In recent years, the popularity of men’s braided hairstyles has experienced a remarkable surge, transcending cultural boundaries and redefining conventional grooming norms. From traditional cornrows and box braids to contemporary Viking and feed-in styles, men embrace braids as a powerful means of self-expression.
10 Traditional Braided Styles for Men
Here’s a list of 10 traditional braided styles suitable for men with black, grey, and white hair, catering to both black and white individuals:
Cornrows
Classic and versatile, cornrows involve braiding the hair close to the scalp in straight lines or intricate patterns, suitable for individuals of all ages and hair colors.
Box Braids
Small, square-shaped sections of hair characterize box braids. This protective style is fashionable and works well for various hair textures, including grey and white hair.
Three-Strand Braids
Simple and timeless, three-strand braids are a go-to choice for those who prefer a classic look. They suit black and white hair, providing a neat appearance.
Dreadlocks
Dreadlocks are formed by allowing the hair to mat and lock over time. This style is iconic and versatile, complementing the natural texture of black, grey, and white hair.
Single Braids
Also known as individual braids, this style involves creating long, thin braids that can be worn down or styled in various ways, offering a stylish option for individuals of all hair colors.
Senegalese Twists
Originating from Senegal, these twists involve two-strand twists using extensions. Senegalese twists suit black, grey, and white hair, providing a chic and protective styling option.
Ghana Braids
Ghana braids, or Banana Cornrows, are characterized by thick, elevated braids that curve along the scalp. This style suits individuals with various hair colors and offers a distinctive look.
Fulani Braids
Incorporating thin braids with unique patterns and accessories, Fulani braids have cultural significance and can be adapted to suit both black and white hair, offering a trendy and personalized style.
Havana Twists
Havana twists involve chunky two-strand twists that give a textured appearance. This style works well for individuals with black, grey, and white hair, providing a voluminous and stylish look.
Bantu Knots
Bantu knots involve twisting sections of hair into small, coiled knots. This versatile style suits individuals of all hair colors, offering a playful and distinctive appearance.
10 Trendy Contemporary Men’s Braids 2024 for Men Worldwide
Here are ten trendy contemporary men’s braids for 2024 that are popular worldwide:
Cornrows with Undercut
Combine the classic cornrows with a modern undercut for a stylish and edgy look.
Boxer Braids
This athletic-inspired style features two tight braids along the sides of the head, giving a sporty and fashionable appearance.
Fishtail Braid
Elevate your braiding game with a fishtail braid, adding a touch of sophistication to your hairstyle.
Twisted Top Knot with Braids
Create a unique look by incorporating small braids into a twisted top knot for a trendy, textured hairstyle.
Braided Ponytail
Upgrade a classic ponytail by adding braids for a contemporary and stylish twist.
Braided Fade
Combine a faded haircut with intricate braiding patterns for a modern, urban look.
Braided Man Bun
Pull your hair into a man bun and add braids for a cool, fashionable take on this popular hairstyle.
Mohawk with Braided Sides
Opt for a bold and adventurous look by styling a Mohawk with braided sides, creating a striking contrast.
Triangle Box Braids
Experiment with a geometric twist by opting for triangle-shaped box braids, adding an artistic touch to your hairstyle.
Braided Beard
Extend the braids from your hair into your beard for a cohesive and trendy overall appearance.
10 Celebrity-Inspired Braided Looks for Men
Chris Hemsworth’s Viking Braid
Embrace the rugged charm of Chris Hemsworth with a bold Viking-inspired braid. This masculine look adds a touch of warrior flair to your hairstyle.
Kit Harington’s Jon Snow Braids
Channel the Game of Thrones heartthrob with Kit Harington’s signature Jon Snow braids. This intricate style exudes a sense of medieval cool.
Jason Momoa’s Aquaman Braids
Dive into Jason Momoa’s aquatic vibes with braids reminiscent of his iconic Aquaman character. This look is perfect for those seeking a bold and adventurous style.
Travis Fimmel’s Ragnar Lothbrok Braids
Take inspiration from Travis Fimmel’s portrayal of Ragnar Lothbrok in Vikings with his distinctive braided hairstyle, reflecting a fearless and historical aesthetic.
Zayn Malik’s Edgy Boxer Braids
Follow in the footsteps of Zayn Malik with edgy boxer braids that give off a modern and urban vibe. This trendy style adds a touch of rebellion to your look.
Jaden Smith’s Eclectic Braided Ponytail
Embrace Jaden Smith’s unique style with an eclectic braided ponytail. This artistic and free-spirited look is perfect for those who want to stand out.
