The Tribune

By JEFFARAH GIBSON

Tribune Features Writer

jgibson@tribunemedia.net

For the working woman, next to deciding what outfit to wear, finding a hairstyle that is both stylish and low maintenance for everyday wear, and which also offers protection for your tresses, can be quite a challenge.

Many women tend to resort to weaves and other quick styles that require little effort, as the last thing a busy woman wants is to be bothered with is their hair.

Thanks to the creativity and innovation of hairstylists, there is a plethora of protective styles that Black women can choose from these days. And first choice for Bahamian women are always braids.

Braids continue to be a popular choice for a number of reasons.

“Braids have been around for centuries and they are trendy because of the number of styles that you can do with them said,” said Anthonique Mackey of Honey’s Hair Lounge.

“Every so often a new style comes out. They are convenient because they can last for a minimum of three weeks and the still tend to be intact.”

Braids come in a myriad of styles and colours; from the floor-sweeping lengths through to chic bobs of the ‘90s – braids offer the versatility that very few other styles can.

“If you’re looking to take a break from heat styling or you’re after a summer style that is sun, sea and sweat-proof, then opting for a braided style can be the way to go. Not to mention it is affordable,” Anthonique told Tribune Woman.

Heart braids

One style that braiders have been adding to their repertoires this season are the heart cornrows. This style is extremely trendy right now and Bahamians love wearing it.

“It’s cute and adds something different,” said Anthonique. “Not only are the heart-shaped cornrows being incorporated, but also a heart parting. For example, a person may get knotless braids but instead of a box parting they choose a heart parting. All, in my opinion, if done properly, are beautiful.”

Floor-sweeping knotless braids

Women are taking their braiding game to the next level. Instead of opting for simple waist-length knotless braids, they are going for nearly floor-length tresses.

While it is certainly a protective style and will last for a long time, Anthonique said it is very time-consuming to install.

“You will spend a lot of time sitting,” she warned.

Regular waist-length knotless braids at medium thickness can take anywhere from two to four hours, but floor-length braids take even longer.

“However, it is certainly beautiful once it is done and it can last a long time,” she said.

Fulani/tribal braids with a twist

This style seen on celebrities like Alicia Keys, Solange Knowles and Venus Williams, originated in West Africa and typically incorporates a mixture of cornrows in the front and box braids at the back, as well as accessories like beads for adornment. However, braiders have put their own spin on this style by adding a crisscross rubber band row at the front of the hair. Its uniqueness, Anthonique, said is what makes this style it a hit.

“To keep the braids in tip-top shape, all you have to do is tie your hair and add your choice of edge control when you are ready to go out into the world,” she said.

Braids with curls

To elevate and soften the look of knotless braids, adding curly hair to the ends and throughout is also a popular option.

“Many women love this look because it gives your styles this boho vibe that everyone is loving at the moment when it comes to hair trends,” said Anthonique.

“All braids are simple; just a great choice, especially for women who are working and have kids. Getting up in the morning and having to style your hair among the other things you have to do is not fun. It makes sense to get your hair in a protective style that is long-lasting.”