@natalystyles1
It’s safe to say that cornrow styles are one of the most favored natural hairstyles. Fair enough, since they do a wonderful job in taming kinky natural hair. In addition, cornrows are easy-to-maintain braids. And yes, you can ask your stylist to create an intricate pattern on your head like this one to make your braids stand out.
If you’re not ready to give up the impact of long hair but want a new direction, it’s time to consider braids for men. From intricate fishtails to sharp, structured cornrows, modern braiding offers a bold way to add edge and personality to your look without sacrificing length or versatility.
And it’s not just for those with shoulder-grazing hair. Men’s plaits work just as well with popular styles like long tops paired with fades or undercuts, offering a clean, deliberate finish. Whether your hair is straight, curly, or somewhere in between, braiding brings shape, texture, and character with minimal effort. Let’s check out various braid styles for all hair lengths and types.
@soniaflowershair
Ponytail braided hairstyles work well for men who want to show off a fun dye job. Whether you have a faded blonde ombre, or a fun bright hue, this look will allow you to give your color saturated strands their time to shine. Balance the look with a rugged beard.
Braids give you infinite freedom to experiment with designs. You can get creative with your parting, or you can actually manipulate the braid into the shape of your choice.
@magicfingersstudio
Just because you have short hair does not mean that you have to miss out on plaits. You may play with extensions as well. Box braids use thick yaki braiding hair to create bold plaits – combine different colors for a highlight effect.
@adriennelucina
If you want a style with some staying power, it’s best to gravitate towards smaller cornrows instead of chunky French braid styles. The latter will come apart more easily with wear and tear. The second benefit of a smaller pattern is that it can be manipulated into more intricate designs as shown above.
@resie_braids
Men who have already embraced the long Mohawk style can get more bang for their buck by incorporating chunky double braids. They are perfect for a beach vacation or a guy’s trip when the last thing that you want to worry about is hair products and styling.
@africanhairbraidingla
Braids offer a unique way for men to create bold, stylish looks, including edgy faux hawks. This versatile style can be adapted to suit various hair types, adding texture and personality to any haircut.
@modernsalon
Probably one of the most recognizable braided looks thanks to early 2000s rappers like Xzibit, Jim Jones, and scores of others, straight-back cornrows are a classic style that men can’t get enough of. The bushy “lumbersexual” beard gives the look a modern hipster vibe.
@saucemoney88
Braids can also be a great accent to an androgynous look. This slightly inverted braided bob features thin box braids in a deep and glossy shade of black. The lack of facial hair makes the hairdo the focal point of your appearance.
@hongkongbraid
Have some fun and combine two braid designs into one look. Instead of doing something outrageous, opt for two simple styles like wavy and straight plaits so that they can complement each other. The result is an interesting-yet-low key hairstyle that works for medium to long strands.
@africanhairbraidingla
Just because you don’t have long hair doesn’t mean you have to give up on your braided dreams. Thankfully, with a little styling pomade you can fake it until you make it. Twisting a few pieces in the front to mimic a braid pattern will give you a similar effect.
@lincooln
If your hair is longer in the crown but still too short for a flowing braid, this is for you. The hair won’t have enough length for a tight weave, which will create a cool petal-like texture. Secure with small elastic to keep it from slipping during the day.
@kwaangkawin
Blond hair warms complexions with gold and red undertones. Thanks to Fetty Wap’s and Jaden Smith’s experiments with different shades of blond, you are sure to be on trend with this style if you have a similar skin tone.
@stylesbykaykay
Combine a bunch of subtle details to make one impactful look. Double braids, short sides, a small bun, and blonde highlights seem simple on their own, but together they make up a unique style.
@maneattractionsalonphx
It’s a cool idea to create a crown to diversify your braids. The middle part allows you to create an intricate, symmetrical style encircled by a braided crown. Shaved lines on the side ensure that this is a look truly fit for a king.
@_jazitup
Think of a braid as an accent for short hair instead of the basis for the overall style. A small inverted braid is perfect for adding pizzazz to the standard man bun.
@kwaangkawin
Tattoos are a commitment no matter where you put them on your body. But etching one under your hair is great if you want the option of covering it later. Braids will pull your hair back in a stylish way to show off your new ink.
