The Symbolism of the African Braid

The braid, also known as the plait, has been used by women for thousands of years, showing its timelessness. Not only is it an important fashion piece, especially in modern times, but it also has a functional purpose.

Most importantly, it serves not only as a symbol for the strength, diversity and beauty of the African woman, but also of the 21st-century woman.

Braiding comprises strongly interlacing and intertwining strands of hair, ensuring that the strands are tight and firm; thus symbolising the strength of a woman.

The first braid used for human hair is estimated to have been made about 30 000 years ago.

The original birthplace of the braid is apparently Africa, and while braids were most commonly associated with black African women, a predilection and attraction for braids has now leaked into the hearts of women from all other races.

It is a fact.

The plaiting of hair is a creative technique which is undoubtedly universal to the women of the world. It brings forth diversity, as there are different styles of braiding, depending on the texture and length of the hair. Therefore, one can truthfully say that this versatility equates to the unification of women across all racial borders.

Furthermore, the braid possesses more of a functional role than a stylistic one. Braids, especially synthetic braids, are very cost effective in the long run because once put in, they can last for at least two to three months.

This is immensely appropriate and is often much more preferred by women of the 21st century than other hairstyles. This is due to the increase in number of working women, as women today lead busier lives than ever. They do not have excess time and energy to be trying out different hairstyles every day or every week. Therefore, women ensure that they always look fabulous and immaculate while not worrying about the costs of maintaining their hair.

While women of the 21st century are extremely busy with their daily lives, there is the necessity for them to invest in a hairstyle that will not only be much easier to handle, but one that will stand like a crown on their heads – metaphorically speaking.

Everyone knows and believes that the braid is that solution, as it doesn’t get in the way unlike other hairstyles.

No one can argue with the fact that women are truly an embodiment of strength that has always been like the connective tissue in society. After all, “a girl without braids is like a city without bridges” – Roman Payne.

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