Table of Contents
To put it plainly, cornrows with hair can be quite puzzling when you search for them online among various braided hairstyles. If you find yourself uncertain about what exactly cornrows are, don’t fret because many others share the same confusion.
We’re here to provide you with comprehensive information on cornrows and address any inquiries you may have had. There’s no need to delay any further. Continue reading for an all-inclusive manual that covers everything you should know about cornrows and natural hairstyles.
You may also read: Best Goth Hairstyles For Curly Hair
What are cornrows?
The interchangeable use of terms like cornrow, cornrows, and boxer braids can indeed cause confusion. However, there’s no need to be alarmed because they essentially refer to the same hairstyle.
Cornrows with hair are essentially flat braids that have their roots in Africa and the Caribbean. As you might have deduced, the name “cornrow” is derived from their resemblance to rows of corn or cane.
How to style cornrows with hair?
While cornrow hairstyles may initially seem intimidating, they are actually simpler to achieve than you might imagine. In fact, they bear a close resemblance to Dutch braids.
To create this style, begin by dividing a one to two-inch section of hair from the top into three equal parts. Take the right section and pass it beneath the middle one, then repeat the same step with the left section. Next, gather additional hair from the sides and incorporate them into the existing strands before repeating the weaving process.
Continue this pattern until you reach the ends of your hair, then secure it with a hairband. It’s important to ensure that no hair is left in the middle section; otherwise, you’ll end up with a standard Dutch braid instead.
Guide: How to Cornrow Your Hair
Step 01
To cleanse your hair, utilize the Love Beauty and Planet Hope and Repair Coconut Oil & Ylang Ylang Sulfate-Free Shampoo and Conditioner. Apply the shampoo to wet hair, gently massaging it into your scalp and strands. Rinse thoroughly and follow up with the matching conditioner, focusing on the lengths and ends.
After applying the conditioner, use a wide-toothed comb to carefully detangle any knots or tangles from your hair. This combination of products will help nourish and repair your hair while making it more manageable.
Step 02
Using a tail comb, start by dividing your hair into sections to create a vertical row that runs from the front to the back. If you want smaller braids, create more sections. Conversely, if you prefer larger braids, make fewer sections. The size of the sections will determine the size of the resulting braids.
Step 03
Starting from the front of your created row, select a small section of hair. Divide this section into three equal parts.
Step 4
Begin the braid by crossing either the left or right strand under the center strand. Repeat the process by crossing the outer strand from the opposite side under the center strand.
Step 5
Repeat step 4, but this time, as you weave, incorporate additional hair from underneath into each side of the braid.
Step 6
Continue braiding with a traditional 3-strand technique once you’ve incorporated all the available hair from underneath. Keep braiding until you reach the end of your hair.
Step 7
Secure the ends of the braid with a knot or use an elastic band to keep them in place.
Step 8
Repeat steps 2 to 7 until you have braided all of your hair.
Final Step:
To achieve smooth edges, you can use a toothbrush and the TRESemmé TRES Two Extra Firm Control Gel.
- Take a clean toothbrush, preferably a soft-bristle one, and apply a small amount of the TRESemmé TRES Two Extra Firm Control Gel onto the bristles.
- Gently brush the edges of your hair, using small, controlled strokes. The gel will help to lay down any flyaways and baby hairs, giving you a sleek look.
- Continue brushing until the edges are smooth and well-groomed.
- If needed, you can apply more gel and use the toothbrush to further shape and define your edges.
- Once you’re satisfied with the results, allow the gel to dry and set in place.
This technique, along with the TRESemmé TRES Two Extra Firm Control Gel, will help you achieve sleek and polished edges for your cornrow style.
45 Best Cornrows Hairstyles to try
01. Pigtail Cornrows with hair
If you’re interested in a sporty yet stylish appearance, you can consider experimenting with pigtail cornrows. This hairstyle not only keeps your hair away from your face but also accentuates and frames your facial features. For a more intricate look, you have the option to incorporate mini braids on the sides of your head, complementing the larger cornrows and adding extra flair to the style.
02. Cornrow Bun
The cornrow bun is a convenient and versatile hairstyle option for studying or working. It offers a simple way to style your cornrows. By gathering your cornrows into a bun, you can create a neat and polished look that is both professional and practical.
Additionally, if you prefer a different style, you can easily transform the cornrow bun into a ponytail within seconds, giving you flexibility and adaptability in your hairstyle choice.
03. Feed-In Braids with Cuff Beads
Beads can add a touch of sophistication to any hairstyle, and when combined with beautiful feed-in braids featuring a stylish pattern, the result is truly stunning. Feed-in braids are a technique that allows you to achieve the appearance of long cornrow braids.
The process begins by creating a starter braid using your natural hair, and then synthetic braiding hair is added to create a long cornrow that looks remarkably natural. This technique gives the illusion of extended, intricate cornrows, allowing for a versatile and visually appealing hairstyle.
