26 Best Braids Hairstyles for Men in 2021
7A hairstyle brings out a fair bit about a person, and that is why men are keen when it comes to hairstyles selection. That is true, especially when the haircut in question doesn’t follow the typical short sides and back.
With these kinds of men’s hairstyles, you can easily tell more about their taste in music, fashion and even tell the type of job they do. But that is just a small bit about men’s hairstyles, most of them are more about the inborn tribalism: we like to appear like men who came before us.
Braids have embraced this idea and done it the best. Since the time immemorial, braid hairstyles for men have been a fixture, used as a way to display status and power by different subcultures spanning from China, Scandinavian to Africa.
Braided hairstyles for men are the best ways to show their personality and break the monotony of short sides and back haircuts. So, continue reading below to explore some of our hottest braid ideas and choose your favorite look to rock this year.
See more about - 100+ Best Men’s Haircuts & Hairstyles
1. Undercut Braids
@ziaamobeauty
If you need to rock men’s braids and you need a unique style, the best way to achieve that is to complement your braids with an undercut.
The best thing is that you can choose from so many ways of wearing an undercut-from faded to the top and disconnected undercut, there is no doubt you will get an outstanding look.
If you need to bring out a specific part, opt for an undercut to achieve that.
2. Feed-In Braids
@virtuous_slay
If you want to rock thicker men’s braids, then you should opt for the feed-in braids.
To simplify this for you, feed-in braids are thin at the starting point (usually at the hairline) and gradually gets wider as they approach the top of the head.
It is a great look for guys who need to achieve a great shape for the entire hairstyle.
3. Duo Braids and Cornrows
@tashastouchatl
This list wouldn’t be exhaustive without including this classic combination of braids and cornrows. Two braids paired with cornrows is an easy hairstyle to achieve and complements a lot of facial features.
Besides, the hairstyle is even made to look more sophisticated and stylish by the cornrows that are meticulously designed on the top. The longer your locks, the better your duo braids will appear.
4. Mohawk Braids for Men
@alexramahair
What about if you naturally rebel and, on the other side, you like braids? Well, you have nothing to worry about. You can still reveal your rebel without a cause by rocking braided hairstyles, and Mohawk braids would be the best pick for you.
There are a plethora of unconventional braids for guys that you can choose from, but braided Mohawk is first on our list. The style can be as creative as you want it to be as long as it achieves what you need to tell the world.
For your Mohawk, you would want to shave the sides as it is usual for typical Mohawk, and then braid some few strands on the top.
5. Double Man Bun Braids
@esmbeauty
The man bun hairstyles have been around for years, and probably you have rocked one, or if not, you have seen one by now. But do you know how many variations of man buns are there?
Well, when you pair your man bun with two braids, you achieve a chic and sophisticated hairstyle that is worth copying. The hairstyle brings out your masculinity in an enviable way. Two braids are the best pair for man bun styles.
6. Viking Braid
@_serhii_serheiev_
Do you want to achieve a Viking look? Well, this Ragnar Lothbrok Viking braided hairstyle will be ideal look for you.
In this hairstyle, long locks are pulled back and styled into a single braid. And if there are no strict dress codes at your workplace, you may pair your braid with an undercut for a more standout look.
7. Extended Box Braids for Guys
@hairtrapperoflv
In most cases, men rock braid hairstyle as extensions for the existing hair. The rationale behind this is that men are able to enhance the length of their locks without necessarily having to wait for their hair to grow long.
Besides, box-braids offer protection to your lock as they grow out.
8. Layered Braids
@styledbyetrish
This modern take of cornrows can be styled hanging or ponytailed, depending on how you want it to look.
It looks great on short hair since the locks won’t fall on the eyes. Besides, it is ridiculously low maintenance and easy to maintain.
9. Braids for Short Hair
@shebraidlikeapro
It is not like taking a walk in the park to get braids if you have short manes. However, it is possible for those who are daring and patient.
To start, you ought to choose a set of thin braids for guys that suit your existing hair length. After this, you would need to wait for your hair to grow out in order to get more options to braid it.
