Simply put, cornrows are traditionally African hairstyle in which hair is braided close to the scalp, in rows of braids.

How do you braid cornrows?

To braid cornrows, use the tail end of a rat tail comb to create sections. Divide each section into three equal parts (similarly to most braids), and begin braiding straight back, adding hair from the nearby sections as you go. Repeat from the crown of the head to the bottom.

How long do cornrows last?

Cornrows can last for two to six weeks. Maintenance is key—moisturizing your scalp and wearing a head covering to bed can extend the life of your style. Be careful not to scratch or massage the braids too frequently and they'll last even longer. When you sleep, keep your style tied down with a skill scarf or wear a bonnet.

How do you wash cornrows?

To keep your cornrows clean without unraveling them, spray a mixture of sulfate free shampoo, water and oil onto damp hair. Lightly massage it into your scalp, squeezing the braids as you go (so as not to damage them). Rinse, and follow the same step-by-step with conditioner, oil and water.

How much does it cost to braid cornrows?

The cost of your cornrows have a lot of factors—the length, how thin or thick you'd like them, how complicated the style is, as well as your location and stylist. On average, you're looking at anywhere from $80-$300.

40 Stunning Cornrow Hairstyles to Show Your Stylist

Close up of model Adwoa Aboah, her hair in straight back cornrows with plaits at her ears — @adwoaaboah / Instagram

When it comes to protective styles, you don't get much more low maintenance than cornrows. After a couple of hours in the chair (usually fewer hours than you'd have to spend getting box braids), you've got a ready-to-go hairstyle for about the next month. But don't let that convenience fool you: Conrows can also be extremely versatile. By experimenting with color, positioning, and accessories, you can have your cake and eat it, too, with a style as exciting as it is easy.

Ahead, see 40 stunning cornrow hairstyles that'll have you calling up your braider for an appointment ASAP.

01 of 40

Pigtail Cornrows

Actor Storm Reid with two French braid-style cornrows — 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.

02 of 40

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.

03 of 40

Beaded Straight Back Cornrows

Close up of Alicia Keys with tribal/Fulani straight back braids — KMazur / Getty Images

In the early aughts, Alicia Keys was known for rocking stunning Fulani-style braids, and we're particularly fond of this beaded version. (And the vibrant eye makeup increases the appeal.)

04 of 40

Simple Straight Back Cornrows

Mel B with simple straightbacks braided into full plaits — Getty Images

Sure, you can do fancy designs with cornrows, but simple straight-back plaits should not be slept on. Add in a few thick sections (and hair extensions if you wish), and you're sure to steal the show.

05 of 40

Cornrows with Slicked-Down Baby Hair

Close up of two women with cornrows, their baby hairs laid in dramatic swooping designs — @joyjah / Instagram

Cornrow hairstyles allow you to showcase your baby hairs front and center—literally. Grab your favorite edge control gel and go to town. For a romantic look, lay your baby hairs in swoops and swirls.

06 of 40

Half Cornrow Crown

A cornrow half-crown hairstyle with a braided front and full, afro back — @afropunk / Instagram

Remember in the '90s and early '00s when it was popular to cornrow the front of your hair and leave the rest out in spiral curls? Well, the look is back, but this time, it's all about letting your natural hair do its thing. After connecting your braids to create a crown, instead of tucking them away, leave them out for a beautiful contrast.

07 of 40

Blonde Cornrow High Ponytail

LEON NEAL / Getty Images

Not looking to have your hair in your face all day? Simply cornrow the front of your head by a few inches and braid out the rest like regular box braids. That way, you can easily sweep back your hair. And remember: The higher the ponytail, the more striking it will be.

08 of 40

Traditional Shuruba/Albaso Cornrows

A traditional Shuruba/Albaso cornrow hairstyle, viewed from the top of the head — @hannahjoytv / Instagram

Ethiopia and Eritrea are home to a gorgeous cornrow hairstyle known as a "Shuruba" or "Albaso." With this style, the front half of the hair is cornrowed down like a crown while the rest is let down for a beautiful half-up, half-down hairdo. For special events, a headband can be added to enhance the look.

09 of 40

Sunbeam Cornrows

Actor Ella Balinska with a cornrow hairstyle on the red carpet — Gareth Cattermole/BFC/Getty Images for BFC

These multi-dimensional cornrows add a bit of flare to the classic slick-back look. The delicate touch of baby hair is also a vibe.

10 of 40

Half Cornrow, Half Box Braid

Half and half box braids and cornrows, viewed from the top down and close to the front of the head — @ancestralstrands / Instagram

Can't decide between a cornrow or box braid style? No problem—you can combine the two (and create bold braid patterns while you're at it). For a festive wintery look, attempt a six-pointed snowflake shape.

11 of 40

Cornrows With a Full Ponytail

Actress ChantÃ© Adams with a half cornrow, half loose coil hairstyle — Jim Spellman / Getty Images

Actress Chanté Adams looks stunning in cornrows pulled back into a voluminous hairstyle.

