Which hairstyle practice was common among African civilizations to convey status?

Elaborate braiding is a significant practice in many African civilizations, often used to convey social status, cultural identity, and personal aesthetics. The intricacy of the braiding styles can indicate various factors such as wealth, age, marital status, and individual or community identity. Different tribes and cultures developed unique braiding techniques that often had deep cultural meanings and were an essential element in social expression.

While other options also reflect aspects of hairstyles in African civilizations, elaborate braiding distinctly stands out as a practice that not only serves aesthetic purposes but also carries rich cultural symbolism related to status and heritage.