10. Braids with a Knot on the Top
@barbers_garage
If you need braids that emphasize on the top part of the head, then you will end up with a top knot.
This is, especially, a great look for guys who don’t have a significantly long hair but want to rock braided hairstyles, anyway.
Well, a top-not is a great idea. But ensure that the knot is tightly wrapped so it won’t unravel during the day.
11. Natural Twists
@haircreationsbydiamond
Who said braided hairstyles for men should always be in the conventional three-strand style? That is not always the case. Most of them look just fine with simple twisting.
This is a recommendable style for men who need a natural take on their men’s braids. Besides, the hairstyle is effortless to achieve and maintain, so you will have more time to spend on other things.
12. Long Braided Locks for Guys
@shopimanivina
If you have been waiting for your locks to grow out, then nothing should stop you from rocking long braids. You have the ingredient you need-long locks.
For a great look, style thick braids and let them fall on your shoulders. You can also rock the same look by adding extensions and creating box braids.
13. Braided Braids
@mixximoxxibraids
Nothing stands out and complicated like braided braids. Though the hairstyle might look redundant at first, braided styles are the talk of the town right now, especially for black guys.
The requirements to rock this look are long locks. To start, braid thin braids and then braid them to create larger braids. Braidception, right
14. Two Strand Braid Twists
@zani_rainbow
Another amazing way to wear braided hairstyles for guys is by creating a timeless two-stand twist. Nubian twists inspire this hair styling method, and both African men and women mostly rock it. Besides, these styles don’t need long hair to create.
15. Two Braids Mohawk Paired With Side Braids
@xoladybarber_
If you like Mohawk look, but you don’t want to rock the conventional styles, you can opt for a braided Mohawk, and instead of completely shaving the hair on the sides, create braids.
To don this look, you would want to start by parting the hair on top and then create two long braids on each side. Style the two braids starting at the front to the back to achieve a Mohawk look.
The short braids on the sides should be styled downwards, reaching past the ears or slightly above it.
16. Zigzag Braid
@liezelstyles
You don’t have to rock what every other guy is rocking out there. Sometimes, you just need to collect the courage and don something that incorporates a unique vibe.
Even though you will need to seek services of an expert to rock this style, its end look will justify your efforts.
This zigzag pattern is what you need to set yourself apart from the others. Tell your stylist to style the design for you, and you will not be disappointed.
17. Tied Up Micro Braids for Men
@mo_didit
One of the best things about having medium-length braids is that they allow you to style them in different ways that fit your tastes and preferences.
For instance, you can style micro braids that are approximately three to four inches long and then tie them with an elastic band to create a ponytail.
This approach is not only practical, but the hairstyle appears pretty good.
18. Top Braid Paired With a Ponytail
@aynuscorner
When it comes to braided hairstyles for men, the options are unlimited. For instance, you can come up with a braid specifically to be paired with a ponytail. In this case, the style looks great if you also complement your braid with an undercut and style the braid on the top.
If you have long locks, this would be an added advantage since you would be able to collect the tips and tie them into a ponytail after you braid your locks.
19. Box Braids Paired With Temple Fade
@thepromisetouch
A box fade, popularly called a temp fade hairstyle, can have a huge effect on your hairstyle. The braids in this haircut play an essential role in enhancing dimension to the whole haircut by creating a contour at the hairline.
If you want to rock top braids for guys, it would be a great idea to incorporate a temp fade into your hairstyle.
20. Funky Braids
@milabthestylist
If you are an adventurous guy, without a doubt, you need a haircut that will do your personality justice.
Funky braids are among those hairstyles that you will never regret when you choose it. Make your style even more unique by dyeing it with a different color.
21. Braided Locs
@goodlocday
With locs, you can get a plethora of styles from them thanks to their versatility. For example, you can easily braid your locs to get an amazing braided locks hairstyle, sure to steal the show.
Besides, when paired with an undercut, the results are something out of this world. You can try this look in your next hairstyling.
22. Ombre Braids for Guys
@mikabraidschile
If you have managed to grow your locks to long length, you can explore the world of hair colors. The best thing is that you have endless options when it comes to dyeing your hair.
