Braided hairstyles have long been an essential part of black men’s culture, blending both style and functionality effortlessly. With a wide range of options to choose from, these braids can be a bold expression of personality while honoring cultural heritage.
Whether you’re drawn to the classic charm of cornrows or the edgy look of high top braids with a fade, there’s a style for every individual. Each design, whether modern or traditional, offers a chance to showcase your personal style and highlight your unique hair texture.
From trendy designs to more unique twists, these styles provide the perfect way to stand out and make a statement.
Popular Braided Hairstyles for Black Men
Classic Cornrows
This style is sleek, starting from the forehead and running straight back. It’s easy to maintain, requires minimal upkeep, and can be styled for any occasion. You can wear it tied back for a sporty look or let it hang loose for a relaxed vibe.
High Top Braids with Fade
The style features cool on top with a sharp on the sides, offering a trendy appearance. You can customize the subtle to bold, making it a unique style perfect for standing out. It’s a great option for anyone wanting a fresh and stylish appearance.
Box Braids
It provides flexibility in length, thickness, and style, and acts as a protective style that reduces hair breakage while promoting growth. You can also try styles like a high ponytail or half-up, half-down for variety.
Short Braids with Undercut
A combination of braids and an edgy style gives a clean and sharp appearance. The braids add texture and style, while the undercut balances the style for a contemporary appearance. It’s a great choice for those seeking a fashionable, low-maintenance hairstyle suitable for both formal events and casual settings.
Fishbone Braids
The braid style is perfect for men who want to make a bold statement with an artistic and eye-catching look. The intricate pattern can be worn in various lengths and paired with other styles, making it both a stylish and conversational choice.
Zigzag Braids
The style adds creativity and individuality, giving a bold twist to your look. It’s perfect for those who want to express their personality and add flair to their appearance. Ideal for any occasion, it lets you stand out, offering a fresh take on traditional styles. Whether you’re at a party or hanging out with friends, it’s a fun, fashionable choice.
Bun with Braids
The ruggedness and the sophistication of a style make it ideal for men with longer hair. It works well for both formal and casual and helps keep hair out of your face.
Braided Mohawk
This hairstyle involves braiding the hair at the center of the head, while the sides are either faded or shaved. It combines the rebellious spirit with the intricate detail of braids. It’s a versatile style, allowing you to choose the drama of the sides and how creative you want the style to be.
Two-Strand Twists
For a simple yet stylish look, try this technique that involves twisting two sections of hair together, offering protection for your hair. It’s perfect for those who want a style that can be easily transformed into a cool, wavy look when unraveled.
Braided Top Knot
The traditional and modern combination is ideal for longer hair. Starting at the front, the hair leads to the crown, offering a masculine and elegant look while keeping hair tidy and out of the face. It’s practical and stylish, giving an organized style with a bold, fashion-forward twist.
Intricate Design Braids
These detailed braids feature patterns, shapes, and varying sizes, allowing for a creative and artistic look. They are perfect for showcasing your unique style and are great as a conversation starter at social events.
Braided Crown
Braids wrap around the head like a natural crown or halo. It’s perfect for special occasions and keeps hair neatly styled throughout the day, adding a touch.
Long Box Braids
They are a striking style that hangs down the back or shoulders. They’re a protective choice, helping maintain hair health, and can be left loose or tied up. This look is perfect for those who want a low-maintenance yet stylish option.
Triangle Box Braids
This protective style uses triangle shapes to create a unique, geometric element in your hairstyle. It’s perfect for men who want to stand out and try something different while keeping their hair healthy.
Dutch Braids
For a standout style, Dutch create a 3D effect on top of the hair. Styled in reverse of French styles, they can be combined with fades or undercuts for a dynamic style.
Braided Faux Hawk
This style features braids down the center, resembling a bold, edgy look, with sides that can be shaved or faded. It’s a modern choice perfect for men seeking a daring appearance without committing to a full hairstyle.
Jumbo Braids
Large, thick styles make a bold statement, offering a standout look that’s easy to maintain. They also serve as a protective style, keeping your hair healthy.
Braided Ponytail
It brings together the sleekness of hair with the simplicity of a style, making it a great way to keep hair out of your face while still looking stylish. It’s practical and works for both casual and formal events, offering an easy-to-manage appearance.
Cornrows with Natural Hair
It involves braiding close to the scalp in various patterns, offering a neat and protective appearance. It enhances unprocessed hair while keeping it stylish and healthy.
