Braids have been a popular hairstyle for centuries, with origins dating back to ancient civilizations. In recent years, braided hairstyles have become increasingly popular for men, with celebrities like David Beckham and Zayn Malik sporting stylish braided looks on and off the red carpet. From classic three-strand braids to intricate cornrows and box braids, there are endless options for men looking to add some texture and flair to their hair.
In this article, we will explore the top braid styles for men, their versatility, and how to choose the right braid style for your hair type. We will also provide expert tips on maintaining and caring for your braids, as well as recommend the best products for keeping them looking fresh. So whether you’re a guy looking to switch up your hairstyle or just curious about the different types of braids available, read on to discover everything you need to know about braids for men.
Overview of Popular Braid Styles for Men
Before we delve into the different types of braids for men, let’s first take a look at the overall popularity of braided hairstyles among men. While braids have always been a part of traditional African and Native American cultures, they have gained mainstream popularity in recent years thanks to celebrities and influencers embracing the trend.
According to Google Trends data, there has been a steady increase in searches for “braids for men” over the past five years. This is a clear indication of the rising popularity of braided hairstyles for men. Additionally, fashion and beauty publications have been featuring braid tutorials and showcasing men with braided hairstyles on their covers, further solidifying the trend’s place in mainstream culture.
So what are the most popular braid styles for men? Let’s take a closer look at each one.
Classic Three-Strand Braids
The classic three-strand braid, also known as the “regular braid” or “plait,” is arguably the most common and versatile braid style for men. This type of braid involves weaving three sections of hair over and under each other to create a neat and uniform look.
Three-strand braids can be worn in different ways, depending on the length and texture of your hair. For shorter hair, you can opt for smaller braids that are closer to the scalp, while longer hair can accommodate larger braids. You can also experiment with different patterns and designs, such as braiding only the top section of your hair or incorporating shaved sections into your braid.
One of the major advantages of three-strand braids is their low maintenance. Once they are properly secured, they can last for several days without needing to be redone. This makes them a great choice for men with busy lifestyles or those who prefer a more low-maintenance hairstyle.
Cornrows and Their Versatility
Cornrows are a traditional African hairstyle that has gained popularity among men in recent years. This style involves braiding small sections of hair very close to the scalp in a continuous line, creating a series of interlocking rows. Cornrows can be styled in various patterns and designs, making them a highly versatile braid option.
One of the main benefits of cornrows is their durability. When done correctly, they can last for weeks without needing to be redone. This makes them a popular choice for men with coarse or textured hair, as they do not need to constantly manipulate their hair.
Cornrows are also a great option for men with shorter hair, as they do not require a lot of length to achieve. However, it’s important to note that cornrows can be time-consuming to install and may require the help of a professional stylist, especially if you’re looking for intricate designs.
Box Braids: A Comprehensive Guide
Box braids, also known as “individual braids,” are another popular braid style for men. This style involves braiding small sections of hair into individual plaits that can be styled in various ways. Box braids are typically longer than other braid styles and can be worn at any length, depending on your preference.
One of the main advantages of box braids is their versatility. They come in different sizes and lengths, making them suitable for all hair types and lengths. Another advantage is that they are low maintenance and can last for several weeks with proper care.
When it comes to styling, you can experiment with different designs and patterns, such as adding beads or accessories to your box braids. However, keep in mind that installing box braids can be time-consuming and may require professional help, especially if you’re going for a complex design.
Fishtail Braids for a Unique Look
Fishtail braids, also known as “herringbone” braids, have gained popularity in recent years as a trendy braid option for men. This style is created by weaving two sections of hair over each other in an interlocking pattern, creating a unique “V” shape that resembles a fishtail.
Fishtail braids are a great choice for men looking for a more intricate and eye-catching braid style. They can be worn with different hair lengths and textures, making them suitable for almost every hair type. Fishtail braids also have a natural texture and volume to them, giving your hair a more textured and layered look.
