Showing posts with label south african women. Show all posts
Showing posts with label south african women. Show all posts

Tuesday, 5 August 2014

Black Female Hairstyle | 8 of the Best Short Hairstyles for Black Women | Coily By Nature | Blog Black Hairstyles


As 2014 hits it's midway mark, we're starting to notice a new trend where natural hair sisters are embracing more short hairstyles for black women. This is true despite the fact that having natural hair often ties itself to women and their desire to have long, luscious locks. But if you're a natural hair sister with a TWA or you keep it simple and short, we have the 8 best short hairstyles for you that will keep your workweek or outing styles.

There's something about short hair that's just as attractive, if not more, as having long hair. A common misconception about black women and short hairstyles for black women is that there is little room to be versatile. In terms of short hairstyles for black women, this could not be further from the truth. Short hairstyles for black women have a wide variety of ways that they can be worn, cut and/or styled.

We've combed the worldwide web for some of the most versatile, short hairstyles for black women. These styles are classy enough to be worn in the professional environment, but stylish enough to be worn for any occasion. Here are 2014's best short hairstyles for black women.



Short hairstyles for black women that involve color. Sometimes we want to be bold. I always say that there's nothing better than a short style that's been perfectly highlighted and colored. For my natural hair sisters that like to be bold and go blonde, more power to you. Short hairstyles for black women that have the correct color tone vs. skin tone combination can go a long way.



Short hairstyles for black women are "bangin'". Whether your hair is curly or straightened, bangs can complement any short hairstyle.







Straightened short hairstyles for black women. I'm not a big fan when it comes to straightened styles. But once in a while some of us just have to do it. Typically with this hairstyle I opt for wigs when I'm not feeling daring enough to bust out the scissors.



Wash n' Go short hairstyles for black women. Denman brushes are ideal for curl definition for curly, short hairstyles for black women.



Big curls and ringlets. I love curls and ringlets. So grab your curling rods, straws and roller sets to achieve this short natural hairstyle.



Just starting on dreds? Short hairstyles work for dredded sisters too. I've always thought that dredded hairstyles were the hardest to achieve, but the more I see my natural hair sisters pulling it off, the more I believe.




Get a blowdryer and pick it out! Some of the best short hairstyles for black women are simple. A simple afro on a rounded face looks perfect for any occasion.Any of these short hairstyles are perfect for any workweek or outing.What kind of short black hairstyles do you like to rock?

8 of the Best Short Hairstyles for Black Women


Friday, 27 June 2014

Black Female Hairstyle | Short Hairstyles for Black Women 2013 – 2014 | Short Hairstyles ... | Blog Black Hairstyles

Black Female Hairstyle | Short <b>Hairstyles</b> for <b>Black Women</b> 2013 – 2014 | Short <b>Hairstyles</b> <b>...</b> | Blog Black Hairstyles


Short <b>Hairstyles</b> for <b>Black Women</b> 2013 – 2014 | Short <b>Hairstyles</b> <b>...</b>

Posted: 11 May 2014 10:28 AM PDT

Home Short Hairstyles for Black Women Short Hairstyles for Black Women 2013 – 2014

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Nowadays, black women have some of the best hairstyles in the world. You will notice this in some of the most celebrated artists of our time such as Rihanna, Beyonce, and many more. The reason is that most of these popular artists have sported various hairstyles which are really trendsetting around the globe. Likewise, these famous artists have pushed hairstyling to the hilt by trying and popularizing trendy hairstyles. Yet, it is not my intention here to praise these popular artists; what I want to point out is the obvious fact that whatever your skin color or genetically endowed hair, there is no limit to the creativity and artistry which you can achieve with your hair. What I mean is that you can recreate, adorn, color, tinge, and enhance your hair whichever ways you like as long as it amplifies and increase your appeal and charm. Whether you are black, white, yellow, brown, or of whatever skin color, you can make and fashion your hair to whatever style you want.

