Top 10 Attractive Cornrow Braid Hairstyles For Black Women

Cornrows have been worn for centuries as a symbol of cultural identity. Today, they continue to be a popular hairstyle for both men and women of all ethnic backgrounds. This chic style is available both for women and men and can be styled with or without hair extensions. Cornrows are popular for their longevity, low maintenance, and versatility. 

Here in this post, we're pleased to share with you the top 10 attractive cornrow braid styles. Check out these 2023 hottest cornrow hairstyles and get inspired for your next braiding hairstyle!

What are cornrows?

Cornrows are a traditional African hairstyle that involves braiding the hair very close to the scalp, typically in straight rows. The style is achieved by taking small sections of hair and weaving them together using a technique called underhand braiding. Cornrows can be styled in various patterns and designs, and they are often adorned with beads or other hair accessories. The style is popular among the African and African-American communities and has become more mainstream in recent years.

Why are cornrow styles so popular?

• Cultural significance: Cornrows have deep roots in African culture and have been worn for centuries as a symbol of community, identity, and pride. They have been passed down from generation to generation and continue to be an influential part of African American culture.
• Versatility: Cornrows can be styled in a variety of ways, including different patterns, sizes, and shapes, making them a versatile and customizable option for people with different hair types and lengths.
• Low maintenance: Cornrows are a low-maintenance hairstyle that can last for several weeks or even months with proper care, making them a convenient option for people with busy lifestyles.
• Fashion statement: In recent years, cornrows have become a popular fashion statement among people of all ethnicities and cultures, with many celebrities and influencers sporting the style on red carpets and social media.
• Protection: Cornrows protect the hair from damage caused by constant styling, heat, and environmental factors. And braids help lock in moisture, so your hair stays hydrated and healthy.

Top 10 cornrow braids you shouldn't miss out

We pulled together 10 gorgeous cornrow hairstyles to try in this part. Keep scrolling for more cornrow braid inspiration!

1. Classic cornrows

This is a timeless and simple hairstyle that involves braiding the hair in straight lines close to the scalp. It's a stylish protective style that can be worn in different patterns and sizes.

We shared a step-by-step tutorial on how to make cornrows in our previous post. Click and explore: How To Make Cornrows Last Longer?

2. Fulani braids

This style is inspired by the Fulani people of West Africa and features a braided center part with beads or cowrie shells. The braids are typically small and can be styled in different ways and the braids typically hang or loop on the sides of the head. 

Here are some steps to achieve this chic cornrow braiding style:

Step 1: Start by cleaning and detangling your hair. Shampoo and condition your natural hair as you normally would. Detangle your hair to smooth it out and remove and prevent any flyaways.

Step 2: Make a middle part. Part your hair down the middle from your forehead to the nape of your neck.

Step 3: Section your hair and braid. Starting from one side, section off a small piece of hair at the hairline and begin braiding it towards the back of your head. When you reach the crown of your head, add extensions to the braid and continue braiding down the length of the extension hair. Leave the tails hanging on each side of your head and secure the braids with an elastic band. Ensure your braids are not too tight as this can lead to hair breakage and scalp irritation. 

Step 4: Repeat the braiding process until you finish full head braids.

Step 5: Accessorize your braids with beads, cowrie shells, or other decorations if desired.

3. Lemonade braids

These are long and small braids that are inspired by Beyoncé's hairstyle on her "Lemonade" album. These cornrow braids are simple yet stylish. Lemonade braids are usually styled with curved partings that follow the shape of your head. You can also add hair accessories or weave in colored hair for a more distinctive look. They are stylish protective styles that are available in a variety of patterns and sizes.

Here are simple instructions on how to create Lemonade Braids: 

Step 1: Prepare your hair by washing and conditioning it. Detangle your hair and make sure it’s completely dry.

Step 2: Section your hair for a side bang. Part a U-shaped section of your natural hair from temple to temple and secure it with a hair tie. Later, this section of hair will become a side bang. 

Step 3: Braid part of your hair. Use a rat-tail comb to make a horizontal part at the nape of your neck. The width of the section of hair varies depending on the size of the cornrows you desire. Apply a small amount of edge-control or light hair oil to the section of hair to prevent any flyaways. Braid the section of hair into a cornrow. With each stitch, add a small section of hair from the root, on either side of the braid, before crossing the section over. Feed-in hair extensions every 2-3 stitches as you braid if you desire a full look. Secure the braids with an elastic band.

Repeat to create a horizontal part and braid it into a cornrow. Be sure your sections are even in size to create a neat and uniform pattern.

Step 4. Braid the remaining sections of hair. When you've finished braiding most of your hair, you'll have one section left in the front. Untie the U-shaped section of hair in the front. Divide this portion of hair into small sections evenly, making them similar in size to the braided cornrows. Braid each small section of hair into cornrows to create a sweep-side bang across your forehead. You can add hair extensions to achieve a fuller look if you desire. Tie the ends of the braids with elastic bands.  

