Dutch Braids and Cornrows are two of the most popular braiding hairstyles because of the distinctive captivating look you can achieve. Both of these hairstyles can make you the center of attention in any crowd because of their glamor.
Dutch Braids and Cornrows have similarities in their weaving techniques to some extent which makes many people identify them as different variations of the same hairstyle. In some cases, you might get a cornrows hairstyle instead of a Dutch Braids hairstyle due to your hairstylist’s ignorance.
I have prepared this article so that you can know the differences between Dutch Braids and Cornrows. The next time your Beautician messes up your desired hairstyle between these two, you can call him/her out!
Table of Contents
What is Dutch Braids
Dutch Braids also known as ‘’Inverted French Braids’’ is one of the most popular Braiding techniques among fashionistas due to the alluring, appealing look it can give to its wearer.
The name Dutch Braids got its name due to its origin in the Netherlands and its popularity among the Dutch. Another theory is that, Dutch braids got its name because its weaving technique is similar to Double Dutch jump rope technique.
The strands of hair are interweaved under each other in a way which makes the braid appear over your hair.
Pros of Dutch Braids
- It is a protective hairstyle which prevents hair breakage.
- It can be done easily at home in a shorter amount of time than other braids.
- It is suitable for every type of hair.
Cons of Dutch Braids
- It can not be worn more than one week even if you take very good care of your hair.
- It can not be styled for shorter hair without hair extensions.
What is Cornrows
Cornrows are a traditional braiding style which are worn by both men and women. Cornrows give the wearer a lot of options to style their hair which makes them one of the most sought out braiding styles for fashion mongers.
When your hair is done in a Cornrows hairstyle it looks like a cornfield from which it got its name. In the Caribbean, it is known as “Canerows”. Cornrow hairstyles in Africa are deeply connected with religion, kinship, status, age, racial diversity, and other attributes of identity.
The strands of hair are interweaved under each other in a tight way very close to the scalp, creating tight fitted braids.
Pros of Cornrows
- Protects your hair from breakages and moisture loss.
- Low maintenance and Cheaper than other protective hairstyles.
- It can be applied to any size of hair without hair extension.
- It can be worn with a variety of accessories.
- Both men and women can use Cornrows hairstyles.
- It can be kept for a long period of time.
Cons Of Cornrows
- Does not suit every type of hair.
- It can be difficult to remove.
- It can sometimes damage your hair if too much pressure is applied while braiding.
- It takes a long time to finish the hairdo.
How Are They Different?
Many of you might think that Dutch Braids and Cornrows are the same because of the similarities between their weaving techniques but they are quite different. Their origin, braiding technique, number of braids etc. are quite different from one another.
Origin
Depictions of Cornrows hairstyles can be found in African history in 3000 BC. There are portrayals of women wearing Cornrows in the stone age paintings situated in the Tassili plateau of the Sahara. This hairstyle can also be found in Roman, Greek, Middle Eastern and Mediterranean civilisations.
Dutch Braids came from the Netherlands but there is a twist! It was not invented by the Dutch rather it was originally invented by African immigrants who came to the Netherlands. They used to braid their hair in various designs. One of these designs which became very popular among Dutch people was adopted by them. That is how Dutch Braids came to be.
Braiding Technique
The braiding technique between Cornrows and Dutch Braids are quite similar at first glance but they are really different if you really focus on the details.
When you are doing Dutch Braids you need to cross your strands under while you have to hold your hair up. Your hair needs to be held up in an angle which will give it a voluminous effect. Dutch Braids are mostly styled in simple straight lines.
On the other hand, Cornrows usually go downwards with a tighter, flatter effect against the scalp. For this reason, Cornrows are way less voluminous than other braids. Cornrows can be styled in straight lines as well as elaborate geometric or curvilinear designs.
Hair Length and Type
Dutch Braids and Cornrows hairstyles are quite different from one another when it comes to hair length, hair type and hair texture.
If you have long hair then you can easily style your hair with dutch braids but if you have short hair you might find yourself in trouble. You can not attain any dutch braids hairstyle without hair extension if you have short hair.
Cornrows on the other hand can be done with long hair as well as short hair. It totally depends on you if you want to add hair extensions if you have short hair to voluptuous your hairstyle or try longer Cornrows hairstyles.