In this article, some of the best hairstyles for black women are showcased for you to look at and appreciate. Likewise, you can readily choose and mimic some of these carefully handpicked hairstyles as long as they are applicable and fit your personality and mood. These hairstyles are illustrative of the hairstyles of black women nowadays and these examples of hairstyles reveal the fact that black women's hairstyles nowadays know no limit. You will be amazed at the wide variety of possibility for the awesome hair textures of black women. You will also be surprised at how trendy and alluring this set of hairstyles for black women are. Indeed, the world of hairstyling nowadays have been pushing its boundaries to the hilt of its potential.

Black Short Hairstyles 2014

Source

2. Fabulous and Charming Bob Hair with Cool Strips of Light Brown, Platinum Blonde and Brown

Black Short Hairstyles

3. Very Cool and Charming Pixie Cut with Cute Little Bangs

Black Women Short Hairstyles

4. Alluring and Pretty Asymmetric Bob Hair with Nice Side-swept Bangs

Black Short Haircuts

5. Very Attractive and Fabulous Pixie Cut with Nice Strands of Curly Hair

Short Hairstyles for Black Women 2013 – 2014_1

Source

6. Nice and Awesome Back View of a Lovely Pixie Cut with Kinky Strands of Hair

Short Hairstyles for Black Women 2013 – 2014_2

Source

7. Very Artistic and Unique Pixie Cut

Short Hairstyles for Black Women 2013 – 2014_3

Source

8. Very Nice Pixie Cut with Side-swept Bangs

Short Hairstyles for Black Women 2013 – 2014_4

9. Cute and Charming Bob Hair with Nice Curly Strands of Hair

Short Hairstyles for Black Women 2013 – 2014_5

Source

10. Cute and Pretty Pixie Cut

Short Hairstyles for Black Women 2013 – 2014_6

Source

11. Cute and Attractive Pixie Cut with Little Spikes at the Top

Short Hairstyles for Black Women 2013 – 2014_7

12. Very Attractive and Lovely Bob Hair with Nice Flip Out Sides

Short Hairstyles for Black Women 2013 – 2014_8

13. Very Regale and Fabulous Kinky Pixie Cut

Short Hairstyles for Black Women 2013 – 2014_9

14. Funky and Exciting Pixie Cut with Little Spikes at the Top

Short Hairstyles for Black Women 2013 – 2014_10

Source

15. Awesome and Rebellious Pixie Cut

Short Hairstyles for Black Women 2013 – 2014_11

Source

16. Very Charming and Attractive Pixie Cut by Halle Berry

Short Hairstyles for Black Women 2013 – 2014_12

17. Alluring and Attractive Pixie Cut with Nice Side-swept Hair

Short Hairstyles for Black Women 2013 – 2014_13

18. Charming and Lovely Asymmetric Bob Hair

Short Hairstyles for Black Women 2013 – 2014_14

19. Cool and Awesome Curly Pixie Cut

Short Hairstyles for Black Women 2013 – 2014_15

20. Nice and Awesome Kinky Pixie Cut

Short Hairstyles for Black Women 2013 – 2014_16

21. Nice and Charming Curly Pixie Cut

Short Hairstyles for Black Women 2013 – 2014_17

22. Cool and Charming Pixie Cut with Nice Spikes at the Top

Short Hairstyles for Black Women 2013 – 2014_18

Source

23. Nice and Cool Bob Hair with Awesome Color

Short Hairstyles for Black Women 2013 – 2014_19

24. Very Charming and Attractive Pixie Cut with Cute Little Bangs

Short Hairstyles for Black Women 2013 – 2014_20

25. Fabulous and Gorgeous Curly Bob Hair

Short Hairstyles for Black Women 2013 – 2014_21

26. Lovely and Charming Pixie Cut with Nice Pretty Bangs

Short Hairstyles for Black Women 2013 – 2014_22

27. Cool and Attractive Skinhead Hairstyle

Short Hairstyles for Black Women 2013 – 2014_23

Source

28. Fantastic Fiery Pixie Cut with Amazing Top Section

Short Hairstyles for Black Women 2013 – 2014_24

Source

29. Artistic and Attractive Pixie Cut with Awesome Top Section

Short Hairstyles for Black Women 2013 – 2014_25

30. Very Charming and Attractive Wavy Pixie Cut

Short Hairstyles for Black Women 2013 – 2014_26

I am sure you have enjoyed browsing through this awesome list of fantastic black women's hairstyles. This list showcases the different range of possibilities for natural black women's hair. There is no holds barred with regards to new possibilities for a black woman's hair. You can readily turn it into a lovely and fantastic hairstyle of your choice. Likewise, you can fashion it into an awesome pixie hairstyle which is quite lovely and charming to behold. So what are you waiting for? I guess it's time to make your naturally endowed hair attractively stunning and fabulous using this fantastic list of black women's hairstyles as your guide.

