Cornrow braids are a timeless and versatile protective hairstyle that allows you to get creative and express your individuality.
Cornrows date back to at least 3000 BC and have been worn by women across the world.
The name comes from the neat, tight rows the hair is braided into.
Cornrow styles range from simple, straight-back braids to intricate, geometric patterns. They can be worn for casual everyday style or special occasions.
Goddess braids are a specific type of cornrow style.
They have a romantic, feminine vibe with braids starting at the crown of the head and curving gracefully around the back and sides.
Goddess braids allow you to accessorize with hair jewelry like cuffs and beads for an extra glamorous look.
Now let’s talk about beautiful goddess cornrow hairstyles to inspire your next protective style.
Heart-Shaped Goddess Braids
These romantic heart-shaped goddess braids are formed by braiding the hair into a curved pattern.
To get this look, part the hair down the middle and create two French braids on each side of the head starting at the crown. As you braid back, gently curve the braid around into a heart shape instead of braiding straight back.
Finish the braids right above the ears, leaving the ends loose and slightly flipped up.
If your hair is short, you can add hair extensions like kanekalon braiding hair to lengthen the braids. For extra decoration, add gold cuffs or beads onto the braids.
The heart shape of these goddess braids is really flattering. It adds softness around the face and is great for accentuating your facial features.
The curvy silhouette and loose braid ends create a very feminine, romantic vibe. This style is perfect for date nights or even weddings and formal events.
To get this look on your own hair, make sure you have at least shoulder length hair or longer. Any natural hair type from Type 3 to Type 4 curls can achieve this style.
Prepare your hair by conditioning and moisturizing beforehand. Part it into four sections and begin French braiding each section curving into a heart shape.
Take your time with neat, tight braiding to get the shape clearly defined. If your hair is prone to frizzing, use a smoothing serum like Argan oil before braiding. Make sure to braid all the way to the ends to get that flipped finish.
Heart goddess braids give you an effortlessly chic protective style. Your ends stay tucked away and don’t require heat styling.
The curved shape prevents pulling on your edges too. You can leave these braids in for up to a few weeks at a time with proper maintenance.
Be gentle when washing and moisturize the hair and scalp in between. For extra bling, decorate with gold beads, seashells or hair pins wherever you want to accentuate.
This romantic style works for any occasion and lets you embrace your inner goddess!
Half-Up Crown Goddess Braids
Sometimes less is more when it comes to goddess braids. These half-up crown braids keep things minimal yet still regal. Cornrows frame the top half of the head, leaving the rest of the hair loose in back. It’s a great style if you want to show off some length.
To get the look, part the hair down the center and section off the top half. Create three straight-back cornrows on each side near the crown of the head. Braid horizontally so the rows stack on top of each other like building blocks.
Make sure the cornrows are neat and the same width. Take care not to braid too tightly at the hairline to avoid breakage. Finish off the ends of the cornrows and leave the bottom half of hair down.
The loose hair in the back can be left curly, straightened, or styled in bantu knots or twists. For extra jazz, thread gold cuffs or beads onto the braids. You can also decorate with hair jewels like shells at the ends of the braids.
Half-up cornrow styles are great for emphasizing your best facial features. The cornrows frame the eyes, cheekbones and jawline beautifully. This is an elegant style that works for both casual and dressy occasions. It’s protective for your ends and low manipulation if you leave the back loose and curly.
To try this style yourself, make sure you have at least shoulder length hair or longer. Curly and coily hair types are ideal. Start with freshly washed, conditioned, and detangled hair. Part it into six sections and begin braiding horizontally on the top half of the head.
Keep the braids uniform in size and shape as you work your way back. Tie off the ends neatly and style the loose hair as desired. Finish with accessories like cuffs and jewels on the braids.
The half-up crown braids are regal yet simple enough for everyday wear. Get ready to feel like a goddess with these minimal cornrows framing your face beautifully.
Your loose curly ends will flow goddess-like while staying protected and free of manipulation.
