Two years ago, University of Memphis freshman O. R. Willis replaced his low-top fade with French braids.
"Braids are hip-hop," Willis said. "Hip-hop will live forever, and my braids will stay forever."
Since the mid-1970s, hip-hop has transcended from musical beats and lyrics to a style of dress, an attitude and a form of expression for many young people, especially African-Americans.
Superstars from sports and music have influenced hair trends for the past 30 years.
In the late 1970s, the Afro was popularized by groups like "Earth, Wind and Fire" and basketball Hall of Fame great Julius "Dr. J" Erving.
In the 1980s, the Jheri-Curl worn by pop icon Michael Jackson dominated hair trends.
By the early 1990s, rap duo Kid-N-Play's high-top fade swept the barbershops of America.
The trend of braids started in East Coast cities after basketball star Latrell Sprewell began sporting his braids three years ago.
Other celebrities like Philadelphia 76er Allen Iverson and West Coast rapper Snoop Dogg followed suit.
Today, men are willing to spend up to $60 for the braids hip-hop look.
"People are willing to pay $25 to $60 for a style at the beauty shop," said beautician Dena Perry, who braids hair for up to three men a day. "Braids originated from Africa as a symbol of strength and heritage."
According to Perry, the two types of braids are over and under braids. Perry said most young men like the over braids because they give the hair a fuller look.
And while Perry said braided styles are beautiful, she admitted braids could sometimes encourage negative stereotypes.
Some students with braids agreed saying they have been followed by police, who assume they are troublemakers. Store attendants also suspect shoppers with braids.
"Don't judge me because of hair," said Jamel Tate, a junior majoring in health. "Give me a chance. Get to know me."
Tauarious Davis, a freshman football player, said the only way to dispel negative stereotypes about braids is to accomplish positive things. "My family knows I'm a good person, but once I become a success, people will see braids are just a part of me."