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Wednesday, 25 June 2014

Black Female Hairstyle | New Regulation on Black Female Hairstyles in the Army | Beauty High | Blog Black Hairstyles

Black Female Hairstyle | New Regulation on <b>Black Female Hairstyles</b> in the Army | Beauty High | Blog Black Hairstyles


New Regulation on <b>Black Female Hairstyles</b> in the Army | Beauty High

Posted: 02 Apr 2014 09:45 AM PDT

us army hairstyle regulations for black female soliders

This week, an update to Army Regulation 670-1 (which is a guide to hairstyles that are and are not permitted in the army) banned certain hairstyles for African American female soldiers. Besides a ban on dreadlocks, the update also states that braids more than a quarter of an inch in diameter and twists are now unauthorized. While the regulations are put in place to ensure that headgear properly fits and so that the soldiers look neat and conservative, the new update raises a few questions.

Twists and dreadlocks have been banned since 2005, but only with the latest regulations were certain hairstyles noted. For the female African American soldiers who have been serving for years, the regulation is particularly unsettling. "I've been in the military six years, I've had my hair natural four years, and it's never been out of regulation. It's never interfered with my head gear," Sgt. Jasmine Jacobs, of the Georgia National Guard, who wears her hair in two twists, told the Army Times

MORE: 12 Problems Only Girls With Natural Hair Understand

Jacobs started a White House petition this week opposing the updates to Regulation 670-1, which already has over 6,000 signatures. In the petition, she states, "Females with natural hair take strides to style their natural hair in a professional manner when necessary; however, changes to AR 670-1 offer little to no options for females with natural hair." As far as how she'll proceed with these new regulations, Jacobs says, "I talked to my first sergeant, and he said we would [face non-judicial punishment] if we're out of reg, so I either get a wig or be NJPed, all because of the way my hair grows naturally."

While it's understandable that the army would regulate hairstyles — men all get a buzz cut, so it makes sense women would be subject to hairstyle regulations as well — the new regulation lacks the proper education about how natural hair grows and can be styled. If women in the military need to resort to wearing wigs to avoid punishment, it seems that the regulations may need to be re-designed.

Image via Army Times

<b>Black Female Hairstyles</b> - Best Hairstyles | Nail Arts | Tattoos

Posted: 23 Jun 2014 04:15 PM PDT


Beautifully Black Female HairstylesHairstyle is surely such an important point which can upgrade your daily performance. You may already have a kind of good make up. However, if it is not supported by a good hairstyle, surely, you will still look terrible. Hairstyle used for going to the campus must be different as well with it used for attending a party. A good selection of hairstyles in any occassion you will attend is really important so that you can just find yourself good-looking everyday. In term black female hairstyles, on the other hand, they are actually not different so much with the hairstyles can be applied by the whites or Asian. Well, it is probably really common to associate the black people with curly hair. Naturally, it is true, indeed. But of course, in this modern day, you can just explore your favorite types of hairstyles in order to make you feel more beuatiful and confident.

If you don't want to use any heater or probably change the structure of your curly hair, there are still many ideas you can use. The first is regarding the cornrow hairstyles. Overall, this idea is often used in order to make the hair look simpler and not too flared. However, you can also use additional touch, such as by creating a ponytail, braid fishtail or probably simple bun. These three ideas are good to be applied, whether you want to attend a formal or non-formal event. Braids are good also to be used for this idea. If you think the fishtail braids – without cornrow style, will make your hair still flare, it is better to divide your hair into several parts and make some smaller braids. This type of hairstyles will be better, however, only for casual situation.

black female long hairstyles

It is not bad of course, if you want to make your hair straight and sleek, particularly if you think it is necessary for your face shape. Moreover, sleek hair is commonly used for accentuating the sense of modern and futuristic. It depends on your taste then whether you prefer a kind of short or long hair. Of course, if you like being simpler and more elegant, such short hairstyles are better to be applied. on the other hand, if you want to be more feminine, you can just let your hair longer. Adding another application like bang or highlight is good also to perfect your appearance. So, which one is your most likable black female hairstyles?

