A man’s hairstyle often reflects aspects of his personality and identity. Braids, a hairstyle with a rich history spanning various cultures, have traditionally symbolized power and prestige. Today, they are experiencing a resurgence in popularity among men, offering a diverse range of styles to suit individual preferences. Despite evolving fashion trends, the technique of braiding has remained largely unchanged over thousands of years. If you’re looking to refresh your look and make a statement, explore our curated list of the top braided Braid Hairstyles for Men to find inspiration and stand out from the crowd.
What is the history behind braided hairstyles?
Braids have a long history, dating back thousands of years, possibly as far as 30,000 years ago, as seen in ancient artifacts like the Venus of Willendorf. They have always held social importance, serving as symbols of tribal affiliation and marital status.
Various cultures have adapted braiding techniques to their traditions, resulting in diverse styles ranging from Indigenous designs to elaborate Chinese braids. While predominantly associated with women, men, especially warriors from cultures like the Vikings and Ethiopians, have also embraced braids throughout history.
In recent decades, braids experienced a resurgence in popularity, particularly within black communities in the late 1960s and early 1970s. Figures such as Nina Simone and Stevie Wonder played a significant role in popularizing the style, which became a symbol of cultural pride and resistance during periods of social upheaval, such as the LA riots and protests against police brutality.
Braids carry cultural significance, with specific styles often associated with particular ethnicities. For example, tight braids like cornrows are commonly linked to black hair culture, while looser braids are more prevalent among Caucasian individuals. It’s important to be mindful of cultural sensitivity and avoid appropriating Braid Hairstyles for Men without understanding their cultural context.
In addition to their cultural importance, braids offer aesthetic appeal by adding texture and dimension to long hair. They provide endless creative possibilities for styling that are unique to braided Braid Hairstyles for Men. Finding a skilled stylist is crucial for achieving intricate braided patterns that reflect individual personality and taste.
Overall, braids serve as a timeless means of expressing identity and cultural heritage, continuing to be embraced and celebrated in contemporary society.
What are the top braid styles for men?
CORNROW BRAIDS For Men
Cornrow braids are a favorite choice among men for their tight, close-to-the-scalp weave. Whether you go for one braid or double, there’s flexibility to play with texture, letting your barber craft a style that suits you best. These braids are especially popular with black men and often paired with a fade for a modern touch.
SINGLE BRAIDS For Men
Single braids offer a variety of styles for men, including braided ponytails and French braids. While some men might think this look is too young or feminine, it’s great for guys who like to stay trendy or keep things easy. If you’ve got long hair, simply braiding it into one strong braid is a simple way to keep it neat while still looking cool.
TWO BRAIDS For Men
Instead of shying away from the idea of girly pigtails, men can embrace a modern and masculine style by sporting two French-style braids on either side of their heads. These braids work well with a sharp undercut, looking for some extra flair and dimension.
THREE BRAIDS HAIRSTYLES For Men
When it comes to Braid Hairstyles for Men with three braids for men, you’ll often find two braids along the sides and one down the center. Keep these braids tight and close to the scalp for the best look, similar to cornrows but a bit thicker. To add more detail, consider adding a low fade or undercut.
FOUR BRAIDS FOR MEN
When it comes to sporting four braids, men have options: they can go for cornrows or let the braids hang freely, depending on hair length. While four braids might not give you the exact look of Travis Scott’s signature style, sticking with cornrows where the braids are close to the head can give a more deliberate and stylish appearance. Attempting loose, layered braids might end up looking messy or unkempt.
FRENCH BRAIDS FOR MEN
French braids start at the hairline and extend down to the base of the neck. Despite their intricate appearance, French braids are relatively simple to learn. While your hair doesn’t need to be uniformly long, it should have enough length on top to avoid stray hairs or messy braids.
BOX BRAIDS FOR MEN
For those impatient for hair growth, box braids can be achieved with extensions to add extra length. Traditional box braids can tug on the scalp, potentially causing discomfort or hair loss, but knotless box braids alleviate this issue. Keep in mind that adding extra hair can extend the braiding process, so be prepared with something to occupy your time.
BRAIDS WITH SHORT HAIR
While braids for men with short hair pose some challenges, they’re not impossible. One effective method for short-haired men is the two-strand twist. Divide the front of your hair into two sections, then take a section of hair from each side near your part. Twist each strand over the other, incorporating new hair as you go. Remember, while your hair doesn’t need to reach your shoulders, it still needs enough length to work with.
BRAIDS WITH LONG HAIR
Long hair offers endless braiding possibilities for men, from cornrows to French braids. If your hair tends to frizz, keep a light hair clay handy to maintain crisp, clean braids without stray hairs.
TWIST BRAIDS For Men
For guys who want an easy hairstyle, twist braids are a great choice. They can last from two to eight weeks and come in different thicknesses, so you can get a unique look. Thicker twist braids might look cool, but thinner ones tend to stay in longer.
VIKING BRAIDS For Men
Viking braids, made famous by Viking king Ragnar Lothbrok, involve pulling long hair into one big, thick braid. It gives off a tough, rugged vibe, but it might not be right for formal occasions. To go all out, you can even braid your beard to match.
STITCH BRAIDS For Men
Stitch braids are like cornrows, with a pattern that looks like stitches along your scalp. They start at the front of your hair and go back toward your neck. How many you get depends on how much hair you have and how thick you want the braids to be.
BRAIDS WITH FADE For Men
A fade with cornrows is a popular look among black men. The detailed braids go well with the short, clean fade, making for a versatile and stylish appearance. It takes skill to do the braids, but the fade adds a simple touch that doesn’t take away from the braiding art.
FAQS.
How long does it take to braid men’s hair?
Braid styles vary in complexity, so the time required can range from 30 minutes to several hours, depending on the intricacy of the design.
Can anyone get braids, regardless of hair type?
While braids are versatile, they may require different techniques depending on your hair texture. Consult with a hairstylist experienced in men’s braiding for personalized recommendations.
Are braids suitable for all occasions?
Yes, braided hairstyles can be adapted to suit various settings, from casual outings to formal events. Choose a style that complements the occasion and reflects your style.
How can I maintain my braided hairstyle?
To keep your braids looking fresh, gently cleanse your scalp and braids with a specialized braided hair shampoo. Additionally, moisturize your scalp regularly to prevent dryness and itchiness.
Are braided hairstyles temporary or permanent?
Braided hairstyles are temporary and can be removed whenever you desire a change. However, proper maintenance is crucial to ensure longevity and preserve the integrity of your hair.
Can I add color to my braided hairstyle?
Absolutely! Adding color to your braids can enhance their visual impact and allow you to express your individuality. Opt for temporary hair color products or consult with a professional colorist for the best results.
