Guest Author - Grace D. Dooley

Braids can be very festive during the holiday season. They are great for those who will be busy and short on time. They are looking for something that will keep easy no matter the occasion. Braids have been in tradition of African American hair for generations dating back the designs of tribal life. Through out history there have always been braids used for different occasions but among ethnic women it is considered the norm.

During the holiday season if you are one to wear braids consider accessorizing them. Use barrettes, beads, wraps or flowers in your hair. Hair accessories are like jewelry. Matching what looks good in your hair, for your face and the outfit you are planning to wear is key to getting the special, out of the ordinary hairstyle. You can have your hair braided in many different ways. French braids, corn rows and twists are excellent no fuss hairstyles for the holidays. Braids represent an individual artist style. How ever your hair is braided, it is a statement about your crowning glory, your hair.

Braided styles are easy to maintain and can last longer with proper care Braiding ethnic hair makes for a simpler hair care routine. Braids are good for ethnic women who like to wear their hair natural. No chemicals. They are also good for those of you who have hair problems, say your hair is difficult to comb or style. If you are what they call "tender headed" then I would recommend braids. You can also accessorize braids with beads and wraps as well as other hair bands and tiaras.

What style of braid depends on your type of hair. There are many ways to braid and twist hair into stylish, out of the ordinary designs. The culture of women today are fascinated with braids. Especially young ethnic women. The generation behind the baby boomers. With so many mixed races and multi ethnic children, ethnic hair has evolved to a whole new level.

Not all hair looks good braided and not all ethnic hair is easy to braid. It depends on your hair type, again. If your hair is soft and bouncy, twists or French braids are better for your hair. If your hair is very curly or kinky corn rowing is better for you.

Other hairstyles for this holiday season includes the up do, chignon and ponytails. Long, short or medium hair can benefit from these holidays styles. Again hair accessories will transform a normal everyday hairstyle into a night on the town. Simple yet elegant style. Do not be afraid to experiment. It is easier to experiment with hair accessories than it is to drastically change your hair and not be happy with it.

Most of all enjoy your hair and your beauty. Celebrate all the things that can be done with your hair. Ethnic women really do have more options to different hair style because of the texture of the hair. Enjoy it, look for something different, out of the ordinary that you like or something you've always wanted to try. Give your self permission to try new looks, styles and designs for your hair.