Are you in search of a captivating protective hairstyle for your natural hair? If so, cornrow braids might be just what you need. With roots in ancient Africa, cornrow styles have been embraced and modified by today’s stylists globally. We are truly impressed by these 30 unique cornrow designs and are excited to share them with you!
Why Choose Cornrow Braids?
Cornrows not only look amazing but are also ideal low-maintenance protective hairstyles for natural hair. They help minimize daily wear and tear, which can cause shrinkage, and allow you to maintain your hair’s health without needing to invest much time or product every day. Cornrows are styled close to the scalp and can often include hair extensions for added length. This hairstyle can last for up to eight weeks, looking great from the moment you wake up. The only upkeep needed involves applying oil for scalp nourishment and styling the baby hairs. Below, you will find a variety of the best cornrow braid hairstyles to try in 2024. Whether you prefer sleek and straightforward or intricate styles with plenty of detail, which braid will you go for?
1. Feed-In Braids with Cuff Beads
@steph_odia
There is almost nothing more elegant than beads, especially when they are incorporated into stunning feed-in braids featuring an attractive design, which really elevates the overall appearance! Feed-in braids offer a technique for achieving the appearance of lengthy cornrow braids. The process begins with a starter braid made from your natural hair, and then synthetic braiding hair is added to form a long cornrow that appears remarkably natural.
2. Ghana Braids in a Bun
Cornrow braids with buns are a perfect combination! This stylish and elegant braided look is ideal for those who love both braids and buns. The feed-in Ghana cornrow braids are trendy and bold, and twisting them into a lovely bun at the back takes the style to another level.
@baianabraids
3. Two Cornrow Hairstyle
This flawless hairstyle combines the best of both elements, featuring two cornrow braids that flow beautifully into lovely loose curls. If you’ve ever dreamed of appearing like a goddess, we highly recommend trying out this imaginative look.
@steph_odia_le_salon
4. Simple Small Cornrows
You don’t need intricate designs for cornrows to look stunning. Even simple, small cornrows receive as much admiration as more elaborate African cornrow styles. Additionally, this hairstyle offers versatility, allowing you to style it in various ways—like pulling it into a high ponytail or twisting it up into a bun—it’s entirely up to you!
@steph_odia_le_salon
5. Simple Ghana Braids
Ghana braids, a trending African hairstyle in recent years, are sure to win you over. Commonly referred to as ‘invisible cornrows’, they offer a stunning appearance while being easy to maintain. Summer is an ideal season to experiment with this stylish look, particularly because it provides protective benefits that help keep your hair healthy for an extended period!
@mslafitness
6. Highlighted Artistic Cornrows
These elegant scalp braids feature a stunning and artistic design. The interwoven cornrows lead into a series of delicate braids accented with blonde highlights that enhance their appearance. Styled in a voluminous side-swept twist, this is an ideal cornrow look for special events.
@zumbahairbeauty
7. Cornrows into a Large Bun
To achieve a combination of ‘elegant’ and ‘eye-catching’, gather your cornrows into a large bun on the crown of your head. A hairstyle featuring a top bun instantly exudes sophistication, while the cornrows add a unique flair. This look is suitable for special events as well as everyday wear! If you want to add some extra style, simply incorporate a few cuff beads.
@melforddivashair
8. Creative Halo Braid
If you’re passionate about braiding and want to elevate your cornrows, you’ve found the ideal braided style. This halo braid is elegant, striking, and one-of-a-kind, though it may be slightly more challenging to create. You’ll definitely appreciate a visit to the stylist once you see the stunning design around your scalp.
@alldolledupsalons
9. Large Feed-In Cornrows
One of our top picks for thick cornrow hairstyles is this one – and who could resist it? This style is simply irresistible! These big feed-in cornrows create a sophisticated, feminine, and fun appearance simultaneously. What truly captivates us is the addition of gold string woven into some of the braids. It’s all in the details!
@erica_letstalkhair
10. Beautiful Cornrow Ponytail
We’ve always been a bit captivated by ombré, especially when it comes to ombré cornrows styled into a ponytail. That seems almost unbelievable! These adorable cornrows styled into a high ponytail with lighter edges will match perfectly with any summer look, and you might find yourself getting emotional when it’s time to part with them.
11. Updo Cornrow Braids
These braided hairstyles are so beautiful! If you want to enhance the glamour of your braids and cornrows, consider choosing a stylish updo. It’s versatile, fashionable, and suitable for any event—it’s a sure choice!
@cutelooksdar
12. Elegant Feed-In Cornrows
We adore this easy yet eye-catching cornrow hairstyle. The thicker cornrow braids, spaced apart by small cornrows close to the scalp, are arranged to encircle the head, resulting in a halo-like appearance. The lovely cornrows smoothly shift into neat, side-swept braids that cascade beautifully onto the shoulder—it’s incredibly feminine, delightful, and stunning!
@beautyspaceke
13. Creative Blonde Cornrow Braids
We’re excited about these dramatic cornrows styled into tousled low buns! The thick cornrows are neatly arranged into braids, then elegantly twisted into lovely buns and accessorized with chopsticks. The striking butter blonde tone adds an extra touch of elegance to this high-fashion cornrow hairstyle.
@ix5eight
14. Detailed cornrow design featuring beads incorporated into each braid.
This charming hairstyle is sure to captivate you and attract plenty of attention! We appreciate the combination of the detailed cornrow pattern, which features criss-cross braids and twists that enhance the hairline. To elevate the style, each braid is adorned with a cuff bead at the end, creating a fun and feminine appearance.
