30 Stylish plaits braids men Ideas Including Dreads Cornrow and Fade Locs and More for Every Style

Introduction

In recent years, men’s hairstyles have evolved significantly, with plaits and braids becoming increasingly popular. These styles are not only fashionable but also versatile, allowing men to express their individuality. This article explores ten distinct plait and braid styles for men, each suited for different occasions, face shapes, and hair types. Whether you have short hair, long hair, or anything in between, there’s a style here for you.

The Classic Cornrow with Beads for Added Flair

The classic cornrow hairstyle is a timeless choice that never goes out of fashion. This style involves braiding the hair close to the scalp in straight lines, which can be adorned with beads for a unique twist. Cornrows are perfect for both casual and formal events, providing a neat and clean look. This hairstyle suits most face shapes and is particularly striking on men with strong jawlines. Cornrows can also highlight eye colors, especially darker shades like brown and black.

To achieve the classic cornrow style, start with clean, detangled hair. Using a fine-tooth comb, section the hair into straight lines. Braid each section close to the scalp, securing the ends with small elastic bands. To add beads, thread them onto the ends of the braids before securing them. Maintaining cornrows requires regular moisturizing and scalp care to prevent dryness and flakiness. A light oil or leave-in conditioner can help keep the scalp and hair hydrated.

Stylish Dreads with Beads for a Bold Look

Dreads offer a bold and distinctive look that can be tailored to suit any personality. Adding beads to dreads provides an extra layer of style and individuality. This hairstyle is suitable for a variety of events, from music festivals to casual outings. Dreads are particularly flattering for oval and square face shapes, as they add volume and texture to the hair. The beads can be chosen to complement eye color, enhancing the overall appearance.

Creating dreads begins with clean, dry hair. Section the hair and backcomb each section, twisting it tightly to form the dread. Apply a locking gel to help the dread maintain its shape. To add beads, slide them onto the dreads before they fully mature. Maintenance involves regular washing with residue-free shampoo and occasional retwisting to keep the dreads neat. A dread wax can help maintain their shape and prevent frizz.

Micro Braids for a Sleek and Versatile Style

Micro braids are tiny, intricate braids that offer a sleek and versatile hairstyle option. These braids can be styled in various ways, from loose and flowing to tied back into a ponytail. Micro braids are ideal for formal events or professional settings where a polished look is required. They suit men with medium to long hair and are particularly flattering for round and heart-shaped faces.

To create micro braids, start with clean, detangled hair. Section the hair into very small parts and braid each section tightly. Due to the small size of the braids, this process can be time-consuming but results in a highly detailed and intricate style. Maintenance involves regular washing and moisturizing to prevent the braids from becoming dry and brittle. A light oil or leave-in conditioner can help keep the hair and scalp healthy.

Triangle Parts Cornrows for a Modern Twist

Triangle parts cornrows offer a modern twist on the classic cornrow style. Instead of straight lines, the hair is sectioned into triangular parts, creating a unique and eye-catching pattern. This style is perfect for creative and artistic events where individuality is celebrated. Triangle parts cornrows suit most face shapes and can enhance any eye color by drawing attention to the face.

To achieve triangle parts cornrows, start with clean, detangled hair. Use a fine-tooth comb to section the hair into triangular parts, then braid each section close to the scalp. This style requires precision and patience to ensure the parts are symmetrical and neat. Maintenance involves regular moisturizing and scalp care, as well as occasional touch-ups to keep the braids looking fresh. A scalp oil can help prevent dryness and itchiness.

Locs with a Fade for a Stylish Contrast

Locs combined with a fade create a stylish contrast that is both modern and edgy. The locs are left longer on top, while the sides and back are faded short. This style is ideal for casual and semi-formal events, offering a blend of neatness and individuality. It suits oval and square face shapes, adding height and definition to the overall look. Locs with a fade can complement any eye color, making them a versatile choice.

To create this style, start with clean, dry hair. Section the top hair for locs and backcomb each section, applying a locking gel to maintain their shape. The sides and back are then faded using clippers, creating a smooth transition from short to long. Maintenance involves regular washing with residue-free shampoo and retwisting the locs as needed. A fade requires regular trims to keep the lines sharp and clean.

