Introduction
Braid styles for men have recently become very popular and they are redefining what it means to be a man while expanding the fashion boundaries. Guys prefer these hairstyles, ranging from traditional ones to intricate styles, because they bring out their personalities.
History of Braids
Braiding hair is an ancient practice that has cultural and historical implications. People from different parts of the world have been wearing braids for many centuries as an indication of their traditions. These include complex African cornrows or Vikings’ neatly plaited warrior hairstyles.
Benefits of Braiding Hair
In addition to their cultural value, braids have practical advantages in maintaining men’s hair. The hairstyles protect against environmental stressors, minimize tangles and breakages, require minimal daily care; thus, making them ideal for busy people.
Types of Braids
There are numerous types of braid designs suitable for men, some simple while others quite complicated. Some common ones include;
Cornrows: Refers to the rows of tightly woven hair close to the scalp.
Box Braids: Are single individual plaits made with synthetic or natural hair extensions.
French Braids: Tightly woven hairstyle created by interlacing three sections.
Dutch Braids: Similar to French braiding except that each section goes underneath rather than on top.
Fishtail Braids: A two-strand braid style that looks like the tail of a fish as you braid it down towards its end.
How to Choose the Right Braid
When choosing a particular style of braid taking into account such aspects as texture and length of hair will be important. Speak with a hairstylist who can evaluate your features and lifestyle before advising you on which type will work best for you personally.
Preparation for Braiding
It is necessary to properly prepare your hair prior to any form of braiding. Begin by washing your hair well so that no build-up is left and it gives a neat base for braiding. When untangling the hair, do this tenderly to prevent breakages during the actual braiding.
Braiding Techniques
Mastering braid techniques requires practice as well as patience. Irrespective of whether you are making intricate cornrows or just a simple French braid, here are steps that will help you in perfectly doing your braids:
Divide the hair into different sections.
Commence by starting your braid at the root and slowly move towards the tip of your hair strands.
To avoid parts that are either too tight or too loose, maintain uniform tension throughout.
Finally, secure the ends with a small rubber band or elastic.
Maintenance and Care
Moisturize both scalp and hair when maintaining any kind of braided hairstyle. A light oil or moisturizing spray can be applied on head to stop dryness thus avoiding itchiness. Minimize washing so as not to have frizzy and unraveling braids.
Styling Tips
Braided hairstyles can be manipulated into many looks, thereby offering versatility in terms of styling options. You may want to try using beads, cuffs or wraps to stylishly enhance your braid hairstyle. Alternatively, sweep them back in an up-do style like a bun or ponytail for a sleek look.
Cultural Appropriation
Nevertheless, although their roots come from deep within certain cultures it is important to handle their adoption sensitively and respectfully. Familiarize yourself with what these plaits mean socially; seek advice from someone practicing else from such culture before embarking on some plaiting styles you find interesting.
Braids in Popular Culture
Hairstyles containing weaves have become iconic symbols in movies, music videos and runway shows globally. From great characters like Khal Drogo in “Game of Thrones” to famous people such as Travis Scott & Odell Beckham Jr., these hairstyles represent an aspect of personality and fashion as well.
Celebrity Inspiration
Celebrities are responsible for the popularity of braided hairstyles for men. From Jason Momoa’s famous braided beard to the intricately styled cornrows by ASAP Rocky, celebs have influenced guys globally to try various plaiting styles and rock their distinct looks.
Conclusion
These braid hairstyles offer incredible options of expressing oneself through hair styling in a versatile and trendy manner. Whether you love traditional cornrows or contemporary box braids, there is a style in plaits that can match any character or aesthetic preference. Own your individual look and wear braids that show your personality as well as fashion choices.
FAQs
How long will it take to do my hair with braids?
The time taken to braid hair depends on the intricacy of the style, hair length and thickness. Simple plain plaits may be done within just some few minutes while complex designs might take several hours.
Can anyone use these hairstyle?
Definitely! These hairstyles fit diverse hair types such as curly, straight and textured hairs. Nonetheless, one must consider natural features inherent in their locks when selecting which type of braid she desires.
For how long do I carry my braids?
The duration that one enjoys her plaits relies on a number of factors involving; hair type maintenance routine adopted and styling products used. Under proper care, they last an average time frame spanning from two days to a couple weeks.
Zaid Ahmed 
Micheal kors 
Henry Lau