Cornrows are a staple in protective styling, known for their longevity, low maintenance, and aesthetic versatility.
Whether worn straight back, styled into elaborate patterns, or paired with accessories, these braids offer both practicality and beauty. From bold colors to minimalist designs, there’s a look to match every personality and occasion.
Explore this curated list of 40 cornrow styles—from classic straight backs to intricate sculptural buns. Each style is designed to inspire your next salon visit with options that protect your hair while making a statement.
1. Pigtail Cornrows
Photo credit: Alberto E. Rodriguez/Getty Images for Disney
If you like a sporty look that feels stylish at the same time, you might want to try out some pigtail cornrows. Not only will your hair be out of your face, but it will also highlight and frame your features.
For a more elaborate style, you can add mini braids at the side of your head to complement the larger cornrows.
2. Rainbow Center Parted Braids
A defined middle part always makes a statement. Push that statement further with multicolored cornrows sectioned off horizontally instead of vertically.
The symmetry is stunning and enhances the visual impact of the hairstyle. It’s a bold and colorful way to showcase personality.
Photo credit: @jamonit / Instagram
3. Beaded Straight Back Cornrows
In the early aughts, Alicia Keys was known for rocking stunning Fulani-style braids. This beaded version continues that legacy with elegance.
The addition of beads and vibrant eye makeup makes this a complete standout look.
Photo credit: KMazur / Getty Images
4. Simple Straight Back Cornrows
Straight-back plaits are a timeless choice. Thick sections and extensions can elevate this classic into something eye-catching.
They’re easy to maintain and make a strong yet understated style statement.
Photo credit: Getty Images
5. Cornrows with Slicked-Down Baby Hair
This style showcases baby hairs as an art form. Use edge control to create dramatic swoops and swirls.
The contrast between structured braids and soft baby hairs adds flair and personality.
Photo credit: @joyjah / Instagram
6. Half Cornrow Crown
A nostalgic ‘90s style reimagined for today. Cornrow the front and leave the back in its natural afro texture.
The result is a soft crown effect with modern flair and freedom.
Photo credit: @afropunk / Instagram
7. Blonde Cornrow High Ponytail
Cornrow the front and finish the ends with box braids for easy styling. Pull them into a high ponytail for a dramatic finish.
Blonde hues brighten the look, adding contrast and visibility.
Photo credit: LEON NEAL / Getty Images
8. Traditional Shuruba/Albaso Cornrows
This Ethiopian and Eritrean style features a half-up, half-down crown of braids. The rest of the hair is worn naturally or styled down.
It’s both a cultural expression and a versatile choice for events.
Photo credit: @hannahjoytv / Instagram
9. Sunbeam Cornrows
Multi-directional cornrows create a sunburst pattern. It’s a subtle way to add complexity to the slick-back base.
This style is refined with minimal baby hair for a clean finish.
Photo credit: Gareth Cattermole/BFC/Getty Images for BFC
10. Half Cornrow, Half Box Braid
Combine cornrows at the top with box braids at the back for a mixed-texture look. Creative patterns like snowflakes can be incorporated.
This dual-style braid is festive and dynamic.
Photo credit: @ancestralstrands / Instagram
11. Cornrows With a Full Ponytail
Cornrows pulled into a high ponytail deliver both structure and volume. Actress Chanté Adams sports this hybrid style with confidence.
It’s a polished, photo-ready look.
Photo credit: Jim Spellman / Getty Images
12. Blue Cornrow Top Bun
Braided into an elaborate topknot, this updo showcases bold blue hues. A high bun creates height and elegance.
This look is ideal for formal events or standout street style.
Photo credit: @cutelooksdar / Instagram
13. Gold Wires In Braids
Cornrows gathered into a low bun are elevated with metallic thread. Gold wires offer a luxe finish to a simple base.
This touch of glamour can be tailored to suit day or night wear.
Photo credit: @biancajasminelawson / Instagram
14. Half-Up Space Buns
Cornrowed in the front, free-flowing in the back—this style balances structure and playfulness. Space buns give it a futuristic edge.
