In April, Monteria Johnson, widely known as “Tookie,” introduced a hairstyle that has quickly become a summer sensation. Her TikTok video showcasing “The BRAIDED BALD HEAD” captured the public’s imagination, featuring a unique braided design that has since taken social media and celebrity circles by storm. Among its notable fans is Jesseca Dupart, wife of rapper DaBrat. Despite comparisons to other styles such as faux buzz cuts and protective big chops, the braided baldie has carved out its own distinctive niche.
Some viewers have likened the braided baldie to classic finger waves, noting the resemblance in its zig-zag pattern. Johnson, however, maintains that while there are elements reminiscent of finger waves, her creation stands apart. “I think you can incorporate elements of finger waves into the style,” Johnson reflects, “but the braided baldie itself is unique.”
In her latest adaptation of the style, Johnson has incorporated “S”-shaped waves, further establishing the braided baldie as a versatile, modern nod to ’90s classics. “This is a cornrow style that’s super long in the back, with an ‘S’ finger wave pattern cascading down the side,” she explains in a recent TikTok video. By adding pin curl details to the finger waves, she has reinforced the style’s timeless appeal. The look has garnered enthusiastic responses online, with one user suggesting it deserves a spot in a “braid museum,” while another called for a revival of the basket weave.
Despite its popularity, Johnson insists that the braided baldie is not merely a variation of past styles. “I think it’s a unique style that I reintroduced to the world as its own entity,” she tells ESSENCE. She draws inspiration from the ’90s, recalling how she used to create designs with single braids across the front of the hair, leading to the idea of an all-encompassing braid.
The original braided baldie involved starting a braid on one side of the head, creating personalized cornrow designs—such as flowers, hearts, and zig-zags—until the entire head was covered. The braid’s end was then hidden by sewing it down, offering a fresh take that defies conventional definitions.
As short hairstyles and braids gain traction this season, Johnson’s braided bald head embodies a blend of nostalgia and innovation. “I definitely think it’s the latest hair trend right now,” she asserts, acknowledging the trend’s roots in Black cultural nostalgia. “I am completely honored and humbled that the world absolutely loves it and I pray it goes down in history as a trend created by Tookie Did It.”