Did Viking men and women really wear those elaborate Viking Braids as we saw them in the popular TV series Vikings?
To put it briefly yes, although they probably weren’t exactly as shown by the actors.
In this article, we’re going to look very quickly at the Viking braid evidence.
After that, we will show you a step-by-step guide on how to get one of the most popular braid hairstyles for women that there are nowadays and finally we will take a look at some modern Viking-inspired braid styles.
Key Takeaways:
- Viking men and women likely wore braided hairstyles, based on limited archaeological evidence and writings. Braids helped keep long hair under control.
- Many different braided styles were likely used, including simple braids, multiple braids, and more intricate braided styles. Hairstyles could indicate status, marital status, or occupation.
- To create Viking braids today, start with unwashed hair and add texture spray or dry shampoo. Section hair and braid small sections near the scalp, adding in more hair as you go.
- Viking braids can be worn by anyone today. They last around a week with proper care. Popular modern Viking braid styles include ponytails, triple braids, fishtails, and crown braids.
What is the history of Viking braids?
The history of Viking braids is a long and complicated one.
It is believed that the Viking braids were first worn by the ancient Celts, who were a group of people who lived in what is now Ireland, Scotland, and Wales.
The Celts were known for their long, flowing hair, which they often wore in braids.
Did the Vikings wear braids?
Obviously, we don’t have any tangible evidence as there were no photographers at the time and all the contemporary representations we have of the Vikings are not detailed enough to show specific hairstyles.
However, there is enough evidence to make us think with a certain amount of optimism that Viking braids were a popular hairstyle among them.
While hairstyles were not uniform throughout the Viking world, or in the centuries when Vikings ruled, long hair was quite popular, some argue that both men and women kept their hair long to show that they were not slaves.
In fact, as we saw in one of the previous articles, slaves wore their hair very short, while only the wealthiest castes could wear it long
Traditionally having long-flowing locks was not always convenient. Viking Braids were a sensible way to keep hair, under control, both when in battle and in everyday life.
At this point, a question can arise spontaneously, why did the Vikings wear long hair, often collected in braids?
The answer is quite simple, in addition to the reason explained above, the hair was seen as a source of energy as well as nails and all those protruding parts of the body.
From the writings of Arab merchants about the Vikings, we have confirmation that it was not unusual for at least some Vikings to adorn their hair with braids.
Archaeological remains of what are presumed to be hair beads also indicate that this practical style was also a fashion statement.
The types of braids used depended on what the person was doing. For battle or hard work, they would opt for tight braids with a few hairs loose as a more practical style.
If they were relaxing or celebrating, they might have worn their hair untied and flowing, probably accentuated with braids.
How are Viking braids made?
There are many ways to make Viking braids, but they all start with the same basic steps. First, you will need to gather your hair into three even sections.
If you have long hair, you may need to use a comb to help keep the sections separate.
Once your hair is divided, you will need to start braiding each section. To do this, take the outermost section and cross it over the middle section.
Viking braids Step by step guide:
If you’re a fan of Viking braids, you probably already know and have learned how to do the ponytail braid, a single braid that starts at the top of the head.
But what about more complicated hairstyles, with several braids near the head, creating a dramatic and textured look? Today we’re going to explain exactly how you can achieve these Viking braids
Step 1: Prepare your hair and do not wash it
When you read about Viking braids tips, you often hear that you should skip the shower.
Vikings actually bathed very often by the standard of the time, washed at least once a week usually on Saturdays, which are still referred to as bathing days in Norse countries, and when they did, their hair was washed and cleaned as well.
Remember that Viking braids are not perfectly neat or smooth, and it’s easier to create this look with your hair after not washing it for a few days.
The oils in your hair will give it some natural hold and texture. Not surprisingly, this look is meant to look a bit messy and textured!
Step 2: Use texturizing spray or dry shampoo
If you have very fine, straight hair (or if you’ve recently showered), you’ll want to add a little texture to make it easier. There are a few ways to do this.
You can buy a texturizing spray, and this will add some grit to your locks. Dry shampoo can also do exactly the same thing. Spray it all over your hair and then run your fingers through it.
Step 3 section the top of your hair and the sides
The next step is to divide the part of your hair that you want to turn into a tight braid. You can do this anywhere on your head, top, or side.
For this look, we’re going to create multiple braids, so sectioning your hair is key. You can use any type of hair clip that you have on hand. First, you will need to gather your hair on the top of your head.
Place your fingers on either side of your forehead and trace your fingers back, gathering all the hair on the top of your head, going back. Secure with a hairpin this section that is at the highest part of your head.
Once the top section is secured with a hair clip, you will need to section the hair on both sides of your head. You will have to create two braids on each side of your head, for a total of 4 braids.
First, gather all the hair on one side of your head, starting from the hairline. After that create a part extending backward from the hairline by dividing the side section of hair evenly into a top and a bottom section.
Once this is done secure the top section of hair with a clip so that you can better work with the bottom section of hair first. Do the same with the other side of the head.
Step 4 Your hair is now ready for braiding
Viking braids are pretty easy to make. First, you need to separate the section of hair you want to braid into three parts.
Pull the leftmost section of hair to the center, so that the strand is now in the middle. After that, pull the rightmost section of your hair towards the center.
Repeat this pattern until you have completed the entire length of your hair.
For hair that is close to your scalp, you need to start with a small amount of hair that is in the front of your head where you are starting, adding more hair as you move down.
Take a small amount of hair in the front and divide it into three equal sections. Start the weave by crossing the outer section on the right side over the top in the middle, then repeat with the left side.
Repeat this again and again, but every two or three crosses, add a little more hair to the section each time you move it to the middle.
