Our new series Crowned explores the history of Black hairstyles.
In our debut episode, we deep-dive into cornrows, a traditional Black hairstyle with rich cultural significance.
Join us in learning more.
This series is researched byChristine ForbesandOluwatobi Odugunwa.
It’s easy to feel like the beauty world is a constant revolving door.
Fads and formulas comestay for a whileand quickly disappear as the next one takes the stage.
Still, few styles transcend what’s trending and have rich cultural meaning.
Cornrows are one of them.
The style is prevalent in today’s world but has roots dating back to ancient Africa.
While the look is a common choice among many, there’s a lot ofrich historythat goes unnoticed.
“A braided style, like cornrows, helps protect [hair] from moisture loss and breakage.”
It’s why cornrows, and many other braided looks, are classified as"protective" styles.
Alone, cornrows are a sleek, low-maintenance style that can last for weeks.
However, they also act as a flawless base for other styles likesew-in extensions and wigs.
“Braids [cornrows] are often appropriated by non-Black people,” Donaldson explains.
“In Africa, braids were a way to show people who you were,” Donaldson says.
“They signified your tribe, your marital status, your wealth, religion, and more.”
In 1980, Renee Rogers sued American Airlines when the company demanded she not wear cornrows to work.
In 2000, a Wisconsin teacher forcibly cut off seven-year-old Lamya Cammon’s plaits before her grade-school class.
These instances don’t include the countless cases of discrimination that go unreported or unspoken.
“Non-Black people just don’t.”
The Future
Nonetheless, it doesn’t erase the beauty of cornrows.
Products both mass and indie are evolving to continually cater to the unique needs of Black hair texturesincluding braids.
As the pages in the history books continue to turn, so will the beautiful story of cornrows.
“Braiding is a symbol of perseverance and tradition,” Donaldson says.
“Most importantly it reminds us that Black hairisBlack history.”
And it should be treated and celebrated as such.
Ahead, find some of our favorite products for caring for cornrows at home.
