Men braids hairstyles are having a moment, and it’s for good reason. They’re stylish, protective, and super versatile. Whether you want a low-maintenance set of cornrows you can throw a durag over or a scalp teeming with long box braids, braiding your hair as a man can transform you into a showstopper.
As more men continue to embrace and experiment with their natural hair, we thought it best to show you stunning men’s braids to get you joining the league. Keep scrolling to see them. Plus, you’ll find maintenance tips too.
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Braid Hairstyles Every Suave Man Should Recreate
As more men rock their natural texture, protective styles have become the go-to. Think braids, cornrows, locs, and twists. These men’s braid styles not only look great, but also protect your hair from breakage and the stress of daily manipulation.
Below, we show you real-world examples for men who want to give braids and locs a try. Save your favorite, send it to your hairstylist, and you’re halfway to your next look.
Chunky Box Braids
This style features fewer, thick braids. In practice, it means faster chair time and less daily maintenance. The result is usually bold and athletic. Keep the braids moisturized with deep conditioning and a proper leave-in.
Classic Cornrows
This is a versatile style perfect for keeping your hair completely off your face. They’re braided straight from your forehead to the nape of your neck, and are sometimes called all-back.
High Top Locs
High-top locs are an easy and neat style that works for casual and formal settings. They feature neatly faded sides with locs on top. They’re a modern alternative to traditional dreadlocks.
Zigzag Cornrows
Cornrows provide infinite freedom to experiment with partings and designs. So, get creative with your parting and explore the zigzag design, then manipulate the braids into your desired shape.
Men Braids Hairstyles with Extensions
Having short hair doesn’t mean you should miss out on plaits. You can still rock ‘em braids with extensions to create added lengths. Besides, longer braids create more looks: half-up half-down, free-flowing box braids, or accessorizing with beads.
Criss-Crossed Men Braids Hairstyles
This style allows you to get more creative. It involves braiding your hair at different angles and criss-crossing them. It’s an artistic style perfect for when you want to channel your inner creative energy.
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Intricate Men Braids Hairstyles
Speaking of creative, this is another men’s hairstyle that offers you unlimited freedom. If you lean toward intricate designs that make a bold statement, this one is for you.
Men Braids Hairstyles with Fades
Braids with a fade give you the best of both worlds. Here’s how it works: leave some of your hair braided or twisted while keeping the sides shaved and clean. For more accents, style your braids into a ponytail or top knot and keep them moisturized with a spritz of leave-in conditioner.
Flat Twists as Men Braids Hairstyles
If you’re not a fan of braids but still want to wear cornrows, give flat twists a try. The style features hair twisted close to the scalp to give that same neatly braided cornrows effect without using the three-strand braid. It’s a great choice, as it doesn’t pull on your scalp like traditional cornrows.
Slim Braids
Slim braids with smaller parts create that high-definition, sharp finish. The style is light on the scalp, as each braid carries less hair. However, expect to spend a longer time at the salon.
Locd Man Bun
Man buns never miss. So don’t be afraid to experiment with them by adding a few accessories or coloring your locs.
Tapered Man Bun
If you don’t want to commit to a full head of braids or locs, shave the sides to create a fade and style your hair into a man bun. It’s a stunning hairstyle that’ll surely get eyes turning.
How to Maintain Men Braids Hairstyles
Here are quick tips to keep your hair always in shape:
- Wash your hair with a gentle, residue-free shampoo to avoid any buildup. Washing, every two to three weeks, is generally fine for both locs and cornrows. Feel free to adjust according to your scalp and lifestyle needs.
- Redo your cornrows depending on how quickly your hair grows and how fast they loosen. Aim to rebraid every four to six weeks to have a fresh style and avoid putting too much stress on your roots.
- Spritz your hair with a leave-in conditioner to keep your strands hydrated.
- Wrap your style with a durag or satin bonnet/scarf to retain moisture and keep frizz away. Alternatively, you can sleep on a silk/satin pillowcase.
- Apply mousse for extra sheen and smooths flyaways without buildup.
- If you lead an active lifestyle, rinse your scalp between washes and apply a light oil to prevent any itch.
Men’s braids are about your choice. From the sizes to the counts, sides, and parts, everything depends on your preferences. So, choose the style that resonates with you and ask your braider to give it a unique spin that stays true to your aesthetics.
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