New Twist on Braids

By Annika Jones
Spectrum Staff Writer

        On any HBCU campus it is common to see a variety of hairstyles from dreadlocks to silk presses to an all natural afro. In recent years, as young black women continue to grow in love with their hair, we’ve seen the variety of hairstyles expand into box braids, faux locs and other protective hairstyles. We’ve seen black women sport the traditional braids, knotless braids, Fulani braids, and other styles that protect black women’s hair while keeping an air of style and creativity.

        Students have begun to take advantage of this phenomenon by using skills they have doing their own hair or their friends hair to start braiding businesses on campus. Directly from their dorm rooms, they have created spaces to generate revenue for their services and offer convenience to their student peers. Here at Bowie State, there are several hair braiding businesses that have become prominent resources for students. In a conversation with a couple of the campus braiders, I found that their setup and their methods for client retention have modeled a true sense of professionalism that black women do not often see in the hair care industry.

        These braiders shared with me how they work out of their dorms to offer convenience to their peers and creating a comfortable space for them while they braid their hair. A simple private set up in their rooms provides a stress free environment away from a salon setting that may be chaotic and anxiety inducing. They also shared their prices that, since they are made by students, are reasonable and attainable for the average college student. With style prices ranging from $100-$200, a client can avoid the stress of trying to find a braider within their budget.

        In conversation with clients, it was very clear that student clients are grateful for the stylists on campus that offer their services. There is no need to travel to their hometown stylist with the right price with a braider in their dorm to walk to. A student peer they can relate to and trust with their hair can ease any apprehension they might have about getting their hair done in what might be a new city or environment.

        With hair care being an industry that constantly grows and evolves, people looking to get their foot in may encounter a couple of things these campus stylists run in to. If you’re a newcomer wary of taxable income, many stylists don’t have to report the money that they make since it is under a certain amount. As your business grows, there are tax forms you may need to complete. If you are concerned with scheduling, many stylists go through their social media or they generate a website to organize the bookings that they receive and collect deposits to secure a client’s slot.

        It is safe to say that providing a space for HBCU students to get their hair done in a comfortable, convenient, and cost efficient way has generated a growing interest. Women, especially black women, have always had a desire to express themselves through their hair and it has never been easier with campus braiders on the rise.