24 Cornrow hairstyles for men: Fresh Braided Designs for Every Style

Cornrows, an iconic and culturally rich hairstyle, have been around for centuries, with deep roots in African culture. Originating from ancient Africa, cornrows were once used to symbolize tribal affiliations, age, and social status.

Today, they’ve evolved into a global trend, worn by men from all walks of life. Whether you’re looking for a fresh way to wear your hair or are drawn to the historical significance, cornrows offer both style and versatility. Let’s take a closer look at 24 of the most popular and trendy cornrow hairstyles for men.

24 Cornrow hairstyles for men

1. Geometric Cornrow Design

Geometric cornrow designs offer a bold and structured look, featuring sharp, angular patterns that create a modern, artistic aesthetic. These intricate shapes are often achieved through detailed braiding techniques that require precision and skill.

The geometric design works well on both short and long hair, giving it a unique and personalized touch. It’s a perfect choice for those who want a hairstyle that stands out and makes a statement.

Regular maintenance is essential to keep the shapes looking clean and defined. With proper care, these designs can remain crisp and striking for weeks.

Ideal for men looking to add a contemporary edge to their look, the geometric cornrow design is both fashionable and artistic.

2. Starburst Braids

Starburst braids create a stunning, star-like pattern on the scalp, with the braids branching out from a central point. This design radiates outward, offering an eye-catching and intricate look.

The starburst pattern works particularly well with medium to long hair, allowing the design to expand beautifully across the head. It’s a great way to show off a creative side while keeping the style neat.

These braids can be dressed up or down, making them versatile for any occasion. With their bold geometric shape, they add an element of drama to your hairstyle.

Perfect for those who want a fun and unique design, the starburst braids deliver both style and impact.

3. Cross-Patterned Cornrows

Cross-patterned cornrows are a unique style that features braids crossing over one another to create an intricate, criss-cross effect. This design adds a distinct visual flair while keeping the hairstyle neat and tidy.

The cross pattern can be adapted to various lengths and hair types, providing flexibility in how it’s styled. It’s a great choice for those who enjoy geometric shapes with a twist.

With proper care and styling, cross-patterned cornrows can last for an extended period, maintaining their sharp appearance. This style requires a skilled braider for the best results, as the precision of the crosses is key.

This design is ideal for individuals who want a striking, custom look that sets them apart from traditional cornrow styles.

4. Classic Straight-Back Cornrows

Classic straight-back cornrows remain a staple in the world of braids, offering a timeless and clean style. These braids run straight from the front to the back of the head, creating a sleek and organized appearance.

The simplicity of straight-back cornrows makes them easy to maintain, and they work well with both short and long hair. This style can be paired with a fade or kept simple for a more classic look.

Straight-back cornrows are versatile and can easily transition from casual to more formal settings. Their tidy and symmetrical layout provides a sharp, polished finish.

Perfect for those who prefer a no-fuss, practical yet stylish look, classic straight-back cornrows are a go-to choice.

5. Tapered Side Braids with Beads

Tapered side braids with beads combine elegance and creativity, with the braids tapering off toward the sides of the head and adorned with beads for added flair. This style offers a stylish yet relaxed look.

The tapered design adds structure, while the beads give a pop of personality and playfulness. It works well with medium-length hair and can be customized to suit individual tastes.

To keep the braids looking neat, regular touch-ups are necessary, especially if the beads are incorporated. These accessories give a youthful, trendy vibe to the overall style.

Ideal for those who want a laid-back yet fashionable look, tapered side braids with beads offer a fun twist on traditional cornrows.

6. Swirling Cornrows

Swirling cornrows create a mesmerizing, spiral-like effect as the braids wind and twist around the scalp. This design adds depth and dimension to the hair, making it appear dynamic and lively.

The swirling pattern is particularly striking when viewed from different angles, adding an artistic flair to the style. It’s a great option for those looking to experiment with more intricate braiding techniques.

