Cornrow braids for men have been a super popular style since the 1990s, popularized by rappers and sports stars throughout the decade.
While classic cornrows are undoubtedly appealing, they’re not the only look to go for. In this article, we introduce you to 20 cornrow styles for men that will help you look the part and rock your unique style in 2024.
1. Classic
If you’re new to men’s corn rows, the classic look is the place to begin. These braids run straight from your forehead to your neck’s nape and are one of the most popular, many-sided styles among younger guys.
2. Fade
When you rock corn rows with a fade, you can keep it long up top and reduce the length on the sides. Some guys take the fade one step further with a top knot, but it’s up to you. You can try mid-fade hairstyles or low taper fade hairsyles. Read up to the differences between fade and taper.
3. Pop Smoke
Popularized by the rapper Pop Smoke, this style runs the braids from the middle to the side, rather than the front to the back. Stylize this look with some beads for an extra special finish.
4. Staggered Pop Smoke
Based on the Pop Smoke style, these cornrow braids for men are taken from alternate sides, doing away with the clean middle parting. The result is a stylish zig-zag pattern.
5. Micro
Switch to micro braids for an intricate hairstyle that will help you look the part. Though they take much longer to work into your hair, you can ask your barber to create micro zigzag cornrows that showcase your style.
6. Side
Rather than keeping things simple with a fade or an undercut, choose side cornrows with your natural hair on top. You can even stylize your top hair in an afro for a unique style.
7. Bun
Pairing cornrows with a bun style is all the rage right now. Follow the classic cornrows from front to back and finish with a small bun at the back to complete this look.
8. Wavy parting
Similar to zigzag cornrows, wavy parting braids create a vintage look that lends itself to the 1970s. Thicker braids work better with this style, but you can still create it with micro braids if you prefer.
9. Sunburst
This prominent look requires the braids to start from a single point at the front of your head. They then branch out, like the sun’s rays, and work their way back towards your neck.
10. Box braids
If you spend any time on social media, you will know that box braids are one of the most trending looks in 2024. Cornrows combine nineties vintage with 2024’s hottest look for an easy, protective hairstyle that men love.
11. Beaded
We love it when guys accessorize their corn rows, and beads are the best way to do it. Though plastic beads can cheapen a look, consider neutral or silver beads to really take your style to the next level.
12. Crossed
Crossed cornrows are your opportunity to create numerous patterns and angles on your head, levelling up your braids and running them from front to back by crossing them over at different points.
13. Twists
Known as flat twists, cornrow twists are a looser option if you don’t want your braids to be fixed on top of your head. They hang low and flat and are a great alternative to traditional rows, particularly if you have found them uncomfortable in the past.
14. Jumbo
Though we love micro braids, we also think there’s a place for jumbo cornrows. They’re much quicker (and cheaper), so they’re a great option if you want cornrows but have a tighter budget.
15. Undercut
For a sleek and sophisticated look, pair classic cornrows with an undercut. This is a super low-maintenance style that will help you look fresh, no matter where you are.
16. Colored
While most guys like black cornrows, you can always add color to your braids for something a little difference. Red rows can look fiery, while blue or green cornrows can pay tribute to your favorite sports team!
17. Locs
Another popular option among younger guys is cornrow locs. Ask your braider to twist your locs into cornrows, which is a great way to add a simple rotation to keep your hair in good shape.
18. Mixed size
Some guys opt for cornrows of different sizes in the same style. We like this approach, so why not combine micro braids and jumbo braids for a unique look of your own creation?
19. Braid over
In most styles, cornrows are braided under, but for something different, you can ask your braider to braid them over. This creates a blended, slightly longer look, which has gained much popularity in recent times.
20. Spider
If you truly want to create a head-turning look, opt for spider cornrows. They start at a single point, usually at the top of your head, and work their way out and down like a spiderweb. We recommend micro braids to create this gleaming look.
Final words
There are so many cornrow styles for men that it can be difficult to know where to begin. While you can ask your braider for inspiration, the above cornrow styles for men should be enough to get you started. Personally, we love the spider braids, but the choice is very much yours!