For example, you can opt for a single color or combine several shades or opt for ombre braids. If you wish, you can incorporate colorful beards to achieve the Fulani braids effect.
23. Two Small Braids and an Undercut
@theehairboss__
This is the best hairstyle for men who just want to rock a braided hairstyle for fun. To rock this look, braid a small portion of hair, and this will give you not only a practical style but a unique look too.
Get inspiration from this photo and create your subtle braids and pair them with an undercut for an edgy look.
24. Fishtail Braid
@theknottyspot
Do you want to incorporate a bohemian vibe to your braids? While dreadlocks are prevalent options for most men, you can opt for a temporary option like a fishtail braid.
You can opt for one or two to achieve an impressive look. You can also pair your fishtail with shaved sides or long locks on top. The styling options are endless.
25. Fishbone braids
@mariabraids
As far as men’s braids are concerned, fishbone braids are widely embraced everywhere. And the best aspect of this style is that you don’t need to have long hair to pull it off.
With your short hair, you can rock an appealing look. To create this look, you would want to create two braids side by side and part the braids with a clean line running from the front to the back.
26. Braids paired with bangs
@milabthestylist
Depending on how you style your braids, and the length of your locks, you can include faux bangs into your style.
To rock this hairstyle, you would want to incorporate a substantial amount of braids along the temple so that you can allow them fall into place and beautifully over the forehead.
27. Back crown braid
@bookalisharenee
Normally, crown braids are styled in the front. However, this braided hairstyle for men has disrupted this norm to style the crown on the back. Basically, the hairstyle focuses on the back rather than the front.
To rock this look, create two conventional braids and pin them on top of each other for a temp haircut.
Things to Consider before Rocking Men’s Braids
Before you plunge into your favorite men’s braid, there are some essential aspects you must consider if you want to maintain your style more Lil Uzi Vert than Riff-Raff. Take a peek here.
1. Hair Length
If you don’t have long locks, your dream of rocking braids may be in death bed. To rock braids, you need hair that is at least three inches long. That is typically the minimum hair length.
Besides, the longer your hair, the more options you have to braid it. Short hair doesn’t offer the right hold to your braids and may not give you the look you want.
2. Hair Type
The type of hair also determines how best your braids are going to hold. Braids can be achieved on all types of hair, however, guys with curly or wavy hair get the best results. Slippery or fine hair can be challenging to keep in place. As such, you will need to use several elastic bands to keep the braids in place and neat.
3. Hair Thickness
Braids might not be suitable for you if your forehead seems to always win the war against your hairline. Braids make your scalp more conspicuous and, as a result, make receding hair more prominent.
Besides, if you braid your hair, you risk worsening things. Tight braids styled to remain for a few months can damage the hair root and cause hair damage and loss. When you get rid of the braids, you will get undesirable bristle-like hair.
How to Take Care for Your Braids
While braids last for a long time, usually up to two months, they need careful maintenance to avoid fly-ways and getting frizzy. Oils and dirt can get stuck on the scalp, and therefore you need to wash and condition your braids regularly.
Here are some things you ought to do to make your braids always healthy and last longer:
- Moisturize your braids daily like you would with your hair: Apply Shea butter, leave-in conditioner or oil on your braids regularly. Ensure that you use your preferred hair product on your scalp to eliminate build-up and avoid dryness.
- After seven to ten days, wash your locks: After washing, it is advisable to utilize pointed applicator since it makes coating of the braids easier.
- Always wear silk do-rag when sleeping and use a silk pillowcase: You are advised to do so for all natural hairstyles since the soft fabric won’t interfere with your hair or remove moisture from it as cotton does.
Our Final Say
Braid hairstyles for men are elegant, fun, and practical ways of styling long and medium-length hair. Guys with short hair can also try the few styles available for short hair.
You can draw inspiration from your favorite rock-star or the values that the braids stand for. Either way, you will get a stunning look, and reasons to rock braids are entirely dependent on you.
Braid hairstyles for guys are making a big come-back in contemporary culture thanks to men wanting to keep African culture and counteract white supremacy. Long-haired guys are also partly contributing to the resurgence of this great haircut since they are tired of man buns and want to try something different.