@modernsalon
Learn the art of accessorizing your braids. Headbands and barrettes might not be your thing, but a subtle black ribbon will add a little drama without doing much.
@modernsalon
Flat braids are ideal for guys who want to wear a style that does not need to be touched up as frequently. The sleek style may last for over a week and will be getting rugged in a good, stylish way.
@modernsalon
Another benefit of a braided style is the volume that you can achieve within the crown. Simply tease the roots before you have your hair braided. For an additional twist, use a different pattern for the tail of your style to create some contrast.
@dyfre_barber
Braids don’t have to be complicated. A side braid is great when you want a no frills style with just a bit of edge. Experiment with different colors or just keep a natural hue.
@ssarit
Thanks to the perfectly precise center parting and undercut sides, these sleek, tight braids combined with a bun are all about elegance and style. This style is achievable on all hair textures.
@the_braidaholic
There’s no wonder box braid hairstyles are so popular with men. Apart from being a cool protective style, they are relatively easy to create and amazingly versatile. Box braids can be adapted to look right on both short and long hair, and any hair texture.
@braidedbykris
Dutch braids are a great choice for men with straight hair. With limitless styling options, it’s easy to achieve them with different types of cuts. Coupled with a full beard and taper fade, this hairstyle looks rugged yet chic.
@theheroine_
Searching for an alternative to traditional box braids? This sophisticated hairstyle will leave no one indifferent. Elaborate braids, smaller and bigger, look enchanting when paired with a fresh fade and a classic man bun.
@sweetstylez.braiding
Temple braids are a great solution if you prefer keeping things minimal. Two braids on the sides can replace the traditional undercut, allowing you to enjoy the best of both worlds – sport trendy braids and wear shorter hair on top.
@thestrandsa
You can create braids even on short hair. With the right approach and a bit of know-how, braid styles are fairly achievable on any hair length over two inches. Small braids look really cool and sassy, especially when they come with a neat undercut.
@kaylazbraidz
It’s safe to say that cornrow styles are one of the most favored natural hairstyles. Fair enough, since they do a wonderful job in taming kinky natural hair. In addition, cornrows are easy-to-maintain braids. And yes, you can ask your stylist to create an intricate pattern on your head like this one to make your braids stand out.
@natalystyles1
Cornrow braids are a cool option for hot summer days that can last for weeks with proper care. They always look neat and work just great on both thick and fine hair.
@salondubaihairstylist
If you crave braided hair but don’t feel like waiting for your tresses to grow out, no worries, you can get chic braids with the help of extensions. Also, you can use this trick to make your thin braids look fuller.
@studiotereretata
Braided buns are always a good idea when you need to arrange medium to long hair. To make braided hair look even more eye-catching, consider getting multiple criss-cross braids on the crown.
@menbraidslondon
If you’re looking for something unusual, consider this intricate braid hairstyle. Such an awesome braided pattern will undoubtedly make you stand out from the crowd. Cornrows look exceptionally good when combined with fade.
@braidsby.lj
This hairstyle looks really sassy on dark hair with highlights. It may take you two trips to a salon to get your hair highlighted and get it braided. Give your strands a two-week break as they tend to get brittle write after the bleach.
@topclassbeautysalon
A cool, daring Mohawk like this is what you need to make a statement. Two braids on each side and a braided ponytail make it even more unique. Pair it all with a full beard and shaved sides, and you’ll get a super stylish look.
@menbraidslondon
A fishbone braid is a popular type of African American braid plaited closely to the scalp with a thick braid in the center and thinner cornrows attached to the main braid at an angle. Fishbone braids are a great solution if you want to diversify your everyday look.
@salondubaihairstylist
Cornrows hold a special place in our hearts. Easy to maintain and protective, they facilitate healthy hair growth and help your hair look flawless at all times. Try these intertwined cornrows to change up your style.
@pelhina4538
We’ll never get tired of saying that braids are stunningly versatile! An impressive variation of traditional box braids, spider braids look like a growing trend. Diagonal cornrows transitioning into box braids create a bold dynamic look that blends structure with fluidity for a unique, modern style.
@blackqueen.hmo
An unusual pattern can make your plaits truly unique. If you have medium to long straight or wavy hair, intricate cornrows have a high chance of becoming your favorite everyday hairstyle.