<b>Black Female</b> Lawmakers Object To Army&#39;s &#39;Discriminatory&#39; Ban On <b>...</b>

Posted: 11 Apr 2014 11:30 AM PDT

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Not everyone is feeling the Army's new hair ban, which some say targets the various hair styles worn by African-American women.  Now member of the Congressional Black Caucus have taken issue with the ban as well.

16 women in the Congressional Black Caucus sent Defense Secretary Chuck Hagel a letter expressing their objection to the Army's Regulation 670-1, which highlights new rules in regards to tattoos, hairstyles, uniforms and grooming.

The new rules in regards to hair bans twists, dreadlocks, multiple braids and cornrows that are bigger than a quarter of an inch. Army spokesman Paul Prince told the Army Times that twists and dreadlocks have been barred since 2005, but these regulations go into more detail about specific hairstyles.

Here's the letter from the women of the CBC:

Though we understand the intent of the updated regulation is to ensure uniformity in our military, it is seen as discriminatory rules targeting soldiers who are women of color with little regard to what is needed to maintain their natural hair.

African American women have often been required to meet unreasonable norms as it relates to acceptable standards of grooming in the workplace. [...]

Army officials have responded to criticism of the regulation by saying it applies to all soldiers regardless of race, and that they are meant to protect their safety. However the use of words like "unkempt" and "matted" when referring to traditional hairstyles worn by women of color are offensive and biased. The assumption that individuals wearing these hairstyles cannot maintain them in a way that meets the professionalism of Army standards indicates a lack of cultural sensitivity conducive to creating a tolerant environment for minorities.

 The letter was signed by Reps. Marcia Fudge (D-Ohio), Maxine Waters (D-Calif.), Corrine Brown (D-Fla.), Eddie Bernice Johnson (D-Texas), Sheila Jackson Lee (D-Texas), Barbara Lee (D-Calif.), Gwen Moore (D-Wis.), Yvette Clarke (D-N.Y.), Donna Edwards (D-Md.), Karen Bass (D-Calif.), Terri Sewell (D-Ala.), Frederica Wilson (D-Fla.), Joyce Beatty (D-Ohio) and Robin Kelly (D-Ill.), as well as Delegates Eleanor Holmes Norton (D-D.C.) and Donna Christensen (D-V.I.).

The Army has not released a statement, but previously said the rules were drawn up after surveying hundreds of senior enlisted female soldiers as part of a focus group led by a female sergeant major.

In regards to the new rules, Sgt. Jasmine Jacobs of the Georgia National Guard started a petition on the White House website calling on the Army to "allow professional ethnic hairstyles." It currently has about 15,000 signatures.

Jacobs also told the Army Times that twists are a popular style, especially in the field because they're easy to take care of.

"I've been in the military six years, I've had my hair natural four years, and it's never been out of regulation. It's never interfered with my head gear," added Jacobs, who wears her hair in two twists.

Although some people are of the notion that when  you join the Army, you become "theirs and you do as they say", others feel as though if you're willing to die for a country and go to battle, the least of their worries should be if your twists are not under regulation.

Tuesday, 24 June 2014

Black Hairsytles | Sophisticate's Black Hair Styles and Care Guide » CELEBRITY ... | Blog Black Hair Styles

Black Hairsytles | Sophisticate&#39;s <b>Black Hair Styles</b> and Care Guide » CELEBRITY <b>...</b> | Blog Black Hair Styles


Sophisticate&#39;s <b>Black Hair Styles</b> and Care Guide » CELEBRITY <b>...</b>

Posted: 24 Jun 2014 08:42 AM PDT

angela

"L.A. Hair" reality TV show star and celebrity hairstylist Angela Christine knows how to bring the drama—not only on the small but in her personal style as well! And when the top mane pro steps out on the red carpet we can't help but love the way she flaunts her honey kissed spirals with confidence, like in this photo snapped at a special private screening for TBS' new comic competition "Funniest Wins." Are you inspired to take a page from her style playbook?