12 of 40

Blue Cornrow Top Bun

A blue cornrow hairstyle, swept back into a high bun — @cutelooksdar / Instagram

An updo is a sophisticated hairstyle that pairs fantastically with cornrows. Most might opt for a low-placed bun, but if you really want to stand out, braid your hair into an elaborate topknot. The style looks extra stunning in bold shades of blue.

13 of 40

Gold Wires In Braids

Rear view of a braided hairstyle with gold wire details throughout — @biancajasminelawson / Instagram

You've seen what a cornrow top knot looks like—here's what a low bun looks like, with glam gold thread interspersed, on the talented Bianca Lawson.

14 of 40

Half-Up Space Buns

Singer FKA Twigs with a space bun cornrow hairstyle — Getty Images

If you want a style that's equal parts regal and convenient, an elegant set of half-up space buns may be just what you need. Keeping the front part of your hair neatly cornrowed ensures longevity, while the braids toward the back are beautifully free. Add some artful edges or decorative charms, and get ready for the compliments to flow in.

15 of 40

Pink Bob

Close up of a cornrow bob hairstyle with pink extensions and an asymmetrical design — @BRAIDSGANG / Instagram

Did you think you couldn't achieve a beautiful bob hairstyle with cornrows? It's more than possible (and looks amazing with asymmetrical braided parts). Throw in some pastel pink extensions for an edgy yet soft look.

16 of 40

Red Braided Updo

Actor Keke Palmer with bright red cornrows swept into a high ponytail — Getty Images

Take your cornrow hairstyle up a notch with a fiery red hue. Trust us, you'll stop traffic.

17 of 40

Alternating Thin and Thick Braids

Actor Jourdan Dunn with straight back cornrows, some thin, some thick — @jourdandunn / Instagram

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.

18 of 40

Beaded Accent Cornrows with Afro Puffs

A woman with braids in the front of her hair, the rest in afro puffs with accessories — @miss.cameroon / Instagram

If a single cornrow part isn't enough, you can always opt for two and create an accented hairstyle. Afro puffs look dynamic when paired with cornrows, especially if you add charms and other accessories to complete the look. We also love it when beads can be thrown in.

19 of 40

Platinum Middle-Part Plaits

Solange with platinum blonde plaits and cornrows — Mireya Acierto/Getty Images

Lighter colors tend to make the details of your cornrow hairstyle pop, and this is especially true with a pale shade like platinum. To add extra definition, alternate between braid sizes.

20 of 40

Old Hollywood Cornrows

Actor Amandla Stenberg with a cornrow hairstyle in a soft, old Hollywood wave — @amandlastenberg / Instagram

The swooping, finger-waved cornrows Amandla Stenberg wore to the 2019 Oscars gave major Old Hollywood. (And we're kind of obsessed.)

21 of 40

Regal Red Puffs

Close up of a cornrow hairstyle with afro puffs down the center of the head — @HAIRBYSUSY / Instagram

Okay, you caught us—we have a thing for puffs. But you can't blame us when you see these rocking red cornrows support Princess Jasmine-esque banded puffs. Add some metallic thread and statement charms to your braids, and you can be our queen any time.

22 of 40

Large Milkmaid Braids with Accent Cornrows

A model with a milkmaid braid with two cornrowed braids toward the front of the head — @magicfingersstudio / Instagram

If you want a look that's half cornrow, half updo, then a milkmaid style might be right up your alley. Throw in a few frontal accent cornrows to complement your larger milkmaid braid, and you automatically modernize the look. Beads and braid charms help to enhance the style further.

23 of 40

High Pink Ponytail

A woman with pink cornrows that go into plaits, piled onto the top of her head in a high ponytail — @shomadjozi / Instagram

Got love for millennial pink? Why not show your allegiance with a partial cornrow-to-box braid ponytail? For a little more "oomph," wrap the braids around your ponytail instead of using a standard hair tie.

24 of 40

Giant Cornrow Fauxhawk

Actor Janelle Monet with cornrows down the side of her head, the center of her hair piled into one giant mohawk cornrow — Getty Images

Cornrows and fauxhawks go together like PB&J; the braided sections are reminiscent of shaved parts. Additionally, if you have a skilled braider, you can combine whatever braid designs you want for a truly memorable look.

25 of 40

Heart Shape, Center Part Cornrows

Rear view of a hair cornrowed into a heart-shaped design — @hairhealthhumanity / Instagram

Believe it or not, with the right braider, this creative cornrow pattern will actually be a cinch to recreate.

26 of 40

Half Cornrow, Half Box Braids (With Accessories)

Actor Danai Gurira on the red carpet with a half cornrow, half box braid hairstyle, her hair and ears adorned with gold accessories — Getty Images

If you're looking to add something special to your cornrow hairstyle for an upcoming event, try Danai Gurira's Oscars approach and top off your crown with a gold headband. Decadent earrings are the icing on the cake.

