Made popular in the 90s by celebrities like Queen B and Alicia Keys, cornrows are braids that are done tightly and close to the scalp. This afro hair appears in infinite styles and designs and are favored for their easy maintenance. What makes it irresistible is that you can wear them with a little of your own or your stylist’s creativity for a more unique result!
Accessorize your hair with cuffs and beads, dye it with fashion colors and exquisite patterns, and combine different braid sizes to get contrast or do them uniformly for an elegant finish – cornrows are sure to glam you up!
This style gets its roots from the African culture, as it’s a great way to protect natural hair. It’s also possible on any other type of hair as long as you have the confidence to rock it! Upkeep includes careful cleansing and moisturizing of the scalp for healthy and long-lasting protective braids.
Get ready to wear the coolest cornrow feeds this year with this gallery of the trendiest cornrow designs!
Senegalese Twist Cornrows
The all-time Senegalese twists cornrows demand attention wherever you go! This style can be worn in the day for a trendy casual look and it will spice up your outfit, giving you an edgy image.
Side Cornrow Braids
These tribal-inspired cornrow braids look amazing but adding them with these cute fashionable beads definitely made a difference! It’s an easy way if you’re looking to spruce up your everyday style!
Side Part Braids
The simplest yet trendiest protective style you can wear is this cornrow style that goes from one side of your head to the other down to your body. It leaves you feeling easy and fresh yet stylish all day!
Side Cornrows Braided Into a Bun
This cornrow hairstyle is great if you are on the go and need to style your twists quickly. They present a polished yet fun look that works in any setting – work or a casual day out.
Small Cornrow Braids
These thin, small cornrows provide the versatility in styling that everyone craves for. Depending on the occasion, they can create a romantic look or a head-turning edgy look.
Cornrows with Beads
These small cornrows with beads really pop on long hair.
Twist Braids
Dark red cornrows into twist braids is a definitely a modern hairstyle. Add gold cuffs to really stand out.
Cornrows for Short Hair
A super low maintenance hairstyle like these cornrows braids in an adorable bob will surely change your life! Be sure to get yours done by a pro if you want a neat and intricate look!
Cornrows on Long Hair
These neatly done blonde box braids cornrows definitely prove how stylish protective braids can be! Spice up your look by adding some blonde pieces to highlight your long braids.
Goddess Cornrow Braids
Don’t be envious of this eye-catching cornrows style as it can be created by anyone who is bold enough to try! Red is vibrant enough but it doesn’t mean you cannot add more fun to it by putting in some colorful strings and accessories.
Cornrow Braid with Zig-Zag Design
You often wonder, “How did they do that?” to such intricate designs. Then you’d be surprised how simple it is to do with cornrows!
Ghana Cornrows
You don’t need to worry about anything with this low maintenance iconic cornrows braid! Style them easily with accessories and feel natural with these thin braids.
Big Cornrow Braids
The coolest way to enter the world of Ghana braids is with these thick cornrows! Easy to take care of and easy to style – just simply pair with a natural brown shade to illuminate your skin and face.
Burgundy Cornrows on Long Hair
Go bold and bright with burgundy cornrows that are super perfect for olive and dark skin! An added benefit is that it highlights your long hair when light hits you, making everyone see how beautiful those braids are!
Medium-Length Cornrows with Cuffs
Take a look at these stunningly fierce cornrows for medium-length hair. They’ll add color to your whole style! Put on some pretty jewelry like these golden cuffs to add some variety to your hair.
Box Braids with Cornrows
Make your everyday life easy when you put on these trendy and stylish cornrows with box braids that go so well with any outfit or event you’ll go to. It’s super versatile that you can style it any way you want – with accessories, in a bun, or just simply let them down!
Jumbo Cornrow Braids
If you are looking to make a statement, then these inspiring jumbo cornrows are for you! Placing super cute and thin rows provide an amazing contrast that makes the whole look even more interesting.
Q&A with style creator, Michy Styles
Hairstylist & Natural Hair Care Specialist in Oshawa, ON
How would you describe this look?
