There’s something magical about how hair can tell a story, and in South Africa, cornrow braids are speaking volumes.
They aren’t just a hairstyle; they’re a cultural statement, a testament to our rich heritage.
They’ve been passed down through generations, each twist and braid telling a story.
But what’s truly amazing is how they’ve managed to stay so relevant, constantly evolving with the times.
We’re not just talking simple straight backs anymore (though those are classics for a reason!).
Nowadays, you’ll find cornrows incorporated into everything from edgy undercuts and vibrant colours to elaborate patterns and stunning updos.
So, if you’re looking for a hairstyle that’s both stylish and meaningful, here are the latest cornrow hairstyles trending right now in South Africa.
1. Goddess Cornrows
Goddess cornrows are all about creating a regal and ethereal look.
They typically involve thicker braids that flow back from the forehead, often incorporating curves and swirls to mimic the natural flow of hair.
These braids often extend down the back or are styled into a bun or updo.
This style evokes a sense of power and grace, making the wearer feel like a true goddess.
2. Tribal Cornrows
Tribal cornrows draw inspiration from traditional African braiding patterns, often featuring intricate geometric designs and varying braid sizes.
These styles can incorporate elements like cowrie shells, beads, or other embellishments to further enhance their cultural significance.
Tribal cornrows are a powerful way to connect with one’s heritage and celebrate the artistry of African braiding traditions.
3. Crown Cornrows
Crown cornrows are designed to create the illusion of a crown or halo around the head.
The braids are typically styled to encircle the head, often meeting at the nape of the neck or being incorporated into a bun or updo at the crown.
This style exudes confidence and sophistication, making the wearer feel like royalty.
It’s a versatile look that can be dressed up or down, perfect for both formal events and everyday wear.
4. Micro Cornrows
Micro cornrows are tiny, tightly braided cornrows that allow for incredible detail and versatility.
Due to their small size, they can be styled into a wide range of intricate patterns and designs.
They can be worn straight, styled into updos, or even used as a base for other hairstyles like sew-ins or weaves.
While they require more time and skill to create, the result is a stunning and highly customizable look.
5. Invertible Cornrows
Invertible cornrows, also known as “underhand” cornrows, are braided in the opposite direction of traditional cornrows, creating a raised, textured effect.
This technique adds dimension and depth to the hairstyle, making it stand out.
They can be combined with regular cornrows to create even more intricate and eye-catching designs.
The unique texture of invertible cornrows adds a modern twist to a classic style, offering a fresh and dynamic look.
6. Geometric Cornrows
Geometric cornrows take braiding to an artistic level, creating precise and symmetrical patterns using lines, angles, and shapes.
These styles often involve complex combinations of straight lines, diagonals, and curves, resulting in visually stunning designs.
They showcase the creativity and skill of the braider, transforming hair into a work of art.
Geometric cornrows are a bold and modern statement, perfect for those who want to express their individuality.
7. Herringbone Cornrows
Herringbone cornrows are characterized by their distinctive V-shaped pattern, resembling the bones of a fish.
This classic pattern adds a touch of elegance and sophistication to any hairstyle.
They can be worn alone or combined with other cornrow styles to create more complex designs.
The intricate weave of the herringbone pattern creates a visually appealing texture.
8. Heart Cornrows
Heart cornrows are a fun and playful style that incorporates heart shapes into the braiding pattern.
These designs can be subtle or bold, depending on the size and placement of the hearts.
They are a sweet and charming way to express love and affection.
Heart cornrows are a popular choice for special occasions like Valentine’s Day or anniversaries, adding a touch of whimsy to any look.
9. Starburst Cornrows
Starburst cornrows radiate outwards from a central point, creating a star-like effect.
This dynamic and eye-catching design is sure to turn heads.
They can be created in various sizes and styles, from subtle bursts to dramatic, full-head designs.
Starburst cornrows are a bold and expressive choice, perfect for those who want to make a statement.
10. Goddess Braid Updo
A goddess braid updo combines the elegance of goddess braids with the practicality of an updo.
The thick braids are styled into a bun, chignon, or other updo style, creating a sophisticated and polished look.
This style is perfect for formal events or everyday wear, keeping hair neatly in place while showcasing the beauty of the braids.
It offers a versatile and stylish way to manage long hair.
11. Fulani Cornrows
Fulani cornrows are a traditional West African style characterized by intricate patterns, often featuring a central braid down the middle of the head and braids that curve towards the face.
They often incorporate beads, shells, and other embellishments, adding to their cultural significance.
Fulani cornrows are a beautiful expression of cultural heritage and artistry.
12. Knotless Braids
Combining knotless braids with cornrows offers a protective and stylish option.
Cornrows can be used as a base for knotless braids, providing a secure foundation and allowing for creative designs.
This combination reduces tension on the scalp, making it a gentler option for those with sensitive scalps.
