In todays ever-growing world ofbraids,R&B artist Tylastands as the latest muse for the freestyle-braid trend.
Brooklyn-based braiderRosemery Duranshares that clients predominantly bring in nonhuman references when providing inspiration.
It goes beyond just looks.
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Some important milestones could include giving birth, starting a new phase of life, or celebrating an achievement.
The braids end up giving that to them.
Rooted in precolonial West African symbolism, many variations of this style feature a centerpiece of an adinkra symbol.
To me, freestyle braids protest Black hair politics that prioritize neatness and often align with proximity to whiteness.
The first time I saw braids that evoked such experimentation was on Alicia Keys in the early aughts.
Rihanna, posing for the cover ofVogueChina,Latto, andFKA Twigshave all recently joined the trend.
Freestyle braids are slowly proving that were reaching new peaks regarding intricate beauty practices.
