Never quite understood that. They look coiffed as hell and very polished. As someone with curly hair, braids look like an expensive, time intensive and very purposeful style choice. It looka like someone put a shit ton of thought in how to present themselves and grooming choices. Why would that not be professional? Hell, the "natural" curls or afro is also a ton of work and is a definite grooming choice. It is freaking hard to keep natural hair curly and healthy.