Regular maintenance is key to preserving the swirls, ensuring they stay neat and defined over time. With proper care, this style can last for weeks without losing its vibrant look.

Perfect for individuals who want to make a bold, creative statement, swirling cornrows offer a striking, dynamic aesthetic.

7. Half-Up Cornrows with Taper Fade

Half-up cornrows with a taper fade combine two popular trends into one chic look. The cornrows are styled at the top half of the head, while the sides and back feature a sleek taper fade.

This style offers both structure and softness, with the cornrows providing texture and the fade giving the look a clean finish. It’s perfect for men who want a combination of classic and modern elements in their hairstyle.

Maintaining this style is easy, with the taper fade requiring occasional touch-ups to keep the edges crisp. The half-up cornrows, on the other hand, stay in place with minimal effort.

Great for those who enjoy versatility, half-up cornrows with a taper fade offer a stylish way to wear braids while keeping things fresh and neat.

8. Spiral Braids with High Fade

Spiral braids with a high fade create a bold and striking contrast. The braids twist in a spiraling motion, while the high fade on the sides adds a sharp, modern touch.

This style works well with medium to long hair, as it allows for the braids to form tight spirals that stand out. The high fade further enhances the look, giving it a clean, edgy finish.

For men who enjoy an athletic or sharp appearance, this style is ideal. Regular maintenance of both the braids and fade is necessary to maintain the crispness of the design.

A perfect blend of bold and sleek, spiral braids with a high fade are a great choice for men who want a standout hairstyle that combines texture with a fresh, edgy vibe.

9. Cornrow Bun with Blonde Highlights

A cornrow bun with blonde highlights offers an elegant and fresh take on the classic cornrow hairstyle. The braids are pulled back into a bun, while blonde highlights add contrast and dimension to the look.

The blonde highlights provide a sunny, bright finish that contrasts beautifully with the natural hair color, giving the style a modern edge. This look is ideal for those who want a bold, stylish update to their cornrows.

Regular conditioning is important to maintain the health of both the cornrows and the highlighted hair. This ensures that the braids stay vibrant and the color remains rich.

Great for men who want a fresh twist on the traditional cornrow bun, this style combines texture, volume, and color for a trendy, sophisticated look.

10. Natural-Length Cornrows with Accessories

Natural-length cornrows with accessories provide a simple yet stylish way to wear braids. The braids are left at their natural length, with added accessories like beads, cuffs, or threads to enhance the look.

This style works well for those who prefer a more laid-back approach while still adding personality to their hairstyle. The accessories bring an extra element of customization and fun.

With the right maintenance, natural-length cornrows can last for weeks, and the accessories can be changed to suit different occasions or moods.

Perfect for individuals looking for a low-maintenance, yet stylish look, natural-length cornrows with accessories offer versatility and creativity.

11. Classic Cornrows with a Flowing Finish

Classic cornrows with a flowing finish are a stylish and timeless look that combines the neatness of traditional braids with the freedom of loose ends. The cornrows are neatly styled from the front to the back, while the ends are allowed to flow naturally.

This look works particularly well with longer hair, where the flowing braids can create movement and texture. It’s a simple yet elegant option that can be dressed up or down depending on the occasion.

To maintain the flow and prevent frizz, it’s important to use quality hair products that keep the ends hydrated and manageable.

Ideal for those who enjoy a relaxed yet polished style, classic cornrows with a flowing finish offer a beautiful balance of structure and movement.

12. Cornrows with Gold Accessories

Cornrows with gold accessories take the traditional cornrow style to the next level. By incorporating gold cuffs, beads, or chains, this style adds a touch of luxury and sophistication to the braids.

The gold accents work particularly well with darker hair tones, creating a bold contrast that catches the eye. This style can be customized with different gold accessories, depending on your personal preference.

Regular upkeep of the accessories is important to keep them in good condition, ensuring they remain shiny and stylish.

Perfect for those looking to add a touch of glamor and refinement to their braids, cornrows with gold accessories combine culture and luxury for a standout look.