With a plethora of braid styles from across the world, there is a braid hairstyle that will suit your face shape and personality, whether you need a Viking look or a rock-star vibe.
Top 29 Best Watches Under $500 For Men
With cellphones so ubiquitous, your watch choice can be less about telling time and more about personal style. However, a watch is not ‘just’ a watch. For example, the vast majority are made for right-handed people, but a select few cater to the lefties among us. There is a wide range in functionality and size.
The wristwatch is also one of the few socially acceptable accessories for men, so why not have a small selection? If you’re not cashing a CEO’s paycheck just yet, here are the top 28 most handsome watches for men that retail for under $500.
Got a bigger budget? Then check out our guide to the best men’s watches under $1000 instead.
Top 29 Best Watches Under $500 For Men
1. Tommy Hilfiger Stainless Steel Men’s Watch
If you like the feel of a pliable, non-metal band but aren’t comfortable with genuine leather, this watch comes equipped with a handsome synthetic band. At 46mm in diameter, this watch is perfect for men of smaller stature, as it will not overpower your hand or make it look like you’re wearing your father’s watch. With bold Arabic numerals, a stainless steel case, and classic styling, this watch is an outstanding choice for an everyday watch and the man on a budget.
2. Nordgreen Pioneer – Black Dial
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Not everyone has an endless amount of cash to drop on a luxury timepiece. If you’re money-conscious but want something high-end, then why not consider the Nordgreen Pioneer.
An inspired take on a classic Chronograph, Nordgreen celebrates the Danish with what they call a timepiece “that captures the sustainable future.” Available in various dial colors from blue, black, and white. There’s even the choice of three case colors – gunmetal, silver, and rose gold. A perfect addition to the collection of any watch enthusiast.
3. Fossil Grant Brown Leather Watch
This lovely offering by Fossil features slim Roman numeral hour markers and delicate cut-out hands. The casing is stainless steel and is water-resistant to 165 feet, making it a great dive watch. The band is made of supple, soft calfskin leather and uses a buckle closure.
Of course, this timepiece also comes with the generous 11-year warranty and it’s own fun tin. This watch oozes class and is great for nearly every occasion in your life.
4. Citizen Sport Stainless Steel Men’s Watch With Brown Leather Band
If you don’t want to deal with changing out a battery in a digital watch, this watch is powered by either natural or indoor lighting. The mineral crystal face and stainless steel case make this watch water-resistant to 330 feet, making it a great choice for swimmers and snorkelers.
Handsome and utilitarian, this is a great watch for everyday wear. It’s one of the best watches for men who are always on the go.
5. Fossil Men’s Machine Chronograph Silicone Watch
This watch was designed with the active man in mind. The knurled silicone band stands up to sweat and oils without issue, and the timepiece itself is water-resistant to 165 feet.
The patterned bezel and quality craftsmanship of the black dial is excellent, as is to be expected from a Fossil watch. It even comes in the iconic and collectible tin!
6. Citizen Men’s Eco-Drive Watch
This men’s watch features Japanese quartz movement that charges itself indoors or out when exposed to light, making it a great choice for those who don’t want to change out the battery too often. The stitched canvas strap is soft against your skin and will wick away moisture, while the mineral crystal face stands up to the rigors of your everyday life.
Water-resistant to 330 feet, this dive watch is a classic and simple design you’ll be proud of for years to come.
7. Invicta Pro Diver Chronograph Men’s Watch
Another gorgeous offering by Invicta, this watch features a bold design with a slightly nautical feel to it. It will look at home whether you’re wearing a business suit or are going for a dive of less than 660 feet. This piece is also covered by a one-year warranty as a matter of course. The luminosity feature and magnified date window make it a great choice if you work or play in low light.
If you want something that looks like a Tag Heuer but without the luxury watch brand price tag, this is a good option!
8. Casio Edifice Multi-Function Men’s Watch
This watch has three sub-dials for 12 hour, 60 minute and 60-second displays, in addition to the standard time. It also features a fold-over, push-down clasp on the stainless strap, keeping it secure throughout your activities. If you’re looking for a classy timepiece that shrieks sophistication, this is a great choice.