Cornrow and Fade Combo for a Dynamic Look

The cornrow and fade combo offers a dynamic look that blends traditional and modern elements. The cornrows are braided on top, while the sides and back are faded short. This style is perfect for versatile events, from casual outings to professional settings. It suits most face shapes, particularly oval and heart-shaped, and can enhance any eye color by drawing attention upward.

To achieve this look, start with clean, detangled hair. Section the top hair for cornrows and braid each section close to the scalp. The sides and back are then faded using clippers, creating a smooth and clean transition. Maintenance involves regular moisturizing and scalp care, as well as occasional touch-ups to keep the braids and fade looking fresh. A light oil or leave-in conditioner can help keep the hair and scalp hydrated.

Tapered Dreads for a Neat and Stylish Appearance

Tapered dreads offer a neat and stylish appearance by keeping the hair longer on top and shorter on the sides and back. This style is perfect for semi-formal and casual events, providing a balanced and polished look. It suits oval and square face shapes, adding height and dimension to the hairstyle. Tapered dreads can enhance any eye color, making them a versatile choice.

To create this style, start with clean, dry hair. Section the top hair for dreads and backcomb each section, applying a locking gel to maintain their shape. The sides and back are then tapered short using clippers. Maintenance involves regular washing with residue-free shampoo and retwisting the dreads as needed. A light oil or leave-in conditioner can help keep the hair and scalp healthy.

Long Hair Braids with Beads for a Statement Look

Long hair braids with beads create a statement look that is both bold and elegant. The braids can be styled in various ways, from loose and flowing to tied back in a ponytail. This style is perfect for high-fashion events or bold statements in professional settings. Long hair braids suit most face shapes and can enhance eye colors, especially darker shades.

To achieve this look, start with clean, detangled hair. Section the hair into parts and braid each section tightly. To add beads, thread them onto the ends of the braids before securing them. Maintenance involves regular washing and moisturizing to prevent the braids from becoming dry and brittle. A light oil or leave-in conditioner can help keep the hair and scalp healthy.

Medium-Length Box Braids for Versatility

Medium-length box braids offer versatility and ease of styling, making them a popular choice for men. These braids can be styled in various ways, from loose and flowing to tied back in a bun. They are ideal for both casual and formal events, providing a neat and polished look. Medium-length box braids suit most face shapes and can enhance eye colors by drawing attention to the face.

To create this style, start with clean, detangled hair. Section the hair into square parts and braid each section tightly. This style requires precision and patience to ensure the parts are symmetrical and neat. Maintenance involves regular washing and moisturizing to prevent the braids from becoming dry and brittle. A light oil or leave-in conditioner can help keep the hair and scalp healthy.

High Bun with Cornrows for a Modern Twist

The high bun with cornrows offers a sleek and modern twist on traditional braiding styles. This hairstyle involves braiding the hair into cornrows and then gathering them into a high bun at the crown of the head. It is perfect for both casual and formal events, providing a clean and polished look. This style suits most face shapes, particularly those with strong jawlines, and enhances eye colors by drawing attention upward.

To achieve this look, start with clean, detangled hair. Braid the hair into cornrows, starting from the front and working your way to the crown. Gather the braids into a high bun and secure it with an elastic band. Maintaining this style requires regular moisturizing to keep the scalp healthy and the braids neat. A light oil or leave-in conditioner can help keep the hair and scalp hydrated.

Side Swept Braids for an Asymmetrical Style

Side swept braids provide an asymmetrical and edgy look that stands out. This style involves braiding the hair to one side, creating a unique and stylish appearance. It is ideal for creative and artistic events, adding a touch of individuality to your look. Side swept braids suit oval and heart-shaped faces, enhancing eye colors by focusing attention on one side of the face.

To create this style, start with clean, detangled hair. Section the hair to one side and braid each section tightly, sweeping the braids across the head. Secure the ends with small elastic bands. Maintenance involves regular washing and moisturizing to prevent the braids from becoming dry and brittle. A light oil or leave-in conditioner can help keep the hair and scalp healthy.

Two-Strand Twists for a Natural Look

Two-strand twists offer a natural and versatile hairstyle option. This style involves twisting two strands of hair together, creating a defined and textured look. It is ideal for casual and semi-formal events, providing a relaxed and stylish appearance. Two-strand twists suit most face shapes and can enhance any eye color by adding texture and dimension to the hair.

To create this style, start with clean, detangled hair. Section the hair into parts and twist two strands together from root to tip. Secure the ends with small elastic bands. Maintenance involves regular washing and moisturizing to prevent the twists from becoming dry and brittle. A light oil or leave-in conditioner can help keep the hair and scalp healthy.

