Alicia Keys’ Braids with Curls: A Fusion of Texture and Style

Introduction

Who rocked braids and curls before it became mainstream? Alicia Keys, the 15-time Grammy Award-winning artist, has been a trailblazer in embracing and elevating natural hairstyles since her debut in the early 2000s. Her braided looks have not only become a signature part of her image but have also inspired countless women to embrace their natural textures and cultural heritage.

Alicia Keys is renowned for her soulful music and distinctive style, particularly her iconic braided hairstyles that often incorporate her natural curls. The Grammy-winning artist has been a trailblazer in embracing and showcasing protective styles that celebrate her African heritage while inspiring women worldwide to do the same.

Her hairstyles often feature a combination of braids and curls, creating a unique and eye-catching appearance. Let’s understand more about Alicia’s braid, her style, and also the significance behind the braid.

The Evolution of Alicia Keys’ Braids with Curls

Keys’ braided styles have ranged from sleek cornrows to elaborate Fulani braids, each showcasing her versatility and connection to her roots. One of her most impactful looks was the crystal-embellished style she wore to the 2020 Grammy Awards.

Hairstylist Nai’vasha Johnson, the mastermind behind this look, explains, “I wanted to celebrate authentic ‘Alicia.’ She’s iconic for braids, but I aimed to create a fresh, modern twist to complement her custom ’90s-inspired Versace wardrobe”. The result was a series of vertical cornrows culminating in a low bun, adorned with thousands of Swarovski crystals hand-embroidered onto chiffon pieces.

Types of Alicia Keys’ Braids with Curls

1. Cornrows with Curly Ends:

This style features tight, neat cornrows that transition into loose, natural curls at the ends. It’s a protective style that allows for easy maintenance while showcasing the beauty of natural texture.

2. Box Braids with Curly Tips:

Keys often sports box braids of varying sizes, sometimes incorporating curly ends for added dimension and softness.

3. Fulani Braids:

This traditional African style, characterized by thin braids and beads, is frequently seen on Keys. She often adds her own twist by leaving some sections curly or incorporating curly ends.

4. Braided Bun with Curly Tendrils:

Keys has been spotted wearing her braids in a sleek bun, with curly tendrils framing her face for a softer look.

5. Half-Up Cornrows:

This style features cornrows on the top half of the head, while the bottom half is left curly and free-flowing.

6. Braided Updo Ponytail:

This style features multiple braids gathered into a high ponytail. The braids are often cornrows or box braids that start at the scalp and are pulled up and secured at the crown. This creates a sleek, polished look that’s both elegant and protective.

7. Jumbo Twists:

Alicia has sported large, chunky twists that add volume and drama to her look. These twists are typically created using extensions and are much thicker than standard twists. They can be worn down or gathered into updos for versatility.

8. Low Twisted Ponytail:

This style combines the elegance of twists with the simplicity of a ponytail. The hair is twisted from the roots and gathered at the nape of the neck into a low ponytail. It’s a sophisticated look that works well for both casual and formal occasions.

9. Zig-Zag Braids:

Keys has worn intricate zig-zag braided patterns, often as part of a larger style. These braids follow a zig-zag pattern across the scalp, creating visual interest and texture. They can be incorporated into cornrow styles or used as a decorative element in other braided looks.

10. Jeweled Stitch Braid:

This eye-catching style features a single, thick braid adorned with jewels or crystals. The jewels are carefully placed along the braid, creating a shimmering, luxurious effect.

Tips for Maintaining Alicia Keys Braids with Curls

• To maintain these braided styles with curls, it’s essential to keep the hair moisturized and protected.
• Wrapping the hair in a silk or satin scarf at night can help prevent frizz and maintain the style’s longevity.
• For the curly sections, using a leave-in conditioner and avoiding excessive manipulation can help preserve the curl pattern.

Cultural Significance of Alicia’s Braiding

Alicia Keys has showcased a variety of braided styles throughout her career, each with its own unique technique and cultural significance. Let’s delve deeper into some of the most prominent styles:

• Cornrows are a foundational braiding technique in many of Keys’ looks. This style involves creating raised rows of hair close to the scalp, typically braided in straight lines. Cornrows have deep African roots, dating back to at least 3000 BC, and have long been a symbol of cultural identity and artistic expression. Variations include different patterns, sizes, and directions of the rows.

• Fulani braids, which Keys has worn adorned with colorful beads, originate from the Fula people of West Africa. This style typically features cornrows braided in specific patterns, often with a center parting and braids framing the face.

Traditionally, Fulani braids were used to signify marital status, religion, wealth, or origins. Keys’ adoption of this style showcases a connection to African heritage and artistry.

• The single braid ponytail, as seen on Keys at the 2022 Met Gala, is a modern take on traditional braiding. This style involves slicking back the hair and gathering it into one large braid.

The technique allows for creative embellishments, as demonstrated by the black and silver adornments placed throughout Keys’ braid. This style blends sleek sophistication with cultural homage.

• Braided buns, another style Keys has sported, involve gathering braids (often individual braids or cornrows) into a bun shape. This versatile style can range from neat and polished to deliberately messy, allowing for personal expression.

The technique often involves braiding the entire head and then carefully arranging the braids into a bun shape, sometimes with added hair for volume.

• Micro braids, while not as frequently seen on Keys, are worth mentioning for their intricate nature. This style involves creating extremely thin braids all over the head, requiring significant time and skill. Micro braids offer versatility in styling and can last for several weeks, making them a popular protective style.

Each of these braiding styles represents not just a hairstyle, but a connection to cultural heritage, a form of artistic expression, and a celebration of natural hair textures.

Keys’ embrace of these styles has contributed significantly to their mainstream acceptance and appreciation, inspiring many to explore the rich traditions of African and African American hair braiding.

Impact Beyond Beauty

Keys’ commitment to wearing braids on major platforms has contributed significantly to the wider acceptance of natural hair textures and protective styles in mainstream media. According to a 2021 study by Mintel, 51% of Black consumers reported feeling more empowered to wear their natural hair texture after seeing celebrities embrace theirs.

Conclusion

Alicia Keys’ braided hairstyles not only showcase her style but also serve as a powerful statement of cultural pride. By consistently wearing braids and incorporating her natural curls, she has helped normalize and celebrate these traditional African hairstyles in mainstream media. 

Her influence has inspired countless women to embrace their natural hair texture and explore protective styling options that honor their heritage while expressing their individuality.

FAQ