 Step 5: Hydrate your braids. Finally, apply hair oil or serum to your scalp to keep your hair moisturized and shiny. Now you can enjoy your chic lemonade braids.

4. Goddess braids

Goddess braids, also known as bohemian braids or boho braids, are a type of protective hairstyle that is inspired by traditional African hairstyles. These braids are typically loose and messy, with curly strands throughout the braids. They can be styled in updos or left loose and are a great option for women with longer hair. They are often adorned with accessories such as flowers, beads, or ribbons to add to the overall bohemian look

Goddess braids help protect the hair from damage and promote healthy growth. They are also a viable option for those who want a low-maintenance hairstyle that can last for several weeks.

To create bohemian braids, follow these steps:

Step 1: Shampoo your hair. Start by washing and conditioning your hair, and allow it to air dry naturally or blow-dry with a diffuser. This will help to give your hair a natural texture, which is ideal for creating bohemian braids.

Step 2: Make a part. Once your hair is dry, use a rat-tail comb to part it down the middle or on one side, depending on the look you want to achieve.

Step 3: Braid your hair. Take a small section of hair from the front of your head and split it into three parts. Begin braiding your hair by crossing the left section over the middle section and then the right section over the middle section.

Step 5: Add curly hair extensions. As you braid, add small sections of curly hair extensions on each side to create a loose, messy braid. Continue to braid until you reach the end of your hair and secure it with an elastic band.

Step 6: Repeat the braiding process. Repeat steps 3-5 on the other side of your head.

Step 7: Style your braids. Once both braids are complete, pull them apart gently to create a loose, bohemian look. You can finish the look by adding some hair accessories, such as flowers or ribbons, or by pulling out some strands of hair around your face to frame it. Now you can enjoy these lovely goddess braids.

5. Zigzag braids

Zig zag cornrows that are styled in a zigzag pattern. They are created by weaving the hair in a series of diagonal or curved lines, rather than straight lines, to create a distinctive, textured look. Zigzag braids are often worn as a protective hairstyle, as they can help to protect the hair from damage and breakage. They are also a popular choice for those who want to add texture and visual interest to their hair. Zigzag braids can be styled in a variety of ways, from simple, straight-back braids to more complex updos and ponytails. They are suitable for people of all ages and hair types.

To create zigzag braids, a small section of hair is taken and divided into three equal parts. The braider then crosses the left and right strands over the middle strand, working in a diagonal or curved pattern to create the zigzag effect. As each braid is completed, it is incorporated into the next braid, resulting in a continuous, intricate pattern.

6. Mohawk braids

These are cornrows that are styled in a mohawk shape. With Mohawk braids, your hair is braided from the sides towards the middle of the head and down to the nape. They can be styled in different patterns and sizes and are a stylish option for women who want a bold and edgy look. It's a protective hairstyle that provides the wearer with an eddy mohawk look without shaving their natural hair.

7. Box braids

These are thick and chunky braids that are a gorgeous protective style for Black women. They can be styled in different patterns and sizes and are a popular choice for women who want a low-maintenance hairstyle.

Our previous post provided instructions on how to make box braids, so click and take a look. 

8. Ghana Braids

Ghana Braids are cornrows that go straight back from the central point around your forehead. With Ghana braids, the hair extensions are intertwined with your natural hair as the braids go straight back. Ghana braids have become increasingly popular in recent years due to their versatility, low maintenance, and protective nature. They can be worn for extended periods, up to several weeks, without requiring daily styling or manipulation. They can be styled in different patterns and sizes and are a stylish option for women who want a bold and distinct look.

9. Jumbo cornrows

Jumbo cornrows involve thicker braids than traditional cornrows. It's a popular protective style for natural hair, as they help to protect the hair from breakage and damage. This style can be worn for several weeks at a time with proper care and maintenance. They are a stylish option for women with long hair and can be styled in updos or left loose.

10. Feed-in braids

Feed-in braids are a braiding technique in which extensions are added gradually to the natural hair. The stylist creates a small braid near the hairline and adds more hair as they work their way down the braid. This creates a natural-looking and gradual extension that is less bulky and heavy than other types of braids. Feed-in braids can be styled in various ways, including being left loose, gathered into a ponytail or bun, or woven into more intricate designs. They are a popular protective style for natural hair and are also used for hair growth and length retention.

Cornrow braids are a protective and low-maintenance hairstyle that can help promote healthy hair growth and protect the scalp. This style is popular for its durability, low maintenance, and versatility. It can be worn in a variety of lengths, widths, and shapes, and is often adorned with beads, cuffs, and other accessories. Switch your hairstyle to a chic cornrow style and make a statement now!

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