This Tiny Object Holds a Big Surprise
January 16, 2026
Source: Reddit
The bohemian aesthetic of the late 1960s and early 1970s is instantly recognizable by its signature elements of bell bottom jeans, fringe jackets, and feathered hairstyles. A staple of this era’s bohemian look was the leather braid wrap. More than a hairstyle finisher, it was a means of self-expression and individuality.
Music festivals, state fairs and roadside trading posts showcased them on countless young women sporting braids. They offered an element of handcrafted beauty that other hair accessories lacked.
A Handmade Staple of the 1970s and 1980s
Handmade leather braid wraps achieved widespread popularity in the 1970s during the boom of hippie and Western fashion trends. Typically, they were created at craft fairs, Native American trading posts and small leather goods stores.
Floral and Southwestern designs were typical of the tooled or painted leather flat or tubular pieces. Each of them would be secured with leather cords which would be tied and then finished with either wooden beads or metal conchos. Not only did they serve as a decorative detail for the braid, but they also served as a mechanism to secure the braid in place.
Although they continued to exist through the 1990s, their popularity declined dramatically. This happened as modern hair accessories became increasingly popular.
Uncovering a Forgotten Treasure
When individuals find these forgotten treasures and ask themselves “what is this?”, they typically have no idea that they found a vintage leather braid wrap. As a result of their rolled leather design, metal accents and dangling leather laces, many are misclassified as sheathes or keychain accessories. However, they were specifically designed to wrap around a braid and secure it with leather laces.
Some incorporate adjustable lacing or cinch beads to keep the wrap securely in place. While they are primarily decorative, they do provide functionality to the wearer by securing the hair in a neat and comfortable manner.
Why They Are Making a Resurgence
Growing interest in bohemian and Western inspired clothing and accessories has sparked a resurgence in demand for leather braid wraps. Both the handmade craftsmanship and vintage aesthetic of them offer consumers a unique alternative to mass-produced accessories. Leather artisans are now creating new leather braid wraps. Additionally, vintage original leather braid wraps can be found at flea markets and on-line.
Both the uniqueness of each piece and the functionality of the leather braid wraps offer consumers an opportunity to express themselves through their hairstyles.
How to Wear One
- Style your hair with a braid (either French or fishtail).
- Place the leather braid wrap around the braid.
- Secure the leather braid wrap with the leather laces.
- You may choose to let the laces hang loosely or you may tie them off.
They are versatile and work well with both casual, carefree hairstyles and more stylized hairdos. They provide a rugged yet effortless addition to any hairstyle.
More Than Just a Fashion Accessory
They evoke memories of a time when hair accessories were handmade, expressive and durable. Whether you find a vintage leather braid wrap or purchase a new one from a leather artisan, both will add personality to your hairstyle. In addition to making a statement, finding one of this today connects you to the tactile and artistic nature of the past.