75 Cornrow Braids To Look Like A Magazine Cover

Cornrow braids are a gift for natural hair. Although modern hairstylists have made this traditional African hairstyle a whole brand new trend, only cuties with curly and naughty hair can sport it at its best, and today we want to share some inspiring ideas with you.

What are Cornrows?

by@magicfingersstudio

Cornrows are one of the most natural hairstyles that both men and women find equally appealing. The best way to describe the style would be to mention that it is a type of braid done incredibly close to the scalp. The sections of your hair that go into the cornrows are neatly attached to the scalp.

Cornrow Braids Half-Up Half-Down

by @xcellentxtensions

These braids form a very unusual geometric design that you can actually style in a lovely half-up half-down hairdo! Once you get these half cornrows - half box braids, you won’t only calm down your uncontrollable thick locks, you will also get yourself an endless space for imagination.

Cornrows With Double Braids In Front Of The Ears

by @braidedroots

Natural black hairstyles with half-cornrow braids. You can elevate your braiding skills to a whole new level with these shimmering ombre accents. This braiding idea motivate you for your upcoming cornrow hairstyle.

Long Cornrow Braids For Dark Copper Ombre Hair

by @carlisbeautyhair

The main reason why we love these braids is that they’re a low-maintenance hairstyle. Who doesn’t want to save some time in the mornings?

Fancy Long Braids With Accessories

by @lucasbraids

African American ladies are the real trendsetters. Unlike familiar braiding techniques, when creating cornrows, you cross the sections under to make them pop off your head. All of your natural hair is braided tightly into many rows of dimensional, visible braids. To spice it up, embellish your braids with hair beads.

Braided Cornrow Ponytail + Yellow-Blonde Ombre

by @lucasbraids

Cornrows put into a ponytail are a common type of braided hairstyle that mixes elaborate cornrow designs with a high or low ponytail. It is adaptable, simple to maintain, and can be tailored to fit your own unique style.

Cornrow Braids Into A High Bun

by @lucasbraids

For both ladies and gentlemen, braided buns are a cozy and simple protective hairdo option. There are so many styling methods for this hairstyle…You're likely to discover the one that works for your hair type.

LHS Editors’ Advice: Tension is a problem when it comes to this hairstyle, so take care not to overtighten the bun as this can weaken the hair follicles and result in hair loss.

Cornrows In A Ponytail With Accessories

by @braids_by_msnelly

Pay enough attention to your cornrow hairstyle and braids in the spotlight and add accessories to finish the look. As you see, many of the current cornrow accessories are be adorable, but they might not necessarily fit with your overall style.

Braided Cornrow Ponytail + Ombre-Styled Tips

by @braids_by_msnelly

We all need to change something in our styles from time to time, and a new hair color is a good idea. Some contrast won’t hurt! Ask your hairstylist for a light ombre for your black locks, put your stunning cornrows in a high ponytail, and look different!

Dramatic Half-Up High Twisted Bun

by @braids_by_djeph

Ladies who fancy adding some tribal-inspired vibes will fall in love with this authentic idea. Half-up bun has never been so lovely: when paired with braided down locks and adorned with a twist, it becomes one of the sexiest big cornrows hairstyles.

Blonde Cornrow Braids With Bright Beads

by @africancreature

There aren’t too many different types of cornrows, but you can make yours look exceptional. You can braid your head straight back, or create a side-swept braided style.

LHS Editors’ Advice: The best way to personalize your hairdo is to accessorize it. Just look at this blonde, almost fully beaded look: she’s taken it to a whole new level.

Long Side-Swept Cornrow Braids

by @silverhairgh

Feel like straight-back cornrows are too simple for you? You can create a fascinating, a bit asymmetric style with side-swept cornrows.

Smaller Long Side-Swept Cornrow Braids

by @braids_by_djeph

Instead of going straight down the middle of the back, side braids go asymmetrically across the head. As a rule, they start on one side of the head, move to the other, or stay on just one side. Because side braids are one-sided and asymmetrical, they will look great on both the left and right sides. What is more, side braids are a great way to create your one-of-a-kind look.

Red Synthetic Cornrow Braids Into A High Bun

by @braids_by_djeph

Whether you put your cornrows in an updo or prefer to sport them just the way they are, they’re still a good way to keep your face open. If you want to accentuate your makeup or outfit, they’re just crucial. This elegant braided high bun with exquisite beads can be a good idea for your special occasion look.