Braided Updo
For a refined and polished appearance, styling hair into an intricate or simple design can be a perfect choice. This approach works well for formal events, offering both elegance and practicality.
When paired with exquisite accessories, like custom pin badges, it enhances the overall look, making it unique and special. The small but important details of the accessories contribute to the overall design.
The craftsmanship behind such styles and the attention to detail elevate the look even more, making it stand out.
Whether you prefer a subtle or complex look, the style helps keep hair out of the way while adding a touch of grace.
Side-Swept Braids
Moved to one side, creating a dynamic and asymmetrical style that offers a modern twist on traditional designs. It works for various hair lengths and textures, providing versatility and style.
Braids with Beads
Adding beads to braids enhances your style, reflecting heritage and personality. It’s a fun way to customize your look and make a bold statement while embracing cultural significance.
Half-Braided Hairstyle
A style where part of the hair is braided and the rest is left unbraided, creating a contrast between the two. It’s a unique and bold look that works with different hair lengths. This style blends natural and braided sections for a cool, eye-catching appearance.
Braids with Shaved Sides
For a bold, modern style, the top part of the hair is braided, while the sides are shaved clean. This creates an edgy look that highlights the braids, making them the focal point of the hairstyle.
Layered Braids
Layering hair adds depth and dimension. By using different lengths of strands, you can create a full look that enhances your hairstyle. This technique highlights the natural beauty of your hair while increasing fullness. For those seeking a versatile and bold option, layered looks elevate your overall look.
Braided Bob
A shorter option is perfect for men who want a stylish and manageable length while still keeping the interest of hair. This choice allows them to stand out and showcase their individual style. It combines traditional techniques with a modern edge, providing a great option for those seeking something unique.
Cornrows with Middle Part
For men who prefer a neat and organized look,braids on each side offer a clean, symmetrical style. This look can be customized with different braid sizes and patterns, providing a versatile and tidy option that suits many preferences.
Braids with Taper Fade
A modern, stylish look, adding texture on top with a gradual fade on the sides creates a sleek, edgy finish. This is perfect if you want a trendy yet easy-to-maintain style.
Curved Cornrows
Curved cornrows add a creative touch by curving around the head in various patterns. This style offers a unique way to make your hairstyle stand out while keeping it stylish and fresh.
Braids with Color Accents
Adding colored hair extensions or dyeing parts of your braids brings a pop of color and helps express your personality. It’s a fun way for men to experiment with different hues, enhancing their hairstyle with vibrant, creative touches.
Braided Lines Hairstyle
Thin straight braids create a geometric pattern on the head, adding texture and interest. This style offers a clean, minimalist appearance with a structured vibe, perfect for those wanting a stylish yet simple hairdo.
Senegalese Twists
This style uses hair extensions for added length and volume, offering an elegant, refined look. It also acts as a protective style, promoting hair health by reducing damage.
Braids with Bandana
A bandana can add style to your braids, whether as a headband or integrated into the hairstyle. It not only gives an urban edge but also helps keep hair in place while adding a pop of color for a personalized look.
Micro Braids
These tiny, delicate braids cover the entire head, offering an intricate and striking look. Though time-consuming to create, they are adaptable and can be styled in various ways, making them perfect for those seeking a sophisticated and eye-catching style.
Braided Pompadour
A voluminous front with intricately braided sides offers a modern style. This design works well for both formal and casual, blending classic and contemporary elements for an eye-catching hairstyle.
Braided Low Fade
It features tight hair with a transition at the nape for a fresh and polished look, suitable for different hair types.
Braided Undercut with Design
An undercut with artistic designs on the sides contrasts with braids on top, blending tradition and modern flair. The design can range from simple to intricate, offering personal expression.
Braided Side Part
One side is styled with a braid while the other flows naturally, creating an asymmetrical and elegant appearance. This style offers a mix of creativity and refinement, making it ideal for casual or formal occasions.
Braided Faux Locs
The style gives the dreadlock appearance by braiding synthetic hair into natural hair, offering a bohemian vibe. It is flexible, temporary, and protects natural hair while allowing for creative expression.
Braided Man Bun with Fade
A high fade with braids and a bun offers a practical and trendy look for those with longer hair. The fade adds a neat contrast, making it easy to maintain and perfect for various occasions.