This look is a casual yet classy hairstyle. What I like most about it is that it can be styled differently for multiple occasions. Whether it be going to church or going to the club, this hairstyle can be worn in a long sassy ponytail or a neatly pinned bun. Also, depending on your mood, you can jazz it up with some hair accessories to have a little fun!
Any advice for someone considering it?
The great thing about feed-in braids is its low maintenance. Other than tying it down at night and in the shower, you can use mousse on the braids to tame any frizz that might sprout over the duration of the hairstyle. Remember to always keep your scalp hydrated and moisturized, so spray water or olive oil sheen spray every once in a while to make sure your hair inside the braids are still nice and healthy.
Straight Back Cornrow Braids
Q&A with style creator, Dayonne
Hairstylist / Braid Professional @ Slayn Attraction Hairstyles in New Jersey
How would you describe this look?
This look is straight-back cornrows. It is a feed-in style of cornrows, so it does have a very natural look to it. It’s very unique with the smaller criss-cross braids in between, making this simple style more than just the ordinary! Easiest, simplest style to accomplish!
Any advice for someone considering it?
This style is great for the summer. The jewels give off a very fresh and glamorous look. It’s also a great protective style. Perfect for swimming, vacation, and especially those hot muggy days that make our hair frizzy and messy. The best part is that it doesn’t take long to do at all.
Mohawk Cornrow Braids
Q&A with style creator, Michy Styles
Hairstylist & Natural Hair Care Specialist in Oshawa, ON
How would you describe this look?
This is a super chic and professional loc mohawk cornrow strands. This style is perfect for many occasions such as the office, a wedding, or even just a night out with friends or a loved one.
I love that not only can it be dressed up or dressed down, but it is also very simple to achieve. I love loc styles that look more intricate than they actually are. It makes creating these looks a lot more exciting!
Any advice for someone considering it?
When considering this look, it is important to remember that personality is everything! This style comes with an attitude so be prepared to rock it with all of the sass you’ve got. It can be achieved with pretty much any length of locs over 5”, so people with shorter locs can still recreate this sexy hairstyle.
Because of the way in which the hair is placed (wrapping the individually twisted locs over each other from left to right), it is very sturdy and can withstand the aggressiveness of any lifestyle! All you’ll need is a good holding loc product (like Mango and Lime Loc’ing Cream) and a few hairpins!
Weave Feed In Braids and Cornrows
Q&A with style creator, Mikki Reynolds
Licensed Cosmetologist @ The Glamm Bar in Chicago, IL
How would you describe this look?
This lemonade braided style was inspired by one of Beyoncé’s looks during her Lemonade album – cornrows or small “feed-in” braids going in one direction, to hang on one side.
I love that it differs from your typical cornrow hairstyle, which is usually to the back. You can get a little more creative with this style as far as designs as well!
Any advice for someone considering it?
This hairstyle is for the everyday woman! I’ve done this style in most age groups and races. If you’re looking to spice your usual protective hairstyles up, this is a go-to. This style lasts from 4-6 weeks and is easy to maintain with a styling mousse and a scarf at night!
Cornrow Braid Design
Q&A with style creator, Jackilyn Martinez
Licensed Cosmetologist / Hairstylist @ Kimble Hair Studio in West Hollywood, CA
How would you describe this look?
This style was done for one of my coworkers at Kim Kimble Hair Studio. She wanted something different, a Coachella-inspired hair.
She wanted two big braids going to the side. Fairies are her favorite so I had to incorporate some leaves because when I think of fairies I think of trees, leaves, and nature. I love how cornrow braid designs leave and the thickness of the braid. It took about 4 packs of Rasta Fri Hair Brand per braid.
Any advice for someone considering it?
This look is definitely for a festive hairstyle or even for someone who wants to try new styles. The hair texture doesn’t matter for braids. It is important to tie your hair up at night to keep the braids in place. This is definitely one of my favorite creations.
Updo Cornrow Hairstyle
This thick and twisted updo is a marvelous idea to keep your hair away from your pretty face for the summer! A high top knot like this complements square faces to soften those strong angles.
Q&A with style creator, Dymeshia Cuttino
Stylist / Licensed Hair Braider @ in Spartanburg, SC
How would you describe this look?