04. Simple Straight Back Cornrows with hair
Simple straight back cornrows are a classic and timeless hairstyle. They involve creating neat and straight rows of braids that are positioned towards the back of the head. This style is characterized by its simplicity, with the focus on clean and uniform braids.
Simple straight back cornrows can be worn as a standalone hairstyle or can serve as a foundation for adding additional hair accessories or extensions. They are versatile, low-maintenance, and can be customized to suit different hair lengths and textures. This clean and straightforward style is suitable for various occasions and complements a wide range of fashion choices.
05. Beaded Straight Back Cornrows
Beaded straight back cornrows are a popular and stylish variation of cornrow hairstyles. This style involves creating straight-back cornrows and adding decorative beads along the length of each braid. The beads can be colorful, metallic, or embellished, adding a unique and eye-catching touch to the overall look.
Beaded straight back cornrows offer a combination of traditional and modern elements, resulting in a chic and trendy hairstyle that can be worn for various occasions.
06. Rainbow Center Parted Braids
Rainbow center parted braids are a vibrant and playful hairstyle that incorporates a colorful rainbow effect with a defined center part. This style involves parting the hair down the center and creating braids on both sides of the part. Each braid is then adorned with different shades of vibrant colors, resembling a rainbow.
The result is a striking and eye-catching look that allows for a lot of creativity and individuality. Rainbow center parted braids are a bold and fun choice, perfect for those looking to make a unique and vibrant statement with their hair.
07. Cornrows with Slicked-Down Baby Hair
Cornrows with slicked-down baby hair is a chic and polished hairstyle that combines neatly braided cornrows with sleekly styled baby hair. The cornrows are created by braiding sections of hair close to the scalp, while the baby hair, the shorter strands around the hairline, is carefully slicked down and styled for a sleek and refined look.
This style is often achieved by using edge control products or gels to smooth the baby hair and lay it flat against the forehead and temples. The contrast between the sleek baby hair and the intricate cornrows creates a sophisticated and fashionable hairstyle that can be worn for various occasions.
08. Half Cornrow Crown
The half cornrow crown is a stylish and elegant hairstyle that combines cornrows with flowing hair. In this style, cornrows are braided on one side of the head, creating a crown-like pattern that starts at the front and extends towards the back. The remaining hair is left loose and can be styled in various ways, such as curls or waves.
The half cornrow crown offers a balance between the structured and the free-flowing, creating a stunning and versatile look that is suitable for both formal and casual events. It is a popular choice for those who want to showcase their creativity while keeping their hair off their face.
09. Blonde Cornrow High Ponytail
The blonde cornrow high ponytail is a trendy and stylish hairstyle that combines cornrows with a high ponytail, all in a blonde color. This style starts with sectioning the hair and creating neat cornrows along the scalp, typically starting from the front and moving towards the back.
The cornrows are then gathered into a high ponytail, secured with a hair tie or hair wrap. The use of blonde hair color adds a touch of vibrancy and can create a striking contrast against different skin tones. The blonde cornrow high ponytail is a versatile and chic choice, suitable for various occasions and can be accessorized with hair accessories or embellishments to enhance the overall look.
10. Sunbeam Cornrows with hair
Sunbeam cornrows are a unique and eye-catching hairstyle that features braids with a radiant and sunny appearance. These cornrows are characterized by incorporating bright and vibrant colors, reminiscent of a sunbeam or a burst of sunlight. The braids can be styled in various patterns and designs, such as straight-back cornrows, curved patterns, or even geometric shapes.
The addition of the sunbeam colors adds a playful and energetic element to the overall look, making it a bold and standout hairstyle choice. Sunbeam cornrows are a creative way to express individuality and can be customized to suit personal style preferences.
11. Traditional Shuruba Cornrows with hair
Traditional Shuruba cornrows are a type of cornrow hairstyle that originates from the Shuruba tribe in Africa. Shuruba cornrows are known for their intricate and geometric patterns, often featuring precise and closely woven braids. These cornrows can be created in various designs, including straight lines, zigzags, or even more intricate shapes like diamonds or triangles.
The Shuruba cornrow style is deeply rooted in cultural heritage and is a way to showcase artistry and craftsmanship in hair styling. It is a popular choice for those who appreciate traditional African hairstyles and want to embrace their cultural roots.
12. Half Cornrow-Half Box Braid
The half cornrow-half box braid style combines two popular braiding techniques to create a unique and visually interesting hairstyle. In this style, one half of the head is styled with cornrows, while the other half is adorned with box braids. The cornrows are typically created close to the scalp in a pattern of your choice, while the box braids are thicker and extend down the length of the hair.
This combination of cornrows and box braids provides a versatile and dynamic look, allowing for creativity in texture, size, and parting. The half cornrow-half box braid style offers the best of both worlds, showcasing the intricacy of cornrows and the length and volume of box braids in one eye-catching hairstyle.