9. Fossil Machine Three Hand Stainless Steel Men’s Watch
This quality watch is a chameleon piece. It looks at home as a dress watch riding below the cuff of your best suit, and it also looks great paired with jeans and a t-shirt. Backed by Fossil’s 11-year warranty as a matter of course and beautifully crafted, this smoke-colored piece is guaranteed to become the go-to accessory for nearly every occasion.
10. MVMT Watches Black Face Men’s Watch
If you like the look of a simple watch, this minimalist offering from MVMT is right up your alley. With just a plain black face, tick marks to denote the hours and a single date window, there is nothing overdone or extravagant about this design. The is understated and suited to the simple design. It’s definitely a classy, low-key piece for the budget-conscious.
11. Timex Weekender Watch
If you’re looking for a fun watch to pair with casual outfits, this is a great option. The band is blue and yellow woven nylon, and the face features both civilian and military timekeeping. An Indiglo night light is also included. This watch is water-resistant to 99 feet, meaning it can withstand splashes of water or exposure to rain but you won’t want to submerge it.
12. PUMA Ultrasize Black Sport Men’s Watch
Boasting a 50mm diameter, this piece is perfect for the large-framed man or one who likes to wear his accessories oversized. A true fashion statement, this sports watch comes in eight different colors schemes to match your favorite hues.
Do be aware, however, that the dial knob is configure for left-handed men!
13. Timex Easy Reader Men’s Watch
Another dress watch designed with the older gentleman in mind, this watch features a white dial with generously sized numerals that do not appear comical to the casual observer.
It’s also an excellent choice if you take your contacts out at night and still want to be able to check the time. With classic lines and a simple white face, the watch would not be out of place at any casual gathering. It comes with Timex’s one-year warranty at no additional charge.
14. Fossil Nate Men’s Chronograph Watch
For men who like a more gritty, industrial feel to their accessories, this Fossil watch is right on point. The bezel is gear-edged and the face is utilitarian black and gray. Water-resistant to 165 feet, this watch is a great choice if you like your adornments to be understated yet add visual interest.
It’s definitely a stand-out piece, for those who would take notice!
15. Timex Expedition Field Chronograph Men’s Watch
Featuring an indigo night light, tachymeter, a date window and a buckle closure, this watch is perfect for men who like to work or play outdoors. It is also water-resistant to 330 feet, making it a great choice for snorkeling or swimming.
You won’t want to wear it for diving, however. With classic, black styling and a genuine crystal face, this is a timepiece that will stand the test of time in both form and function.
16. Seiko 5 Automatic Stainless Steel Men’s Watch
This Seiko automatic watch has all the bells and whistles you need, but presents it all in a plain and strikingly attractive manner. It features a date window in either English or Spanish, sword-shaped hands, a sweeping second hand and a mineral dial window. This is a great option for the man on the go. The canvas strap can be removed and hand-washed if sweat or other odors become an issue.
This watch is not water-resistant, so you’ll only want to wear it when you won’t be popping by the pool for a swim!
17. Invicta Pro Diver Collection Silver-Tone Men’s Watch
For those who prefer an all-metal timepiece, the stainless steel Invicta fits the bill nicely. It has a similar aesthetic to a Tag Heuer watch, but at a more affordable price. Equipped with a unilateral bezel and removable links, the band can be customized to fit your wrist perfectly. The face is flame fusion crystal and features a magnifier to highlight the date window.
It’s also water-resistant to 660 feet. If you’re looking for a gorgeous watch that stands up to an active lifestyle, this is an excellent choice.
18. Seiko Men’s Adventure-Solar Classic Casual Watch
This Seiko watch derives its power from either natural or indoor light and can withstand water depths of up to 330 feet. The supple brown leather strap and timeless brushed steel give this piece an attractive look, and the alarm chronograph is easy to set.
If you’re looking for a watch that can serve as a backup for your wake-up call while traveling, stand up to the elements and look awesome, this casual wrist watch is a winner.
