fishbone braids in a bun

24 TRENDIEST BRAIDS YOU NEED TO TRY

It can be quite frustrating to encounter numerous types of braids without understanding their unique characteristics. Often, photos alone don’t provide enough detail or explanation of the braiding techniques used. To address this issue, we present a comprehensive guide to 24 different types of braids, complete with illustrations and detailed explanations for each style.

RELAXED BOHEMIAN BRAIDS

These braids can be categorized into several types of braiding styles, as they essentially resemble box braids while incorporating elements similar to goddess braids.

GRAPHIC STITCH BRAIDS

What distinguishes this category from other types of cornrow braids is the precise parting and neat lines, which enhance the overall drama of the design.

ACCENT HEADBAND BRAID

As the name suggests, this braid type flows parallel to the hairline, positioned exactly where you would place a headband to enhance your style.

NATURAL-LOOKING KNOTLESS BRAIDS

There are various methods for braiding hair with extensions, and the knotless technique involves incorporating thin strands of hair without tying knots at the base.

GLAMOROUS GODDESS BRAIDS

While there’s no clear consensus on what precisely defines goddess braids—whether it’s their chunkier texture or the loose strands of hair—it’s best to incorporate both elements to achieve the desired look.

AUTHENTIC TRIBAL BRAIDS

All braid types that feature patterns—often created with cornrows and adorned with beads—belong to this culturally rich category.

PARALLEL BOXER BRAIDS

Any style that features two tightly plaited braids on either side of the head can be referred to as such, whether it’s French, Dutch, or cornrow braiding.

SEAMLESS FEED-IN BRAIDS

That’s another term encompassing various types of braided hairstyles created with extensions. Feed-in braids are constructed with extensions added from the base. You essentially “feed” pieces of hair into the main braid, allowing it to increase in size progressively.

EYE-POPPING DRAGON BRAID

To resemble a dragon’s spine, the braid should be positioned along the centerline of the head and feature plenty of bumps to mimic scaled skin.

DIVERSE 6-STRAND BRAID

This type of braid features multiple variations that differ in braiding techniques and final appearances, yet they all share one common element: the hair is divided into six sections.

BOHEMIAN BUTTERFLY BRAIDS

In this style, we use hair extensions to create faux locs with a looped texture that resembles butterfly wings, which is how they get their name. They are also commonly referred to as butterfly locs.

BEGINNER-FRIENDLY TWIST BRAIDS

Also known as a rope braid, this style involves dividing your hair into two sections and twisting them together to form a plait.

INTRICATE 5-STRAND BRAID

One of the most popular techniques for creating a 5-strand braid involves crossing an outer section over and under the two inner sections, then repeating the same movements on the opposite side.

NO-FRILLS 3-STRAND BRAID

A three-strand braid is one of the most common braid styles, where the hair is divided into three sections, and the outer strands are alternately crossed over the middle piece. Essentially, it refers to any braid made with three strands!

NORDIC VIKING BRAIDS

This is one of the unique types of braids for women, inspired by styles typically associated with men. It features dimensional braiding in the center, while the sides are often smoothed with shaved hair, cornrows, or flat plaits.

PROVOCATIVE UPSIDE-DOWN BRAID

Begin French or Dutch braiding from the nape of your neck toward the crown, and style the remaining hair into a top knot or ponytail.

EASY BUBBLE BRAID

In fact, this style requires no plaiting at all; you simply need to tie your ponytail with elastics along its length to achieve the desired look.

FEMININE HALF-UP HALF-DOWN BRAIDS

If the top section of your hair is braided while the bottom is left loose, you’re sporting a half-up style, regardless of the braiding technique used.

FANCY CROWN BRAID WITH HAIR JEWELRY

Started from the side or the nape, this braid incorporates various plaiting techniques and wraps around the head to create a crowned effect.

FUN JUMBO BRAIDS

Size also plays a significant role; by dividing your hair into larger sections and incorporating thicker strands of extension hair, you can reduce the time needed for braiding and achieve a fun jumbo look.

TEXTURED FISHTAIL BRAID

Divide your hair into two sections, then take small strands from the outside of each section and cross them over into the same section to create a fishbone braid.

BOLD MOHAWK BRAID

Mohawk braids resemble Viking braids in their placement on the top of the head, but they tend to be less bold and chunky.

DIMENSIONAL 4-STRAND BRAID

This type is a bit more complex, as it requires you to manipulate four sections while flipping the outer strands over and under the inner strands.

DAINTY SIDE BRAID

Side braids can take many forms, ranging from simple three-strand plaits to double French braids, with the defining feature being their positioning on one side of the head.

CONCLUSION

In conclusion, braids are a versatile and stylish way to express your personality and elevate your look. From classic three-strand braids to intricate feed-in styles, there’s a braid for every occasion and hair type. Experimenting with various techniques, sizes, and decorative elements like beads or colorful extensions can help you find the perfect braid that reflects your unique style. Whether you’re going for a chic everyday look or a bold statement for a special event, the trendiest braids are not only fun to create but also a timeless addition to your hairstyle repertoire. So grab some hair ties, get creative, and embrace the beauty of braiding!

