Iconic Black Hairstyles 2017 Men: Unveiling The Top Trends
In 2017, the world of men's grooming saw an exciting evolution, particularly within the realm of black hairstyles 2017 men. This year marked a significant shift, moving away from rigid trends towards a more personalized and experimental approach to hair. It was a period where individuality truly shone, allowing black men to embrace a diverse array of styles that celebrated their unique hair textures and cultural heritage. From sharp, clean lines to voluminous, natural looks, 2017 offered an inspiring canvas for self-expression, proving that a haircut is far more than just a style choice—it's a statement.
The versatility of black hair, with its unique ability to hold volume and movement, became a focal point for many of the year's most popular looks. Whether it was the precise geometry of a high fade or the untamed elegance of a well-maintained afro, these styles were not just fashionable but also deeply rooted in cultural significance. Fashion experts and stylists meticulously curated the best men's hairstyles for 2017, offering invaluable insights into styling, grooming, and maintenance. This article delves into the definitive trends that shaped black men's hair in 2017, offering a retrospective look at the cuts that defined an era of bold and authentic self-presentation.
Table of Contents
- The Resurgence of Classic & Modern Looks in 2017
- Decoding the Dominant Trends: Fades and Beyond
- Iconic Black Men's Haircuts of 2017
- Long Hair Trends: A Shift in Focus
- Zayn Malik's Influence: A Case Study in Hair Evolution
- The Art of Styling and Maintenance
- Finding Your Signature Style in 2017
- Beyond 2017: The Enduring Legacy
The Resurgence of Classic & Modern Looks in 2017
The year 2017 was a landmark period for men's fashion, particularly for black hairstyles. It was a time when men were encouraged to experiment, moving beyond conventional norms and embracing a broader spectrum of styles. According to fashion experts, "2017 has been a great year for men trying new things out with their hair, and trends are becoming less & less common, and more about men just experimenting with different styles." This sentiment perfectly encapsulated the spirit of the year, where creativity and personal expression took precedence.
Among the most popular black men haircuts and black boys haircuts for 2017 were "graduated, elevated hair with partitions, fades, afro, and long with edgy outlines." These styles represented a fusion of classic techniques with modern twists, offering a fresh take on timeless looks. Whether opting for a sleek, refined appearance or a more rugged, natural vibe, the emphasis was on crafting a look that resonated with individual identity. The ability to combine elements like sharp lines with textured tops allowed for a highly customized aesthetic, making each haircut a unique statement.
Decoding the Dominant Trends: Fades and Beyond
When discussing black hairstyles 2017 men, one trend unequivocally dominated the landscape: the fade. As noted by industry observers, "The big trend with men's hair is the fade." This versatile haircut became a cornerstone of modern male grooming, offering a clean, sharp aesthetic that could be adapted to various hair lengths and textures. The beauty of the fade lies in its seamless transition from short to long hair, creating a polished and sophisticated look that suited a wide range of personal styles.
However, the influence of 2017 men’s hairstyles extended far beyond just the fade. The year saw a rich tapestry of cuts, ranging "from fades to tapers, buzz cuts to man buns and textured crops to mohawks." This incredible diversity meant that "there is something for every hair length and type," including "thin or fine hair, thick hair, straight hair, curly" hair. For black men, this diversity was particularly empowering, allowing them to showcase the natural beauty and versatility of their hair. The ability to integrate a high fade with a quiff or a modern slicked-back style demonstrated the innovative spirit of the year's trends.
The Versatility of the Fade
The fade, in its various forms, was undoubtedly the reigning champion among black hairstyles 2017 men. From the low fade to the high fade, and everything in between, this cut provided a clean canvas for creativity. A "high fade quiff haircut for men" was a popular choice, blending the sharpness of a fade with the voluminous elegance of a quiff. Another notable variation was "black men hair styles with high fade and ragged hair on top," offering a more edgy and rebellious look while maintaining a refined base.
The popularity of the fade stems from its adaptability. It can be paired with almost any top style, from short, textured crops to longer, more flowing hair. This adaptability makes it a perennial favorite, and in 2017, it was perfected to an art form. Whether you preferred a subtle taper or a dramatic skin fade, the technique provided a clean, professional finish that elevated any haircut. It truly allowed for a blend of contemporary flair with classic neatness, appealing to a broad demographic of men seeking both style and practicality.
