Braids never go out of style, they just get more innovative, dynamic, and creative with each generation and no one knows style like Xia Charles. Xia is a Brooklyn-based celebrity braider who has worked with icons like Beyonce and Cardi B. She is an expert in braiding, hair extensions, protective styles and more! Many of her artistic creations come to life in her Braided New York salon where customers can get box braids, feed-in braids, twists, and even sign up for virtual classes that teach stitch braids. With spring upon us, it’s time to get a pulse on the newest hair braiding trends that will be the must-have styles for the year. Xia sat down to chat with us about her favorite braiding styles, trends to keep an eye on and what you should be looking for in a braider.
What was your relationship to braiding growing up?
Growing up in Tobago it was an unspoken rule that every Sunday you must get your hair braided to go to school. As early as four I remember sitting on my grandmother’s back as she laid on the floor after work and I would braid little plaits in her hair. People in the village would always come to my mom to get their hair done, she was naturally good at braiding hair. So were my two older sisters. Ultimately I learned to do it by looking at them.
What inspired you to become a hairstylist?
Initially it was a means to an end. When I moved to the US in 2017 to go to law school and had completed a Bsc in Law and Economics. I was low on cash and couldn’t find a job so I started doing hair out of my mother’s kitchen. Over time I realized how stylists were appreciated here in the United States and I was making a decent income from doing it. I decided to pursue it seriously as I saw the amazing opportunities, I loved meeting new clients, creating new styles and above all being an entrepreneur.
Where did you acquire your hair braiding techniques?
It was probably hereditary as my mother and sisters were always very good at it. I believe that it stems from them. I can’t explain it but I was just always good at braiding without having to be taught.
We’ve seen braids continue to make a big impact in mainstream media over the past decade. What are some misconceptions the novice user may not understand about braids?
Braids are so fun and versatile – it’s easy to manage and it saves you from that morning hassle with your hair but, braids are also cultural and to some , the styles are deeper than ‘just hair’.
Additionally, some people think your hair has to be tightly braided in order to be neat; that isn’t the case, grip and skill does all the work. Remember, your braids should be a protective style , you don’t want a style that jeopardizes the integrity of your beautiful fro!
What are your favorite braiding styles you’ve created and why?
Some of my favorite styles from the 2021-2022 year thus far would have to be from the Darling x Teyana Taylor campaign shoot. The freestyle braided ponytail on Caitlyn definitely takes the cake, a cute yet classy look. Next would have to be the half up half down braided updo on Celina- definitely an all time favorite ! Some examples:
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What braiding trends will be popular this year?
Freestyle is definitely in style! Anytime someone comes into the salon they don’t just want the simple braids, whether it be cornrows, updos or box braids; they want something added to it. A cool design like the dollar sign or, the heart we all know and love, may be that extra ‘oomph’ that your hairstyle needs to give it that extra flair.
You’ve been a celebrity braider for icons like Beyonce and Cardi B, what is your process for making their vision come to life? (research, videos, trials/tutorials”>
Prepare beforehand, go to their social media, see what color hair what styles they like so you have an idea of what to expect on the day. You’ll take an abundance of extensions that you think they might like. It’s always better to have too much than not enough
What are 3 tips you would give to naturalistas looking to get their hair braided professionally? (prep, examples to give a stylist, expectations, time, etc.”>
When looking for a braider, try to find someone who can accomplish what you want with your hair: someone who cares about the health and integrity of your hair, someone who is punctual and accommodative, in the long run this makes a great braider.
What’s a classic braiding style that never goes out of style and why?
Single plaits are a style that will never go out of style. If it’s box braids or knotless , this style is so versatile and can be adapted with the growing trends. You can do half up half downs, buns, and many other styles- the possibilities are endless.
