Braids aren’t just for women anymore. More men are choosing braided styles because they look great, protect the hair, and show off personal style. Whether you have short hair or long locks, there’s a braided look that works for you.
1. Cornrows
@afro_dreamz
Cornrows are tight braids that sit close to your scalp in straight lines. They create a clean, neat pattern that lasts for weeks.
This style protects your hair from damage and keeps it moisturized. The tight braiding helps your hair grow stronger and healthier over time.
Cornrows work for anyone who wants a low-maintenance look. They suit all face shapes and are perfect for active lifestyles because they stay in place no matter what you do.
2. Box Braids
@fro.frosho
Box braids are individual braids that hang freely from your head. Each braid starts from a small square section of hair, creating a uniform, structured look.
They add length and volume to your hair instantly. Box braids are versatile because you can wear them down, tie them up, or style them in different ways.
This style suits men who want a bold statement look. It works best if you have medium to long hair and want a protective style that lasts several weeks.
3. Two-Strand Twist Braids
@beautyby.elle_
Two-strand twists use just two sections of hair twisted together instead of three. They create a softer, more textured look than regular braids.
This style is gentler on your hair and easier to install. The twists give your hair natural definition and can be taken out to create beautiful wave patterns.
Two-strand twists work well for men with natural or textured hair. They’re great if you want something less time-consuming than box braids but still protective and stylish.
4. Straight-Back Braids
@nmcbraids
Straight-back braids are cornrows that run directly from your hairline to the back of your head. They create clean, parallel lines that look sharp and professional.
This classic style is simple but effective. It keeps your hair completely off your face and neck, making it perfect for work or sports.
Straight-back braids suit men who prefer a traditional, no-fuss look. They work for all face shapes and are easy to maintain with regular moisturizing.
5. Zigzag Cornrows
@liezelstyles
Zigzag cornrows follow a curved, zigzag pattern instead of straight lines. They add creative flair to the traditional cornrow style.
The zigzag design makes your hairstyle unique and eye-catching. It shows off your personality while still keeping your hair protected and neat.
This style is perfect for men who want something different from basic straight braids. It works best if you’re willing to spend a bit more time at the barbershop for the detailed pattern.
6. Feed-In Braids
@fro.frosho
Feed-in braids start small at your hairline and gradually get thicker as more hair is added. This creates a natural-looking braid that doesn’t pull too tight on your edges.
They’re gentler on your hairline than traditional cornrows. The gradual thickness makes them look more natural and helps prevent hair breakage around your forehead.
Feed-in braids suit men who want cornrows but worry about tension damage. They’re ideal if you have a receding hairline or want to protect your edges while still looking fresh.
7. Braided Bun
@bonabraids
A braided bun combines braids with a man bun hairstyle. Your hair is braided back and then gathered into a bun at the top or back of your head.
This style keeps your hair completely secure and out of the way. It’s both practical and stylish, giving you a polished look for any occasion.
The braided bun works for men with medium to long hair. It’s great for professional settings or when you need your hair completely controlled during physical activities.
8. Braids with Fade
@hairsurgery1
Braids with a fade combine braided hair on top with shaved or tapered sides. The fade creates a sharp contrast that makes the braids stand out.
This modern style gives you the best of both worlds. You get the protection and style of braids while keeping your sides clean and cool.
This look suits men who want a contemporary style. It works especially well for round or square face shapes because the fade adds definition to your features.
9. Tribal Braids
@stylesbysalina
Tribal braids are thicker, chunkier braids inspired by traditional African styles. They often include patterns, curves, and creative designs.
These braids make a bold cultural statement. They’re fuller than regular cornrows, which means they install faster and give your hair plenty of volume.
Tribal braids work for men who want to celebrate their heritage or prefer thicker, more visible braids. They suit confident personalities and creative lifestyles.
10. Braids with Beads
@empressbeautyparlor
Adding beads to your braids gives them color and personality. The beads can be wooden, metal, or plastic and are threaded onto individual braids.
Beads make your braids more decorative and fun. They click together when you move, adding sound and movement to your style.
This style is perfect for men who want to express creativity. It works best for casual settings and shows off your unique style with flair.
