What are Hippie Braids Called?

Hippie braids, also known as Bohemian or Boho braids, come from the Bohemian style popular with free-spirited artists and hippies in the 60s and 70s.

These braids can be loose and messy or detailed with many small braids. They often include beads, feathers, or colorful threads for a free-spirited look. Boho braids are perfect for a festival or a casual, stylish hairstyle.

Hippie Braids, or their Modern Evolution

Bohemian braids capture the essence of free-spiritedness and effortless flair.

Emerging from the 60s and 70s counterculture, these intricate plaits draw inspiration from the unconventional spirit of artists and intellectuals who challenged the norm.

What makes Bohemian braids truly captivating is their versatility. From wild festival crowns to elegantly woven goddess styles, they adapt to any mood or occasion.

And with endless textural possibilities – think chunky fishtails, cascading waterfalls, or whimsical Dutch side braids, each style boasts its unique charm.

So, the next time you seek to unleash your inner bohemian while staying confidently modern, embrace the art of Bohemian braiding and let your creativity flow!

P.S. This revised version avoids potentially insensitive generalizations about “bohemians” and focuses on Bohemian braids’ inclusive, expressive nature.

Understanding the Origins of Hippie Braids

Hippie braids, also known as boho braids or gypsy braids, originated during the 1960s and 1970s when the hippie counterculture movement was at its peak.

Inspired by the hippie movement’s free-spirited lifestyle and nonconformist ideals, individuals began embracing natural hairstyles that reflected their bohemian ethos.

Hippie braids symbolized rebellion against societal norms and a celebration of individuality.

Different Styles of Hippie Braids

1. Classic Hippie Braid: The classic hippie braid is characterized by its loose, undone appearance. It involves gathering hair from both sides of the head and intertwining them into a single braid at the back. The emphasis is on creating an effortless and carefree hairstyle that complements the bohemian aesthetic.
2. Fishtail Hippie Braid: The fishtail hippie braid adds a touch of elegance to the bohemian hairstyle. This style involves splitting the hair into two sections and taking small sections from each side to create a fishtail braid. The result is a beautifully intricate braid that adds texture and visual interest to the look.
3. Hippie Crown Braid: The hippie crown braid is popular for those seeking a whimsical and ethereal hairstyle. This style involves creating two braids on each side of the head, starting from the front and wrapping them around the crown area. The braids are then secured with bobby pins to create a crown-like effect, perfect for festivals or special occasions.
4. Hippie Braided Updo: The braided updo is an excellent choice for a more sophisticated take on hippie braids. This style involves gathering the hair into a high ponytail and dividing it into multiple sections. Each section is then braided and wrapped around the ponytail base to create an intricately braided updo. This hairstyle exudes elegance while still capturing the bohemian essence.

Techniques for Creating Hippie Braids

1. French Braiding: French braiding is one of the most common techniques for creating hippie braids. It involves weaving three strands of hair together, adding more hair from the sides as you progress. The result is a tight, intricate braid that stays in place throughout the day.
2. Dutch Braiding: Dutch braiding, also known as reverse French braiding, is another technique commonly used for hippie braids. Unlike French braiding, where the strands are crossed over each other, in Dutch braiding, the strands are crossed under each other. This creates a braid that appears raised from the scalp, adding dimension and texture to the hairstyle.
3. Twist Braiding: Twist braiding is a simple yet effective technique for creating hippie braids. It involves dividing the hair into two sections and twisting each section tightly before crossing them over each other. This technique creates a bohemian-inspired, rope-like braid that adds an effortless charm to any look.

Cultural Significance of Hippie Braids

Hippie braids serve as a fashion statement and hold cultural significance in various communities worldwide. For instance:

1. Native American Culture: Braided hairstyles have deep roots in Native American culture, where they signify unity, strength, and cultural identity. The intricate patterns created through braiding represent storytelling and ancestral traditions.
2. African Culture: Braided hairstyles have been integral to African culture for centuries. They serve as a form of self-expression of cultural identity and even indicate social status within certain communities.
3. Rastafarian Culture: Rastafarian culture embraces natural hairstyles as a reflection of their spiritual beliefs and connection to nature. Rastafarians often wear dreadlocks or intricate braided styles known as “Natty Dread” to symbolize their faith and cultural identity.

Tips for Maintaining Hippie Braids

To ensure your hippie braids stay looking fabulous, follow these tips:

1. Regular Washing: It is essential to wash your hair regularly to keep your scalp clean and prevent any build-up or odor. Use a gentle shampoo formulated for your hair type and follow up with a lightweight conditioner.
2. Moisturize: Braided hairstyles can sometimes lead to dryness, so keeping your hair moisturizing is crucial. Apply a leave-in conditioner or hair oil to hydrate and nourish your strands.
3. Protective Styling: When sleeping or engaging in physical activities, protect your hippie braids by wearing a satin scarf or using a silk pillowcase. This reduces friction and prevents frizz or damage to your style.
4. Avoid Excessive Manipulation: Constantly touching or pulling on your braids can lead to breakage or frizz. Minimize excessive manipulation to maintain the longevity of your hairstyle.
5. Regular Maintenance: Schedule regular touch-up appointments with your hairstylist to ensure your braids remain neat and well-maintained. They can also guide any necessary repairs or adjustments needed.

Conclusion

Hippie braids, known by names such as boho or gypsy braids, offer a captivating way to embrace the bohemian spirit and express individuality through hairstyling.

Whether you opt for classic loose braids or intricate updos, these hairstyles exude an effortless charm that celebrates freedom and nonconformity.

By understanding their origins, mastering different styles and techniques, appreciating their cultural significance, and following proper maintenance tips, you can confidently rock hippie braids while channeling your inner free spirit.

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Anuli

Anuli is a Hair Styles Expert & the founder of wiselybraids.com, a website dedicated to providing the latest tips, trends, and Articles for hairstyling with Braids. With years of experience in the industry, Anuli has become a go-to source for hair care advice and inspiration.