For the uninitiated, cornrows, also known as canerows in the Caribbean, are among the most popular hairstyles for Afro hair. These raised three-stranded braids often expose your skin using the underhand technique since they are close to the scalp. Besides the fact that you can create a plethora of looks with them, cornrows are also considered a protective style. This is because you safely leave them on for weeks at a time if you moisturize your scalp regularly and take care of your hair in general. Be it sleek and sexy or colorful and crazy, cornrows allow you to experiment with your hair like nothing else!
Let’s take a look at some of the coolest cornrow braid hairstyles that will heighten your oomph factor:
Big Cornrow Braids
Bold and eye-catching, this style has bigger plaits using more hair in each row. It is not only time-saving but is also easier to maintain and style. You can accessorize it with ribbons or delicate chains to give it an edge.
Side Cornrow Braids
This adds a whole new twist to your braids with its fun and versatile look. You can also create the ‘faux undercut’ look with this style. Dare to experiment? Pair your side cornrows with other braids.
Dutch braids with side cornrows make for an unconventional combination. The best part is, this style accentuates the bone structure of your face by highlighting your cheekbones and framing your temples.
Two Cornrow Braids
Style your hair into two cornrow braids, and you’re sure to have all eyes on you! This iconic style can be created by braiding underhand. It should be close to the scalp and done at an angle. The hair is swept back from the face into two plaits.
If you want to take this classic style a few notches higher, you can braid your hair asymmetrically. Sport this style to work or school and make heads turn.
Cornrow Braids with Natural Hair
This style had first evolved for absolutely untreated and un-straightened hair. If you have natural Afro hair textures, you can pull off this look with panache. Be it a mini Afro-mohawk style or a faux-undercut style; this option is the best pick for showing off your statement earrings. It also saves you from the sultry summers!
Two Cornrow Braids with Extensions
Also known as ‘boxer braids,’ this hairstyle can be flaunted by braiding two cornrows back at a straight angle. It subtly frames your features and is particularly well-suited to women with great brows. You can also try this look with extensions for a glamorous avatar.
Four Cornrow Braids
A traditional African take, this style allows you to either braid your hair straight back at the same angle or braid the sides straight. Put the cornrows at the top of your head at an acute angle in a way that it meets with the other braids. This style, rich in geometric elements, exudes an Afro-punk vibe.
Five Cornrow Braids
Separate your hair into five sections and braid parallel cornrows towards the back of your head. You can finish the braids on the nape of your neck and let your curls fall free for a feminine effect. This is a great style to flaunt the bounce and texture of your hair while also softening the overall look.
Cornrows Braided into a Bun
For this chic and striking style, you can braid your cornrows straight back and then twist them in a sophisticated updo. To bend the rules, try braiding your cornrows asymmetrically from left to right. This draws attention to the crown of your hair and your forehead. Complete the look with a bold lip tint and winged eyeliner.
Tree Braids Cornrows
Comparatively a subtler style, this braid type is all about creating mini cornrows along with your natural parting. However, you need to keep most of your hair free and loose. A popular style in the 2000s, this adds oodles of zing to your otherwise unbraided hair.
French Braid Cornrows
French braids, done in cornrow style, involve lifting the plaits. The addition of side cornrows gives a look an edge, and once all your hair is neatly tucked into the plaits, what you get is a clean-cut, polished look.
Jumbo Cornrow Braids
If you have long, thick hair or have weave or extensions, this is the perfect style for you. You should braid your hair tightly and precisely for a neat look, or it might end up looking too overwhelming. The rows should also be kept straight, front to back. This hairstyle offers the best blend of attitude and sleekness. When the braids are wrapped into a polished bun, you’ll look no less than a ballet artiste!
Updo Cornrow
One of the trendiest hairstyles these days, the cornrow ponytail is best suited for special occasions and festivities. The best part is, this is a low-maintenance hairstyle that also prevents the hair from falling on your face in the summer heat. Adornments like cuffs or rings can go a long way in adding a whole new dimension to this hairstyle.
Cornrows with Extensions
Colorful extensions will make your cornrows come alive, and how! Add a pop of pink, blue, or green, and give this straightforward a fresh twist. Extensions are a great way to attain that standout look while keeping the harmful effect of bleach or dye at bay. Fashion-forward women heart this look, thanks to the bold and graphic effect created where the extensions are braided into your natural hair.
Mohawk Cornrow Braids
This look proves how far you can go with cornrows. Put in versatile cornrows on the sides, and then twist up the plaits to the center. What you get is an intricately braided mohawk that will make you a show-stealer wherever you go! Complement the classic mohawk silhouette with bold outfits and statement accessories.
Cornrows in Front, Box Braids in the Back
An iconic style that keeps coming back in trend now and then, this is low-maintenance and protective. The well-defined braids don’t put unnecessary stress on your scalp. If you want to add more volume and length to your braids, you can also go for synthetic hair. Want a blend of on-trend and old-school? Combine your box braids with side cornrows and steal the limelight!
Mastering the art of cornrow braid hairstyles can be tricky, but once you get the hang of it, you can give yourself a funky makeover! Contrary to popular opinion, cornrow hairstyles do not damage your hair and are instead helpful in promoting healthy hair growth. However, make sure you don’t wear the braids too tightly, as that can lead to breakage. Read up informative pieces on these hairstyles, and you’ll soon be a pro!
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