Super Tight Cornrow Braids Style

by @fancy_claws

We would say that it’s something that all ladies with natural locks dream of - with such a super-tight braided hairstyle, your hair won’t ever look messy or puffy. Two crown cornrows with tiny braided sides are to die for.

Massive Braided High Bun

by @xcellentxtensions

You can wear black hair in a braided bun for formal or everyday events. Style it into a ponytail, the ends braided, and the hair wrapped into a bun to create a massive braided bun.

LHS Editors’ Advice: To make this braided bun pop, accessorize it with flowers, ribbons, or some statement hairband.

 

Braided High Bun With Red Ombre Locks

by @fancy_claws

Your hair should be cornrowed to the back, ending as high or low as desired, and the ends should be left out in a ponytail to form a cornrow bun. After fastening the ponytail, gather the hair ends into a bun. This is a good way to keep the cornrows off your shoulders and neck for formal events.

Braided High Bun With Fancy Claws

by @fancy_claws

Girls with long hair can take a fresh look at it by getting such a daring, but so adorable and elegant high bun. Braids, whatever they are, will never be boring!

LHS Editors’ Advice: Tie some of your braids with colorful ties, and some can be embellished with fancy accessories.

Half-Up Cornrows Braided Hairstyle

by @braids_by_djeph

Sometimes contrasts are not always about the colors: the thickness and fullness of your braids take part, too. The contrastive little and bigger cornrows that twist into a full and tight updo make your hair look like a masterpiece.

Delicate Halo Braid Hairdo

by @reneebigtime

Such a sophisticated, girly halo braid is something you can’t do without this summer! Nothing looks lovelier than a big braid that goes across your crown, accompanied with two rows of tiny long front braids. Imagine how perfectly it will complement your summer dress!

by @magicfingersstudio

This thick braided halo with a detailed braided design on the back of the head is just too good to be true! It seems like this idea was initially meant to make ladies with long hair proud. Obviously, you need to flaunt with a long mane to turn your hair into such a glorious halo braid.

Stylish Side-Swept Cornrow Braids

by @silverhairgh

These side-swept cornrow braids know how to get the most out of your baby hair. How about making them a part of your hairstyle?

Styling Tip: You can leave a little section of your hair and sleek it in a wavy way so that it goes above your baby hairs, creating an accentuating your asymmetric look.

Faux Hawk Cornrow Braid Style

by @xcellentxtensions

Want to keep it significant and daring? This faux hawk made out of cornrow braids will do the talking. The full central braid with side cornrows forms the most iconic look ever. Braid lovers, it’s your chance to be in the spotlight!

Long Blonde Cornrow Braids

by @boskiesploty

Those who love to experiment should go for the blonde side of cornrow braids! The braided high ponytail with braids that go around the head, twist around the pony, and hang down on your shoulders is a look to steal!

Unbelievably Full Black Braided Mohawk

by @xcellentxtensions

Nothing looks as perfect as these cornrows that have turned into a bold mohawk. Some of the braids cover the top, creating an even fuller silhouette, while small cornrows perfectly perform the role of shorter sides.

Feed-in Cornrow Braids With Hair Rings

by @carlisbeautyhair

Feed-in cornrows are cornrow braids made with seamless extensions. In order to get a smoother hairline and braids that look natural, the feed-in technique involves progressively weaving hair extensions into your locks.

Bold-Blue Feed-in Cornrow Braids With Hair Rings

by @lucasbraids

If you’re looking for a classy feminine look, don’t ever miss these blue styled to the back feed-in cornrows. Beauty is in the details, remember?

Styling Tip: Incorporate some funky hair rings or a gold string in some of your braids to make it even more special.

Dutch Braids + Design

by @braidedroots

The weaving method is what makes cornrows different from the Dutch braids. The latter add height by having the hair held at an angle and having strands crossed beneath, whereas the cornrow braiding is a way tighter.

Dutch Braids With Colorful Extensions

by @lucasbraids

Why don’t you make the Dutch braid technique a part of your cornrows? There are no limitations for your imagination, so you can take any braiding idea and/or color as a basis.

Reddish Dutch Braids With Side Cornrows

by @boskiesploty

The standout contrast of natural hair and colored strands in Dutch braids will always be chic, notably if it’s accompanied with a fascinating cornrow design on the sides...

Braided Space Buns

by @braidedroots

Space buns were initially invented to grab people’s attention. You can always make them even more distinctive and eye-catching by adding more colors and embellishing your braids with shiny elastics.