Lenny Kravitz’s Bohemian Braided Dreads
Capture the rockstar essence of Lenny Kravitz with bohemian braided dreads. This free-flowing style radiates a laid-back and effortlessly cool vibe.
A$AP Rocky’s Intricate Cornrows
Get inspired by A$AP Rocky’s intricate cornrows for a sleek and stylish appearance. This urban-inspired look is a nod to hip-hop culture and fashion.
Colin Farrell’s Viking-inspired Warrior Braids
Opt for Colin Farrell’s warrior braids for a fierce and masculine appearance. This style draws inspiration from historical warrior aesthetics, creating a powerful look.
Post Malone’s Messy Braided Man Bun
The eclectic style of Post Malone with a messy braided man bun. This effortlessly cool look combines braids and a bun for a casual yet fashionable appearance.
Styling Accessories for Men’s Braids
Accessorizing men’s braids adds a personalized touch, elevating the overall look and making a style statement. Here are some popular styling accessories to complement and enhance your braided hairstyles:
Beads and Cuffs
Tiny beads or metallic cuffs can be threaded onto individual braids for a stylish and cultural touch.
Slide beads or cuffs onto the braids, securing them in place to add a subtle or bold accent.
Headscarves and Bandanas
Headscarves and bandanas come in various colors and patterns, offering a versatile accessory to tie around your head or cover specific sections of your braids.
Fold or wrap the scarf or bandana according to your preference and tie it securely, creating a fashionable and functional accessory.
Hair Rings
Small metal rings designed for hair can be threaded onto braids, creating a unique and edgy look.
Slide the hair ring onto a selected braid, positioning it creatively along the length to add a modern and individualized flair.
Embroidered Thread
Colorful and textured threads can be woven into braids to introduce vibrant patterns or highlights.
Wrap the thread around specific braids, creating intricate patterns or introducing a burst of color for a playful appearance.
Leather Accessories
Leather bands or straps can be intertwined with braids, providing a rugged and masculine aesthetic.
Secure leather accessories around specific braids, ensuring they complement your style and the overall look.
Feathers or Shells
Feathers or small shells can be incorporated into braids for a bohemian or beach-inspired look.
Attach feathers or shells to the ends of braids, creating a natural and whimsical feel to your hairstyle.
Decorative Pins and Clips
Intricately designed hairpins or clips can add a touch of sophistication to braided styles.
Secure the pins or clips strategically along the braids, keeping the hair in place while introducing an elegant element.
Metallic Wire
Thin metallic wire can be twisted around individual braids, offering a modern and futuristic aesthetic.
Wrap the metallic wire around the braids, creating geometric patterns or a subtle metallic accent.
Ribbon or Fabric Strips
Soft fabric strips or ribbons can be woven into braids, introducing a pop of color or texture.
Tie fabric strips around specific braids, allowing them to flow naturally with the hairstyle.
Customized Clips or Pins
Personalized clips or pins with unique designs or symbols can add a touch of individuality.
Attach these customized accessories strategically, creating a distinctive and meaningful element within your braided style.
FAQs
What is the best braid style for guys?
The best braid style for guys depends on personal preference, hair texture, and desired aesthetics. Common choices include:
- Classic three-strand braids.
- Trendy box braids.
- Cornrows.
- Various modern twists like Viking or feed-in braids.
Experimenting with different styles allows men to find what suits their taste and complements their overall look.
Is braiding hair good for men?
Yes, braiding hair can be beneficial for men. Braids are a protective hairstyle that helps minimize hair breakage, reduce tangling, and promote healthier hair growth. Additionally, braided styles require minimal daily maintenance, making them a convenient and stylish choice for men seeking a low-maintenance yet fashionable look.
Do men get box braids?
Absolutely. Box braids are a popular and versatile hairstyle for men, offering a neat and structured appearance. Men of all ethnicities can embrace box braids, and the style allows for various lengths, thicknesses, and creative designs. Box braids provide a protective and low-maintenance option for those looking to express their style.
Do braids affect the hairline?
Braids generally do not negatively impact the hairline when done properly and with care. However, excessively tight braids or constant tension on the hair can lead to traction alopecia, which may cause hair loss along the hairline. It is essential to avoid tight braiding and give the hair periodic breaks between styles to maintain a healthy hairline.
What are boy braids called?
The term “boy braids” is a general reference to various braided hairstyles worn by boys. These can include three-strand braids, cornrows, box braids, and other styles. The specific name often depends on the braiding technique and pattern chosen. Boys can experiment with different braided looks to find a style that reflects their personality and preferences.