Edge art and charms can personalize the look even further.
Photo credit: Getty Images
15. Pink Bob
Cornrowed into a bob cut, this look benefits from pink extensions for a soft punk vibe. The asymmetrical part adds edge.
It’s a great example of how braids can mirror conventional haircuts creatively.
Photo credit: @BRAIDSGANG / Instagram
16. Red Braided Updo
Cornrows styled into a red high ponytail command attention. Keke Palmer demonstrates how bold color transforms a standard updo.
This fiery shade adds confidence and visibility.
Photo credit: Getty Images
17. Alternating Thin and Thick Braids
Model and actress Jourdan Dunn is no stranger to experimenting with hairstyles, and of course, this includes cornrows. If you want to cop her style, add two mini cornrows between the main ones and leave your baby hairs out, sans gel.
This alternating braid thickness adds texture and dimension to a simple base. It draws the eye while remaining clean and defined.
Photo credit: @jourdandunn / Instagram
18. Beaded Accent Cornrows with Afro Puffs
This look combines two bold elements: front accent cornrows and voluminous afro puffs at the back. The addition of beads and accessories enhances the vibrancy and personality of the style.
The dual-texture design makes it versatile for events or everyday wear. Afro puffs offer a natural contrast to the sleek, decorated braids upfront.
Photo credit: @miss.cameroon / Instagram
19. Platinum Middle-Part Plaits
Platinum blonde adds a dramatic pop to standard cornrows. By alternating braid sizes, the contrast in texture becomes more prominent and visually engaging.
This color also emphasizes the neatness of each braid, drawing attention to the skill involved. It’s a bold yet polished choice.
Photo credit: Mireya Acierto/Getty Images
20. Old Hollywood Cornrows
Amandla Stenberg’s look at the 2019 Oscars merged finger wave styling with cornrows, creating an homage to Old Hollywood glamour.
This approach turns a protective hairstyle into a red carpet-worthy statement, perfect for formal occasions.
Photo credit: @amandlastenberg / Instagram
21. Regal Red Puffs
Bright red braids meet Jasmine-inspired puffs in this creative style. The combination of color, texture, and volume turns a simple cornrow base into a royal design.
Accents like metallic threads or bold charms make this style ideal for fashion-forward individuals.
Photo credit: @HAIRBYSUSY / Instagram
22. Large Milkmaid Braids with Accent Cornrows
This milkmaid braid look is enhanced with front accent cornrows, balancing structure and softness. It’s a contemporary update on a traditional braided crown.
Beads and braid cuffs further enrich the texture and elegance, making it suitable for special occasions.
Photo credit: @magicfingersstudio / Instagram
23. High Pink Ponytail
Millennial pink braiding hair brings a playful twist to this cornrow-to-ponytail style. Wrapping braids around the base replaces a standard hair tie and adds a polished finish.
The high ponytail lifts the look and keeps it youthful, while the soft color adds a fashion-forward edge.
Photo credit: @shomadjozi / Instagram
24. Giant Cornrow Fauxhawk
Janelle Monáe’s fauxhawk uses large cornrows along the sides with a voluminous central braid. This configuration mimics the shape of a mohawk with intricate detail.
Perfect for a bold statement, this look blends artistry with strong protective styling.
Photo credit: Getty Images
25. Heart Shape, Center Part Cornrows
This design utilizes cornrows shaped into a heart around the center part. Precision and symmetry make the shape stand out.
It’s a creative take on a romantic theme, proving that cornrows can be both playful and graphic.
Photo credit: @hairhealthhumanity / Instagram
26. Half Cornrow, Half Box Braids (With Accessories)
Danai Gurira’s red carpet style merges half-cornrows with box braids, finished with a statement gold headband.
This mix of styles allows for creative freedom while accessories take the look from casual to glamorous.
Photo credit: Getty Images
27. Cornrows Into a Sculptural Low Bun
This look combines functional cornrows with an architectural low bun, ideal for formal or artistic settings.
The braided base ensures longevity while the bun offers styling freedom. Ensure minimal tension to protect the scalp.