Sweeping Side Goddess Braids
Make an elegant statement with these sweeping side goddess braids. One side of hair is braided into a curved silhouette while the other side is left loose. This style is bold yet still soft and feminine thanks to the swooping shape.
Start by parting the hair dramatically to one side. French braid the sectioned side beginning at the crown and sweeping back and down to the nape of the neck. Braid quite tightly and keep the rows uniform to maintain the shape.
Curve the braid gently so it hugs the head, rather than braiding straight back. Finish off by braiding all the way to the ends. For the other side, leave the hair down to cascade over the shoulder. Curl or straighten those loose tresses to contrast the sculpted braid.
The swooping curve of the braid is similar to a mermaid or finger wave and adds gorgeous shape. This style is perfect for a special occasion or night out. It also conveniently keeps the loose hair out of your face all day.
To achieve this dramatic swept back braid yourself, make sure you have medium to long hair. Any natural hair type will work, from loose curls to kinky coily.
Part your hair deeply to one side, ideally on the opposite side of your face framing side.
Secure the other side out of the way. Begin French braiding the sectioned side starting near the crown and sweeping back and down. Keep the rows very neat and tight.
Curve the braid gently, following the shape of your head rather than braiding straight back.
Finish the braid all the way at the ends and secure. Style the loose hair on the other side by curling or straightening. Add statement earrings and an updo pin for extra flair.
The sweeping side braid makes a bold fashion statement for any event. The gorgeous curved shape both accentuates your best features and keeps your hair in check all day.
Swing into your next night out feeling like a goddess with this braided style.
Curved Braid Updo
This unique curled braid updo will make you look and feel amazing. Cornrow braids are swept up into a regal crown that shows off your beautiful face. It’s a more elegant and intricate take on a basic top knot.
Begin by parting the hair into a curved side part rather than straight across. Braid cornrows along the part line, creating arches that frame the face and forehead. Curve the braids around the head, alternating between away from the face and towards it.
Create additional cornrow braids under and around the initial curved braids. Sweep them up to meet at the crown of the head. Gather all the braids together like a ponytail. Then twist into a top bun, tucking in the ends.
For a decorative touch, wrap a braid or two around the base of the bun. Or let a few braids hang down as tendrils to frame the face. The curved cornrows create a very flattering silhouette with delicate arches and swoops.
This braided updo is great for accentuating your facial features. The framing effect draws attention upward to your eyes, cheekbones and smile. It’s perfect for a special event or black tie occasion when you want an elegant, regal updo.
To achieve it yourself, make sure you have medium length or longer hair. Any texture from loose curls to tight coils will work. Come to your stylist with freshly washed, detangled hair. They’ll section and cornrow along the curved side part line.
Additional rows will be braided under and around the initial ones, curving around the head in both directions. All braids get swept up and twisted into a top knot. A few tendrils may hang down for a soft finish.
Feel like royalty with this intricate braided updo! The gorgeous swept cornrows keep your edges smooth while creating delicate arches and swoops perfect for a special occasion. Protect your ends while looking polished and elegant.
Zigzag Middle Part Cornrows
Jazz up basic cornrows with this cool zigzag part. Straight cornrows are given artistic flair thanks to the central zigzag parting. It adds visual interest while still keeping the braids minimal and chic.
Begin with freshly washed and conditioned natural hair. Detangle well and part hair into two sections with a zigzag down the middle. Keep the zigzag shape symmetrical by zigging and zagging in line with the outer hairline edges.
Creating triangle sections, begin cornrowing each side straight back towards the nape of the neck. The rows should align with the angles created by the zigzag part. Keep them uniform in size and braid moderately tight. Braid all the way down to the ends.
For an extra touch, decorate the cornrow ends with beads or metal rings. The zigzag middle part gives basic cornrows a stylish update. This edgier look is great for adding some funk to your style.
The zigzag shape is very flattering and adds structure to softer facial features. It works well on oval and heart shaped faces that can pull off center parts. This fun style is ideal for adding some youthful edge to your look for a night out.
