When encountering Flower H’ Mong women, their colorful embroidered dresses are not the only eye-catching feature. Of particular note is the large, heavy hair bun atop their heads.
For centuries, the H’mong people have been migrating to the high mountainous regions of Ma Thi Ho – Muong Cha – Dien Bien to establish their villages, with approximately 80 households currently residing there.
Despite the impermanence of change, the cultural consciousness of the H’mong community in this area remains steadfast. A prime example of this is their traditional attire, characterized by black hemp fabric tunics with a V-neckline embellished with vibrant embroidered patterns. Additionally, distinguishing between the various branches within the H’mong community is the embroidered Sunday motif on the back of their garments.
The Mong ethnic group is comprised of three subgroups: Mong Hoa, Mong Trắng, and Mong Đen, primarily residing in the high mountainous regions of Bac Yen, Thuan Chau, Song Ma, Mường La, Mộc Châu, Yen Chau (Son La). They are known for preserving their ethnic identity in various aspects of life, including their traditional hairstyles.
From a young age, Mong Hoa girls are taught the importance of their hair. Mothers meticulously collect and store their daughters’ fallen hair strands, which are then woven into thick strands using a half chopstick.
As these girls grow up, they learn to collect their own fallen hair strands while combing or washing their hair. When they reach adulthood, they weave these strands into elaborate hair buns that adorn their heads during traditional festivals and community celebrations.
The hair bun of a Mong Hoa woman is not only a symbol of beauty but also carries deep cultural and spiritual significance. It reflects the mother’s dedication to their children and imparts valuable lessons about diligence and skill – qualities that all Mong women embody.
In contrast, Mong Đen women do not preserve fallen hair strands as Mong Hoa women do. Instead, they allow their hair to grow naturally. When they reach adulthood, they style their hair into buns adorned with colorful scarves or hairpins. Additionally, they may wrap a black linen scarf around their heads to enhance their overall look.
Some Mong Đen women tightly coil their hair into thick strands around their heads, albeit in smaller quantities compared to Mong Hoa women.
Similar to Mong Đen women, young Mong Trắng girls also let their hair grow naturally. Upon reaching adulthood, they shave off a portion of their hair around the head and tie the rest into a bun at the top, typically adorned with a pointed black scarf embellished with bright red flowers.
The meticulous care of Mong women’s hairstyles exemplifies their cultural awareness and the values of patience and hard work. It also serves as a simple yet effective method of instilling discipline in their children.
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