Men’s Hair Trends: How to Rock Braided Hairstyles – Bangalore Style

Bangalore, a city known for its cosmopolitan culture and vibrant fashion scene, is also leading a surprising style revolution – men’s braided hairstyles. Once reserved for women, braids are now a bold, edgy choice for Bangalore’s metrosexual men, reshaping gender norms and fashion perceptions one plait at a time.

The Evolution of Men’s Braids

Historically, braids have been a significant part of many cultures around the world, symbolizing strength, wisdom, and social status. In recent years, this ancient hairstyle has made a remarkable comeback in men’s fashion, combining traditional significance with modern sensibilities. Bangalore, with its unique blend of traditional and contemporary cultures, has embraced braided hairstyles for men, incorporating them into its burgeoning fashion landscape.

Types of Braids for Men

Popular among Bangalore’s fashion-forward men are several types of braids, each offering a unique aesthetic appeal and sophistication:

• Cornrows: Sleek, close to the scalp, and versatile. Perfect for a refined yet edgy look.
• Box Braids: Individual braids that offer more flexibility with styling and length.
• French Braids: Elegant and understated, ideal for formal occasions or a polished everyday look.
• Dutch Braids: Similar to French braids but with an inverted effect, offering a bold statement.

Visual examples of these styles often flood Instagram and Pinterest, showcasing the creativity and versatility of braided hairstyles.

Step-by-Step Guide

Achieving these braided hairstyles involves patience and skill, but with practice, many can be mastered at home. Here’s a basic guide for simple cornrows:

1. Section your hair: Begin by dividing your hair into sections based on how thick you want each braid to be.
2. Start braiding: Pick a section and divide it into three equal parts. Start a regular braid by alternately crossing each side part over the middle one.
3. Add more hair: After the initial cross, start adding small amounts of hair from underneath to each side before it crosses over the middle. This adds volume and ensures the braid stays attached to the head.
4. Secure the braid: Once you reach the end of your hair length, secure the braid with a small hairband.

Maintaining Your Braids

Preserving the fresh look of your braided hairstyle requires regular maintenance:

• Moisturize regularly: Keep your scalp and hair hydrated to prevent itchiness and flaking.
• Wash carefully: Use a gentle shampoo to clean your scalp without disturbing the braids.
• Sleep on silk: Use a silk pillowcase or a durag to reduce frizz and keep your braids intact.

Celebrities and Influencers

Local Bangalore celebrities and fashion influencers, such as Vijay Devarakonda and Ayushmann Khurrana, have been spotted flaunting braided hairstyles, each adding a personal twist to the trend. Their public appearances and social media posts play a pivotal role in popularizing men’s braids as a mainstream fashion statement.

The Cultural Impact

The adoption of braided hairstyles by men in Bangalore is more than just a trend; it’s a cultural shift. It breaks down gender barriers in fashion, encouraging self-expression and creativity. It also fosters a deeper appreciation for traditional aesthetic elements, integrating them into modern masculinity.

Where to Get Braided

For those looking to explore braided hairstyles, numerous salons and specialized stylists in Bangalore cater to men’s braiding needs. Places like BBlunt Salon and Jean-Claude Biguine are renowned for their expert stylists who can help you achieve your desired braided look.

Conclusion

Men’s braided hairstyles offer a unique blend of style, tradition, and personal expression, proving to be more than a fleeting trend in Bangalore’s dynamic fashion scene. Whether you’re looking to make a bold statement or pay homage to cultural heritage, braids are a versatile and stylish choice.

Are you ready to experiment with this trend? Share your experiences and join the conversation about men’s fashion innovations in Bangalore. Don’t forget to check out some of the city’s top braiding salons to start your braiding adventure!