To achieve the zigzag cornrows yourself, make sure you have at least chin length hair or longer to start with. Natural hair types 3C and 4C work best to hold the sculpted parts.
Come to your stylist with clean, conditioned, detangled hair and a reference photo.
They’ll section the top into triangles using the zigzag middle part as a guide.
Take care not to cut triangles too deep at the fragile hairline. Cornrow each section straight back in line with the angles created. Secure ends and add beads or rings as desired.
Zigzag cornrows give you an edgy update to a classic protective style.
Keep your ends tucked away while making a stylish statement. The swirling center part adds artistic flair. Switch up your look and feel like a goddess with these cool geometric cornrows!
Lattice Braided Side Bun
This intricate lattice braided bun is a showstopper! Cornrows criss-cross on one side before being swept into a braided bun. It’s goddess braiding elevated to red carpet level.
Start by parting the hair dramatically to one side. Section the parted side into square chunks going back from the hairline. Begin cornrowing horizontally, braiding under and over to create a lattice pattern.
Keep the rows uniform in size and braid moderately tight. Create additional lattice braids going vertically down the side of the head, alternating between under and over.
Once the lattice braiding is complete, sweep all the rows together and braid into one big French braid. Wrap the braid into a neat side bun, securing with bobby pins. Tuck the ends under to hide them for a seamless finish.
The lattice pattern cornrowing creates delicate trackless and a cool texture. This style makes a major fashion statement for a wedding or black tie event. The gorgeous braided bun is intricate yet still comfortable for all-day wear.
To rock lattice goddess braids yourself, book at least 3-4 hours with an experienced stylist. Come in with clean, conditioned natural hair about armpit length or longer. Curly and coily 3C-4C hair types work best.
Your stylist will first section out the side into squares using hair clips. Taking their time, they’ll cornrow precise under and over lattice braids horizontally and vertically. All braids get swept together into one big French braid then wrapped into a bun.
Feel red carpet fabulous with this intricate braided bun! The gorgeous lattice pattern keeps your edges laid while creating a textured look. Make a showstopping entrance to your next formal event with this goddess updo.
Simple Straight Back Cornrows
Sometimes simple is best when it comes to cornrow braids. These classic straight back braids keep styling fuss to a minimum. They allow your natural beauty to shine through while neatly containing your coils.
For this basic style, begin with freshly washed and conditioned hair parted down the middle into two sections. Starting at the natural hairline, cornrow each section going straight back towards the nape of the neck.
Create rows of uniform width in the classic cornrow style, braiding smoothly and moderately tight. Continue braiding all the way down the length of the hair to keep ends protected.
Finish off by dipping ends in boiling water to seal. For added luxury, rub a bit of hair oil like sweet almond oil onto the braids. This boosts shine and prevents dryness during the weeks you keep the style in.
Simple straight cornrows are timeless and flattering. They gently stretch curls for length retention and prevent frustrating shrinkage. This easy style works for casual everyday wear or can be dressed up when needed.
To braid classic cornrows on your own head, make sure you have at least chin length hair to start out with. Natural hair types 3B-4C are best suited. Come to your stylist with clean, conditioned, detangled hair and a middle part already created.
They will section hair into squares and begin braiding straight back rows uniformly. Avoid braiding too tightly at the delicate hairline. Braid all the way to the ends and dip if needed. Add hair oil for extra moisture retention while braided.
Straight cornrow braids are an iconic low manipulation style. Enjoy convenient stretch without tugging at your edges. Contain your curls while still benefiting from their natural volume. Get back to basics and feel gorgeous with these simple goddess braids.
Cornrow Braid Headband
This ornate cornrow headband surrounds the head like a crown. Intricate straight and curved braids overlap on the top and sides for a regal effect. It’s perfect for lovers of sophisticated goddess braids.
Start by sectioning the very front hairline into squares. Cornrow straight back braids in the first row. Create another row of braids just behind it, curving them around the head.
