced as far back as 3500 BC - over 5000 years back in history. A number of paintings from the time depict women with the cornrow hairstyle, from the simple cornrows to the complex geometric ones.

Different braiding styles helped to express the identity of the wearer: kinship, status, age, religion, and ethnicity. Braiding was and is a social art. They were also a language and means of communication, as cornrows were known to be used as maps during the slave trade period.

Braiding was a bonding and community tool. Like today, because of how long it can take, braiding was a great way for mothers and daughters to socialize in other groups of women.

Over the years, braids have become an outward expression of the self.