Superb Wedding <b>Hairstyles</b> For <b>Black</b> Females | Pinkilop

Posted: 21 Jun 2014 06:11 AM PDT


glamorous wedding hairstyles for black women Superb Wedding Hairstyles For Black Females

Wedding Hairstyles For Black Girls Wedding is an event that is really didambagak by each and every man, woman will often be waiting for that moment, with the clothes and hair types that they have dreamed for a long time, wedding hair designs and bridal makeup plans must be formulated at least a couple of months ahead of the occasion. Have your stylist show you some photographs of your work in a wedding or specific occasion hair styles. Bring the wedding hair photos show the style you want. Pictures of wedding hairstyles are one particular of the ideal approaches to keep away from bridal hair disasters. Pictures will support get rid of misunderstandings amongst you and your hairdresser. Be practical. Attempt a comfy style to dance and move. Take into account the wedding place climate (wet, dry, wet, cold, as well hot). Make a choice of types wedding hairstyles to match your clothes. Preserve your desired bridal hair types in thoughts when deciding on accessories. Wedding Hair Accessories like hair ornaments and headpieces should not overpower your wedding hair. If you program to use a helmet that is a lot more complicated, it should be a basic wedding hairstyle. wedding guests can be quite flattering Wedding Hairstyles For Black Ladies.
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Gallery of Excellent Wedding Hairstyles For Black Girls

Black WomenExcellent Wedding Hairstyles Cute Wedding Hairstyles For Black Girls Wedding Hairstyles For Black Ladies

Black Female Hairstyle | Short Hairstyles for Black Women 2013 – 2014 | Short Hairstyles ... | Blog Black Hairstyles

Black Female Hairstyle | Short <b>Hairstyles</b> for <b>Black Women</b> 2013 – 2014 | Short <b>Hairstyles</b> <b>...</b> | Blog Black Hairstyles


Short <b>Hairstyles</b> for <b>Black Women</b> 2013 – 2014 | Short <b>Hairstyles</b> <b>...</b>

Posted: 11 May 2014 10:28 AM PDT

Home Short Hairstyles for Black Women Short Hairstyles for Black Women 2013 – 2014

Advertisement:

Nowadays, black women have some of the best hairstyles in the world. You will notice this in some of the most celebrated artists of our time such as Rihanna, Beyonce, and many more. The reason is that most of these popular artists have sported various hairstyles which are really trendsetting around the globe. Likewise, these famous artists have pushed hairstyling to the hilt by trying and popularizing trendy hairstyles. Yet, it is not my intention here to praise these popular artists; what I want to point out is the obvious fact that whatever your skin color or genetically endowed hair, there is no limit to the creativity and artistry which you can achieve with your hair. What I mean is that you can recreate, adorn, color, tinge, and enhance your hair whichever ways you like as long as it amplifies and increase your appeal and charm. Whether you are black, white, yellow, brown, or of whatever skin color, you can make and fashion your hair to whatever style you want.

In this article, some of the best hairstyles for black women are showcased for you to look at and appreciate. Likewise, you can readily choose and mimic some of these carefully handpicked hairstyles as long as they are applicable and fit your personality and mood. These hairstyles are illustrative of the hairstyles of black women nowadays and these examples of hairstyles reveal the fact that black women's hairstyles nowadays know no limit. You will be amazed at the wide variety of possibility for the awesome hair textures of black women. You will also be surprised at how trendy and alluring this set of hairstyles for black women are. Indeed, the world of hairstyling nowadays have been pushing its boundaries to the hilt of its potential.

