Throughout history, natural hair has been an emblem of power, beauty, and identity — from Angela Davis’ iconic afro during the civil rights movement to Solange Knowles’ rallying anthem Don’t Touch My Hair. In Braided & Laid, Bustle celebrates natural hair in all of its glory — whether styled into braids with slicked, laid edges or teased with a hair pick for maximum volume — and the power found within every curl and coil.

Braided & Laid

How Hollywood Finally Began To Embrace Black Hair

Two film hairstylists reflect on its history in cinema.

By Amber Rambharose
Braided & Laid

The Best Products To Bring On Vacation For Natural Hair

They’re TSA-approved.

By Sasha Monet Wayman
Style

Lessons Learned On The Yard

10 women reflect on their experiences attending an HBCU — and the impact it left on their hair and identity.

By Blake Newby
Braided & Laid

The Best Vacation Hairstyles For Black Women, According To Travel Influencers

Braids, faux locs, and more.

By Chelsie DeSouza
Style

The (Hair) Ties That Bind

Three Black writers discuss their hair histories — from hot combs and relaxers to afros and box braids.

By Leah Faye Cooper
Braided & Laid

8 Black Women Across The Globe Share Their Natural Hair Care Routines

From Dallas to London.

By Blake Newby
Style

The (Hair) Ties That Bind

Three Black writers discuss their hair histories — from hot combs and relaxers to afros and box braids.

By Leah Faye Cooper
Style

Lessons Learned On The Yard

10 women reflect on their experiences attending an HBCU — and the impact it left on their hair and identity.

By Blake Newby
Braided & Laid

The Best Vacation Hairstyles For Black Women, According To Travel Influencers

Braids, faux locs, and more.

By Chelsie DeSouza
You Heard It Here First

Nourie Is The Black-Owned Company Making Braiding Hair Out Of Plants

Osahon Ojeaga, Nourie's founder and CEO, chats with Bustle about plant-based braiding hair, the unique challenges facing Black-owned businesses, and more.

By Erin Stovall
Braided & Laid

The Best Products To Bring On Vacation For Natural Hair

They’re TSA-approved.

By Sasha Monet Wayman
Braided & Laid

How Hollywood Finally Began To Embrace Black Hair

Two film hairstylists reflect on its history in cinema.

By Amber Rambharose
Beauty

The Senate Blocked The CROWN Act In 2022. Here's Why That Matters

“This is not just a hair issue, this is a Civil Rights issue.”

By Chelsie DeSouza
Beauty & Pride

3 Afro-Indigenous TikTokers Share Their Most Meaningful Beauty Rituals

From braiding to sacred full moon ceremonies.

By Jada Jackson
Braided & Laid

20 Ombré Box Braids To Get You Out Of A Hair Rut

Call your braider ASAP.

By Natasha Marsh