@braidbabe509
The uniform thickness of the braids and their curved shape creates a cool terraced effect. The braids are decorated with hair cuffs and culminate in a neat top-knot.
@charme_black_
Your braided style will automatically turn into a masterpiece if enhanced with crisp geometric patterns and matching hair design. This is what people call unconventional braids, indeed.
@cryscrowned_em
By adding interesting details to your hairstyle, you’ll get a bombshell combination that is sure to turn heads. This braided style is absolutely stunning due to a mind-blowing combination of hair design, textured braids, and bright colors.
@glamgarage_hairdetailing
This super cool hairstyle features long braided bangs that frame the face, a neat braided bun, and a high fade. By the way, you don’t even need to have long hair for long braids: get any length you wish with feed-in plaits.
@noquesalon
We love this minimalist braided hairstyle for its simple, neat, and ultimately stylish appearance. Zigzag braids gathered in a ponytail are a cool everyday option for men with coarse natural hair.
@braided_melanins
By braiding your long locs together, you’ll get a really outstanding look. You can choose a Dutch braid like this to get a bonus Mohawk, or try a fishtail braid for a softer look.
@mrnaturalz
No doubt, ombre box braids with bleached ends are a standout styling choice. They are an excellent option if you love braids and feel like experimenting with color but don’t really want to get a permanent hair color done as of now. The contrast between black and honey blond grabs attention and adds that edgy early 2000s vibe.
@pelhina4538
Long box braids look amazingly hot when gathered in a tight bun. Combined with shaved sides, they look neat and elegant, which makes them an excellent idea for an office-approved braided hairstyle.
@salondubaihairstylist
There are many options within the braids for men category which depend on your personal preference. The pattern and texture alone will certainly turn heads, but you can always take the look a step further with fun colors and designs.
Braid styles for men have long evolved from protective ‘dos into powerful tools for expressing, personalizing, and showcasing your hair texture with pride. So, if you’re into simple and classic cornrows or prefer more creative artistic patterns, here are some of the latest trendy styles for guys to explore and draw inspiration from.
Men’s hair braiding is a styling technique that uses interwoven strands or plaits to create structured designs across the head. These styles usually vary in size, placement, and cultural origin. While traditionally associated with Black, African, and ethnic heritage, men’s braids have transformed into a global grooming trend.
Today, you can see braided styles on men with all hair textures – coarse, curly, wavy, and even straight. They effectively blend masculine style and low-maintenance care, while emphasizing your unique features and individuality.
This year ushers in a gradual comeback of traditional braiding techniques, but with a modern twist to achieve a perfect harmony of function and fashion. Given that more and more guys seek easy, low-fuss hairstyles that still feel fresh, you can often see hybrid braided looks with tapers and fades among the trends. They give each look maximum comfort and visual impact. There are the most popular ideas to try below.
This modern hybrid merges a sharp clipper taper on the sides with clean braiding up top. The result is a sharp contrast in texture and a sleek silhouette that feels both urban and masculine. It’s a great way to customize a braid look while keeping the maintenance low.
@happybarbershophk
Stitch braids are a highly detailed technique where hair is sectioned into neat horizontal rows with visible “stitch-like” partings. They highlight geometric precision and require professional skills.
@haircookies.ng
Knotless braids begin with your own hair, adding extensions mid-braid through the tension-free method. They reduce pain, protect your scalp, and make you feel much more comfortable. They’re also great for minimizing breakage and improving growth and retention.
@studioafrocris
This type of male braids features thick center plaits, often displaying shaved sides, tapered fades, or undercuts. You get a warrior-inspired style that stands out for its dramatic appeal and commanding presence.
@versastyleby_laura
With this versatile installation technique, the extensions are added gradually to create a seamless look from root to tip. The protective style enhances growth, adds volume, and feels relatively lightweight on the scalp.
@patycrespa
This contemporary updo is achieved by gathering multiple braids into a single topknot or bun. It’s a perfect choice for transitioning from formal settings to evening styling, as well as keeping the hair off the face while still showcasing braid designs.
