Greetings, Fashion Bombers!
Danielle here again bringing you back down Black History Beauty memory lane. Today’s flashback is brought to you by a Goody fishtail comb, an old toothbrush, and a 40 ounce jar of Let’s Jam.
Darlings, the origins of slicking down one’s “baby hair” (the tiny halo of hairs around the hairline) can rightly be debated, but if you ask me I say the trend began with one regal and royal family–The First Family, if you will, of Music—The Jacksons. Now while Michael gave us fever with his slicked down tendrils in the 80s and beyond, I say the trend really started with The Queen Bee, LaToya. Check her out in this pic dated from sometime in the early to mid 70s:
LaToya’s baby hairs were EPIC!
Did you catch her in the corner with the red giving face and hair? Even big sis Reebie on the far left got a little baby hurr action going on.
As time went on, we became even more creative (like we do with all things) with baby hairs opting for more elaborate designs. Who can remember the little fishtail (or comma) design you did with your sideburns? *raises hand and hang head down in shame*
And remember how Chilli from TLC was the unofficial spokesperson for baby hairs?
And R&B singer Ginuwine for the guys? (Thankfully, I never dated a dude with baby hairs—I was too worried about possible breakouts on my cheeks from the contact friction–and um, too worried about him stealing my shoes).
P.S. Did you know Ginuwine’s government name is Elgin Baylor Lumpkin? I kid you not!
This trend also started to leak into other cultures. Many of my Latina friends back in the day had crazy baby hair designs, too.
Nowadays we all now how bad gel dries out and then breaks off our hair, but that doesn’t stop celebs like Lil’ Kim from rocking the wet look. I also believe you can get lace front wigs with built-in baby hairs. How innovative.
Now ladies (and gents) I want to hear YOUR baby hair memories. Hit me up in the comments.
But if you use the term “good hair” anywhere in your comment, I’m coming for you!
~Danielle