Caring for Your Braids: Keep Them Looking Fresh and Healthy
Wash gently, moisturize with leave-in conditioner or oils, and protect your braids at night with a satin or silk scarf. Regular care keeps your braids fresh and maintains healthy hair underneath.
Wash Regularly: To keep your hair healthy, use a diluted shampoo and gently massage your scalp. Rinse thoroughly to avoid buildup and tangling. Avoid using too much product to maintain clean, light hair.
Moisturize: Keep your hair hydrated with a lightweight leave-in conditioner or braid spray to prevent dryness. Natural oils like coconut or jojoba oil help nourish your scalp and hair. Regular hydration between washes prevents breakage and keeps your hair fresh.
Protect at Night:Using a satin pillowcase or satin bonnet while you sleep helps reduce friction, preventing frizz and breakage. This simple step keeps your hairstyle intact and looking fresh.
Avoid Excessive Tension:Tight styles can stress your hair follicles, leading to discomfort and hair loss. Choose styles that are snug but not too tight to avoid pulling excessively, ensuring comfort and hair health.
Take Breaks: It’s important to let your hair rest between braiding sessions to allow it to breathe and promote healthy hair growth. Taking breaks helps prevent damage and supports overall hair health.
Additional Notes:
Dry thoroughly: After washing or swimming, make sure your hair is completely dried to avoid fungal issues and maintain hair health and longevity.
Listen to your scalp: If you experience itching, tenderness, or bumps, it could be a sign of irritation. If it continues, consult a hairstylist or dermatologist to avoid further issues.
Refresh styles: Use dry shampoo or mist with water and leave-in products to keep braids fresh, prevent buildup, and maintain their appearance and texture without frequent washing.
People also ask
Can guys with short hair get braids?
Short hair can work, but growing it a bit longer helps. Length is crucial, and twists are a good option. A stylist can guide the best choice.
What is the easiest braid for men?
The three-strand style is simple to learn, perfect for beginners. Just divide the hair into three parts and weave them together for a classic, clean finish. It’s an easy, stylish option for those starting with braiding.
What braids are best for 4C hair?
Halo Braids
Wrapped around the head in a circular pattern, this protective style keeps hair secure and showcases natural texture. It lasts for days and helps maintain healthy hair.
How long should black men keep braids in?
Black men should keep their braids in for 4-8 weeks to avoid hair damage and breakage. The duration depends on the braid type, individual’s hair, and maintenance. Proper care is key to preventing damage while maintaining the style.
Do braids help men hair grow?
They don’t directly speed up hair growth, but they help reduce breakage and keep your hair stronger. By reducing breakage, they can aid in maintaining your hair’s strength and promote natural growth over time.
Is it OK to braid short hair?
You can definitely style short hair, especially if it’s around ear length. While the result may vary from longer styles, the technique remains the same, and you can still achieve a great look with the right approach.
What is the minimum length for braids for men?
To last and stay in place, your length should be at least 20-25cm. This offers better design options and helps them hold well. Shorter length may not hold, so growing it a bit longer is recommended.
How much do braids cost for guys?
The cost for men ranges from $50 to $500, depending on the stylist, hair length, and intricacy. More complex or longer looks tend to be more expensive.
How do you know if braids suit you male?
Consider your face shape, hair texture, and maintenance when choosing a hairstyle. A square face suits structured styles, while height-adding options work for a round face. For shorter hair, try cornrows. Pick a style that fits your lifestyle and hair type.
What braids last longer?
Smaller styles like micro and box stay intact longer because they are more tightly woven, unlike jumbo, which tend to loosen faster. For longer-lasting results, opt for the smaller, more durable options.
Do braids look good on guys?
A great option for men with different hair types and lengths, offering a clean, expressive look. Popular choices like cornrows, box braids, and twists provide neatness and style, while locs and zig-zag are trendy alternatives. Choosing the right style based on hair type ensures manageability.
Conclusion
When it comes to braided hairstyles, there are many options to explore. From cornrows to high-top braids, each style offers a unique way for black men to express individuality while embracing their cultural heritage.
These braid styles not only showcase the versatility of braiding, but also celebrate the diverse beauty of black men’s hair. Whether you’re after a bold statement or simply want your hair to look neat and stylish, there is a braid for every preference and lifestyle.
A great hairstyle can make a statement and give a fresh edge to any look, helping to enhance one’s appearance with ease.