Micro-trend: Braids in Fashion Editorials
The representation gaining a new narrative in Latin American fashion.
Braids are everywhere in Latin America.
In Mexico, Frida Kahlo might be the most recognizable character and the obvious choice.
But truth is, braids have deep symbolism among different Latin countries and communities.
As I point out in the title of this small micro-trend analysis, braids have taken on a deeper presence in various fashion editorials—not only as aesthetic elements but also as symbols that connect Latin people to their roots and stories.
In this case, several Latin photographers, stylists, creative directors, and artists are incorporating braids into their narratives.
It’s fascinating to observe how and in what contexts braids are being portrayed.
Vogue Mexico 25th anniversary editorial
For their anniversary edition, Vogue Mexico created an homage to women, braids and their stories, according to their website.
In this image, ‘Roma’ actress and public figure Yalitza Aparicio, is portrayed next to Karen Vega, the first Oaxacan fashion model to appear in Vogue. The styling was created by Ruth Buendía and it was photographed by Enrique Leyva, a Mexican fashion photographer recently included in the new generation of the BoF 500.
In a second photoshoot for the same anniversary edition of Vogue Mexico, Enrique Leyva photographs a generation of three women and shares the quote behind it:
"The braid for an Indigenous Zapotec woman like me holds several meanings. First, it's important to mention that we never cut our hair; we let it grow from the time we are young girls. As we grow, the braiding changes. If the braids are tied at the back with a knot, it means the woman is married. Before the conquest, we used animal hide strips for braiding, but with the arrival of the Spanish, we began using ribbons instead […]"
A second editorial by photographer Enrique Leyva
The Oaxacan photographer, also shared on his Instagram these beautiful pictures featuring model Andi Venegas in clothing by the brand Neithan Herbert.
estudio 1999 at Fashion Forward
The recent show by the Mexican brand estudio 1999 showcased lengthy braids on the runway, styled by Ruth Buendía (the same stylist who worked on Vogue Mexico’s anniversary photoshoots featuring braids).
Interdimensionalife x Ricardo Arenas V
Mariana PaMa (aka @interdimensionalife on Instagram), is a Mexican hairstylist who does some terrific work. For this particular image, shared on her Instagram, the styling was created in collaboration with Ricardo Arenas, who has been breaking molds in Mexican fashion and is one of the most interesting contemporary stylists today.
Thalía Gochez’s Work
The talented photographer, born in California to Mexican and Salvadoran parents, often portrays Latinx women in her work. Braids, of course, make several appearances in her images.
One of her latest works is titled ‘Yo soy Latina’, where she writes the following on Instagram:
“The Latine experience is not monolithic. We come in all shapes, color and sizes. Our experience is complex and layered. Our identities are multifaceted and vast yet we often see deeper complexions from our latine community underrepresented throughout mainstream media and fashion [...]”
In another photoshoot, styled by Gochez herself, braids make an appearance as she recreates hairstyles from her childhood (see the third photograph).
supa sweetz’ Braids
Zapotec LA-based artist supa sweetz shared a photoshoot of herself with ribbon-covered braids, writing:
“Since I was little, people would always make fun of me because of my braids and called me India María, but they didn’t know that I would never get tired of my braids or stop wearing my ribbons! Wear your braids with lots of pride and love. This concept came to my mind several months ago, and I’m so happy my friends helped me bring it to life <3 Thank you, Nelly and Saya! Love you both lots. I hope you all like it."
Artistic interpretations of braids:
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