Whether they're used as a protective style or just because they look bomb as hell, there are so many styles of cornrows that celebrities have worn on red carpets to look to as inspiration. Whether the look is small intricate braids, an elegant updo, or thigh-length cascading braids, these photos bring so much beauty it almost hurts the eye. So if you're looking to make a change, or just want some inspo for styling your braids in a new interesting way, feast your eyes on these images for top-notch, gorgeous cornrows. And while we know some white women–you know who I'm talking about–love to copy these looks, let's instead focus on these phenomenal styles worn by some of the coolest women in the industry.
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1
Ciara
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Paired with intricate baby hairs and the best smokey eye I've seen in days, this look worn by Ciara brings a level of badassery that I can only aspire to.
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2
Yara Shahidi
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Yara stepped up the game with sculptural braids that are as dramatic as they are beautiful.
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3
Zoë Kravitz
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For the 2019 Met Gala, Zoë Kravitz paired her sculptural sequin Saint Laurent dress with pinned-back cornrows. The statement earrings add a point of interest and emphasize her stunning features.
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4
Jada Pinkett-Smith
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For an understated and elegant look, Jada paired her braided look with a chic collared shirt and so much radiance it's almost not fair.
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5
Keke Palmer
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For instant elegance, Keke Palmer's cornrows meet at a slight angle before cascading down her back for a red carpet-ready style. Somehow her feathery dress is only the second most beautiful style point in this photo.
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6
Beyoncé
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The queen herself paired intricate braids tied in a ponytail with colossal statement earrings and a hat to the Grammy's.
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7
Alicia Keys
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Joining the ranks of Alicia Keys' most stunning hair looks, this braided look ends in a low bun for an effortlessly chic style. Her swirly baby hairs and diamond earrings help bring focus to her clean skin and minimal makeup.
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8
Amandla Stenberg
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For a twist on classic cornrows, Amandla's hair stylist created a 1920'-esque fingerwave for the Academy Awards.
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9
Rihanna
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Not only did Rihanna stun with her jewel-encrusted dress at the 2019 Fashion Awards, but her ornately braided hairstyle is as delicate and cool as she is.
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10
Regina King
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Our lord and savior Regina King wore cornrows with a deep side part tied into a bun for a sophisticated updo. Judging by this picture, I think she knows how good she looks.
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11
Jourdan Dunn
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British model Jourdan Dunn made this look seem easy, pairing her braids with a simple dress and of course her modelesque good looks.
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12
Tracee Ellis Ross
Dan MacMedan//Getty Images
As the founder of Pattern Beauty, it comes as no surprise that Tracee killed it with her Grammy look. Her braids were so long they came to her thighs for all-over drama that we're living for.