Locs
Side-Swept Cornrows With Mid Taper Fade
- Difficulty
- ADVANCED
- Hair Type
- Coily hair with braiding length
What it is
Five cornrows braided on a diagonal, angling back and across the head rather than running straight to the nape, with tails left loose behind the ear. Below the braid line the sides are taken into a mid taper that blends dark without going to skin, so the contrast between braid and fade is soft. The braid parts are narrow and clean, and the front hairline is razored into a defined squared corner above the temple.
Who it suits
For coily hair with enough length to braid diagonally and hold the direction. The angled rows suit anyone who wants cornrows that look less uniform than straight-backs. The mid taper without skin is a good middle ground if a bald fade feels too stark or you want the braids to grow out gracefully. Comfortable long-term protective option.
How to ask for it
Ask for five side-swept cornrows angled back with a mid taper fade underneath. Have the taper run from a 1 at the ear up to a 3 where it meets the braid line, sitting level with the middle of the ear, with no skin exposed. Request a squared line-up at the front and narrow even parts.
Upkeep
Satin scarf every night. Spray a light braid mist and oil the parts twice a week. Rebraid at three weeks before frizz sets in; the taper needs refreshing every two.
