The braids and man bun combination has transcended a fleeting trend to become a permanent, powerhouse staple in men’s grooming, offering a perfect blend of rugged masculinity and intricate style. As of December 2025, this versatile look is no longer just about tying up a braid; it’s about strategic styling, incorporating complex patterns, fades, and undercuts that elevate the entire aesthetic. This guide will walk you through the most current and freshest variations, celebrity inspiration, and essential maintenance tips to ensure your look stays sharp and relevant in the coming year.
This hairstyle is a masterclass in controlled chaos, providing a protective style for longer hair while adding an element of artistry that a simple man bun cannot match. Whether you have straight, wavy, curly, or coily hair, there is a braided bun style that suits your texture, making it one of the most inclusive and sought-after looks of the decade.
The Definitive List of Braided Man Bun Styles for Maximum Impact
The beauty of the braided man bun lies in its versatility. By combining different braiding techniques with various bun placements, you unlock a vast array of unique looks. Here are the 15+ variations and entities dominating men's hair fashion right now:
- The Viking Braided Top Knot: A style popularized by figures like Jason Momoa, this typically involves one or two tight Dutch braids or French braids running from the hairline back to a high, messy bun (top knot). It’s an aggressive, rugged look that pairs perfectly with a full beard.
- The Cornrow Braided Bun: A classic protective style, this involves multiple cornrows braided straight back or in a patterned design, all gathering into a neat, high or low bun. Variations include the Patterned Cornrows Man Bun and the Pop Smoke Cornrows Man Bun.
- The Stitch Braids Man Bun: A modern variation of cornrows, stitch braids use a specific technique to create thick, clean, vertical "stitch" patterns, offering a highly defined, polished look before the hair is secured in the bun.
- The Double Side Braided Man Bun: This simple yet sleek style features two braids—one on each side of the head—that feed directly into a centralized bun. It provides a clean, modern aesthetic.
- The Low Side Braid Man Bun: Often a single, thick braid on one side of the head, with the rest of the hair tied into a low, relaxed bun (or 'hun'—half-bun). This is a more casual, rock-and-roll inspired look.
- The Undercut Braided Man Bun: The hair on the sides and back is shaved or faded (the Tapered Man Bun variation), leaving the long hair on top to be braided into a central design and secured in a bun. This contrast emphasizes the braids and makes the style feel sharper.
- The Tri Braid Man Bun: A more intricate design featuring two braids on the sides and a third braid running down the center of the head, all converging at the bun.
- The Locd Man Bun: For men with dreadlocks (locs), this is a protective style where the locs are gathered and twisted into a bun or knot. The High Top Locs Man Bun is a common variation.
- The Fishtail Braid Man Bun: A more advanced technique, the fishtail braid offers a textured, woven look that is often used on the top section of the hair before securing it low on the neck.
- The Box Braids Man Bun: Similar to cornrows, but the braids are free-hanging and then gathered. This is a highly effective protective style for coily and curly hair textures.
Celebrity Hair Entities: Who is Rocking the Braided Bun?
The braided man bun is a favorite among A-list celebrities and athletes, cementing its status as a timeless, high-fashion statement. Drawing inspiration from these entities can help you determine the best style and placement for your own look.
- Jason Momoa: Perhaps the most famous proponent, his signature look is the rugged, messy Viking braided top knot, often featuring a single, thick braid down the back of his head into a bun or ponytail.
- A$AP Rocky: Known for his high-fashion take on protective styling, he has been seen rocking a braided man bun with his individual box braids or twists gathered into a pony-bun hybrid.
- Chris Hemsworth: While often sporting a simple man bun, he has occasionally incorporated subtle side braids for a more authentic 'Thor' or Nordic aesthetic, similar to the Viking style.
- Harry Styles: The pop icon has experimented with a hybrid bun-and-plait style, demonstrating that the look can be adapted for straighter, finer hair textures.
- David Beckham: A pioneer of men's style evolution, Beckham has worn various man bun styles, including those featuring subtle braids or twists on the sides.
- Other Notable Entities: Figures like Leonardo DiCaprio, Justin Bieber, Jake Gyllenhaal, and Orlando Bloom have all sported man bun variations, proving its mainstream appeal across different industries.
Essential Maintenance and Care for a Long-Lasting Braided Style
A braided man bun is a high-impact style that requires a specific care routine to keep it looking fresh, clean, and healthy. Neglecting proper maintenance can lead to frizz, breakage, and an itchy scalp. Follow these steps for optimal results, especially for protective styles like cornrows or box braids.
The Braided Man Bun Care Routine
1. Scalp Cleansing and Hydration:
Because the hair is secured for a long period, the scalp needs extra attention. Use a diluted astringent or specialized braid spray to clean the scalp between washes. For washing, gently massage a sulfate-free shampoo into the scalp, avoiding vigorous rubbing that can loosen the braids. Follow up with a light, leave-in conditioner or a natural oil blend (like coconut or jojoba oil) to keep the scalp moisturized and prevent dryness.
2. Moisturize the Braids:
The hair within the braids can dry out quickly. Use a light, water-based moisturizing spray or hair milk on the length of the braids every few days. This is crucial for maintaining the hair's elasticity and preventing breakage, especially with coily and curly hair types.
3. Protect While Sleeping:
Friction from pillows is the enemy of a neat braid. Always sleep with a silk or satin scarf, bonnet, or pillowcase. This simple step drastically reduces frizz, preserves the longevity of the braids, and helps retain the hair's natural moisture.
4. Manage Tension and Frizz:
Avoid tying your man bun too tightly, especially right after braiding, as excessive tension can lead to hair damage (traction alopecia). Untie your bun regularly and shake your hair out to give your scalp a break. If you notice fuzziness, use a small amount of edge control or pomade on the hairline and along the braids to smooth flyaways.
5. Refresh the Look:
For a fresh look, you can re-braid the perimeter or the front sections after a few weeks. The lifespan of a braided man bun style can range from 2 to 6 weeks, depending on the braid type and your hair growth rate. Schedule a refresh appointment with your barber or stylist to maintain a crisp, clean hairline.
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