Ukrainian Traditional Hairstyle: The Distinctive Single Lock of HairIn Ukraine, there exists a unique and eye - catching traditional hairstyle that has a long - standing history. This style features a man with most of his head closely shaven, while a single lock of hair gracefully hangs down.

In Ukraine, there exists a unique and eye - catching traditional hairstyle that has a long - standing history. This style features a man with most of his head closely shaven, while a single lock of hair gracefully hangs down.

This particular haircut, known as "oseledets" or "chub" in Ukrainian, was most commonly associated with the Ukrainian Cossacks during the 16th and 17th centuries. The Cossacks would shave their heads, leaving only a long central strip of hair. This strip was often braided or tied into a topknot, and it could be seen sprouting from the top or the front of the head. For instance, in various motion pictures based on the works of Nikolai Gogol, such as "The Lost Letter", this iconic Cossack haircut is vividly depicted.

The origin of this hairstyle is a topic of much discussion. Some believe it can be traced back to the time of Prince Sviatoslav of Kiev, as reported by Byzantine historian Leo the Deacon. Others suggest that the Cossacks might have adopted it from the Turkic tribes they came into contact with, considering that the word "Cossack" has Turkic origins. Over time, this hairstyle became not only a symbol of the Cossacks but also a part of Ukrainian cultural heritage, representing freedom and a sense of identity.