17 MALE BRAIDS HAIRSTYLES FOR A DISTINCTIVE AND STYLISH APPEARANCE

If you want a hairstyle that’s both protective and easy to manage while making a statement, male braids are a great choice! You can mix in cornrows, zig-zag parts, different designs, and 2-strand twists to create a look that’s all your own. Check out some of the coolest male braid styles to try this year!

CLASSIC CORNROW DUTCH BRAIDS

Classic cornrow Dutch braids for men offer a sleek and stylish look with a touch of edge. These braids are created by weaving the hair under rather than over, giving them a raised, 3D appearance. Perfect for a clean and bold statement, this style is both timeless and versatile, fitting various occasions.

CORNROW BRAIDS WITH A ZIG-ZAG PARTING

The zig-zag parting is undoubtedly the coolest! Combining cornrow braids with a zig-zag parting creates an edgy look that’s perfect for any occasion, whether formal or casual.

CORNROW TWIST BRAIDS FOR MEN WITH LONG HAIR

If you have long hair and want a quicker braiding option, try cornrow twist braids. For easy maintenance, wash your hair using an applicator bottle filled with a water-shampoo mix, and do the same with conditioner.

CORNROWS INTO A LOW BUN

Cornrows styled into a low bun are perfect for hot summer days, keeping your hair off your skin and sweat-free. For added texture, mix braids of different sizes.

CORNROWS WITH DUTCH BRAIDS

Try this standout braided hairstyle for men: pair Dutch cornrow braids with a distinctive parting design. Not only does it look stylish, but it also keeps your hair protected around the clock.

CLASSIC CORNROW BRAIDS FOR MEDIUM HAIR

Classic cornrow braids offer a effortlessly cool and protective style. To keep them moisturized, simply rub shea butter directly onto your braids or apply it to damp hair.

FISHBONE CORNROW BRAIDS

For a distinctive cornrow braid look, try the fishbone cornrow-braided style. To maintain it, wash your hair every seven to ten days to keep your scalp healthy and avoid damage.

MALE’S CORNROWS WITH A DOLLAR SIGN

Cornrow braids showcase incredible versatility, allowing you to create everything from flowers to freestyle designs or even dollar signs. For a bold statement, pair them with an undercut hairstyle.

MARLEY TWISTS BRAIDED HAIRSTYLE

Inspired by reggae icon Bob Marley, Marley twists are thick two-strand twists that offer a protective style with a laid-back vibe. Easy to style and full of good energy, what more could you want?

PIGTAIL BOX BRAIDS

Box braids typically involve adding synthetic hair and applying tension for a sleek finish. However, pigtail box braids offer a twist on this classic style, featuring two large braids with smaller braids woven into them.

RHOMBUS-SHAPED 2-STRAND TWIST BRAIDS

Rhombus-shaped 2-strand twist braids offer a distinctive and edgy style ideal for medium to long hair. If you’re after a cool, low-maintenance look, this is the perfect choice.

CORNROW BRAIDS WITH HEARTS AND A DOLLAR SIGN

Cornrow braids featuring hearts and dollar signs are a trendy choice that cool guys are rocking. If you go for this style, make sure to keep your cornrows in for no more than 8 weeks to avoid hair breakage and loss.

DESIGNER STITCH BRAIDS

Stitch braids are cornrow braids created using a stitch-in technique and often include synthetic hair extensions. These designer braids come in various patterns, such as criss-cross or hearts, and can be customized to suit your style.

S-SHAPED CORNROW BRAIDS FOR MEN

Ready to elevate your cornrow braid game? Try S-shaped cornrow braids for a unique, textured look that will truly impress. Wow!

CORNROW BRAIDS INTO A BUN

Traditional cornrows use three-strand braids close to the scalp for a beautifully textured look. Pro tip: Incorporating cornrow braids into a bun adds a stylish touch while enhancing the protective nature of your hairstyle.

CORNROW DUTCH BRAID STYLE FOR MEN

Combining Dutch cornrow braids with zig-zag partings creates a super cool braided style! To make a Dutch braid, simply cross the left strand under the middle strand, then cross the right strand under the new middle strand. It’s that easy!

2-STRAND TWIST BRAIDS FOR MEN

2-strand twist braids are one of the easiest yet most stylish braided hairstyles. Start by dividing your hair into four large sections. Take a small section from one of these, apply curl cream or hair gel, and split it into two halves. Twist these halves over each other in a criss-cross motion until you reach the end of your hair. Continue this twisting technique with the remaining sections for a cohesive look.

CONCLUSION

In conclusion, male braids offer a versatile and stylish option for men seeking to elevate their appearance. By incorporating braids into your look, you can showcase your individuality, add a touch of personality, and make a bold statement. Whether you’re attending a formal event or simply looking for a fresh new hairstyle, male braids are a great way to achieve a distinctive and stylish appearance.