Cornrow Design With Low Bun

by @braidedroots

Low buns are made near the nape of the neck, and you may add extra elegance to this ponytail design by braiding the hair ends. You can always make it look more put together by adding more braids and/or accessories, or you can make hair look less festive by leaving out some strands.

Intricate Cornrow Design With Low Bun & Side Locks

by @fancy_claws

LHS Editors’ Advice: If you prefer less drastic, yet still unique styles, you can create a personal wavy design on the top and twist the rest of your braids into a low bun, keeping your hair tight and secure.

Cornrows Into Puffy Balls

by @braidedroots

Let your cornrow braids show off your lush natural hair: the double puffy balls that stick out from your tight cornrows is a stunning way to get a unique, comfy, and enviable hairdo!

Fauxhawk Knots With Tiny Cornrows

by @fancy_claws

Meet the sleek, outstanding, and the fullest cornrows possible. The style keeps your hair tight and shiny, while the lush triple cornrows that look like a faux hawk variation make the silhouette very dynamic and voluminous.

Braided Low Buns

by @braidedroots

Although cornrow braids are meant for sassy and bold looks, there are lots of feminine ideas, and this low bun is one of the best examples. Make your rows big and thick, and then twist them into a simple, but elegant bun.

Black Fulani Braids & Cornrows

by @xcellentxtensions

Fulani braids' exquisite designs, grace, and adaptability have made this hairstyle popular all over the world. Beads, shells, and even metals were used as decorations to adorn these braids, which symbolized wellness and abundance.

Fulani Braids & Cornrows With Extensions

by @braidedroots

Wearing patterned braids is trendy now. And besides a pleasant texture, these two look authentic on natural hair. Two Fulani braids that stretch along the head and several cornrows are enough to rock a bold and creative, ethnic-inspired ‘do.

“Natural Blonde X Marks The Spot”

by @braidedroots

This intricate hairdo features a pattern that adds volume to the hairstyle by alternating between wide, thick plated braids and delicate, subtle ones.

“Black X Marks The Spot”

by @magicfingersstudio

This hairstyle is another proof that braids and creativity form a truly unforgettable duo. Pay attention to the shape of those cuties! Not only do they crisscross but also gradually get thicker on the top.

Sharp Zig-Zag Braids

by @braidedroots

These black elaborate zigzag cornrows are a display of style and inventiveness. You can wear them every day. For a distinctive and lovely look, divide the hair straight and braid each section into zigzag patterns.

 

Zig-Zag Braids Into A Low Bun

by @magicfingersstudio

Depending on the hairstyle you choose, the zigzag parted braids can be created as individual braids or as cornrows on hair that has been parted in zigzag patterns. The zigzag braids are ideal for anyone looking for a distinctive and striking look, because there are so many different ways to style them.

 

Sixtet-Styled Thick Zig-Zag Braids

by @magicfingersstudio

Large gaps are the details that create such a distinctive and sharp appearance to zig-zag braids. Although this hairstyle keeps the head tight and thus the face open, it doesn’t make the face appear too big or round. How? The fullness of braids sorts things out.

Stitch With Small & Large Braids & Accessories

by @braidedroots

Although stitch and cornrow braids have a lot in common, there’s a slight but significant difference between these hairstyles.

Stitch With Small & Large Braids

by @braidedroots

Stitch braiding involves cleanly outlined sections that usually look like razor-straight lines. Since these two stand so close to one another, they will definitely go perfectly together.

Flat Twist And Rodset

by @magicfingersstudio

These flat twists on the back, horizontal curls on the sides, and vertical rod set on top literally change the common image of braided hairstyles.

One-Braid Pony

by @lucasbraids

Braids have lots of benefits, and making your style unique is one of them. For example, you can individualize your sleek ponytail with a signature of a little but distinctive cornrow. Also, it can work as a side part, as well as a fancy hair tie.

Tied Braided Low Bun

by @magicfingersstudio

The pattern of your braided hairstyle looks like a natural accessory by default, but it doesn’t mean you can’t embellish the style itself. Whether it’s a low bun or a high twist made of cornrows, some bright ties or beads will only make things more fun and unique.

Medium Jumbo Braids

by Shutterstock

When life gives you lemons, get yourself lemonade braids in response, they say. In fact, it’s one of the most fascinating and attention-grabbing braiding technique where braids give an imitation of a side-parted hair look. Here, it takes over the head, wrapping it all around and giving life to a new braided trend.