@bennysfriseure
Do you think that braid variations like French braids, cornrows, and fishtail braids are only for women? The following styles prove that men can also rock sleek plaits, geometric shapes, and loose-flowing designs. These timeless braid styles continue to dominate because of their versatility and adaptability across different hair types.
This classic, European-inspired braid weaves hair away from the face into an elegant plait. The style is great for guys who want something more refined, yet easy to maintain.
@kimbraidsrj
These artistic braids are plaited at the top of the head to create an elevated appearance while maintaining a clean perimeter. It’s a good option to personalize your braids for special needs.
@mhmd.hair
This protective style features free-hanging plaits that move naturally. It allows for customizing, adjusting, and personalizing your braid layout with ease.
@braidsbyk20
Known for their intricate, herringbone-like pattern, fishtails are among the most visually appealing braid designs. They’re also growing in popularity RN among men seeking bold, stylish hair looks.
@nappily.locs
Zigzag cornrows follow a geometric, angled path across the scalp and create an artistic, high-impact look. These braids are perfect for showcasing a bold personality in both casual and professional settings.
@dijon_tresses__
Where you decide to place your braids (around the top, near the hairline, or gathered in a low ponytail at the nape) can dramatically alter your overall appearance. Some placements are better for scalp protection and moisture retention, while others emphasize shape and structure. Consider your face shape, hair length, and styling preferences when choosing.
The asymmetrical placement of the braid creates a dynamic visual interest and offers multiple adjustment opportunities. This is a great option for guys with shorter sides or a fade who want to keep things trendy and unique.
@thebeautyplug.llc
A traditional style that runs from the forehead to the nape is easy to maintain for daily wear. These braids help with scalp access for cleansing and conditioning, making them both practical and stylish.
@3laiditt__
The elevated placement focusing on the crown area creates height and dramatic impact through strategic positioning, helping you enhance your hair texture.
@qb_braidz
This look offers an all-over scalp coverage with no loose ends, maximizing both protection and style. It’s great for men who want their braid installation to last.
@itsbraidseason
Here, the front cornrows run from the hairline and then transform into the two-strands. Front braids can help you blend different textures smoothly for a cohesive finish.
@dubaisalon_hairstylist
Braid size and length are the two things that define the cost of the braiding service, installation time, and maintenance. Knowing the differences between these types (thick or thin, short or long) helps you make the most flattering choice for your hair type and lifestyle.
Compact and easy to manage, short braids are ideal for men with fine, relaxed, or natural textures. They also prove that braiding works regardless of the hair length constraints.
@sofia.cunha_studio.pt
The extended length always creates a dramatic visual impact and allows for maximum styling versatility and movement options.
@valente_the_barber
These substantial rope-like plaits make a bold statement and are ideal for dense hair aiming at the textural contrast.
@boss.nbraids
These ultra-fine plaits require exceptional skill. And when installed professionally, they offer a neat, low-maintenance style that holds up well over time.
@braidsby_yira
These oversized plaits create a bold and dramatic impact. They offer a time-efficient option providing maximum visual effect.
@hair_by_amazinmaegan
This is the most popular and balanced option for everyday wear. It’s easy to style, modify, and customize without extremes.
@studiobladez
Want to take your styling game to the next level? These advanced options combine professional skill with creative vision to turn your hairstyle into real art. Beaded braids and other advanced techniques often require longer installation and greater attention to detail. Thus, they are best performed by a professional braider experienced in different textures (from curly and coarse to fine or relaxed hair). The following styles are all about preserving cultural heritage through hair braiding.
This hybrid styling combines textured braiding patterns with sharp clipper work. You get a modern approach blended with traditional and contemporary techniques.
@get_haircuts
With this look, you get a dramatic contrast between the shaved sides and braided top. It creates a striking silhouette that emphasizes facial structure.
@uncuentochinoo.trenzas
If you gather your braids into a ponytail, you can enjoy a practical hairdo that combines a braided texture with controlled positioning.
@missmarina241
For this style, beads are used to secure and seal the braids at the ends. These decorative elements add cultural significance and personal expression.
@braidsculture_pty
A simple geometric pattern with four cornrows offers a clean, symmetrical look with easy maintenance and maximum impact.
@hair_by_nathaly
Try to add a creative pattern where braids radiate from the central point with an eye-catching design resembling a spider web formation.
