17 Braided Hairstyles for Men: Style, Identity, and Expression
Introduction
Braids have held significant cultural and stylistic importance for centuries. From traditional African roots to contemporary street fashion, braided hairstyles for men are expressions of identity, creativity, and confidence. They are practical, protective, and increasingly popular across a wide range of ages and backgrounds.
This guide explores 17 braided hairstyles for men, highlighting styles that suit various hair textures, lengths, and personal aesthetics. Whether you seek a neat professional look or a bold, trend-forward design, there is a braid style here for you.
Why Choose Braids as a Hairstyle?
Braided hairstyles offer a wide range of benefits beyond visual appeal:
- Protective Styling: Reduces hair manipulation and breakage
- Low Maintenance: Less daily styling required
- Versatile Designs: Suitable for all hair types and lengths
- Cultural Significance: Deep-rooted traditions in African, Indigenous, and Viking cultures
- Personal Expression: Offers room for customisation and creativity
17 Braided Hairstyles for Men
1. Cornrows
Cornrows are tight braids laid flat against the scalp, often in symmetrical or geometric patterns. A traditional favourite, they are ideal for those seeking a clean and enduring style.
Best for: All hair types, especially coily or textured hair
Maintenance: Lasts up to two weeks with proper care
2. Box Braids
Box braids consist of individual plaits sectioned in square “boxes.” This style offers more volume and flexibility compared to scalp-attached braids.
Ideal for: Medium to long hair
Styling options: Wear down, in buns, or tied back with accessories
3. Two-Strand Twists
While technically a twist, this style is often categorised with braids. Two strands of hair are coiled together for a rope-like effect.
Benefits: Low-tension alternative to braids, promoting hair health
Best suited to: Men with natural curls or coils
4. Dutch Braids
These are underhand braids that stand out from the scalp rather than lying flat. Dutch braids offer a raised, textured look.
Why choose it: Clean yet bold; great for pairing with fades or shaved sides
Ideal length: Medium to long
5. Viking Braids
Inspired by Norse traditions, Viking braids combine long, rugged plaits with undercuts or shaven sides. Often accompanied by beads or leather bands.
Style identity: Masculine, rebellious, and strong
Hair requirement: Longer lengths and thick texture
6. Fishbone Braids
Fishbone braids feature intricate weaving resembling the shape of a fish skeleton. These often start with a central cornrow and branch outwards.
Perfect for: Formal occasions or artistic expression
Maintenance: Requires a skilled braider; lasts 1–2 weeks
7. Mohawk Braids
Shave or taper the sides and braid the centre section into cornrows or twists. It combines punk-inspired shape with braided texture.
Style tip: Add fade designs or lines for a sharper finish
Face shape match: Round or oval faces
8. Man Bun with Braids
Combine any braided style with a man bun, tying the plaits into a knot at the back or crown.
Why it’s effective: Practical and polished—keeps hair out of the face
Best for: Medium to long box or Dutch braids
9. Zigzag Cornrows
Take classic cornrows up a notch by forming zigzag patterns. Creative yet tidy, this style turns your scalp into a canvas.
Best suited to: Men looking to make a statement while staying professional
Styling note: Keep edges sharp for maximum impact
10. Feed-In Braids
Feed-in braids use an invisible braiding technique where hair is gradually added into the braid, creating a seamless and natural look.
Advantages: Less tension on scalp; scalable in thickness and length
Style pairing: Combines well with fades or natural sides
11. Triangle Box Braids
A modern take on box braids, these use triangular partings instead of square. The result is an angular, geometric effect.
Who it suits: Men looking for subtle uniqueness
Hair type: Works best on thick or afro-textured hair
12. Braided Top Knot
Gather several small braids into a top knot for a clean, elevated look. Can be achieved with box, Dutch, or feed-in braids.
Ideal for: Casual or formal settings alike
Maintenance tip: Moisturise regularly to keep braids neat and frizz-free
13. Side Braids
Shift your braids to one side of the head or part diagonally to create asymmetry. Adds flair without being too dramatic.
Styling versatility: Pair with a shaved line or undercut for added detail
Best for: Men with moderate hair length
14. Half-Up, Half-Down Braids
Keep the upper half braided and let the rest flow free. This mix of texture and freedom suits a laid-back yet stylish approach.
Great for: Festival looks, creative industries, or relaxed settings
Hair length: Best with shoulder-length hair or longer
15. Ladder Braids
Named for their appearance, ladder braids resemble the rungs of a ladder and involve advanced braiding skills.
Ideal for: Artistic styling, photo shoots, or runway looks
Maintenance: Short-term wear recommended due to complexity
16. Twisted Cornrows
Combine the structure of cornrows with the rope-like appearance of two-strand twists for a hybrid look.
Why try it: Unique texture with secure scalp attachment
Best for: Natural hair textures
17. Dread Braids
These are tightly braided dreadlocks, often braided into larger plaits or cornrows. They merge the style of braids with the structure of locs.
Cultural depth: Strong connection to Rastafarian and African heritage
Maintenance tip: Requires consistent retwisting and cleansing routines
Hair Length and Texture: What You Need to Know
Your natural hair type and length will impact which braided style suits you best:
| Hair Length | Suitable Braids |
|---|---|
| Short | Cornrows, feed-in, twisted styles |
| Medium | Dutch braids, side braids, braided man bun |
| Long | Viking braids, box braids, ladder styles |
| Hair Texture | Suitable Braids |
|---|---|
| Straight | Dutch, Viking, top knots |
| Wavy | Side braids, man bun, half-up styles |
| Coily/Curly | Cornrows, box, dread braids, twisted styles |
Maintenance Tips for Braided Hairstyles
1. Scalp Care
Keep the scalp clean and hydrated using light oils (e.g., jojoba, coconut). Avoid heavy product build-up.
2. Protect While Sleeping
Use satin or silk pillowcases or wear a satin bonnet to minimise frizz and retain style definition.
3. Avoid Over-Manipulation
Refrain from excessive pulling or tight hairstyles that can lead to traction alopecia.
4. Moisturise Regularly
Apply braid sprays or leave-in moisturisers to prevent dryness, especially at the roots and ends.
5. Don’t Keep Braids in Too Long
Most braided styles should not be kept for longer than 4–6 weeks. Longer periods may cause matting or breakage.
Cultural Sensitivity and Identity
While braids are fashionable, they also carry deep cultural significance, particularly within African, African-Caribbean, and Indigenous communities. It is important to:
- Acknowledge the origins of braid styles
- Wear them with respect and understanding
- Avoid appropriative styling without context or appreciation
Conclusion
From traditional cornrows to edgy mohawk braids, these 17 braided hairstyles for men reflect not only style preferences but cultural roots, personal identity, and creative self-expression. Whether you’re looking for a protective hairstyle, a bold visual statement, or a practical long-term solution, braided hairstyles offer a wealth of options suited to modern life.
With proper care and intentional styling, braids can be a powerful way to elevate your appearance, honour your heritage, and stand out with confidence.
