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The History Of The Hair Braid
By Sheila Venancia
A Twisted Tale, braiding is more than a hairstyle it’s a cultural tradition that cuts across racial, social, economic, and geographic lines.
Africa – Ancient African hair braiding patterns reveal a variety of complex geometrical design’s, which often pointed to characteristics of the wearer.
Egypt – In ancient Egypt, braiding was reserved for royalty and for ceremonial rituals, like weddings.
[2]America – Historically, most Native American men, women and children wore braids to symbolize whether a woman was married or unmarried, participate in religious rituals, and to prepare for war.
Europe – Simpler braids were often chosen by common women for functional purposes, such as keeping their hair cleaner between baths and to keep hair out of the way while cooking, cleaning, and performing other daily chores. According to medieval and renaissance artwork, upper-class women were revealed by elaborate braids and styles.
There are hundreds of different types of braids, including French braids, English braids, Dutch braids, Swiss braids, Multi-strand braids and Crown braids. All are “twists“ on the traditional style.
Twisted hair braids, pleats, plaits or whatever you prefer to call them, are absolutely lovely in any season.
UNTIL NEXT MONTH.
Sheila Venancia
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Sheila Venancia has over a decade of distinguished international experience. Originally from Brazil, she trained with leading international hair professionals in London, Spain, Brazil and the USA. In Brazil, Sheila rose among the top-ranking hair and makeup artists, catapulting her into the celebrity arena. Sheila’s work has been featured on Brazilian television shows, newspapers and magazines. Her specialties are non-toxic Japanese hair straightening, laser hair extensions, and high-end modern styling. Sheila may be reached at (941) 822.2152
Copyright © 2013 REAL Magazine
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