@rothebraider
These very small individual braids offer versatility and movement. Their time-intensive installation provides unmatched styling flexibility.
@starrxstudios
Still have some questions about braided styles for guys? These detailed answers cover the most common concerns men have, from braid installation and maintenance to washing, moisturizing, and conditioning tips.
Can men with straight hair get box braids?
Yes, men with straight hair can get box braids, but there are some important considerations to remember. As you know, straight tresses lack the natural grip that curly or coarse hair texture provides, which makes it harder for braids to hold without slipping. To improve braid retention, some stylists recommend prepping the hair with chemical or organic texturizers or gently teasing the strands for added grip. Keep in mind that results may vary based on your hair’s texture and density, so a professional consultation is recommended.
What’s the difference between knotless braids for men and traditional box braids?
The main difference lies in the braiding technique. Knotless braids start directly with your natural hair and gradually feed in extensions using a tension-free method. This approach results in a lighter feel, less pain, and reduced scalp irritation, which makes this type of braids more comfortable, especially during long wear or sleeping. Knotless braids are ideal for those who prefer protective styling and healthy hair growth. In contrast, traditional box braids begin with a tight knot at the root, which can cause tension and potential breakage on sensitive or sparse hair. So, a professional installation is needed for damage-free and lasting results.
How often should you wash hair braid styles for men?
The right braid washing routine is one of the main steps towards a healthy scalp. For optimal scalp care, men’s braid styles should be cleansed regularly, about once every 7 to 10 days. Use a sulfate-free cleansing shampoo diluted with water and apply it directly to the scalp. Follow up with a lightweight moisturizing conditioning treatment to avoid dryness or damage. If you have an active lifestyle or sweat frequently, consider washing more often using dry shampoo or scalp wipes between washes to keep your style fresh.
Do thick braids styles cause more hair damage than thin braids?
Not necessarily. Thick braids often put less tension on individual strands. However, damage occurs when braids are installed too tightly or left in for too long. The right care matters more than size. Thin or micro braids can lead to breakage if your hair is already sparse or fragile, while overly tight jumbo braids can strain the scalp. Proper wrapping at night with a satin or silk scarf can help minimize hair damage regardless of braid size.
How long does it take to get cornrow braids for men installed at a salon?
The typical duration of cornrow braid installation varies based on the complexity of the pattern, braid size, and your hair’s length and density. Regular cornrows can take about 1-2 hours, while geometric or artistic designs may require 3-4 hours or more. Adding a taper, fade, or combining braids with beads or colored extensions also increases the time. Book a proper appointment in advance and ask for a time estimate during your consultation.
How do you remove men’s box braids without damaging hair?
Proper braid removal is just as important as installation. Start by trimming the ends of your plaits (if you’re wearing extensions), then apply a conditioning or detangling treatment to soften the hair. Next, unravel each braid gently using a rat-tail comb or your fingers, working from the bottom upward. Avoid tugging or yanking, as it may cause breakage. Once removed, use a clarifying shampoo to cleanse your scalp, followed by a deep conditioning mask to restore moisture and promote hair health.
What’s the best braid size for men with thinning hair?
For guys experiencing thinning hair, micro or medium-sized braids are typically the best choice. These sizes distribute tension more evenly and minimize stress on delicate hair strands. Avoid jumbo or tight plaits, which can lead to traction alopecia over time. A skilled braider can help with customizing, modifying, or adapting the style to suit your hairline and growth pattern while still keeping things masculine and stylish.
What products work best for maintaining natural hair men’s cornrow styles?
To maintain your cornrows and protect your natural hair, focus on moisturizing, conditioning, and regular cleansing. Use organic or natural hair oils like jojoba, castor, or argan oil for hydration and scalp nourishment. A braid spray or lightweight leave-in conditioner helps retain moisture and prevent breakage. Finish with edge control for a polished look and wear a satin durag or bonnet while sleeping to reduce friction and extend the life of your style.
This is your chance to level up your hair styling game a bit and try new intricate patterns that make your tresses look beyond “basic.” With stylish options like cornrows, jumbo braids, feed-ins, and more, you can experiment with various braided designs and find your perfect option in no time. Even a small change in your everyday image can make a huge difference.
