Hairbrella: Embracing the Bonnet's Rich Legacy and Pioneering Inclusive Innovation
Tracing the historical threads of the bonnet, an enduring symbol of femininity and resilience, reveals a narrative as diverse as the women who have donned it. Originating in Europe, the bonnet journeyed to America with the 17th-century settlers, serving as a practical head covering across racial and class boundaries. However, the bonnet's historical significance and its evolution is far richer and more global than often recognized.
According to researchers at Crowned, bonnets have been an integral part of Black women's hair care regimes for centuries, not just in America, but across the African diaspora. In South Africa and Jamaica, women have long worn head coverings known as dukus and doek, respectively, to protect their hair. These traditions, coupled with the experiences of Black women in America, have shaped the narrative of hair coverings, informing the bonnet's modern interpretation and usage.
It was with this rich legacy in mind that Hairbrella was born. I, as a Black woman, recognized the lack of effective solutions to shield my hair from the elements. The available options were often subpar, failing to meet the specific needs of women like me. However, as I embarked on this journey to create a better solution, I realized that this challenge was not unique to me. Women from all walks of life, from wheelchair users to professionals navigating a foot commute in NYC, shared similar concerns. This realization gave rise to our mission at Hairbrella - to create innovative and elevated hair coverings for all women.
At Hairbrella, we are about more than just hair protection. We aim to be a bridge between cultures, fostering understanding and unity. We acknowledge the diverse histories and unique experiences of women worldwide, understanding that while our hair may behave differently, there's so much more that unites us than divides us. We strive to be a catalyst for reconciliation and inspiration, fostering a community where women inspire, celebrate, and uplift one another.
As part of our mission, we encourage our community to respond to divisive comments with love and unity. We all deserve to feel fabulous in a chic sleep cap, regardless of our hair type or background. 💁🏾♀️💁🏼♀️💁🏻♀️
We invite you to join our Facebook group, a platform to voice your concerns, provide feedback, and learn about our exciting upcoming projects. Lastly, thank you to each one of you for being part of our journey. I am humbled by the lessons learned and the connections made as Hairbrella has grown. Here's to a future filled with boundless possibilities, as we continue to honor the bonnet's rich history and pioneer inclusive innovation for years to come. ;)
Rain or shine,
Tracey Pickett
Founder, CEO Hairbrella