Cornrows Into High Sleek Pony

@cwbraids_br

Textured at the front and sleek at the back: this idea is the epitome of the perfect play of contrasts. Just cornrow your head, twist all the braids into a little bun and attach a fake pony. Voila!

Cornrow Braids Pony With Brown Ombre

by @carlisbeautyhair

Cornrows are anything but limitations. And here’s one more idea from the countless color experiments you can let into your life.

Braids With Wavy Tips

by @magicfingersstudio

When we look at this creatively shaped tedious hairstyle, it’s hard to believe that everything started with cornrowed sections. As told by many braiders and stylists experienced in working with natural hair, creating cornrows is all you need to set your imagination into motion.

Braids & Waves

by @lucasbraids

Styling Tip: For a pattern like this, make sure that the sections are clean and outlined, paying attention to the graduation of thicknesses. Section the braids so that they cascade to one side, give them some time, and unravel them to turn the locks into waves.

 

Cornrows With Small Stitches

by @braidedroots

If you aim to shine bright like millions of diamonds and hit people’s eyes with your amazing shiny flair, this look will be your go-to. What makes this idea so special is that it steps out of the classic cornrowing pattern, giving a dramatic framing touch with its two thick braids on the top.

Cornrows With Large Stitches

by @magicfingersstudio

LHS Editors’ Advice: Part your hair as classically or creatively as you want and work a lot of firm gel into your hair before braiding.

Cornrows Into Low Pony

by @magicfingersstudio

This hairstyle will keep your hair in place while still showcasing the beauty of your enviable mane. On top of that, it’s as casual as it’s festive if you have the right accessories at your fingertips.

Styling Tip: We recommend all those who want to keep their everyday looks simple but significant to go for medium-textured cornrows with a loose curly ponytail.

Stitches And Parts

by @boskiesploty

One of the greatest things about wearing cornrows is that you can customize every single detail of your cut, as well as regulate how detailed your style should be. If you have enough time and a will to stand out in the crowd, you can focus on the parts for your cornrows and play around with stitch braids.

Triangular Box Braids In A Bun

by @boskiesploty

Braids in the shape of triangles will definitely add some edge to your hair. The two-toned hair shades and star-shaped patterns they produce are sure to draw attention to your hair, and the best thing is that this look can last from 5 to 7 weeks.

Bright Dutch Cornrows

by @magicfingersstudio

Bright Dutch cornrows are a real piece of art that should be exhibited all around the globe to show women how far they can go with braids. This look is radiant not only for its amazingly sharp square-like sections but also for the seductive combination of two popular braiding techniques!

Neat Cornrows

by @wigsbygaga

Neatness is the key to perfect cornrows. All the braids should be sectioned and shaped evenly so that they form a harmonic single whole. Yes, cornrows are a special form of art to which every woman should take a thorough approach.

Fulani Cornrows

by@braids_by_msnelly

Fulani cornrows are another classic, authentic, and therefore ageless hairstyle. Here, for example, the look follows the initial pattern of the Fulani style that features a vertical cornrow and heavy beads finishing the style.

Center-Parted Cornrows With Colorful Beads

by @silverhairgh

We truly love all the different beaded hairstyles that are now trending on Instagram. Braids and twists are examples of protective styles that can be easily enhanced with beads. Plus, you can play around with the sizes, shapes, and colors of your beads.

Center-Parted Cornrows With African-Styled Beads

by @wigsbygaga

LHS Editors’ Advice: By styling your cornrows with a center part, you can get yourself a hairstyle that will give your face a stunning framing touch. Although they lie flat on the top, when the braids fall on the shoulders, they create two volumetric twists on both sides, which can balance out the whole silhouette.

Micro Cornrows

by @wigsbygaga

Micro cornrow braids have a very defined appearance and give your hair a textured finish due to their classy tiny shape. As for styling options, they’re very manageable in terms of styling, so you can switch between various half-ups, updos, and braided variations throughout the week.

Cornrows Into Knot

by @fancy_claws

Do you recognize the good old top knot that women do when they want to keep their hair out of the face? As it turns out, this hairstyle is not as simple as it seems to be when it comes to its cornrowed versions. The braid on the top is thicker than the others, which creates an interesting composition.