13. High-Top Cornrows with Blonde Extensions

High-top cornrows with blonde extensions offer a unique and trendy look that combines bold braids with light-colored extensions. The high-top style involves braiding the hair upwards, giving it a lifted, voluminous effect, while the blonde extensions add brightness and contrast.

This style is perfect for those who want to make a statement with both texture and color. The blonde extensions brighten the overall look, making the braids appear more dynamic and lively.

Proper care of both the braids and extensions is necessary to keep the hair looking its best. Regular moisturizing and touch-ups will ensure the look stays fresh and vibrant.

Ideal for men who want a bold and fashionable appearance, high-top cornrows with blonde extensions offer a dramatic yet stylish twist on traditional cornrows.

14. Icy White Box Braids

Icy white box braids are a striking and bold style that features braids in a cool, platinum blonde color. The box braids are sectioned into squares, creating a geometric and structured look, while the icy white hue adds a frosty and edgy finish.

This color works especially well on men with fair to medium skin tones, as the cool undertones of the icy white color contrast beautifully with their complexion. It’s a daring choice for those who want to stand out.

Maintaining the white color can be a bit more high-maintenance, as it requires regular touch-ups and careful care to prevent yellowing or fading.

Perfect for those who want to go for a bold, high-fashion look, icy white box braids bring an element of cool sophistication to the classic braided style.

15. Zigzag Cornrows with Loose Ends

Zigzag cornrows with loose ends provide a fresh twist on the traditional cornrow style, creating an eye-catching zigzag pattern along the scalp. The loose ends add texture and movement, giving the look a more relaxed and natural feel.

This style works particularly well for men who like their braids to have a bit of edge, as the zigzag design creates a dynamic visual effect. The loose ends add an element of freedom, making the style more playful.

To maintain the sharpness of the zigzag pattern, it’s important to keep the braids moisturized and regularly touched up.

Ideal for men who want a unique, creative take on cornrows, zigzag cornrows with loose ends offer a mix of structure and freedom.

16. Star-Patterned Cornrows with Undercut

Star-patterned cornrows with an undercut combine a striking pattern with a sharp, modern fade. The star designs are intricately woven into the cornrows, creating a standout look, while the undercut adds a clean contrast to the top.

This style is perfect for those who want a bold, personalized touch in their hairstyle. The star pattern provides a unique flair, and the undercut keeps the look fresh and sharp.

Regular maintenance is required to keep both the braids and undercut looking sharp, but with proper care, this look can be long-lasting and bold.

Perfect for those looking for a high-impact, trendy style, star-patterned cornrows with an undercut offer a striking balance between creativity and precision.

17. Grid-Patterned Cornrows with Defined Rows

Grid-patterned cornrows with defined rows create a structured, uniform look with clear lines and sections. The grid design forms an organized pattern that can be as simple or complex as desired, with the defined rows giving the style a clean, polished finish.

This style is great for men who prefer order and symmetry in their hairstyle. The precise pattern gives the braids a sharp, geometric appearance that stands out while remaining neat.

To maintain the grid pattern, regular touch-ups are essential to keep the lines defined and fresh.

Ideal for those who enjoy a clean, precise look, grid-patterned cornrows with defined rows offer a sleek, orderly appearance that’s both fashionable and timeless.

18. Layered Cornrows with Tapered Finish

Layered cornrows with a tapered finish add depth and dimension to the hair, with the braids layered at different lengths to create a textured, voluminous look. The tapered finish on the sides enhances the overall effect, offering a clean and stylish appearance.

This style works well for men who want a mix of texture and neatness, with the layers adding volume to the braids while the tapered finish keeps the look polished.

Regular maintenance is important to keep the layers defined and the tapered edges fresh. This ensures the style stays sharp and well-groomed.

Perfect for those who want a dynamic yet structured style, layered cornrows with a tapered finish offer a fresh and stylish approach to traditional cornrows.