11. Stitch Braids
@nvylvsalon
Stitch braids are cornrows with a visible horizontal pattern that looks like stitching. The braider creates this by using a thin line technique between each braid.
The stitch detail adds artistic texture to regular cornrows. It makes your braids look more intricate and carefully crafted.
Stitch braids suit men who appreciate detailed styling. They work for anyone wanting cornrows with an extra creative touch that sets them apart.
12. Pop Smoke Braids
@hairby_adanna
Pop Smoke braids are thick, neat braids that go straight back, popularized by the late rapper Pop Smoke. They’re usually four to six chunky braids that create a bold, clean look.
These braids are quick to install because there are fewer of them. They give you a signature street style that’s instantly recognizable and effortlessly cool.
This style works for men who want a celebrity-inspired look. It’s perfect if you have thick hair and want something stylish but low-maintenance.
13. Braids with Shaved Sides
@dallas_hair_studio
This style features braids on top with completely shaved sides. The contrast between braided and bare creates a striking, edgy appearance.
Shaving the sides keeps you cool and makes your braids the main focus. It’s an aggressive, modern take on traditional braided styles.
Braids with shaved sides suit men with angular face shapes. It’s ideal if you want a bold, attention-grabbing style that feels fresh and contemporary.
14. Short Braids
@bayareabraider
Short braids are smaller braids that don’t extend past your shoulders. They can be cornrows, box braids, or any style done on shorter hair length.
Short braids are easier to maintain and lighter on your head. They give you the braided look without the weight or commitment of long braids.
This style works if you’re new to braids or prefer a more subtle look. It’s professional enough for most workplaces while still being stylish.
15. Long Braids
@qthebraider
Long braids extend well past your shoulders, sometimes reaching your mid-back or lower. They create a dramatic, flowing appearance that turns heads.
Long braids make a powerful style statement. They give you lots of styling options because you can wear them loose, tied back, or arranged in different ways.
This style suits men ready for a major commitment. Long braids require patience during installation and regular maintenance to keep them looking fresh.
16. Braided Ponytail
@trencitajohnson
A braided ponytail features cornrows or other braids leading back into a ponytail. The braids create texture and interest before gathering into the tail.
This style keeps your hair completely secured while adding structure. It’s practical for sports, work, or any time you need your hair completely controlled.
Braided ponytails work for men with medium to long hair. They’re versatile enough for both casual and semi-formal occasions.
17. Braids with Undercut
@nogueiras.hair
An undercut features very short or shaved hair underneath with longer braided hair on top. The underneath section is hidden when your hair is down but visible when pulled up.
This style adds surprise and dimension to your look. It keeps you cooler because less hair covers your head while maintaining the braided style you want.
Braids with an undercut suit adventurous men who like layered styles. It works well if you have thick hair that feels heavy when fully braided.
18. Cross Braids
@dubydarie_
Cross braids create an X or crisscross pattern across your head. The braids intersect at different angles, forming geometric designs that stand out.
This creative pattern shows off skilled braiding technique. It makes your hairstyle a true work of art that demonstrates attention to detail.
Cross braids work for men who want maximum creativity. They’re perfect if you’re willing to sit longer for installation and want something nobody else has.
Conclusion
These 18 braided hairstyles for men offer something for everyone. Whether you want simple cornrows or creative tribal braids, you can find a style that matches your personality and lifestyle.
Braids protect your hair, save you time, and let you express yourself. Talk to your barber about which style works best for your hair type and face shape. Bring pictures of the looks you like so they understand exactly what you want.
Try something new and discover how braids can transform your style. You’ll love how confident and fresh you feel with the right braided look.
Hi, I’m Andrew Trust. For me, beauty has always been more than appearances—it’s about confidence, self-expression, and feeling your best every single day.
Over the years, I’ve explored, experimented, and discovered what truly works in hair and beauty. Not just trends or picture-perfect looks, but real techniques and tips that fit into everyday life and actually make a difference.
My goal is simple: to help you find the styles, routines, and little beauty tricks that bring out your best self—effortlessly and authentically. Beauty should feel enjoyable, empowering, and truly yours—and that’s exactly what I’m here to help you achieve.