The bonnet has been a staple in textured hair care since at least the 1950's. It is a protective style that is worn while sleeping to maintain the texture and style of the hair. The history of the bonnet is closely tied to the history of textured hair care and the struggles that black women have faced in maintaining their hair.

In the early 1900s, black women were often looked down upon for their natural hair texture. Straight hair was seen as the standard of beauty, and many black women felt the need to conform to this standard in order to be accepted in society. This led to the widespread use of harsh chemicals and hot combs to straighten hair, which often resulted in damage and breakage if overused or not done properly.

By the 1960s and 70s, the Civil Rights Movement brought about a shift in attitudes towards natural hair. Black women began to embrace their natural hair texture and to wear styles that celebrated their unique beauty. The afro became a symbol of black power and pride, and many women began to wear their hair in its natural state.

However, wearing natural hair presented its own set of challenges. Textured hair is more prone to breakage and damage than straight hair, and it requires careful maintenance in order to stay healthy. The bonnet became an essential tool in textured hair care, as it provided a way for women to protect their hair while they slept.

The first bonnets were simple and functional. They were made from cotton or silk and were designed to cover the hair completely, protecting it from friction and moisture loss. As the popularity of the bonnet grew, it began to be seen as a fashion accessory as well as a functional tool.

Today, the bonnet remains an essential tool in textured hair care. It is available in a wide range of styles and materials, from simple cotton bonnets to elaborate fashion bonnets intended for wearing out as much as staying in. Nowadays, many women wear their bonnets not only to bed, but also throughout the day as a way to protect their hair from the elements.

The history of the bonnet is closely tied to the struggles that black women have faced in maintaining their hair. For many years, black women were forced to conform to a standard of beauty that did not celebrate their unique hair texture. The bonnet became an essential tool in the fight against this standard, providing a way for women to protect and celebrate their natural hair.

The humble bonnet remains an important part of textured hair care. It is a symbol of pride and self-care, and a reminder of the beauty and strength of textured hair. Whether worn for fashion or function, the bonnet is a testament to the resilience and creativity of black women.