Islam is a universal message that is valid for all peoples in all times and places. It addresses human instinct and thus rejects all that may contradict with human nature or natural order of things.
The Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) cursed men who imitate women and women who imitate men. Aspects of such imitation include the manner of speaking, walking, dressing, moving and so on.
The evil of such conduct, which affects both the life of the individual and of society, is that it constitutes a rebellion against the natural order of things. According to this natural order, there are men and there are women, and each sex has its own distinctive characteristics. However, if men become effeminate and women masculine, this natural order will be reversed and will disintegrate.
Among those who are cursed by Allah and His angels, both in this world and in the Hereafter, the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) has mentioned a man who becomes effeminate by imitating women, and a woman who becomes masculine by imitating men. (Reported by at-Tabarani)
Sheikh Ahmad Kutty, a senior lecturer and Islamic scholar at the Islamic Institute of Toronto, Ontario, Canada, states: “Generally speaking, the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) has strongly advised Muslim men to stay away from copying women in their hair styles and grooming. Braiding is specifically considered as part of women hair styles. Therefore men are advised not to go for it unless there is a medical necessity that dictates doing so.”
In conclusion, Muslim youth should follow in the footsteps of righteous youth who adhere to Islam and stick to its teachings, so as to make the Muslim Ummah the best nation ever raised for mankind.