Cornrows are a timeless and versatile hairstyle that has been embraced by cultures around the world for centuries. These intricate braids not only protect your hair but also offer endless possibilities for creative expression. Whether you’re looking for a sleek, professional look or a bold, statement-making style, there’s a cornrow design out there for you. In this article, we’ll explore 20 stunning cornrow styles that you can show your braider for your next hair appointment, along with tips, product recommendations, and expert advice to help you achieve and maintain your perfect look.
The Timeless Appeal of Cornrows
Cornrows have been a staple in African and African American hair culture for generations. These braided styles offer both functionality and beauty, protecting the hair while creating intricate patterns that can range from simple and elegant to complex and eye-catching. In recent years, cornrows have gained widespread popularity across various cultures, appearing on red carpets, runways, and in everyday street style.
The history of cornrows dates back thousands of years, with evidence of the style found in ancient African art and sculptures. Cornrows were not only a means of grooming but also served as a way to express identity, and social status, and even communicate messages. Today, cornrows continue to be a powerful symbol of cultural pride and artistic expression.
1. Classic Straight Back Cornrows
Let’s start with the basics. Straight-back cornrows are a timeless choice that never goes out of style. This clean and simple look involves braiding the hair straight back from the forehead to the nape of the neck. It’s a versatile style that works for any occasion, from casual outings to formal events.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Low maintenance | It can become frizzy over time |
| It may put tension on the hairline | Can become frizzy over time |
| Versatile for various occasions | May require frequent touch-ups |
| Protects hair from damage | It may require frequent touch-ups |
Pro Tip: To reduce tension on your hairline, ask your braider to start with looser braids near the front and gradually increase tension as they move towards the back.
Product Recommendation: Use a light hair oil like Moroccanoil Treatment Light to add shine and reduce frizz without weighing down your braids.
2. Zig-Zag Part Cornrows
Add some excitement to your look with zig-zag part cornrows. This style features a zig-zag parting pattern that creates visual interest and adds a unique touch to the traditional straight-back cornrow style.
To achieve this look, your braider will create a zig-zag pattern along your scalp using a rat-tail comb. The cornrows are then braided following these zig-zag parts, resulting in a dynamic and eye-catching style.
Pro Tip: For a more subtle look, opt for a less pronounced zig-zag pattern. For a bolder statement, ask for sharper angles and more defined zig-zags.
3. Curved Cornrows
For those who want to soften their look, curved cornrows offer a gentle, feminine touch. These braids follow curved lines across the scalp, creating a flowing, organic pattern that can be customized to flatter your face shape.
Curved cornrows can be styled in various ways:
- S-shaped curves
- C-shaped curves
- Wave-like patterns
Your braider can mix and match these curved patterns to create a unique look that complements your features.
Product Recommendation: Use a flexible hold edge control gel like Ebin 24-Hour Edge Tamer to keep your edges smooth and your curved cornrows looking neat.
4. Cornrow Updo
“Cornrow updos are perfect for special occasions. They combine the elegance of an updo with the intricacy of cornrows, resulting in a show-stopping look.” – Celebrity hairstylist Ursula Stephen
For a more formal or glamorous occasion, consider a cornrow updo. This style involves braiding cornrows in various directions and then styling them into an updo, such as a bun or twisted crown.
Popular cornrow updo styles include:
- Braided bun
- Cornrow crown
- Twisted updo with cornrow base
- Braided mohawk updo
Pro Tip: Incorporate hair accessories like decorative pins, flowers, or jewelled clips to elevate your cornrow updo for special events.
5. Feed-In Braids
Feed-in braids are a popular variation of cornrows that create a seamless, natural look. This technique involves adding hair extensions gradually as the braid progresses, resulting in fuller, longer braids without a bulky appearance at the roots.
Benefits of feed-in braids:
- Natural-looking results
- Versatility in length and thickness
- Less stress on natural hair
- Longer-lasting style
Product Recommendation: Use high-quality synthetic braiding hair like X-pression Ultra Braid for smooth, long-lasting feed-in braids.
6. Cornrows with Beads
Embrace your playful side by incorporating beads into your cornrow style. Beads can be added to the ends of the braids or woven throughout for a fun and colourful look.
Types of beads to consider:
- Wooden beads for a natural look
- Metallic beads for shine
- Colourful plastic beads for a vibrant style
- Ceramic beads for a unique texture
Pro Tip: Choose lighter beads to prevent excessive weight on your braids, which can cause breakage or discomfort.
