Cornrow braids are incredibly versatile and functional, creating the opportunity for stunning hairstyles that look gorgeous and are low maintenance. In this article, we’ll explore some of the stunning cornrow braids hairstyles you should try at your next stylist appointment.
Key Features of Cornrow Braids:
- Cornrow braids allow the natural hair to be tucked away from the elements, heat tools, and day-to-day styling.
- Braids date back thousands of years to 3,000 BC in Africa.
- Cornrow braids styles differ between different areas of Africa, telling a unique story about the wearer.
- Cornrows are extremely low maintenance. After only a few hours in the chair, your hairstyle is ready for approximately one month.
Long and Glam:
Classic cornrows have been highly popular since the 1900s, but for a glam look, keep yours long, cascading past your waste. A good example of this is Zendaya, who created a Cleopatra vibe with cool, graphic eye makeup.
Rainbow, Middle Part:
A defined center part can also always make a statement, but you can push it further with a rainbow look. Have multi-colored cornrow braids that are sectioned off horizontally rather than vertically to create stunning symmetry.
Unraveled Ends:
Loose ends to your cornrow braids can provide a low-maintenance yet gorgeous look. Zoe Kravitz has made this one of her signature styles that exemplifies her cool aesthetic. You’ll need to run a nourishing hair oil through your ends to keep them smooth, soft, and protected.
Pigtail Cornrow Braids:
Try pigtail cornrow braids if you want a sporty yet stylish look. This will not only keep your hair out of your face but frame your features. You can also create a more elaborate style with mini braids at the sides of your head to complement the larger braids.
Slicked Baby Hairs:
This cornrow style allows you to showcase your baby hairs. Rather than trying to disguise these small, new-growth hair, they can take center stage. Use your favorite control gel and style the baby hairs. You can even create swirls and swoops for a more dramatic look.
Half Crown:
This is a throwback to the 1990s and early 2000s, but it is now on trend again. This style has cornrows in the front of your hair, leaving the rest to be in spiral curls. This allows you to allow your natural hair to be showcased. After you connect the braids into a crown, you don’t need to tuck them away and allow them to remain out for a lovely contrast.
Half Box Braid, Half Cornrow:
If you struggle to decide between box braids and cornrows, why not try both? You can combine these two styles for a great bold braid pattern. If you want to create a festive winter look, you could even attempt to create six-pointed snowflake shapes.
Colourful Top Knot:
Consider an elaborate top knot if you want a sophisticated cornrow braids hairstyle. This style can look stunning if you choose a bold shade or your signature color.
Braided Bob:
It is possible to create a beautiful bob hairstyle with your cornrow braids. This looks particularly appealing if you use asymmetrical braided parts. For a soft yet edgy look, add in some colorful extensions.
Silver Touches:
You can create gorgeous braids that allow your style to shine by threading silver gems or rhinestones into your braids. This creates an effortlessly beautiful look that looks stunning, particularly if you’re attending a party or formal function.
Thick and Thin:
Combine thick and thin braids if you want to experiment with your cornrow style. Add two mini cornrows between each main one to create an eye-catching pattern.
Milkmaid with Accent Braids:
If you want a half updo, half cornrow style, a milkmaid braid could be a great option for you. Put your hair into a milkmaid style with a few accents and cornrows at the front to complement and modernize the look. You can enhance the style with braid charms or beads.
Sculptured Low Bun:
A cornrow updo can be stylish and protective with endless possibilities. A great example of this is a sculptured low bun. Just make sure that your braids are not overly tense.