Cornrow braids hairstyles just like other braided hairstyle trends that are popular among the Black African community carry a rich history. Braiding patterns and different hairstyles were used in the past to help identify people according to their marital status, community and age especially in the African community. In this case, cornrow braids hairstyles otherwise known as cane rows represented slaves planting sugarcane or corn.
Cornrow braids hairstyles have been around since time immemorial dating back to 3000BC. The best thing about this hairstyle is that it’s adopted by children, men and women alike from different races and groups. However, this doesn’t necessarily mean that cornrow braids hairstyles are your regular or typical braiding hairstyle. Sit tight! This article covers every little detail you need to know about cornrow braids hairstyles.
How Slaves Used Cornrows as an Escape Map
Women used their natural hair to weave different routes and maps for escape during the famous Trans-Atlantic slave trade. For the most part, they used intricate cornrow patterns on their hair to convey secret messages.
In the past, people used cornrows as a way of expressing themselves. Cornrows also played a significant role in attaining the freedom and liberties we are enjoying right now. You can see the evidence by Benkos Bioho in Columbia of slaves using cornrows to weave different maps and routes to deliver messages secretly.
The Portuguese captured King Benkos Bioho and drove him away from Africa. In the 17th century, after escaping from captivity, Benkos Bioho built San Basilio de Palenque. In addition, the king came up with the idea of women weaving escape routes and maps using cornrows and also created a new language for secret communication purposes.
Cornrows Hairstyle for Men
Cornrows are usually braided using the undercut method to create a slightly raised continuous row. Kings and warriors in Ethiopia such as Yohannes IV and Tewodros used to wear cornrows around the 19th century.
Historically, the cornrow hairstyle for men was traced around the same time. We’ve seen an evolution in the techniques used in braiding cornrows over the years. That’s why it’s safe to say that the intricate patterns of cornrow braids hairstyles are a work of art.
Step by Step Beginner Guide on How to do Cornrows
Here’s a step by step beginner guide on how to do cornrows.
Let’s dive right in!
Stitching Cornrow Braids
Just as the name suggests, the method used is the stitch in technique where you section the hair into horizontal lines. You then need to cut out a small thin line of hair which you’ll leave running parallel to the other line.
Cornrow Braids Hairstyles to Rock in 2022
Cornrow braids hairstyles usually come in different styles, sizes, patterns and colors. Here’s a round-up of some of the best cornrow braids hairstyles to rock in 2022:
1. Long Cornrow Feed in Braids
2. Bohemian Cornrow Braids
3. Stitch in Cornrow Braids
4. Feed in Stitch Cornrow Braids
5. Zigzag Cornrow Braids
6. Fulani Cornrow Burgundy Braids
7. Fulani Cornrow Braids
8. Box Braids Cornrows
9. Patterned Cornrow Braids into a Bun
10. Sectioned Cornrow Braids into a Bun
11. Feed in or Stitch in Cornrow Braids
12. Patterned Cornrow Braids
13. Stitch in Braided Cornrows
14. Intricate Patterns Cornrow Braids
15. Cornrow Braids into a Bun
The cost of doing cornrow braids hairstyles usually depends on your desired length, the cornrow type and time taken to braid them. If you love cornrow braids hairstyles, be sure to check out and follow these amazing stylists on Instagram:
Frequently Asked Questions
- Are cornrows a protective hairstyle?
Yes! Just like any other braiding hairstyle, cornrows are equally protective.
There are different types of cornrow braids hairstyles and all of them will help protect your hair. Cornrows typically give your hair the much needed break from other styling methods. What’s more, they help promote hair growth when done in the right way. This means that cornrows should not be done tightly as it can result in hair breakage.
2. How long should I keep cornrows in my natural hair?
You can keep your cornrows for up to 6-8 weeks. However, this depends on different factors like the length and texture of your hair. For instance, cornrows tend to unravel quicker on relaxed hair compared to natural hair.
3. Why do cornrow braids hairstyles itch?
Cornrow braids hairstyles always itch when you keep them for far too long due to build up of oil and dirt. However, you can prevent the itch by cleaning your scalp, avoiding too much moisture or taking them out.