7. Side-Swept Cornrows
Side-swept cornrows offer an asymmetrical look that’s both edgy and elegant. This style features cornrows that are braided diagonally across the head, often with a deep side part.
Variations of side-swept cornrows:
- All braids swept to one side
- Alternating directions for a more complex look
- Combining with other styles like feed-in braids or curved cornrows
Product Recommendation: Use a strong hold gel like Eco Styler Professional Styling Gel to keep your side-swept cornrows sleek and in place.
8. Cornrow Mohawk
For those who dare to be bold, a cornrow mohawk combines the edginess of a mohawk with the intricacy of cornrows. This style typically features closely braided sides with a centre section of fuller braids or loose hair.
Cornrow Mohawk variations:
- Braided centre with shaved sides
- Loose, curly centre with cornrowed sides
- Peaked cornrows forming a mohawk-shape
- Combination of cornrows and twists in a mohawk style
Pro Tip: To switch up your look, you can temporarily pin down the centre section for a sleeker style when needed.
9. Geometric Cornrows
Geometric cornrows showcase intricate patterns and shapes braided into the hair. These can range from simple triangles and diamonds to more complex designs that cover the entire head.
Popular geometric cornrow patterns:
- Triangular sections
- Diamond-shaped braids
- Hexagonal patterns
- Spiral designs
Product Recommendation: Use a high-quality rat-tail comb like the Diane Premium Rat Tail Comb for precise partings when creating geometric patterns.
10. Cornrows with Designs
Take your cornrow style to the next level by incorporating designs into your braids. This can include everything from simple swirls to elaborate patterns that transform your hair into a work of art.
Design ideas to consider:
- Heart shapes
- Star patterns
- Floral designs
- Abstract art-inspired patterns
Pro Tip: Bring reference images to your braider to ensure you both have the same vision for your cornrow design.
11. Braided Bang Cornrows
Incorporate a braided bang into your cornrow style for a face-framing look. This can be achieved by braiding a section of hair forward and styling it as a bang, while the rest of the hair is braided back.
Braided bang variations:
- Side-swept braided bang
- Full fringe braided bang
- Curved braided bang
- Micro braids as bangs
Product Recommendation: Use a lightweight leave-in conditioner like Cantu Shea Butter Leave-In Conditioning Repair Cream to keep your braided bangs soft and manageable.
12. Cornrows with Fade
Combine the clean look of a fade with the intricacy of cornrows for a style that’s both modern and stylish. This look works particularly well for those with short to medium-length hair.
Types of fades to pair with cornrows:
- Low fade
- High fade
- Temple fade
- Skin fade
Pro Tip: Communicate clearly with your barber and braider to ensure the fade and cornrows complement each other perfectly.
13. Cornrow Braid-Out
For a unique texture, try a cornrow braid-out. This involves braiding the hair in cornrows, and then unraveling them after a day or two to create a beautiful, wavy pattern.
Steps for a perfect cornrow braid-out:
- Wash and condition hair
- Apply a leave-in conditioner and styling cream
- Braid hair in the desired cornrow pattern
- Allow braids to dry completely (overnight or with a hooded dryer)
- Unravel braids and separate gently with fingers
- Fluff and style as desired
Product Recommendation: Use a moisturizing styling cream like Shea Moisture Coconut & Hibiscus Curl Enhancing Smoothie for defined, frizz-free waves.
14. Half-Up Cornrows
The half-up cornrow style offers the best of both worlds. The top section of the hair is braided into cornrows, while the lower half is left loose or styled differently.
Half-up cornrow ideas:
- The top section in cornrows with loose curls below
- Cornrowed crown with straight hair down
- Side cornrows with the rest of the hair in a ponytail
- Geometric cornrows on top with box braids below
Pro Tip: This style is great for those new to cornrows or who want to give their edges a break from constant braiding.
15. Cornrows with Color
Add some vibrancy to your cornrows by incorporating colour. This can be achieved through temporary hair chalk, semi-permanent dyes, or by using coloured hair extensions in your feed-in braids.
Colourful cornrow ideas:
- Ombre effect with gradually changing colours
- Rainbow cornrows
- Neon-coloured braids for a bold look
- Natural-looking highlights woven into braids
Product Recommendation: For temporary color, try Mofajang Hair Coloring Wax for a vibrant, washable color without commitment.