Embracing the Afro and Natural Textures
While fades provided structure, 2017 also celebrated the natural volume and movement inherent in black hair, especially with the resurgence of the afro. The phrase "whether you want to enter the 'fro zone" highlights the embrace of this iconic style. The afro, in its various lengths and forms, offered a powerful statement of cultural pride and natural beauty. It was about allowing the hair to flourish, showcasing its unique texture and shape.
A particularly enduring style that gained significant traction was the high top fade. This cut, a nod to 90s glory, proved its timeless appeal. "The high top fade is one of those cool hairstyles for black men that never goes out of style." It combined the precision of a fade on the sides with a dramatic, elevated top, creating a bold silhouette. This style could be worn with a vintage feel, perhaps with a turtleneck, or adapted for a more modern, edgy look. The emphasis was on maintaining the natural volume and movement of the hair while preventing damage through protective styling, demonstrating a growing awareness of hair health alongside aesthetics.
Iconic Black Men's Haircuts of 2017
The landscape of black hairstyles 2017 men was incredibly rich, offering a myriad of choices that catered to diverse preferences. Beyond the ubiquitous fade, several other styles gained significant traction, solidifying their place as iconic looks of the year. "Popular haircuts for black men" showcased a range of options, from the subtly refined to the boldly expressive. These styles not only looked good but also often served a practical purpose, protecting the hair while allowing for creative expression.
The data reveals that "the most popular haircuts for black men include the buzz cut fade, short afro, waves, twists, high top, box braids, tight curls, cornrows and locs." This comprehensive list underscores the versatility and richness of black hair. Each style offered a unique aesthetic, allowing men to choose a look that best reflected their personality and lifestyle. From low-maintenance options like the buzz cut fade to more intricate, artistic styles like box braids, 2017 was a year of endless possibilities for black men's hair.
Waves, Twists, and Braids: Protective & Stylish
For black men, the choice of hairstyle often intertwines with hair health and protection. Waves, twists, and braids emerged as highly popular choices in 2017, not just for their aesthetic appeal but also for their protective qualities. "Natural hair has a unique ability to keep volume and movement throughout its length," and "styling it in a protective hairdo can maintain these qualities and prevent damage." This understanding led to a widespread adoption of styles that nurtured the hair while keeping it fashionable.
Waves, achieved through consistent brushing and moisture, offered a smooth, ripple-like effect that was both sophisticated and cool. Twists, whether two-strand or more complex, provided a textured look that could be worn short or allowed to grow out for added length. Braids, including box braids and cornrows, offered intricate designs that were both stylish and highly protective, minimizing manipulation and exposure to environmental stressors. These styles proved that black hairstyles 2017 men were not just about fleeting trends, but about sustainable, healthy hair practices.
The Timeless Appeal of Locs and Cornrows
Locs and cornrows, deeply rooted in African heritage, continued to be prominent and celebrated black hairstyles in 2017. Their enduring appeal lies in their cultural significance, versatility, and low-maintenance nature once established. These styles are not just fashionable; they represent a connection to ancestry and a celebration of natural hair. The year 2017 even saw a significant step towards wider acceptance, with military regulations being revised. "The United States Army last month revised its regulations to allow women to wear their hair in twisted locks," and "The Marine Corps, above, approved lock and twist hairstyles in late" 2016, paving the way for broader acceptance in 2017.
Locs, whether short or long, offered a powerful statement of identity and commitment. They could be styled in various ways, from simple free-flowing locs to intricate updos. Cornrows, with their precise and artistic patterns, provided a sleek and neat appearance while protecting the scalp and hair. Both styles showcased the incredible versatility of black hair, allowing for both traditional and modern interpretations. Their popularity in 2017 reaffirmed their status as timeless and culturally significant choices within the spectrum of black men's hairstyles.
Long Hair Trends: A Shift in Focus
While fades and short, sharp cuts remained incredibly popular, 2017 witnessed a noticeable shift towards longer hairstyles for men. The data indicates that "longer styles look set to overtake the buzz cut and fade as the key men's hair trend for 2017." This marked a significant evolution, as men increasingly embraced more length and volume, often paired with beards for a truly impactful look. "Men with long hairstyles and beards are able to combine sexy and masculine for a fashionable look," creating a rugged yet refined aesthetic.
The "trendiest men’s long hairstyles for 2017" included everything from flowing waves to textured shags and even man buns. This embrace of length allowed for greater experimentation with styling, enabling men to achieve a more natural, effortless look. For black men, longer styles highlighted the unique texture and curl patterns of their hair, offering a distinct alternative to shorter, more structured cuts. The popularity of styles like the "modern slicked back men’s haircut" also resurfaced, proving that classic longer looks could be given a contemporary edge.