27 of 40

Cornrows Into a Sculptural Low Bun

Taylor Hill / FilmMagic / Getty Images

A cornrowed updo is protective and stylish, and the possibilities are endless. As with all protective styles, speak up if your braider is laying on the tension. If you feel post-appointment tightness, loosen up your braids.

28 of 40

Straight Back and Simple

Cornrow Hairstyles Straight Back Simple Kelly Rowland — @kellyrowland

If laying your baby hairs isn't a priority, Kelly Rowland's slicked-back braids are just your style. Follow the icon's lead and pair the style with no-makeup makeup to bring the look full circle.

29 of 40

Micro-Cornrows and Baby Hairs

Singer and socialite Justine Skye with micro cornrows, her baby hairs layed — @braidsgang / Instagram

Justine Skye's baby hair-framed micro-cornrows are the perfect style for vacation. A silk scarf and castor oil for your edges are essential for maintaining this style and your hairline.

30 of 40

Thick Cornrows With Woven Rope

Janelle Monae's white adorned cornrows prove how easy it is to accessorize even the simplest style. You can use string or even ribbon to add a pop of color.

31 of 40

Long, Honey Colored Cornrows

A woman, looking with her head over her shoulder, her hair in a cornrow hairstyle with honey highlights — @joyjah / Instagram

Want to try a new hair color without committing? Use braiding hair to experiment. Have fun with it—you only have to live with your new hue for four to six weeks.

32 of 40

Classic Cornrows in a Low Braided Ponytail

Getty Images

With classic straight-back cornrows—such as those Zoe Kravitz wore to the 2019 Met Gala—the length of your hair doesn't matter unless you're wearing a cropped look.

33 of 40

Face-Framing Braids

FKA Twigs applying red lipstick, viewed from the back, her cornrows in view — @fkatwigs / Instagram

Add face-framing "fringe" like songstress FKA Twigs. The loose ends here give this style extra oomph. If you're afraid the braids may unravel, place an elastic that matches your hair color where the hair is loose for security.

34 of 40

Feed-In Braids with Baby Hair

@jordynwoods / Instagram

If you want a lighter, clean-looking cornrowed look, feed-in braids are the way to go.

35 of 40

Braided Pigtails With Gilded Accents

Actor Kerry Washington with cornrows and fluffy hair coming out of her low ponytail — @KERRYWASHINGTON / Instagram

Kerry Washington always finds new ways to have fun with her beauty looks. Here, she adds gold embellishments to her braids, a simple way to elevate any cornrow hairstyle.

36 of 40

Waist-Length Braids

Singer and actor Serayah with a partially cornrowed, partially box braided hairstyle — Getty Images

The ability to experiment with hair lengths is one of the best benefits of cornrows. You can go as short or as long as you want without hesitation.

37 of 40

Side Part Cornrows

Singer Halsey with a partial cornrow, partial box braid hairstyle — Paul Morigi / WireImage / Getty Images

Side-part cornrows are an opportunity for lower hair maintenance and an elegant finish. Keeping things low-key with your makeup provides a great opportunity to experiment with makeup (if you'd like).

38 of 40

Wavy Patterned Braids

Beyoncé with cornrows styled into a swoopy curl on her forehead — Getty Images

Beyoncé is constantly finding new ways to show off elements of her roots. We love this look for a special event or when you want to shake up your cornrow hairstyle.

39 of 40

Alternating Thickness Braids

Yara Shahidi viewed from the side, her hair in cornrows of varying size — Gotham / GC Images / Getty Images

Braids don't mean you can't experiment with texture. Intermix mini cornrows with regular-sized or jumbo braids to give your style some artistic roots—literally and figuratively.

40 of 40

Two Braids and Small Cornrows

Gabrielle Union with two large cornrows, two smaller cornrows fed into them on the side — @gabunion / Instagram

Rocking two braids doesn't have to be boring. Add a couple of small cornrows to each side for a little pizzazz.

FAQ

What are cornrows?

Simply put, cornrows are traditionally African hairstyle in which hair is braided close to the scalp, in rows of braids.
How do you braid cornrows?

To braid cornrows, use the tail end of a rat tail comb to create sections. Divide each section into three equal parts (similarly to most braids), and begin braiding straight back, adding hair from the nearby sections as you go. Repeat from the crown of the head to the bottom.
How long do cornrows last?

Cornrows can last for two to six weeks. Maintenance is key—moisturizing your scalp and wearing a head covering to bed can extend the life of your style. Be careful not to scratch or massage the braids too frequently and they'll last even longer. When you sleep, keep your style tied down with a skill scarf or wear a bonnet.
How do you wash cornrows?

To keep your cornrows clean without unraveling them, spray a mixture of sulfate free shampoo, water and oil onto damp hair. Lightly massage it into your scalp, squeezing the braids as you go (so as not to damage them). Rinse, and follow the same step-by-step with conditioner, oil and water.
How much does it cost to braid cornrows?

The cost of your cornrows have a lot of factors—the length, how thin or thick you'd like them, how complicated the style is, as well as your location and stylist. On average, you're looking at anywhere from $80-$300.