19. Nautica Men’s Stainless Steel Watch with Blue Resin Band
Featuring a plethora of options and a smart, snappy style, this a great casual watch with a eye-catching blue dial. The hardy resin band is adjustable, and the face is protected by a mineral window. Whether for work or play, this bold blue design is handsome and substantial on the wrist. It comes with Nautica’s five-year warranty at no additional charge.
20. Citizen Sport Men’s Stainless Steel Watch with Black Leather Band
The black, red and white face of this piece eschews the traditional two-tone color scheme so often employed in other watches, and the contrasting stitching on the band adds creative flair. It comes backed by Citizen’s five-year warranty and will compliment any casual outfit.
21. Alessi Tic15 Analog Display Analog Quartz Black Men’s Watch
Another not-quite-round offering on our list, the curved square casing of this piece gives it instant visual appeal. Sleek and clean, this unfussy design will be a compliment to almost any occasion. It has quartz movement and is water-resistant to 99 feet, making it a great choice for everyday wear.
22. Invicta 1517 I Force Collection Watch
Another on our list designed for left-handed men, this watch is something special. Water-resistant to 330 feet and featuring oversize stenciled numbers and a sub dial, this watch is great for any casual outfit. The cloth band is extremely durable and stands up to dirt, sweat and grime.
If you lead an active lifestyle, this watch will be right at home in your collection.
23. TRIWA Blue Steel Nevil Canvas Watch
This watch comes in a whopping 14 color variations, all of them beautiful. You may decide to add more than one to your collection!
Designed in Sweden, this watch features Japanese quartz movement, a stainless steel casing and a strap made from Tärnsjö organic leather. TRIWA, which stands for Transforming the Industry of Watches, believes in the artistry of fine jewelry and it shows in their product.
24. Victorinox Swiss Army Alliance Watch
Another fine dress watch from the makers of the Swiss Army knife, this watch is emblazoned with the internally recognized cross and shield emblem. It has no sub-dials, tachymeter or other add-ons to detract from its simple and appealing style.
This watch will be at home with all but the most formal of outfits and carries a two-year warranty.
25. Ingersoll Automatic Stainless Steel Bull Run Watch
Again, Ingersoll remakes the classics and brings them into the present day. With a highly polished stainless steel casing, two sub-dials, a date aperture and arrow-shaped hands, this quartz watch is beautiful.
The band features contrasting stitching on the fine-grain leather, adding depth and detail to the workmanship. This watch will compliment any casual occasion and can be relied upon for years to come.
26. Tissot Quickster Chronograph Black Leather Men’s Watch
Made with scratch-resistant sapphire crystal and Swiss automatic movement, this watch is a smart and utilitarian choice. If you’re looking for a solid Swiss watch that isn’t flashy, this is an excellent option. It’s also guaranteed for two years.
27. Seiko Sport Solar Men’s Beige Watch
Are you getting tired of squinting down at your watch or holding it closer and closer to your face? Don’t worry, we all get a bit nearsighted with age, especially over the age of 40.
If you’re not quite ready for reading glasses or a comically huge watch, this is a great choice from Seiko. The numerals, indices and luminous hands stand out in stark white against a black background, and the numerals are generous in size. It’s a perfect casual watch for the older gentleman.
28. Seiko Men’s 5 Watch Blue Canvas Band
This simple and affordable watch has a clean, crisp aesthetic to it and doesn’t bog down its design with a ton of bells and whistles. It’s time and date, end of.
If you want a watch for casual wear, this Seiko is a shoo-in. The band is forgiving and comfortable against your wrist, and it’s blue color will likely compliment your existing wardrobe. The price is also extremely affordable.
29. Tommy Hilfiger Men’s Stainless Steel Watch With Brown Leather Band
Featuring the Hilfiger logo at the three o’clock position, this wrist watch is a statement piece. It is a bright, shiny stainless steel work of art that you’ll be proud to wear at all but the most stuffy of workplaces. The calfskin leather band uses a buckle closure and the date window is beside the logo at three o’clock.
If you’re a fan of Tommy clothing, cologne or luggage, you can complete your look with this stunning accessory.