Cornrows Into Pony With Waves

by @fancy_claws

You can diversify your daily styling routine with micro braids. Besides different ways to section your braids, there are some amazing ideas for spicing up their texture.

Styling Tip: Since you have a lot of braids, you can also finish the look by wrapping one of the braids around the base of the pony: it will make the style more balanced and stylish.

Micro Cornrows Into Twisted Bun

by @braids_by_msnelly

Micro braids are gentle and easygoing, which allows for the cleanest and neatest hairstyles you could ever imagine. Here, they’re styled so splendidly as if they were combed: and that’s another reason to try them out.

Styling Tips:

• Make sure to moisturize your braids to keep them hydrated and maintain the silky finish, and then work some firm styling product into them.
• After that, put all your hair up and start twisting it high so that none of the braids sticks off.
• Secure the look with bobby pins and prepare for tons of compliments.

Cleopatra Style Knot Cornrows

@carlisbeautyhair

This Cleopatra-inspired hairstyle is the best look for those who want to make a statement. Basically, this hairstyle will be a fantastic idea to recreate for some themed party. All you need is to cornrow your head. Then, just put some short extensions to the sides and top, styling the latter so that the edges fall as bangs. Beads will be the icing on the cake.

Double Design Bun

by @fancy_claws

Tell your braider that you want to add some difference to the traditional pattern of cornrows when discussing the look you want to achieve. It may take more time since this idea features more details. Still, you won’t regret sacrificing your time once you put your hair in a bun or half-up.

Braided Genie Pony

by @silverhairgh

It’s no secret that braids know how to impress women. And, fortunately, the variety of cornrow braids hairstyles is as impressive.

How to Get Cornrows?

by Shutterstock

Should you be willing to try fashionable cornrows, you may need a detailed guide as to braid those sections. The process is quite basic at its core, but it may take you a few tries to succeed with the result you like. Follow these steps to achieve the goal you aim at:

Prepare the hair.

You can’t start adding cornrows to your style without a proper preparation process. You need to wash and condition your locks well before starting the braiding process. Don’t forget to add some moisturizer to your tresses to prevent breakage.

Map the section.

Before you begin the process, you should decide how many sections you want to add to your head. Work with a rat tail comb to define crisp and neat parts.

Divide the primary section.

Divide the first section into three, the way you would with a regular braid. Make sure that the section is as small as possible.

Start the cornrow.

by Shutterstock

• Begin braiding the cornrow like a regular plait.
• After the first section you should be adding small portions of hair on each side of the cornrow.
• Connect the braid with the scalp as tightly and neatly as possible.
• You can add some clip-ons as you proceed with the style to enhance the length or the color, or both.

How Universal Are Cornrows, and How to Adapt Them to Your Style?

by Shutterstock

Cornrows are probably the most versatile style of all. You can pull off classy cornrows just to have the taste of what the hairstyle offers. Or, you can experiment with different patterns. Men find zig-zags especially appealing. Besides, you can implement all sorts of accessories into your cornrow to make it even more unique. On top of that, cornrows are the primary base for different protective styles, such as feed-in braids.

How long will the style last?

It takes a fair share of time and effort to succeed with style, so it is natural to wonder how long it will last. According to different hair specialists, the style can last you around 4-6 weeks, depending on how well you take care of your locks.

Will the cornrows suit you?

by Shutterstock

Since the style is quite adaptable, it is easy to come across the option that corresponds with your style and preferences. However, your hair texture has a say in this too. The truth is that cornrows suit coarse tresses best. While finer locks and sensitive scalps may not put up with the pressure that well.

The best time to wear cornrows

There is no perfect season to sport the cornrow style since it is well-fit for every time of the year.

Advantages and Downsides of Sporting Cornrows

by Shutterstock

Before you finalize your mind upon whether to give in to the style, you need to be able to distinguish between all the pros and cons that cornrows come with:

Pros:

• Cornrows are quite effortless to succeed with. Thus, the style is fast to achieve.

• Cornrows aren’t expensive so anyone can afford them.

• Cornrows are incredibly versatile. The style suits all genders and different age groups.

Cons:

• Overly tight cornrows can lead to hair damage and related unhealthy conditions. That is why you should be incredibly careful when opting for the style.

• Cornrows are difficult to unbraid. When done improperly, it can lead to hair breakage and tangling.

FAQ: Cornrow Braids

REFERENCES:

• How to Braid Your Cornrows. Wikihow
• Best Cornrows Braid Ideas. Cosmopolitan