Box Braids with Beads for a Bold Statement

Box braids with beads offer a bold and eye-catching hairstyle option. This style involves braiding the hair into box braids and adding beads to the ends for an extra layer of style. It is perfect for high-fashion events or bold statements in professional settings. Box braids suit most face shapes and can enhance eye colors, especially darker shades.

To achieve this look, start with clean, detangled hair. Section the hair into square parts and braid each section tightly. To add beads, thread them onto the ends of the braids before securing them. Maintenance involves regular washing and moisturizing to prevent the braids from becoming dry and brittle. A light oil or leave-in conditioner can help keep the hair and scalp healthy.

Braided Top Knot for a Sleek Look

The braided top knot combines braids with a sleek and stylish top knot. This hairstyle involves braiding the hair and then gathering it into a top knot at the crown of the head. It is perfect for both casual and formal events, providing a neat and polished look. This style suits most face shapes and enhances eye colors by drawing attention upward.

To create this style, start with clean, detangled hair. Braid the hair and gather it into a top knot at the crown of the head. Secure the knot with an elastic band. Maintenance involves regular moisturizing to keep the scalp healthy and the braids neat. A light oil or leave-in conditioner can help keep the hair and scalp hydrated.

Half-Up Braids for a Versatile Style

Half-up braids offer a versatile and stylish option that combines the best of both worlds. This style involves braiding the top half of the hair while leaving the bottom half loose. It is ideal for casual and semi-formal events, providing a balanced and fashionable look. Half-up braids suit most face shapes and can enhance any eye color by adding texture and dimension.

To achieve this look, start with clean, detangled hair. Section the top half of the hair and braid each section tightly. Leave the bottom half of the hair loose and flowing. Maintenance involves regular washing and moisturizing to prevent the braids from becoming dry and brittle. A light oil or leave-in conditioner can help keep the hair and scalp healthy.

Twisted Mohawk for an Edgy Look

The twisted mohawk offers an edgy and modern hairstyle option. This style involves twisting the hair into sections and arranging them in a mohawk pattern. It is ideal for creative and artistic events, adding a touch of individuality to your look. The twisted mohawk suits most face shapes and can enhance eye colors by focusing attention on the center of the head.

To achieve this look, start with clean, detangled hair. Section the hair into parts and twist each section tightly, arranging them in a mohawk pattern. Secure the ends with small elastic bands. Maintenance involves regular washing and moisturizing to prevent the twists from becoming dry and brittle. A light oil or leave-in conditioner can help keep the hair and scalp healthy.

Fishbone Braids for an Intricate Design

Fishbone braids offer an intricate and detailed hairstyle option. This style involves braiding the hair into a fishbone pattern, creating a unique and eye-catching appearance. It is perfect for artistic and creative events where individuality is celebrated. Fishbone braids suit most face shapes and can enhance eye colors by drawing attention to the intricate patterns.

To achieve this look, start with clean, detangled hair. Section the hair into parts and braid each section in a fishbone pattern, securing the ends with small elastic bands. This style requires precision and patience to ensure the parts are symmetrical and neat. Maintenance involves regular washing and moisturizing to prevent the braids from becoming dry and brittle. A light oil or leave-in conditioner can help keep the hair and scalp healthy.

Viking Braids for a Bold, Rugged Look

Viking braids offer a bold and rugged hairstyle inspired by Norse warriors. This style involves creating thick, intertwined braids that often run down the back or sides of the head. Viking braids are perfect for themed events, cosplay, or making a strong statement at music festivals. This style suits men with strong, angular face shapes and can enhance light-colored eyes by creating a striking contrast.

To achieve Viking braids, start with clean, detangled hair. Section the hair into thick parts and braid each section tightly, incorporating smaller braids if desired for added complexity. Secure the ends with leather ties or metal rings for an authentic look. Maintenance involves regular washing and conditioning to keep the hair healthy and prevent breakage. A beard balm can be used if the style includes braided facial hair.

Braided Ponytail for a Sleek and Versatile Style

The braided ponytail combines the sleekness of a ponytail with the intricate detail of braids. This style involves braiding the hair from the scalp and then gathering it into a ponytail. It is ideal for both professional and casual settings, providing a polished yet relaxed appearance. The braided ponytail suits most face shapes, especially oval and heart-shaped, and can complement any eye color.

