Memory Lane
In the 1990s, this style of braids, popularized by celebrities like Janet Jackson in Poetic Justice, was widely adopted and celebrated within Black culture.
What are box braids?
Originally used by Black people to protect natural hair while sleeping, this head covering has recently seen an increase in usage by non-Black individuals, sparking discussions about cultural appropriation.
What is a bonnet?
This hairstyle, often associated with the 1970s, became a symbol of Black pride and resistance.
What is the Afro?
This hair accessory, made of satin or silk, is worn at night to protect natural hair from friction and breakage while sleeping.
What is a bonnet?
This TV show, starring Tracee Ellis Ross, frequently explores themes of natural hair and Black identity.
What is "Black-ish"?
Often used to secure hair in place, this small, colorful accessory is commonly seen in children’s hairstyles and can be shaped like stars, hearts, or flowers.
What is a barrette?
Popularized by the musical Mamma Mia, and often imitated for its curly, textured look, this hairstyle is actually known as this in Black culture, created by unraveling twisted sections of natural hair.
What is a twist out?
Known for their cylindrical shape, these pieces of hair can form naturally or be created through backcombing, palm-rolling, or twisting.
What are locs?
Originating in Africa, these metal or wooden rings are often used to adorn braids or locs, adding a touch of elegance and tradition.
What are hair cuffs or hair rings?
This popular sitcom from the '90s featured the character Will Smith sporting a signature flat-top haircut.
What is "The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air"?
During this period in the United States, enslaved Africans were often forced to shave their heads, but they maintained cultural practices through braiding patterns that conveyed messages or escape routes.
What is the 1800s
These braids, often referred to as “Kim K braids” after a certain celebrity wore them, are actually rooted in Black culture and have been known historically as this traditional style.
What are cornrows (or Fulani braids)?
This braided hairstyle, which involves wrapping the hair tightly into spirals, was worn by actress Cicely Tyson in the 1972 film Sounder and has roots in ancient African traditions.
What are bantu knots?
This cloth accessory, often made from silk or satin, is worn tightly over the head to protect waves, maintain hairstyles, and prevent frizz.
What is a durag?
In this 2000 film, a beauty shop owner tries to save her salon, which is known for its expertise in Black hair care.
What is "Beauty Shop"?
In 2019, this U.S. state’s Crown Act, a law banning discrimination based on hairstyle, was signed by its Governor, Gavin Newsom, after advocacy from Black communities.
What is California?
This style, often referred to as “Dutch braids” in mainstream fashion, is actually a form of this traditional African braid style that has been used for centuries for both aesthetic and functional purposes.
What are cornrows?
This hairstyle, often associated with hip-hop culture, features hair cut short on the sides with longer hair on top, often shaped into a boxy silhouette.
What is the high-top fade?
In the 1970s, this hair accessory, featuring a raised fist design, became a symbol of Black power and pride.
What is an afro pick?
In the 1980s, this pop superstar popularized the Jerry curl, a glossy, loosely curled hairstyle.
Who is Michael Jackson?
This African American woman became the first female self-made millionaire in America by creating and marketing a successful line of hair care products for Black women in the early 1900s, shaping the beauty industry and empowering women.
Who is Madame C.J. Walker?
This hairstyle, popularized in mainstream fashion as “clean girl hair,” is essentially the slicked-back look with a smooth, polished finish. It originated in Black culture and is historically known by this term.
What is a slick back?
This sleek and smooth style, often achieved with a pressing comb, was popularized during the 20th century among African American women.
What is the press and curl?
This elaborate head accessory, made from gold or intricately designed beads, is traditionally worn by royalty in African cultures and has been adopted in modern fashion for its aesthetic value.
What is a traditional African crown or headpiece?
This civil rights activist and co-founder of the Black Panther Party was known for her voluminous afro, a hairstyle that became a political statement.
Who is Angela Davis?