Black Short Hairstyles 2014

Source

2. Fabulous and Charming Bob Hair with Cool Strips of Light Brown, Platinum Blonde and Brown

Black Short Hairstyles

3. Very Cool and Charming Pixie Cut with Cute Little Bangs

Black Women Short Hairstyles

4. Alluring and Pretty Asymmetric Bob Hair with Nice Side-swept Bangs

Black Short Haircuts

5. Very Attractive and Fabulous Pixie Cut with Nice Strands of Curly Hair

Short Hairstyles for Black Women 2013 – 2014_1

Source

6. Nice and Awesome Back View of a Lovely Pixie Cut with Kinky Strands of Hair

Short Hairstyles for Black Women 2013 – 2014_2

Source

7. Very Artistic and Unique Pixie Cut

Short Hairstyles for Black Women 2013 – 2014_3

Source

8. Very Nice Pixie Cut with Side-swept Bangs

Short Hairstyles for Black Women 2013 – 2014_4

9. Cute and Charming Bob Hair with Nice Curly Strands of Hair

Short Hairstyles for Black Women 2013 – 2014_5

Source

10. Cute and Pretty Pixie Cut

Short Hairstyles for Black Women 2013 – 2014_6

Source

11. Cute and Attractive Pixie Cut with Little Spikes at the Top

Short Hairstyles for Black Women 2013 – 2014_7

12. Very Attractive and Lovely Bob Hair with Nice Flip Out Sides

Short Hairstyles for Black Women 2013 – 2014_8

13. Very Regale and Fabulous Kinky Pixie Cut

Short Hairstyles for Black Women 2013 – 2014_9

14. Funky and Exciting Pixie Cut with Little Spikes at the Top

Short Hairstyles for Black Women 2013 – 2014_10

Source

15. Awesome and Rebellious Pixie Cut

Short Hairstyles for Black Women 2013 – 2014_11

Source

16. Very Charming and Attractive Pixie Cut by Halle Berry

Short Hairstyles for Black Women 2013 – 2014_12

17. Alluring and Attractive Pixie Cut with Nice Side-swept Hair

Short Hairstyles for Black Women 2013 – 2014_13

18. Charming and Lovely Asymmetric Bob Hair

Short Hairstyles for Black Women 2013 – 2014_14

19. Cool and Awesome Curly Pixie Cut

Short Hairstyles for Black Women 2013 – 2014_15

20. Nice and Awesome Kinky Pixie Cut

Short Hairstyles for Black Women 2013 – 2014_16

21. Nice and Charming Curly Pixie Cut

Short Hairstyles for Black Women 2013 – 2014_17

22. Cool and Charming Pixie Cut with Nice Spikes at the Top

Short Hairstyles for Black Women 2013 – 2014_18

Source

23. Nice and Cool Bob Hair with Awesome Color

Short Hairstyles for Black Women 2013 – 2014_19

24. Very Charming and Attractive Pixie Cut with Cute Little Bangs

Short Hairstyles for Black Women 2013 – 2014_20

25. Fabulous and Gorgeous Curly Bob Hair

Short Hairstyles for Black Women 2013 – 2014_21

26. Lovely and Charming Pixie Cut with Nice Pretty Bangs

Short Hairstyles for Black Women 2013 – 2014_22

27. Cool and Attractive Skinhead Hairstyle

Short Hairstyles for Black Women 2013 – 2014_23

Source

28. Fantastic Fiery Pixie Cut with Amazing Top Section

Short Hairstyles for Black Women 2013 – 2014_24

Source

29. Artistic and Attractive Pixie Cut with Awesome Top Section

Short Hairstyles for Black Women 2013 – 2014_25

30. Very Charming and Attractive Wavy Pixie Cut

Short Hairstyles for Black Women 2013 – 2014_26

I am sure you have enjoyed browsing through this awesome list of fantastic black women's hairstyles. This list showcases the different range of possibilities for natural black women's hair. There is no holds barred with regards to new possibilities for a black woman's hair. You can readily turn it into a lovely and fantastic hairstyle of your choice. Likewise, you can fashion it into an awesome pixie hairstyle which is quite lovely and charming to behold. So what are you waiting for? I guess it's time to make your naturally endowed hair attractively stunning and fabulous using this fantastic list of black women's hairstyles as your guide.

Advertisement:

Petition fights Army&#39;s &#39;racial biased&#39; <b>hairstyle</b> ban | WTVR.com

Posted: 11 Apr 2014 06:39 AM PDT

WASHINGTON (CNN) — The U.S. Army's new ban on many types of ethnic hairstyles has African-American women who wear their coifs in dreadlocks, braids and cornrows in a twist.