While it may take some practice to perfect the technique of creating fishtail braids, once you’ve mastered it, they are relatively easy to maintain. You can also experiment with different variations, such as incorporating multiple fishtail braids into one look.
French Braids for Men
French braids, also known as “double braids,” have been a popular choice for women for decades but have recently become a trend among men as well. This style involves weaving three sections of hair over and under each other, similar to the classic three-strand braid. However, the difference is that French braids are done closer to the scalp, creating a sleek and intricate look.
French braids are a great option for men with medium to long hair, as they require some length to achieve. They are also highly versatile and can be worn in various ways, such as incorporating shaved sections or adding extensions for a more dramatic look.
One of the main advantages of French braids is their durability. They can last for several days without needing to be redone, which makes them a great choice for men who want a low-maintenance hairstyle.
Maintenance Tips for Keeping Braids Fresh
Once you’ve chosen your desired braid style, it’s important to know how to properly care for them to keep them looking fresh and healthy. Here are some expert tips on maintaining your braids:
- Keep your scalp clean: It’s important to regularly wash your scalp while wearing braids to prevent buildup of dirt and oil. You can use a mild shampoo and water to gently cleanse your scalp, being careful not to disturb the braids too much.
- Moisturize: Braids can strip your hair of its natural oils, so it’s important to replenish moisture to keep your hair and scalp healthy. Use a leave-in conditioner or a moisturizing spray to keep your hair hydrated.
- Protect your edges: The hair around your hairline is the most fragile, so it’s important to protect it while wearing braids. Use a satin scarf or bonnet at night to prevent friction and breakage.
- Avoid heat styling: Heat can damage both your natural hair and your braids. Avoid using heated tools such as straighteners or curlers, and opt for more heat-free styles.
- Get regular touch-ups: As your hair grows, your braids may start to look messy or loose. It’s important to get regular touch-ups to keep them looking fresh and neat.
Best Products for Braid Care
Using the right products is essential for maintaining healthy braids. Here are some of the best products for braid care:
- Shampoo and conditioner: Look for a mild, sulfate-free shampoo and a moisturizing conditioner that won’t strip your hair of its natural oils.
- Leave-in conditioner: A leave-in conditioner will help keep your hair hydrated and prevent dryness and breakage.
- Moisturizing spray: A moisturizing spray is perfect for refreshing your braids and keeping your hair and scalp hydrated throughout the day.
- Edge control: Use an edge control product to lay down any flyaways or frizz and keep your edges looking sleek.
- Satin scarf or bonnet: Using a satin scarf or bonnet at night will protect your braids and edges from friction and breakage.
Expert Advice on Choosing the Right Braid Style for Your Hair Type
When it comes to choosing the right braid style for your hair type, there are a few things to consider. We spoke to celebrity hairstylist and grooming expert, Larry Sims, for his advice on choosing the best braid style for different hair types:
Straight Hair
According to Sims, men with straight hair can pull off almost any braid style. He recommends starting with a classic three-strand braid and gradually experimenting with more intricate styles like cornrows or box braids.
Curly Hair
For curly-haired men, Sims suggests opting for thicker braids to avoid tangling and breakage. He also recommends using pomades or gels to smooth out any flyaways and keep the braids looking polished.
Coarse/Textured Hair
For men with coarse or textured hair, cornrows and box braids are the most suitable options. Sims also recommends incorporating some shaved sections to add more dimension and texture to the style.
Thin/Fine Hair
Sims advises men with thin or fine hair to opt for smaller braids closer to the scalp to give the illusion of thicker hair. He also suggests using products like volumizing powder or dry shampoo to add texture and volume to the hair before braiding.
Conclusion
Braids for men have come a long way from their traditional roots and have become a popular and trendy hairstyle in mainstream culture. From classic three-strand braids to intricate cornrows and box braids, there are endless options for men looking to add some texture and flair to their hair.
When choosing a braid style, it’s important to consider your hair type, lifestyle, and maintenance preferences. With the right products and care, braids can last for weeks and keep your hair looking fresh and healthy. So embrace the braid trend and experiment with different styles to find the perfect one for you.