The masses will remember French’s buzz cut look as this was his chosen hairstyle for the predominate part of his rap career. Today however we have seen French Montana Braids flourish, giving the rapper a new look and identity from what were used too.
While we have multiple rappers with braids today, French’s particular style stands him out from his peers as he continues to be a topic of conversation for the variation of tribal patterns he chooses to do.
Our editorial will take a detailed look at the pattern braid styles French Montana does, his current hairstyle he has today, his previous buzz cut, alongside a gallery with multiple images.
How and when did French Montana Braids start?
How: While French had a relatively low buzz cut prior to this he grew a mini afro and braided the top. He also used extensions during the early phase to give his hair length, evident by the sudden switch from low hair to long braids within a short space of time.
One distinctive feature of this look is his shaved sides, giving him the option to also wear a braided man bun.
When: With documented music videos, interviews and Instagram posts we can see French began to style his hair in braids during late 2020 – 2021.
Due to most parts of the country in lockdown during this time period we also saw Ludacris Braids as well as Jim Jones braids make a full resurgence. French as well as other artists used this time to try out new hairstyles.
French Montana Braids (Full Gallery)
Our archives feature French in multiple different braided hairstyles such as his tribal cornrows, manbun, off scalp braids and we have included his buzz cut.
Braided Manbun
French revealed his new look on the cover of the XXL magazine back in 2020. Within the photoshoot you can see French’s shaved sides and manbun. Having also ben interviewed by the publication he goes on to explain his style being apart of a new chapter in his life.
Tribal Cornrows
In many African tribes the braided hairstyles were a unique way to identify each tribe. The unique patterns were a way to identify you.
Today tribal Braiding was and is a social art which has transcended in contemporary times as evident by French Montana.
Though braids are nothing new, the pattern is what forms its uniqueness.
Off Scalp Braids
His main signature look today is the off-scalp braids in which he tends to style in multiple different ways.
Braids can often times be worn on scalp which we refer to as cornrow, off scalp, which is plaited away from the scalp, or both in which hair is braided in cornrow first then off scalp towards the back.
Buzz Cut
This is the French Montana we all remember! He made it a mission to always keep a low haircut with a fresh line up.
If you head over to YouTube or search images, you will see from 2009 – up until 2020 French wore the buzz cut well.
Outside of being low maintenance it creates a more masculine look for men.
How to Maintain your Braids
Having braids installed is a great feeling as it gives you a new look and confidence. To ensure you maximise your hairs lifeline it’s imperative the proper care and maintenance is applied to your braids. We have provided some tips below to ensure that they stay neat, tidy and clean.
Make sure Braids aren’t too tight
If you experience the pain of tight braids, this is your body informing you they need to be loosened or redone. Not only do tight braids damage your hair but you increase your chances of getting braid bumps and infected follicles which we want to avoid. This could lead to temporary or permanent hair loss, something we want to avoid of course!
Moisturize your scalp
We like to explain it like this, your scalp is an extension of your skin, and therefore it requires hydration and care. A good moisturizing routine helps it keep your hair bouncy, defined and healthy, but most important not dry. Find one best suited for your hair type.
Oil your Scalp
We mostly forget to apply oil on our scalp as were too busy focusing on the ends and length, yet it’s our scalp that hair grows from, therefore an oil routine is super important and non-negotiable.
Protect your hair while sleeping with a Durag
The main purpose of Du-rags and head wraps is to prevent stray hairs from becoming loose or tangled which creates the messy look. Protecting your hair at night keeps it in check.
Ensure you take your Hair out every 6 Weeks
As we mentioned before you’re going to have to ensure you let your hair breathe, then washed and it’s been advised for years that the 6-week mark is the sweet spot.
This is nothing short of good hygiene! Your hair has been exposed to multiple layers of dirt and environmental factors which requires upkeep! Wash days are your best friend, and it will repay you which shiny, clean hair.
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