Add another layer of curved braids going the opposite direction. Continue overlapping cornrows going both straight and curved around the sides and back.
Finish when you have a full headband of braids. For extra bling, decorate throughout with gold cuffs and beads. Leave the remaining hair down or sweep up into an updo.
The cornrow headband creates a very elegant silhouette. It’s great for accentuating your best facial features. This style works beautifully on oval, heart and diamond face shapes. The intricacy keeps edges laid and hair out of your face.
To achieve it yourself, book at least 2 hours with an experienced stylist.
Come in with clean, conditioned, detangled natural hair about chin length or longer. Curly and coily 3C-4C hair textures work best.
Your stylist will section the front perimeter into squares and begin braiding straight back cornrows. Rows of curved braids will overlap going both directions around the sides and back. Take your time to get the shape perfect.
Feel like royalty with this ornate braided headpiece!
Contain flyaway while drawing attention to your eyes, cheekbones and smile. Cornrow a gorgeous braided crown around your head for your next special occasion.
Chunky Cornrow Braid
Make a statement with these chunky cornrow braids! Using extra large sections of hair gives the braids a cool thick, rope-like look. Fewer bigger braids mean quicker styling time too.
Begin with freshly washed and detangled natural hair. Part down the center and section into large squares on each side. Starting at the hairline, begin cornrowing each chunk straight back toward the nape of the neck.
Keep the braids uniform in size by taking comparable sections of hair for each one. Braid moderately tight but not so tight that braids feel strained. Leave the ends loose for a playful touch.
For extra flair, wrap the chunky braid ends with colorful embroidery floss. You can also decorate throughout with fun beads.
Chunky cornrows are fun and flirty. The thicker braids have a carefree, boho vibe perfect for weekends and vacations. They still keep your ends protected and edges smooth without being too perfect.
To DIY chunky cornrows, make sure you have medium to long length natural hair. Curly and coily 3C-4C textures will hold the best. Part down the middle, then section into large squares on each side. Braid big cornrows straight back uniformly.
Don’t braid too tight or the chunks may unravel. Wrap the ends with floss and add beads. For extra hold, dip ends in boiling water.
Chunky goddess braids are all about effortless summer style. Enjoy low maintenance stretch while playing with texture using these thicker braids. Contain your curls with fewer bigger cornrows for a trendy boho look.
Cornrow French Braid Updo
This unique combination of cornrows and French braiding creates a stunning updo. Straight back cornrows transition into an elegant braided chignon at the nape. It’s goddess braiding made sophisticated.
Begin with straightened or stretched natural hair parted down the center. Create three neat cornrows on each side of the head starting at the hairline. Braid straight back using uniform sections to keep the rows clean.
Once you reach the crown area, transition the cornrows into one big French braid on each side. Incorporate any remaining loose hair into the French braids as you continue down to the nape.
Wrap the French braids into a chignon, tucking the ends under and securing with bobby pins. Leave a few curly tendrils down to frame the face.
The combo of cornrows and French braiding creates cool contrast. This updo is both edgy yet elegant at the same time. The sculpted cornrows keep edges immaculate while the braided bun ends things on a soft note.
To achieve this style yourself, have an experienced stylist French braid and chignon wrap your hair. Come in with straight or stretched natural hair about chin length or longer. 3B-4C textures will hold best.
They’ll cornrow uniform rows starting at the hairline before transitioning to French braiding. Wrapping the braids into a chignon bun, stray hairs get incorporated for a seamless finish.
Sleek cornrows meet romantic braided bun in this unique updo! Contain your edges and show off your elegant neckline with this sophisticated combo. Feel like a goddess at your next formal event.
Fun Color Blocked Cornrows
Make a seriously bright statement with these color blocked cornrows. Braids are sectioned off in different shades for an artsy, rainbow effect that pops against dark hair. It takes goddess braids to a funky new level.