To create this style, start with clean, detangled hair. Braid the hair from the scalp, directing the braids towards the back of the head. Gather the braids into a ponytail and secure with an elastic band. Maintenance involves regular washing and moisturizing to keep the braids and scalp healthy. A light styling gel can help keep the braids neat and prevent frizz.

Low Bun with Braids for an Elegant Look

The low bun with braids offers an elegant and sophisticated hairstyle option. This style involves braiding the hair and then gathering it into a low bun at the nape of the neck. It is perfect for formal events, weddings, or professional settings where a polished look is desired. The low bun with braids suits most face shapes and enhances eye colors by drawing attention to the neck and shoulders.

To achieve this look, start with clean, detangled hair. Braid the hair and gather it into a low bun at the nape of the neck. Secure the bun with hairpins or an elastic band. Maintenance involves regular moisturizing to keep the braids and scalp healthy. A light hairspray can help keep the bun in place and prevent flyaways.

Fishtail Braids for a Sophisticated Style

Fishtail braids offer a sophisticated and elegant hairstyle option. This style involves braiding the hair in a fishtail pattern, creating a sleek and intricate look. It is perfect for formal events, professional settings, or special occasions. Fishtail braids suit most face shapes and enhance eye colors by adding texture and sophistication to the hairstyle.

To achieve this look, start with clean, detangled hair. Section the hair into two parts and braid each section in a fishtail pattern, crossing small sections of hair from each part over to the opposite side. Secure the ends with small elastic bands. Maintenance involves regular washing and moisturizing to prevent the braids from becoming dry and brittle. A light styling cream can help keep the braids neat and smooth.

Box Braids with a Taper Fade for a Modern Look

Box braids combined with a taper fade create a modern and stylish hairstyle. This style involves braiding the hair into box braids while keeping the sides and back faded short. It is perfect for casual and semi-formal events, providing a neat and contemporary appearance. Box braids with a taper fade suit most face shapes and can enhance eye colors by drawing attention to the contrast between the braids and the fade.

To create this style, start with clean, detangled hair. Section the hair into square parts and braid each section tightly. The sides and back are then faded using clippers to create a smooth transition from short to long. Maintenance involves regular washing and moisturizing to keep the braids and scalp healthy. A fade requires regular trims to keep the lines sharp and clean.

Mohawk Braids for a Bold Statement

Mohawk braids offer a bold and edgy hairstyle that stands out in any crowd. This style involves braiding the hair along the center of the scalp, creating a mohawk effect with the braids. Mohawk braids are perfect for music festivals, fashion-forward events, or simply making a strong personal statement. This style suits oval and square face shapes, enhancing the overall look with added height and definition. Mohawk braids can also bring out eye colors, especially light shades.

To achieve this look, start with clean, detangled hair. Section the hair along the center of the scalp and braid each section tightly, securing the ends with small elastic bands. The sides can be shaved or kept short to accentuate the mohawk effect. Maintenance involves regular washing and moisturizing to keep the braids and scalp healthy. A light styling gel can help maintain the shape and prevent frizz.

Cornrow Fade with a Design for a Modern Edge

The cornrow fade with a design combines traditional braiding with modern barbering techniques. This style involves braiding the hair into cornrows while incorporating a faded design on the sides and back. The design can range from geometric patterns to artistic lines, adding a unique flair to the hairstyle. This style is perfect for creative and urban settings, providing a blend of tradition and innovation. Cornrow fades suit most face shapes and can enhance eye colors by drawing attention to the intricate designs.

To achieve this look, start with clean, detangled hair. Braid the hair into cornrows, directing them towards the back of the head. Use clippers to create a fade on the sides and back, incorporating a design of your choice. Maintenance involves regular moisturizing to keep the braids and scalp healthy, as well as regular touch-ups to keep the fade and design looking sharp. A light styling gel can help maintain the shape and prevent frizz.

Conclusion

Plaits and braids offer a wide range of stylish options for men, each with its unique flair and versatility. Whether you prefer the classic cornrows, bold dreads, or intricate micro braids, there’s a style to suit every occasion and personality. We encourage you to try out these styles and share your experiences in the comments. Don’t hesitate to experiment with different designs and accessories to make these hairstyles your own. Let’s keep the conversation going and explore the endless possibilities of plaits and braids for men.