Here are some cultural symbols or motifs incorporated into hair styling ¹ ²:

- Ndebele people in South Africa use black, white, red, yellow and green to represent the spiritual world, purity, passion and power, fertility and hope and land and agriculture, respectively.
- In Hausa culture, the complexity of a facade decoration with more motifs and colors usually demonstrates the wealth and social standing of the building’s owner.
- The Kassena tribe in West Africa uses red, white and black to represent courage, honesty and purity and the night and the invisible world, respectively.

Hair styling often incorporates cultural symbols or motifs that hold significance within a particular community or cultural context. These symbols or motifs can vary widely depending on the cultural heritage, traditions, and beliefs of a group of people. Here are some common cultural symbols or motifs incorporated into hair styling:

1. **Braids**: Braids are a universal cultural symbol found in various societies around the world. They can represent unity, strength, and interconnectedness within a community. Different braid patterns may hold specific cultural or spiritual significance, such as the three-strand braid representing past, present, and future in Celtic culture, or intricate cornrow patterns in African and African diasporic traditions.

2. **Ornaments and Adornments**: Hair ornaments and adornments, such as beads, feathers, flowers, shells, or jewelry, are often used to embellish hairstyles and add cultural flair. These adornments may hold symbolic meanings related to spirituality, social status, or ceremonial significance within a cultural context.

3. **Colors and Dyes**: Hair coloring and dyeing techniques are used to create vibrant hues and patterns that reflect cultural symbolism and traditions. For example, henna dyeing in South Asian cultures is associated with auspicious occasions and celebrations, while bright colors or patterns may be used to signify membership in specific cultural groups or communities.

4. **Animal Imagery**: Animal motifs are sometimes incorporated into hair styling to evoke qualities or attributes associated with particular animals. For example, hairstyles inspired by animal prints or patterns may symbolize strength, agility, or connection to nature within certain cultural traditions.

5. **Religious and Spiritual Symbols**: Hairstyles may incorporate religious or spiritual symbols that hold significance within a particular faith tradition. For example, in Hindu culture, the jata or long, matted hair worn by Sadhus (holy men) symbolizes their renunciation of worldly attachments and devotion to spiritual pursuits.

6. **Historical and Mythological References**: Hairstyles may reference historical figures, myths, or legends that hold cultural significance within a community. For example, hairstyles inspired by ancient Egyptian queens or goddesses may evoke notions of regal beauty and power, while hairstyles inspired by legendary heroes or heroines may symbolize courage, virtue, or heroism.

7. **Geometric Patterns and Designs**: Geometric patterns and designs are often incorporated into hair styling to create intricate braids, twists, or weaves that reflect cultural aesthetics and artistic traditions. These patterns may draw inspiration from architecture, textiles, or indigenous artwork, serving as expressions of cultural identity and creativity.

Overall, cultural symbols and motifs incorporated into hair styling reflect the rich tapestry of human diversity, history, and tradition, offering glimpses into the values, beliefs, and aesthetics of different cultures around the world.