Dutch braids can be done in every type of hair while Cornrows are better suited for Curly and kinky (type 3 and 4) types of hair. It does not mean you can not use cornrows if you have straight or wavy hair( type 1 and 2) but you would have to use a lot of hair products otherwise your hair will look thinner and less voluminous.
Number of Braids for Styling
One of the key differences between Dutch Braids and Cornrows is in the amount of braids that are done in order to stylize your hair. If you are going for Dutch Braids you will do from1 or 2 braids to elegantly design your hair with a unique style.
The case for Cornrows is quite different. If you want to try out a Cornrows hairstyle you will have to make at least 4 to 5 braids. Some Cornrows hairstyles consist of 8 to 10 braids which helps give the wearer a distinctive look.
Longevity
If you are looking for a hairstyle which will last for a long time then both of these hairstyles are quite phenomenal. But Cornrows last way much longer than Dutch Braids.
If you are one of those people who does not get enough time to take special care of hair then Cornrows are for you. Cornrows can last from 2 to 4 week without any special care. If you regularly take care of your hair then Cornrows can last from 6 to 8 weeks.
On the other hand, Dutch Braids last very little in comparison with Cornrows. If you do not take care of your hair then Dutch Braids will not last more than 2 days. Even if you take special care, it will not last more than 10 days.
Which One is for You?
Dutch Braids and Cornrows are two of the visually alluring braiding techniques which can be turned into a variety of unique hairstyles. If you are stuck between choosing from these two, let’s see if I can help you with that.
You should always choose your hairstyle based on your hair type, hair size and personality. You always need to keep in mind that your hairstyles tell a lot about you so choose carefully!
If you have Long hair then you can select for Dutch Braids and style your hair in a diverse distinctive hairdo. It does not matter which type of hair you have as it looks appealing in every type of hair. If you have short hair you will need to use hair extension to wear this hairstyle.
I would suggest you get Cornrows if you have curly or kinky hair as it is better suited for these hair types . Getting Cornrows with Straight or wavy hair is not impossible but you will need hair extensions to make your hair voluminous otherwise your braids will look too narrow. There are some Cornrows hairstyles specifically for straight hair which you can try out if you really wanna go for it.
FAQ
There are many questions you might have about Dutch Braids and Cornrows. I have answered some of those questions so that you don’t have to keep searching.
Q: Which one is more protective for my hair between Cornrows and Dutch Braids?
A: Cornrows and Dutch Braids are both known as protective hairstyles. They prevent the hair from breaking and reduce friction between your hair and pillow. Some specialists argue that Cornrows are better at protecting your hair than any other braids because they start weaving your hair from the scalp which helps your hair to stay moisturized.
Q: Which hairstyle Costs more between Dutch Braids and Cornrows?
A: Usually the cost of a hairstyle depends on your hair size, hairdresser, the products and accessories that you are using. Dutch Braids usually cost less than Cornrows as they require less product and time.
Dutch Braids can cost from $30 to $100 based on your hairstylist, whether you are using hair extensions etc. If you just want regular Dutch Braids, you can do it yourself at home without spending any money.
Cornrows can cost from $40 to $300 based on your hair size, stylist and accessories.
Q: Do Cornrows last longer than Dutch Braids?
A: Yes, Cornrows last longer than Dutch Braids. If you maintain your hair with utmost care your Cornrows will last for 6 to 8 weeks. On the contrary, no matter how much care you give to your Dutch Braids Hairstyle, it won’t last more than 10 days.
Q: Do Cornrows damage my hair?
A: The answer is no, Cornrows do not damage your hair. Cornrows are known as one of the most protective hairstyles. Your hair gradually loses its moisturizer and starts to break apart. Braiding styles like Cornrows help to prevent it by knitting the hair together.
Q: Can I do Dutch Braids on my short hair?
A: The Answer is technically yes but you can’t do it with your natural hair. Let me explain. Maximum Dutch Braids hairstyles are well suited for longer hairs. In order for you to opt for one of these hairdos you will need to use hair extensions. If you don’t want to use hair extensions then you can’t use Dutch braids hairstyles on your short hair.
Verdict
The enticing aura that one can receive from braiding hairstyles like Dutch Braids and Cornrows is undeniable.
Dutch Braids and Cornrows can keep your hair protected and are easy to maintain. They can be your easy go to hairstyle for regular circumstances.
Both of them are a keen choice for fashionistas and no matter which hairstyle you choose it will give you an elegant dignified look which can add volumes to your persona.
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