The Army's regulations stipulate such guidance as hair "must be of uniform dimension, small in diameter (approximately ¼ inch), show no more than 1/8 (inch) of the scalp between the braids."

U.S. Army Hairstyle Ban

Dreadlocks "against the scalp or free-hanging" are banned. "Unkempt" or "matted" braids and cornrows are also considered dreadlocks and "are not authorized," according to the regulations that were updated this month.

It's that type of language, words like "unkempt" and "matted," that read to some African Americans, as code for racial bias.

U.S. Army Hairstyle Ban

"These new changes are racially biased and the lack of regard for ethnic hair is apparent," Sgt. Jasmine Jacobs of the Georgia National Guard wrote in a White House petition she started in late March asking the Obama administration to reconsider the policy.

Currently, the petition has more than 13,000 signatures.

"We feel let down," Jacobs told the Army Times. "I think, at the end of the day, a lot of people don't understand the complexities of natural hair. A lot of people, instead of educating themselves, they think dreadlocks and they think Bob Marley, or they see women with really big Afros and they think that's the only thing we can do with our hair."

U.S. Army Hairstyle Ban

The updates in appearance standards were crafted, in part, with the help of African-American female soldiers and are intended to clarify the professional look of soldiers, said Troy Rolan, an Army spokesman.

Previous regulations did not specifically address things such as braid widths or numbers, or the definition of twist styles.

"Many hairstyles are acceptable, as long as they are neat and conservative," Rolan said, noting the Army has banned dreadlocks since 2005.

If soldiers aren't happy, they can go through a formal process to request changes to the hairstyle regulations, the Army said.

"We encourage soldiers to make use of this process by sending recommendations and examples of hairstyles which could present professional appearances and conform to the regulation," Rolan said.

The rules' conciseness isn't the problem, say some African-American women and black studies scholars.

U.S. Army Hairstyle Ban

The problem, they say, is a perception that ethnic hair that is "natural" or not straightened with heat or chemicals is somehow unruly, unkempt and must be carefully regulated to fit within white cultural norms.

"In a broad sense, it's just another example of U.S. institutions policing black style," said Mark Anthony Neal, an African-American studies professor at Duke University. "And it's not that there aren't other examples of such policing among other racial and ethnic groups. But, given the fraught relationship between black identity and culture and what some Americans might perceive as 'normal,' it strikes a particularly dissonant chord among some blacks."

Mandating what should be done with black hair is a particularly sensitive matter.

During slavery and for generations after, hair texture, along with skin complexion, was used to classify which slaves were more valuable, given jobs in the master's house rather than the field, and — by default — deemed beautiful.

Straighter hair, lighter skin and features that looked white were considered preferred traits, African-American scholars noted.

Those values were internalized and perpetuated within the black community for years in a way that was particularly damaging to the self-esteem of black women, African American scholars said.

"The gender dynamic here is also important; hair is so tied to the idea of black womanhood and self-esteem," Neal said. "There have been many stories, for example, of the extra scrutiny black women with locs or dreads face going through airport security. The Army's ban is just another knock from the dominant society that somehow black women are out of step with the so-called status quo."

Black pride and natural hair movements have emphasized that all hair types and the rainbow of skin hues are all beautiful.

However, the Army's regulations, some natural hair advocates and African American scholars fear, might suggest to black soldiers that their tresses must be straightened or closely cropped in order to fit in and be valued.

That type of pressure is "both unfair and racially biased," said Imani Perry, an African-American studies professor at Princeton University.

"While it is reasonable for the military to expect some degree of conformity and neatness in hairstyles, those expectations ought to take into account the variety of natural hair textures people have," Perry said. "For many African-American women who have tightly curled, coily or kinky hair, cornrows braids and locs are styles that allow for ease of close to the head grooming. Hence, banning those hairstyles puts black female soldiers in a difficult bind with respect to the requirement."

That type of pressure is "both unfair and racially biased," Perry said adding that the Army conformity isn't absolute because female soldiers are allowed to wear their hair long.

"Likewise, consideration ought to be made for different textures of hair," Perry said. "Otherwise, a burden is placed disproportionately upon some soldiers due to an immutable characteristic, natural hair texture that is tied to race."

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