This style is simple but unique at the same time. Most people who consider cornrows are the ones that like to get up and go, not having to fix the hair, curl the hair, or anything else.
Most of my clients that get updo cornrow styles are business personnel (for a professional look), busy moms, or workout gurus who need a style to last through all of that sweat.
Any advice for someone considering it?
When considering a cornrow style, you need to have healthy hair. I would not recommend these if you have a thinning hairline for the simple reason that it can put a lot of tension on your natural hairline.
Two Cornrow Braids
Q&A with style creator, Oneka
Hairstylist @ Braids & Things in Lansdowne, PA
How would you describe this look?
This look is a unique two cornrow braided style with an added extension. While it may seem complicated, this look is a one of a kind style with a touch of class and makes a great quick fix on a bad hair day.
I love its ability to stand out amongst all. More importantly, I was challenged by my client to bring this style to life as this was my first attempt.
Any advice for someone considering it?
To anyone considering this look, go for it! Challenge the inner you as this style works on any hair type.
Side Cornrow Braids
Start off-center for a simple, neat, and easy-to-manage look! The round shape created by these braids is perfect for angular faces.
Q&A with style creator, Lilly Carson
Independent Hairstylist @ Lilly House of Beauty in San Antonio, TX
How would you describe this look?
These are side cornrows with singles and designs at the side. This look suits all shapes of faces.
Any advice for someone considering it?
Just make sure you oil your scalp often.
Nigerian Cornrows
Q&A with style creator, Uju
CEO @ UDBhairs in Abuja, Nigeria
How would you describe this look?
This is a full-frontal box braided cornrows wig, a very common style amongst African women especially here in Nigeria.
I love the fact that we could come up with the idea of transforming this look into a wig. Surely, women all over Nigeria and outside Nigeria can wear this look with maximum ease just by installing it in less than 60 seconds.
Any advice for someone considering it?
One thing I love about this wig is that it’s versatile and can be styled in different ways. It also serves as a protective style for women of all color and races, with different hair types, who want to protect their hair from harsh sun rays. This wig simply does the trick.
The baby hair attached was simply to give this look a natural finishing at the edge. This look can be worn in professional places and also in casual settings. It’s also for women out there who simply do not have the time to go to a beauty salon to get their braids done. Our wigs offer such services.
Side Swept Cornrows
The traditional way to wear these cute side cornrow braids is straight back, but don’t stop yourself from falling in love with these side-swept ones! Very easy to manage and allows you to show your flirty side and beautiful face.
Q&A with style creator, Chanel Taylor Alston
Hairstylist / Braider @ Jakari J Salon in New York, NY
How would you describe this look?
This look is such a sleek and beautiful style that will definitely make a statement and get you noticed. I feel like it brings questions to the mind, like how are there so many braids that sit on the side and not as many on the scalp.
What I love about this look is that it also makes women feel as if they are Beyncé, since this is where this style was inspired from.
Any advice for someone considering it?
If you are looking to get this style, keep in mind that this is a set style. It’s not very flexible so you have to be able to manage with a side sweep for a while. If you have the lifestyle of work out junkie, I wouldn’t suggest these braids for you.
To all fashionistas and even everyday ladies, it’s definitely a great look. Any hair type can handle these braids, and it’s very low maintenance. Just make sure you keep a silk scarf.
High Ponytail Cornrow Braids
Q&A with style creator, Dayonne
Hairstylist / Braid Professional @ Slayn Attraction Hairstyles in New Jersey
How would you describe this look?
This style here is called a feed-in ponytail cornrow braid. It gives a very natural look and is a great go-to protective style! The great thing about this style is that you can either wear it down or wrap the braids around into a bun for a more casual look! It’s very versatile and low maintenance.
Any advice for someone considering it?
I would honestly recommend this style to anyone! It’s very popular and like I mentioned, very low maintenance and versatile! This style can be manipulated on almost any hair texture! Whether you work in the corporate world or just a regular 9-5, you can’t go wrong with this style!
You can dress it up with a headscarf or even hair jewels! Leave the flat iron behind because you won’t need any styling tools! If you’re a baby hair type, that will only be the maintenance and again that’s optional. This feed-in style is definitely winning!