You may want to do this every two or three times depending on the thickness of your hair and how many crosses it takes to move it down the head.
While crossing over the top is the standard way to do your braid, you can also do all of your crosses underneath, which will make the braid stick out of your head a little more.
What are the benefits of wearing Viking braids?
There are many benefits to wearing Viking braids, as they are a very practical and stylish hairstyle. They are often seen as a more masculine hairstyle but can be worn by anyone.
Viking braids can be worn in a variety of ways, depending on the person’s preference. They can be worn loose, with the hair hanging down, or in a more traditional Viking style, with the hair pulled back and braided.
Are there any risks associated with wearing Viking braids?
Yes, there are some risks associated with wearing hair braids. If your hair is not properly moisturized, the braids can cause your hair to become dry and brittle.
If you braid your hair too tight, it can cause headaches or even migraines. And if you don’t clean your braids properly, they can become a breeding ground for bacteria and fungus.
How do you care for Viking braids?
Assuming you are referring to the hairstyle: The first step is to make sure your hair is clean and free of any knots or tangles. If your hair is particularly dirty or oily, you may want to shampoo and condition it before starting.
Once your hair is prepped, start by dividing it into sections. For thicker hair, you may want to create 4-6 sections, while thinner hair can be divided into 2-3 sections.
Can anyone wear Viking braids?
Yes, anyone can wear Viking braids! There are many different ways to style Viking braids, so anyone can find a style that suits them.
Viking braids are a great way to add some extra flair to your look, and they can be worn with any type of outfit.
Whether you’re looking for a more traditional Viking braid style or something more modern, there’s definitely a way for you to rock Viking braids.
How long do Viking braids last?
If you’re very careful and wrap your hair in a silk scarf at night, they might last a week, perhaps a week and a half if you have African-American hair. But they are only supposed to last a few days.
Viking Braids facts
- Viking braids were worn by both men and women in the Viking culture.
- Viking braids were often used to indicate a person’s social status.
- Viking braids were often decorated with beads, metal rings, or other items.
- Viking braids were usually made with three strands of hair.
- Viking braids were often used to keep hair out of a person’s face.
- Viking braids were often used to indicate a person’s marital status.
- Viking braids were often used to indicate a person’s occupation.
- Viking braids were often used to indicate a person’s religious beliefs.
- Viking braids were often used to indicate a person’s political beliefs.
- Viking braids were also seen as a sign of strength and power.
- There are a variety of modern takes on the Viking braid, including the “fishtail braid” and the “French braid.”
- Viking braids were typically made from the person’s own hair, but sometimes horsehair was used.
VIKING BRAIDS MEN
Below we have put together some examples of the cool Viking braids styles
1 Ponytail
If we decided to put this style first, it’s not a coincidence. In fact, this simple style is a classic for a reason!
Not only does it turn out to be quite easy to do, but it’s also elegant too. To make it, smooth your hair backwards and gather it into a high ponytail.
You must have your hair at least at shoulder length. Secure with a hair clip and from there, simply braid your hair down the back. Will look good on a boy too.
2 Triple Viking Braids
This style is very versatile as you can do it with both long and short hair, it is a great style. Usually, one braid goes down the center of the head, while the other two go towards the sides to create extra coverage.
3 Men Bun braids
Men’s bun braids are for those who don’t want their braids hanging lose all the time. If you prefer that your hair doesn’t cover your face or hang over your shoulders and back, you can tie it up in a men’s chignon.
Like a typical chignon, this style is great for when you need to be fashionable but don’t have the time.
Some men turn it into a practical and elegant cut by braiding a thicker braid around the edges of the head, leaving the center to be styled with more intricate designs.
This haircut style will give you a warrior look, the beard is recommended to complement it
VIKING BRAIDS WOMEN
1 Shield Maiden Braids
This is the ultimate style of the female Viking look, it comes in several different types of braids that work together to create an intricate hairstyle.
These Viking braids offer a lot of detail, from the large braid at the crown to the smaller braids that wrap around the head.
This is a perfect example of when a great old style meets the new to create a hairstyle that has become a classic in the Valkyrie look.
2 Viking Fishtail
The fishtail braid is a popular type of braid, and while it’s usually associated with contemporary styles, it lends itself very well to Viking hairstyles.
The large braid creates a bit of a dramatic atmosphere.
Despite the intricate look, it’s very easy to pull off, as it’s just a few simple braids working together.
3 Torvi Viking Braids Style
This hairstyle is inspired by the popular Vikings series, the detailed look evokes the hairstyles worn by the character Torvi.
With rows of beaded braids and a large center braid that opens up like a waterfall, this style has a lot going for it.
The detail is incredible, and although it will take a while to achieve, the result is well worth it.
4 Freydis waves
Also, this style like the previous one takes its inspiration from the TV series Vikings. This time, however, the hairstyle comes from the character Freydis, who often sports extremely long and curly hair.
The light blonde-gray color is an integral part of this style because it is the hair color most often associated with Viking women. This type of braided hairstyle is a great choice if you want a Viking-inspired hairstyle that you can wear every day.
5 Viking High Crown Braid
To complete this Viking High Crown Braid hairstyle also takes a considerable amount of time and patience It is a great hairstyle to wear to the prom or some party. You will definitely have a royal princess look with these Viking braids.
SHOP VIKING JEWELRY
Finding the ideal Viking Jewelry can be challenging, especially if you lack inspiration or don’t know where to look. Surflegacy has you covered. We have a wide range of Viking items in various styles, shapes, colors, and materials, to accentuate your Viking Braids look.
Our pieces are crafted in Italy with care and style in mind, and reasonably priced, so you won’t have to break the bank to get one. Visit our store and let us assist you on your fashion journey.