Photo credit: Taylor Hill / FilmMagic / Getty Images
28. Straight Back and Simple
Kelly Rowland’s slicked-back cornrows are minimalist and sleek. This no-frills approach highlights the neatness and symmetry of straight-back braiding.
It pairs well with natural makeup and clean aesthetics, ideal for everyday sophistication.
Photo credit: @kellyrowland / Instagram
29. Micro-Cornrows and Baby Hairs
Justine Skye’s micro-cornrows frame her face gently with soft, swooping baby hairs. This close-knit style works well for travel or everyday wear.
To maintain this look, use castor oil on the edges and wrap your hair at night with a silk scarf.
Photo credit: @braidsgang / Instagram
30. Thick Cornrows With Woven Rope
Janelle Monáe’s thick cornrows are decorated with white string woven into each plait. This simple addition creates high contrast and artistic flair.
You can also use colored thread or ribbon to match your outfit or personal aesthetic.
Photo credit: Getty Images
31. Long, Honey Colored Cornrows
This hairstyle uses honey-toned braiding hair to achieve a sunlit effect. It’s a great way to experiment with lighter shades without chemically altering your natural hair.
The warmth of the color highlights the scalp patterns of each braid and adds a summery glow. Temporary color via extensions also makes it easy to switch up your look frequently.
Photo credit: @joyjah / Instagram
32. Classic Cornrows in a Low Braided Ponytail
Zoe Kravitz’s classic straight-back cornrows lead into a low ponytail, proving that simplicity can be elegant. This style works regardless of hair length when using extensions.
It’s timeless and neat, suitable for formal events or casual wear. A low ponytail offers both control and comfort.
Photo credit: Getty Images
33. Face-Framing Braids
FKA Twigs showcases cornrows that leave loose sections near the face for a fringe-like effect. This styling adds softness to the overall look.
To prevent unraveling, apply clear elastics or braid sealant to the loose ends. It’s both creative and functional.
Photo credit: @fkatwigs / Instagram
34. Feed-In Braids with Baby Hair
Feed-in braids create a seamless transition from scalp to braid, resulting in a cleaner, more natural appearance. This method reduces tension at the root.
Paired with laid baby hairs, the look is polished and lightweight. It’s ideal for a sleek, protective summer style.
Photo credit: @jordynwoods / Instagram
35. Braided Pigtails With Gilded Accents
Kerry Washington’s braided pigtails are adorned with gold accessories, adding a touch of glamour. This simple base style becomes red-carpet-ready with minimal additions.
Gilded embellishments or braid rings are great tools to enhance everyday braids without major changes.
Photo credit: @KERRYWASHINGTON / Instagram
36. Waist-Length Braids
Serayah wears partially cornrowed, partially box-braided hair that reaches the waist. Long braids offer styling flexibility—from buns to ponytails.
Using extensions to achieve this length also protects natural ends from environmental damage.
Photo credit: Getty Images
37. Side Part Cornrows
This look features a side-parted pattern for an asymmetrical effect. It allows more volume on one side and can frame the face differently than center parts.
It’s a refined option that works well for professional settings and special occasions alike.
Photo credit: Paul Morigi / WireImage / Getty Images
38. Wavy Patterned Braids
Beyoncé’s swooping cornrows add visual movement by mimicking finger waves. This look blends tradition with creative flair.
Curved braids require a skilled stylist, but the result is a uniquely elegant design.
Photo credit: Getty Images
39. Alternating Thickness Braids
Yara Shahidi mixes jumbo and micro cornrows for a layered texture. The size variation adds depth without needing color or accessories.
This technique enhances the natural contours of the head and draws attention to detail.
Photo credit: Gotham / GC Images / Getty Images
40. Two Braids and Small Cornrows
Gabrielle Union modernizes a double-braid style by adding slim cornrows to the sides. This contrast makes a classic style more dynamic.
It’s a great way to balance simplicity with a touch of edge, suitable for both casual and formal wear.
Photo credit: @gabunion / Instagram