The Image of Africa information station!
Just how far back the art of hair-braiding can be traced may be seen in the clearly visible hair braids in ancient African photographs.
In West Africa, hair-braiding is a vital aspect of the cultural tradition. Many regions wore distinctive braids as a means of tribal identification.
There were however, various other social and political functions of braids in those societies. Intricate styles were used in ceremonial rituals, such as weddings; but were also cultural and demographic sign posts pointing to different age groups, societal status, or even as designations of royalty.
Aside from Africa, many other countries and cultures have enjoyed a long cultural, political and social association with the art of hair-braiding.
Braids were around during medieval times and were worn as adornments, but were functional, as well; often a means of keeping hair cleaner between baths, keeping it out of cooking fires, and more.
For Native Americans braids were primarily adornments (particularly for women and children), but could also specify religious observances, and when worn by men were used by some tribes as preparation for war.
In nearly every part of the world, from Africa to India, Asia to the U.S., at varying periods of history braids have played some part in the cultural aesthetic.
| Tips When Choosing a Salon/Stylist |
Wherever you decide to obtain your services we suggest that you request a complimentary consultation.
Ask to see photographs of finished work.
The most important element when spending your hard earned money on your hair is not how much you pay, but that the price is reasonable, and the value is undisputed and guaranteed.
|
| Why Are Braids So Popular |
Today, hair-braids are not only a cultural tradition of people of African descent, but a major component of a pop culture that cuts across racial, economic, social and in many cases, geographic lines.
When worn in Japan braids are referred to as "Hip-Hop" cuts; while in the U.S. the hairstyle is sported by entertainers ranging from country singer, Willie Nelson to Hip-Hop artist Mary J. Blige.
It is apparent that braids have penetrated almost every segment of society. But, what is it that makes them so popular? The reasons are simple. Braids are:
Long-lasting: Braids can last several weeks to several months depending on the style and client requirements. The initial time spent styling braids can run from a couple of hours to six-seven hours, however in the long run this can be a good investment in time because the style generally last so long.
Easy Care: Once in place braids are shampoo and go. Simply shampoo the scalp, rinse, coat braids with recommended oil or moisturizer and that’s it until the next shampoo. There is a maintenance requirement recommended for certain braids, but the cost and time involved is minimal.
Versatile: There are numerous styles of braids, such as cornrows, French braids, basket braids, etc. As a hair-style, what really knocks braids out of the box are designer styles. A stylist can look at the shape of the face and/or the head of a client, and custom create a style just for that individual. In that respect braided-hair styles are limitless in their possibilities.
Attractive: Braids are naturally suited to the curly texture of African hair, however anyone can wear braids attractively. Styles such as micro-braids (smaller sections of hair used and smaller braids created), works especially well with fine, long hair; and the good news is … there are multiple variations on the micro style of braids.
Inexpensive: Although the initial cost of getting braids can be expensive because of the time and expertise required, professional upkeep is little to none, therefore in the long run, they can be quite cost effective.
A Political/Cultural Statement: Many African-Americans, and Africans for that matter who wear natural braids (hair not straightened or processed in any way), wear it that way as an expression of who they are naturally … as it relates to their roots, to Africa, to their ancestry.
Aside from all the possible reasons people wear braids, probably most wear them simply because … they're fashionable.
| Hair 101 (Educational Column) |
Treebraids Maintenance Tips
Human hair - commercial hair
Straight treebraids hair styles: There are different ways of taking care of treebraids. The only thing needed for treebraids with human hair is liquid sheen of any type- olive oil, and tea tree oil are recommended. An added advantage of these types of oils is that they are pre-mixed, easy and can be purchased off the shelf. Additionally, they can be used to sheen the scalp to alleviate itchy scalp, which occurs with cornrows. Nevertheless, a mixture of olive oil and water works great for commercial hair. Use desired oils on hair, then comb with a comb with small teeth, or a bristle brush.
Curly and wavy treebraids hair styles: Use oils as recommended above, then comb through to the tips with a wide tooth comb for curly and wavy hair. For a tamer look that gives a straighter look at the scalp with less curls and the end, use a comb with small teeth, or a bristle brush.
Wash commercial hair when it needs a 'bounce', or as needed.
Synthetic hair - commercial hair
Straight treebraids hair styles: The only thing needed for treebraids with synthetic hair is liquid sheen of any type: olive oil, and tea tree oil are recommended. Comb with a small-tooth comb or a bristle brush.
Curly and wavy treebraids hair styles: Use oils as recommended above, then comb through to the tips with a wide tooth comb for curly and wavy hair. For a tamer look that gives a straighter look at the scalp with less curls and the end, use a comb with small teeth, or a bristle brush. Always place the palm of the hand against the commercial hair, right above the comb or brush. The palm of the hand helps to create a smoother look. For unruly curls, take it one step further by clamping the fingers at the tips of the commercial hair. Next, pull down at the tips.
Tie your hair up at night to have a 'get-up-and-go' look in the morning, especially with curly and wavy tree braid hair styles.
| Vote - Style of the MONTH |
Stylist will showcase photos of their work and visitors can select the styly they like most and that style can be featured somewhere for public viewing....just a thought...
Click on thumbnails for larger view!
|
|
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)