@beautyspaceke
15. Smaller Braids with Twists and a Bun
Who said that braid styles can’t incorporate twists and wash-and-go features? This stunning and genuine hairstyle serves as a perfect example. The blend of small cornrows, gold cuff beads, and twists creates a striking look, while the natural puff bun at the back introduces a playful and unique element. It’s an excellent choice for those who want to enjoy their favorite natural hairstyles without having to pick just one!
@plush_naturalhairtz
16. Cornrow Braids into a Faux Hawk
Natural cornrow braid hairstyles offer plenty of opportunities for creativity and can be just as celebrated as feed-in and box braids. For instance, this stylish and sophisticated updo showcases a combination of side cornrow braids with natural hair texture. Your scalp serves as an ideal canvas for elaborate cornrow designs.
@transformedbyo
17. Four Large Ghana Braid Buns
If you appreciate the appearance of a large cornrow braid, you’ll definitely enjoy these four stunning Ghana braids styled into low pigtail buns. We are particularly fond of how simple it is to transform these goddess braids into a refined low updo, making it a perfect solution for managing any stray hair at the back of your neck.
@ashleymsparrow_
18. Straight Back Cornrows with Colour
If you want to enhance your straight-back cornrows, incorporating some color can really make a difference. A simple way to accomplish this is by using vibrant colored braiding hair extensions. You don’t have to limit yourself to just one color; the more shades you include, the more fun and lively the overall style will be!
@_j.kimble
19. Cornrow Ponytail with Cuffs
Chic and elegant, this look is sure to attract plenty of admiration. The addition of gold cuffs to a stunning high cornrow ponytail creates a hairstyle perfect for special events or whenever you want to collect a bunch of compliments!
@freshlengths
20. Large Jumbo Cornrows
If you want a hairstyle that gives you a princess-like appearance and sensation, consider these stunning large jumbo braids adorned with gold cuffs and distinctive designs. When we see such exquisite braided styles, we can’t help but associate them with sophistication, boldness, and elegance—along with a touch of envy.
@hairbyebonyb
21. Half Box Braids, Half Cornrows
If you’re looking to add a cool twist to your cornrow hairstyle, this is an excellent option. Choose a fun and distinctive pattern, like this lovely zigzag and straight-line design. Box braids combined with cornrow braids at the front will definitely make you shine and catch attention!
@magicfingersstudio
22. Skinny Braids into a Pony
Aren’t these thin braids adorable? We’re totally enamored with them! If you enjoy using braids as a foundation for various hairstyles—whether it’s a ponytail, a bun, or even two buns—you’ll definitely appreciate this look as well. It’s incredibly versatile and stylish, especially when you accessorize with a piece or two of hair jewelry.
@braids_by_antoinette
23. Cornrows with Curls and Braids
If you’re not ready to fully commit to cornrows and braids, this stylish option is the perfect way to ease into it. You can maintain a fun and straightforward look at the front with half-head cornrows, while allowing your natural hair to cascade freely in the back with voluminous twist-outs. It’s a fantastic combination!
@criouloshair
24. Braids and Buns
Adding a few cornrow braids to your hair is a great way to update your style without the long-term commitment of wearing cornrow hairstyles for an extended period. These types of braids are ideal for anyone wanting to enhance their hairstyle with some subtle details while highlighting the beauty of their healthy, thick natural hair.
@transformedbyo
25. Straight Back Stitch Braids
Straight-back stitch braids offer a straightforward and stylish way to braid your hair, eliminating the need for intricate designs and unique patterns. They are ideal for those who appreciate sleek and tidy cornrow styles that safeguard hair from environmental harm. As the saying goes, sometimes simplicity is best!
@_j.kimble
26. Puka Shell Cornrows and Braids
Puka shells offer a genuine and natural substitute for typical beads. Incorporating them into cornrow braids adds a bohemian touch that enhances your beauty and confidence. The braids are styled loosely and freely, giving them a distinctive look that we adore. Also, have you noticed that the two side cornrow braids are angled differently? There’s so much room for creativity with cornrow styles!
@studiodamitie
27. Beautiful Stitch Braid Updo
This is a fantastic illustration of a well-executed half-head cornrow hairstyle. This braided updo features an unbraided top, giving it a fuller appearance while keeping the lower part of the hair tidy. What do we adore most about this style? You got it! The highlighted curls, naturally!
@nnaturalhairstudio
28. Mohawk with Box Braids
Absolutely, cornrow braids are incredibly adaptable—they can be styled in countless ways! For the adventurous women, why not transform your box braids into a mohawk? You can utilize some of the braids to give the effect of a headband, concealing any bobby pins or elastics you’ve discreetly used to secure the look. No need to be concerned—we won’t spill your secret!
29. Creative Braided Updo
Attention, creative braiding fans – this is the hairstyle you’ve been dreaming of! Imagine sporting a stunning and distinctive half head cornrow braid style that lets you display the beauty of your natural hair. Plus, you’re unlikely to find anyone else with the same braids, which is definitely a plus!
@transformedbyo
30. Side Cornrows and Curls
If you haven’t thought about this style yet, you definitely should. The side cornrows hairstyle is ideal for those who want to try out cornrow braids while still showcasing their luscious curls. It’s a perfect combination!
@slayedby.c
Each year, hair styling gurus come up with new and exciting ways to style cornrow braids – and we feel eternally grateful for that. Braiding your hair into beautiful cornrows will not only save you hours of precious time you would spend on styling their hair, but will unavoidably earn you praise wherever you go.