13. Cornrows with Full Ponytail
Cornrows with a full ponytail is a stylish and practical hairstyle that combines the sleekness of cornrows with the versatility of a high or low ponytail. In this style, the hair is braided into cornrows close to the scalp, typically in straight-back or curved patterns. The cornrows are then gathered together along with the remaining hair to create a full ponytail.
This look provides a clean and polished appearance while keeping the hair off the face and neck. It is a versatile hairstyle that can be worn for various occasions and can be accessorized with hair ties, ribbons, or other embellishments to enhance the overall look. Cornrows with a full ponytail offer a balance between sophistication and functionality.
14. Blue Cornrow Top Bun
The blue cornrow top bun is a trendy and eye-catching hairstyle that combines cornrows with a high bun, all in a vibrant blue color. The hair is braided into cornrows along the scalp, typically starting from the front and moving towards the back. The cornrows are then gathered into a high bun at the top of the head, creating a stylish and elevated look.
The blue color adds a bold and striking element to the hairstyle, making it a standout choice. This hairstyle is versatile and can be worn for various occasions, whether it’s a casual outing or a special event. The blue cornrow top bun allows you to express your individuality and creativity while showcasing a chic and fashionable look.
15. Gold Wires In Braids
Adding gold wires to braids is a fashionable and glamorous way to elevate your hairstyle. This technique involves incorporating thin, metallic gold wires into your braids, intertwining them with the strands of hair as you braid. The gold wires can be strategically placed throughout the braids to create an eye-catching and luminous effect.
This embellishment adds a touch of elegance and shine to your braided hairstyle, making it stand out and giving it a luxurious look. Whether you opt for a few subtle gold accents or go for a more elaborate design, the addition of gold wires in braids can enhance your overall style and make a bold fashion statement.
16. Half-Up Space Buns
Half-up space buns are a playful and trendy hairstyle that involves creating two buns on the crown of the head while leaving the remaining hair down. This style is achieved by dividing the hair into two equal sections, usually horizontally, and then twisting or braiding each section into a bun. The buns are positioned on the top or sides of the head, creating a cute and youthful look.
Half-up space buns can be customized by adjusting the size and tightness of the buns, adding accessories like ribbons or clips, or incorporating colorful extensions for an extra pop of style. This hairstyle is versatile and can be worn casually or dressed up for special occasions, making it a fun and versatile choice.
17. Pink Bob Cornrows with hair
A pink bob cornrow is a unique and bold hairstyle that combines a bob haircut with cornrows in a vibrant pink color. The hair is braided into cornrows close to the scalp, creating a patterned effect. The cornrows are then cut to a shorter length, resembling a bob hairstyle.
The pink color adds a striking and individual touch to the look, making it stand out and grab attention. This combination of cornrows and a pink bob offers a trendy and edgy appearance, allowing for personalization in terms of cornrow pattern and shade of pink.
18. Red Braided Updo
A red braided updo is a stylish and elegant hairstyle that combines braids with an updo, featuring vibrant red hair color. The hair is braided and then gathered into an updo, creating a striking and captivating look. This statement hairstyle is perfect for special occasions and showcases creativity, confidence, and sophistication.
19. Alternating Thin and Thick Braids
Alternating thin and thick braids is a trendy hairstyle that involves braiding the hair in a pattern where some braids are thin and others are thick. This technique adds texture and visual interest to the hairstyle, creating a unique and eye-catching look.
The thin braids provide delicacy, while the thick braids add volume and depth. This versatile style can be applied to the entire head or as a partial braided look, allowing for experimentation with different braid styles and patterns.
20. Classic Cornrows with a Low Braided Ponytail
Classic Cornrows with a Low Braided Ponytail is a timeless and chic hairstyle that combines traditional cornrows with a stylish low ponytail. The hair is braided into neat and symmetrical cornrows close to the scalp, creating a clean and structured look. The cornrows are then gathered into a low ponytail at the nape of the neck and braided to add texture and interest.
This hairstyle offers a versatile and polished appearance suitable for various occasions, from casual to formal. It is a great option for those who desire a sleek and elegant look with a touch of braided detail.
Easy Cornrow Hairstyle Tutorial (Video)
FAQs
1. Can cornrows damage your hair?
You can put your worries aside when it comes to the potential damage of cornrow styles. In fact, they are known to be beneficial for your hair. Cornrows offer an excellent choice if you’re seeking a protective hairstyle or even if you want to achieve a braid out look.
It’s important to handle your hair with care and avoid braiding too tightly to prevent discomfort or hair loss. One effective method of safeguarding your strands, providing additional moisture, and nourishment is to apply a leave-in conditioner before braiding.
By following these practices, you can protect your hair while enjoying the benefits of cornrow styles.
2. Why should I try cornrows?
Absolutely! We’ve spotted this look on the streets and the catwalks: this braid is a low-maintenance, practical, fashionable, and durable style that works on various hair lengths and types. It’s also a hairstyle that allows for a lot of individuality: You can opt for pigtail cornrows, play around with multiple rows, or bravely experiment with different partings and shapes.
You may also read: Is my hair black or brown? (Answered)