It offers a versatile and long-lasting hairstyle that protects natural hair while looking fashionable.
13. Box Braids with Cornrows
Combining box braids with cornrows creates a unique and eye-catching fusion of styles.
Cornrows can be used to create intricate patterns around the box braids, adding dimension and visual interest.
This combination offers endless possibilities for creativity and self-expression.
It’s a bold and stylish choice that showcases the versatility of braiding techniques.
14. Chunky Cornrows
Chunky cornrows, as the name suggests, are created using thicker strands of hair, resulting in larger, more prominent braids.
This style offers a bold and striking look, making a strong statement.
They’re quicker to install than smaller cornrows and create a dramatic effect.
Chunky cornrows can be styled straight back for a classic look or incorporated into more complex designs.
15. Curved Cornrows
Curved cornrows introduce a softer, more feminine touch to the traditional straight lines.
By gently curving the braids as they’re woven, braiders create a sense of movement and flow.
These curves can be subtle or dramatic, depending on the desired effect.
This style adds a touch of elegance and sophistication, softening facial features and creating a more dynamic look.
16. Regal Crown Cornrows
Regal crown cornrows are designed to mimic the look of a crown or tiara encircling the head.
The braids are typically woven around the hairline, meeting at the nape of the neck or forming a complete circle.
This style exudes elegance and sophistication, making the wearer feel like royalty.
It’s a popular choice for special occasions and formal events, adding a touch of glamour to any outfit.
17. Sunflower Cornrow Braids
Sunflower cornrow braids are a vibrant and cheerful style that mimics the radiating pattern of a sunflower.
Braids originate from a central point, typically at the crown of the head, and extend outwards in all directions.
This creates a striking and eye-catching design that resembles the petals of a sunflower.
This style is perfect for those who want to express their playful and energetic personality.
18. Tribal Warrior Cornrows
Tribal warrior cornrows draw inspiration from traditional African braiding styles, often incorporating intricate geometric patterns and bold lines.
These styles evoke a sense of strength, power, and connection to ancestral roots.
They can incorporate elements like beads, cowrie shells, or other embellishments to further enhance their cultural significance.
Tribal warrior cornrows are a powerful statement of heritage and pride, celebrating the rich history and artistry of African braiding traditions.
19. Goddess Cornrow Braids
Goddess cornrow braids are all about channeling divine feminine energy, creating a look that is both powerful and graceful.
They often feature thicker braids that flow back from the forehead, incorporating curves and swirls to mimic the natural flow of hair.
These braids can extend down the back or be styled into a bun or updo.
This style evokes a sense of power and elegance, making the wearer feel like a true goddess.
20. Swirling Serpent Cornrows
Swirling serpent cornrows create a mesmerizing effect by weaving the braids in a swirling, serpentine pattern across the head.
This style adds a touch of mystique and intrigue, creating a visually captivating look.
The swirling lines create a sense of movement and flow, drawing the eye and creating a unique and memorable style.
This style requires skill and precision to achieve the desired effect, resulting in a true work of art.
21. Mermaid-Inspired Cornrows
Mermaid-inspired cornrows evoke the beauty and magic of the underwater world.
They often incorporate flowing lines, waves, and even small, delicate braids that resemble seaweed or flowing hair.
This style creates a whimsical and enchanting look, perfect for those who love the ocean and its mythical creatures.
The braids can be adorned with beads or other embellishments that resemble seashells or pearls, further enhancing the mermaid theme.
22. Heavenly Halo Cornrow Braids
Heavenly halo cornrow braids create a radiant and angelic look by braiding the hair around the crown of the head in a halo-like fashion.
This style creates a soft and ethereal effect, framing the face and adding a touch of radiance.
The braids can be styled tightly or loosely, depending on the desired effect.
This style is perfect for those who want a soft, romantic, and elegant look.
23. Majestic Lioness Cornrows
Majestic lioness cornrows are a bold and powerful style that evokes the strength and ferocity of a lioness.
They often feature larger, more voluminous braids that are styled to create a mane-like effect around the face.
This style exudes confidence and power, making a strong statement.
It’s a perfect choice for those who want to embrace their inner strength and confidence.
24. Geometric Diamond Cornrows
Geometric diamond cornrows create sharp and structured patterns using diamond shapes and precise lines.
This style showcases the braider’s skill and creativity, transforming hair into a work of art.
The diamond shapes can be incorporated in various sizes and configurations, creating a unique and eye-catching design.
This style is perfect for those who appreciate clean lines and geometric patterns.
25. Royal Highness Cornrow Braids
Royal Highness cornrow braids combine intricate braiding techniques with elegant styling to create a look of ultimate sophistication and grace.
This style often incorporates elements from other styles, such as crown braids, goddess braids, and curved lines, to create a truly majestic look.
It’s a perfect choice for formal occasions and special events, exuding an air of royalty and refinement.