Start by clarifying and conditioning hair to prep. Section clean, damp hair into triangular chunks going back from the natural hairline edges. Reserve the very front perimeter to braid last.
Dye each triangle section a different bright shade like pink, orange or blue using semi-permanent hair coloring. Allow to process then rinse well. Blow dry hair smooth.
Part into two sections and begin cornrowing each one straight back, incorporating the different colored triangles as you braid. Complete the look by braiding the natural hair perimeter last.
The color blocking effect looks almost like tapestry or stained glass. It’s a fun way to play with pops of color in your cornrows. This happy rainbow style is perfect for summer festivals and vacations.
To DIY the look, purchase several semi-permanent hair colors in your favorite bright shades. Clarify, condition, detangle and section damp hair. Apply colors to triangles going back, avoiding the perimeter.
Rinse then cornrow hair incorporating the colors. Finish by braiding the natural hair edging last to frame the face.
Make a bold statement with color blocked cornrows! Contain your curls while unleashing your inner artistic goddess. Let your creative spirit shine by braiding a wearable rainbow of brights into your goddess braids.
Cornrow Top Knot
This cornrow top knot combines goddess braids with a trendy bun. Cornrows sculpt the top and sides before getting swept into a messy knot for contrast. It’s equal parts edgy and elegant.
Begin by parting clean damp hair into a deep side part. Section the parted side into squares and cornrow back into straight braids. Curve braids gently around the side and back of head.
Repeat on the other side, continuing cornrows down to the nape of neck. Gather all braids into a ponytail atop the crown.
Twist the ponytail into a top knot, leaving the ends slightly messy. Pull out a few curly tendrils around the face for a soft finish.
The cornrow top knot creates cool contrast between sleek braids and undone texture. This easy updo is great for both casual and dressy occasions. The braids keep edges under control while the knot shows off some curliness.
To style this unique updo yourself, make sure you have medium length or longer natural hair. 3B-4C hair types will hold the braids best. Come to your stylist with clean, conditioned, detangled hair.
They’ll section and cornrow hair on the top and sides into straight back braids. Sweeping all braids into a top ponytail, it gets twisted into a messy knot bun. Finish by tugging out a few curly tendrils.
Sleek meets undone texture with this cornrow top knot! Enjoy the best of both worlds by braiding back curls then sweeping into a intentionally messy updo. This cool combo works for any occasion or season.
Jumbo Cornrow Braid Bun
Make a statement with this dramatic jumbo cornrow braided bun! Using extra large sections creates one thick, rope-like cornrow before getting coiled neatly into a bun.
Start with freshly shampooed and conditioned natural hair divided into two sections. Take an extra large chunk of hair from one section and begin jumbo cornrowing down the back of the head.
Use small horizontal subsections to keep the braid very flat and neat. Continue incorporating hair until you reach the nape. Finish braiding at the ends.
Repeat on other side with another chunky cornrow. Gather both into a low ponytail at the neck and wrap into a round bun. Hide ends and secure with bobby pins.
The jumbo cornrows minimize styling time while making a huge impact. The braided bun has a fresh, modern vibe that pairs with both dressy and casual looks. This unique goddess style is guaranteed to turn heads!
To achieve it yourself, make sure you have at least armpit length natural hair with texture ranging from 3C-4C. Part into two sections and take large chunks of hair to jumbo cornrow down each side.
Incorporate all the hair, braiding until you reach the neck. Gather cornrows into a low ponytail then tuck and wrap into a neat bun.
Make a dramatic statement with these jumbo cornrow braids! Containing curls has never looked so cool and modern. Turn your long natural hair into one or two thick, rope-like braids swept into a sleek bun.
Goddess braids open up a world of styling possibilities that allow you to have fun with braids while keeping hair protected.
Protect your edges and ends without losing your individuality. Show off your inner queen with any of these regal yet easy cornrow hairstyles for natural hair.
With proper care, your goddess braids can last up to 8 weeks until your next install.
Which stunning goddess braid look will you try first?