16. Micro Cornrows
Micro cornrows are ultra-thin braids that create a sleek, refined look. While they take longer to install, they often last longer and offer a very polished appearance.
Benefits of micro cornrows:
- Delicate, intricate appearance
- Versatile styling options
- Longer-lasting than thicker braids
- Can create more detailed patterns
Pro Tip: Due to their small size, micro cornrows can put more tension on the hair. Be sure to take breaks between styles to avoid traction alopecia.
17. Braided Crown Cornrows
Create a regal look with braided crown cornrows. This style involves braiding the hair around the head to form a crown-like pattern, often with additional braids or twists at the back.
Variations of braided crown cornrows:
- Full crown with all hair braided
- Partial crown with loose hair in the back
- Double crown with two layers of braided crowns
- Asymmetrical crown for a unique look
Product Recommendation: Use a strong hold edge control like Style Factor Edge Booster Strong Hold Water-Based Pomade to keep your crown neat and frizz-free.
18. Cornrows with Accessories
Elevate your cornrow style with accessories such as hair cuffs, rings, or decorative pins. These can add a touch of glamour and personalization to your look.
Popular accessories for cornrows:
- Metal hair cuffs
- Wooden or shell beads
- Colorful string wraps
- Jeweled pins or clips
Pro Tip: When using metal accessories, make sure they’re smooth to avoid snagging or damaging your hair.
19. Lemonade Braids
Popularized by Beyoncé, lemonade braids are side-swept cornrows that typically start from one side of the head and continue diagonally across to the other side.
Key features of lemonade braids:
- Long, side-swept style
- Often incorporate feed-in technique
- Can include intricate parts and designs
- Versatile for various hair lengths and textures
Product Recommendation: Use Shine ‘n Jam Extra Hold Magic Fingers for Braiders to help grip the hair and create smooth, long-lasting lemonade braids.
20. Cornrow Ponytail
Combine the practicality of a ponytail with the style of cornrows. This look features cornrows that lead into a high or low ponytail, offering a chic and easy-to-maintain style.
Cornrow ponytail variations:
- High ponytail with straight-back cornrows
- Low ponytail with curved cornrows
- Side ponytail with diagonal cornrows
- Multiple ponytails with intricate cornrow patterns
Pro Tip: To protect your edges, alternate the direction of your cornrows and the position of your ponytail with each style.
Choosing the Right Cornrow Style for You
When selecting a cornrow style, consider the following factors:
- Face shape
- Hair length and texture
- Lifestyle and maintenance preferences
- Occasion or purpose of the style
- Personal style and comfort level
- Hair health and strength
- Time available for styling and maintenance
- Climate and environmental factors
Pro Tip: Consult with your braider about which styles will work best for your hair type and lifestyle. They can offer valuable advice based on their experience and expertise.
Caring for Your Cornrows
To keep your cornrows looking fresh and your hair healthy, follow these tips:
- Moisturize your scalp and braids regularly
- Sleep with a silk or satin scarf or pillowcase
- Avoid excessive tugging or pulling on the braids
- Clean your scalp and braids with a gentle, diluted shampoo
- Don’t keep the style in for too long (6-8 weeks maximum)
- Use a leave-in conditioner spray to maintain moisture
- Avoid heavy products that can cause build-up
- Gently massage your scalp to promote blood circulation
- Touch up your edges as needed for a polished look
Product Recommendation: Try the As I Am Dry & Itchy Scalp Care Cowash for gentle cleansing without disturbing your cornrows.
Conclusion
Cornrows offer a world of possibilities for expressing your personal style while protecting your hair. From classic straight-back braids to intricate geometric designs, there’s a cornrow style to suit every taste and occasion. Remember to consult with your braider about the best options for your hair type and desired look. With proper care and maintenance, your cornrow style can keep you looking fabulous for weeks.
“Cornrows are more than just a hairstyle; they’re a form of self-expression and a celebration of cultural heritage.” – Hairstylist and natural hair advocate Felicia Leatherwood
Whether you opt for a simple, classic look or a bold, avant-garde style, cornrows are sure to turn heads and boost your confidence. So go ahead, save these ideas, and show them to your braider for your next hair transformation!
Pro Tip: Take photos of your favourite cornrow styles to show your braider. This can help ensure you’re both on the same page and achieve the exact look you want.