19. Wavy Cornrow Design

Wavy cornrow designs create a smooth, flowing look that mimics the natural waves in hair. The braids are styled to follow a gentle wave pattern, which adds depth and movement to the overall style.

This design works well for those with medium to long hair, as the waves create a relaxed, effortless vibe. The wavy cornrow look is perfect for individuals who want a more laid-back, yet fashionable twist on the classic cornrows.

Proper care is needed to keep the waves looking fresh, with regular moisturizing to prevent frizz and dryness.

Great for those who love texture and flow, wavy cornrow designs offer a stylish, soft alternative to the typical straight-backed cornrows.

20. Cornrows with Bun and Fade

Cornrows with a bun and fade combine multiple elements into one stylish look. The braids are neatly styled into cornrows that are pulled back into a sleek bun, while the sides feature a clean fade that contrasts the top.

This style is ideal for men who want a polished, yet easy-to-maintain look. The combination of the bun and fade adds a modern touch, offering a fresh twist on the classic cornrow.

To keep the style sharp, it’s important to maintain the fade and ensure the bun stays secure and neat. Regular trims and touch-ups are recommended.

Perfect for those who enjoy versatile hairstyles, cornrows with a bun and fade offer a refined yet practical look suitable for many occasions.

21. Bubble-Inspired Cornrows with Beads

Bubble-inspired cornrows with beads create a fun, playful twist on the traditional braids. The braids are styled into sections that create “bubbles,” with added beads at the ends for extra flair.

This style is ideal for those looking to add personality and a touch of fun to their look. The bubble effect makes the braids stand out, while the beads bring a youthful, colorful element to the style.

Regular care is essential to keep the bubbles looking neat, and the beads should be checked for any damage to ensure they remain in place.

Perfect for men who want a lighthearted yet fashionable look, bubble-inspired cornrows with beads add a lively touch to any occasion.

22. Long Sleek Cornrows

Long sleek cornrows create a smooth and polished appearance, with the braids styled closely to the scalp and left to flow down the back. This design exudes elegance and simplicity.

The sleek look works particularly well with long hair, as it allows the cornrows to flow seamlessly down the back. This style is perfect for men who want a more refined and understated take on the traditional cornrows.

To maintain the sleekness, it’s important to use hair products that reduce frizz and enhance shine. Regular moisturizing will keep the braids smooth and well-maintained.

Ideal for those who prefer a clean, sleek appearance, long sleek cornrows offer a timeless look that’s both elegant and versatile.

23. Thick Double Braided Cornrows

Thick double braided cornrows add volume and texture to the traditional cornrow style. The braids are made thicker, giving the style a bold and more substantial appearance.
This style works well for those who want a dramatic, impactful look. The double braids can be styled side-by-side or in different patterns, offering flexibility while maintaining a striking visual.

Regular maintenance of the braids is necessary to keep them looking clean and fresh. Using moisturizing products helps prevent dryness and ensures the braids stay in place.

Perfect for men who want a bold, statement-making hairstyle, thick double braided cornrows are both fashionable and eye-catching.

24. Classic Straight-Back Cornrows with Beads

Classic straight-back cornrows with beads combine the timeless look of straight-back cornrows with the added flair of beads. The beads are placed throughout the braids, creating a playful, personalized touch.

This style is perfect for men who want a simple yet unique twist on the classic cornrows. The beads add a pop of color and personality without overpowering the clean lines of the braids.

To keep the beads secure, ensure they are threaded properly, and maintain the braids with regular touch-ups.

Ideal for those looking for a stylish yet low-maintenance look, classic straight-back cornrows with beads offer a fresh, modern update to a traditional style.

Conclusion

Cornrow hairstyles offer a wide variety of options for men, each with its own unique style and personality. From geometric designs to classic straight-back braids, these versatile looks allow for creativity and customization. Whether you prefer bold patterns, sleek finishes, or playful accessories, there’s a cornrow style to suit every taste.

With proper maintenance and care, cornrows can stay fresh and stylish, making them a timeless choice for any occasion.