Bold, inventive, expressive braids are trending for 2024! The braids we’re focusing on in this post? Large cornrows. This style is distinctive and full of grace. There are multiple ways to do straight-back large cornrows.
Here, you’ll learn how to use natural hair, extensions, and accessories to make three distinct straight-back styles.
1. Simplicity Is Key
Image Source: @kennethohsomakeup
Let’s start with the most natural mode: cornrows from natural hair. You may have seen this pretty look on Letitia Wright, Zoë Kravitz, or Yara Shahidi.
Image Source: @zoeisabellakravitz
This wide-set style is frequently done with three to nine rows across the whole head. The result is a sleek look that is loved for its protective quality and versatility. At home, on a date, or at a big event, you’ll feel content and beautiful in this simple style.
2. To Greater Heights
Image Source: @keke
Next, we’re going bolder! Create a lush look by styling straight-back cornrows with extensions or braiding hair. Sometimes called Ghana braids, Keke Palmer, Gabrielle Union, and Zendaya have all worn these large cornrows.
Adding extensions to these cornrows creates raised braids for a fuller mode. While many people add braiding hair for a longer look, cutting these extensions for short and thick braids is not uncommon. Be radiant in this stacked style.
3. Accessorize Your Large Cornrows
Image Source: @braidsbyjenn_
Accessorize your cornrows to refine your style further. Incorporating accessories not only allows you to express yourself and your mood but also empowers you to style for specific events or occasions.
Use braid cuffs, rings, clips, spiral pins, beads, and hair-braiding strings to give your cornrows a vibrant look. For an earthy touch, adorn your braids with fresh flowers, bottle caps, or shells.
Image Source: @tiana.my
Honestly, the options are endless. Do you like this thing? Yes. Do you want it in your hair? Yes. Then get into it!
How to Cornrow Your Hair
If you’re new to cornrowing your hair, learn how by reading the directions and watching the videos below!
Image Source: @indybindybraids
To cornrow natural hair:
- Start with detangled, blow dried hair.
- Section your hair into however many rows you like, and tie each row up to make it easier to focus on cornrowing one section at a time.
- Apply edge control at this stage, if you like.
- Begin to braid: create one section at the front of your row and separate it into three pieces. As you reach for a piece to continue the braid, use your thumb and index finger to grab a little more hair that isn’t currently part of a piece to make it part of that piece.
- Continue to braid this way until the row is finished.
To cornrow natural hair with extensions or braiding hair:
Image Source: @newbraider
- Follow steps 1 through 3 above.
- Prepare by separating the braiding hair into several pieces. You will want it separated into more pieces than the number of rows you have.
- When you begin to braid, use the feed in method.
- It can feel strange to braid in synthetic hair. Try not to overthink. Grab and feed in the braiding hair extensions as you are grabbing the next section of your own hair.
- Add more braiding hair as needed for length or thickness, then finish the braid.
Do large cornrows make your top three of favorite braided hairstyles? Share with us below!
