African Braiding

Africa

A number of braided styles originate from Africa, including cornrows, box braids, twists, and locs, with each ethnic group and region having distinct techniques and meanings. African people such as the Yoruba people of West Africa, Wolof people, Himba people of Namibia, Maasai people of Kenya have been braiding their hair for centuries. In many African ethnicities, hairstyles are unique and used to identify different ethnicities. There are a variety of African braiding styles. Braids were common in Ancient Egypt, and a variety of braid styles were popular for both men and women. The placement and style of braids served as an indicator of age and social status, and cutting said braids carried cultural significance. Braided hair was sometimes used as an offering at burial sites.