Zayn Malik's Influence: A Case Study in Hair Evolution
Celebrities often play a pivotal role in shaping fashion and hair trends, and in 2017, Zayn Malik was a prime example of this influence, particularly regarding the evolution of black hairstyles 2017 men. While not of African descent, his hair journey in 2017 significantly impacted the perception and popularity of longer, textured styles among men across all demographics. His transition from a signature short, faded look to embracing his natural waves showcased the versatility and appeal of growing out one's hair.
"Zayn Malik was just another dude with a high fade haircut (albeit a very famous one) until 2017 came around and he started growing his impressively thick, wavy hair out as" a more prominent feature. This move resonated with many, inspiring men to explore longer, more natural styles that celebrated their hair's inherent texture. His shift demonstrated that moving beyond the ubiquitous fade could lead to equally, if not more, captivating looks. This helped to normalize and popularize the idea of embracing longer, more voluminous hair, contributing to the broader trend of men experimenting with different styles in 2017.
Zayn Malik: Personal Data & Biodata
| Category | Detail |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Zain Javadd Malik |
| Date of Birth | January 12, 1993 |
| Place of Birth | Bradford, West Yorkshire, England |
| Occupation | Singer, Songwriter |
| Musical Genres | Pop, R&B, Alternative R&B |
| Known For | Former member of One Direction, successful solo career |
| Hair Type (Natural) | Thick, Wavy |
The Art of Styling and Maintenance
Achieving and maintaining the diverse black hairstyles 2017 men embraced required a specific approach to styling and care. It's widely recognized that "black hair requires special treatment, as it is more prone to breakage, frizz and tangling." However, this doesn't mean it's difficult to manage; rather, it emphasizes the need for informed care. "When you know how to find a special approach," maintaining healthy and stylish black hair becomes much more manageable and rewarding.
The trends of 2017 leaned towards "more natural looking men’s hairstyles that are styled with lighter hold and matte finish pomades." This marked a departure from overly stiff or greasy looks, favoring products that enhanced natural texture without weighing it down. For those seeking "exaggerated flow and extra" volume, a blow dryer became an essential tool, allowing for controlled shaping and movement. The emphasis was on enhancing the hair's natural qualities, ensuring that each style looked effortless yet polished. This focus on natural finishes and protective styling underscored a holistic approach to grooming, where health and aesthetics went hand in hand.
Finding Your Signature Style in 2017
In 2017, finding the perfect haircut was more than just a fashion choice; it was a deeply personal statement. As the data suggests, "Finding the perfect haircut is not just a style decision but a statement of individuality, confidence, and culture." This sentiment was particularly true for black men, whose hairstyles often carry significant cultural weight and personal expression. The year offered an unparalleled opportunity for men to explore and define their unique aesthetic.
"Modern, edgy and classic African American hairstyles always stand out in a crowd." Like the perfect accessory, they had the power to "bring a whole look together." Whether one preferred "simple and chic or textured and funky," the array of options ensured that there was a style for every personality. The freedom to experiment meant that "black guys can even create their own unique cuts and styles by combining" different elements, leading to truly personalized looks. The best advice for anyone looking to switch up their haircut in 2017 was simple: "Read, get inspired, and let your hairdresser know, which fabulous cut you’ll be getting." It was a year to embrace personal style and make a bold statement with one's hair.
Beyond 2017: The Enduring Legacy
The black hairstyles 2017 men embraced left an indelible mark on the world of male grooming, setting a precedent for diversity, individuality, and self-expression that continues to influence trends today. The year's focus on versatility, from sharp fades to voluminous afros and protective braids, showcased the incredible range and beauty of black hair. These "2017 hairstyles represents the vibrant and eclectic presence on the runways mixed with the wearable street style trends we’ve taken note of and loved," solidifying their place in the annals of men's fashion.
The trends of 2017, particularly for black men, were not fleeting fads but rather foundational shifts that emphasized authenticity and personal connection to one's heritage. The exploration of different textures, lengths, and cuts encouraged men to see their hair as a powerful tool for self-identity. The legacy of black hairstyles 2017 men is evident in the continued popularity of many of these looks, proving their timeless appeal. As we look forward, the spirit of 2017—embracing individuality and celebrating natural beauty—remains a guiding principle in the ever-evolving world of men's hair.
What was your favorite black men's hairstyle from 2017? Did you try any of these iconic looks, or did they inspire your current style? Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below! If you found this retrospective insightful, be sure to explore our other articles on men's grooming and fashion trends.
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