32 Unique Twisted Hairstyles for Natural Short, Long and Curly Hair, Including an Afro Braid

Twisted hairstyles are a stunning way to celebrate natural textures and add creativity to every look. From crochet braids and short passion twists to versatile updos and Senegalese twists, these 32 styles offer fresh ideas for black women and for kids alike. Whether for daily wear or special events, each twisted hairstyle brings out the beauty in curly and natural hair textures, providing versatility for every occasion.

Classic Senegalese Twists

Senegalese twists bring elegance and functionality to natural hair with their rope-like aesthetic. This hairstyle can be worn down or styled into a voluminous updo for special occasions, from weddings to dinner parties. These twists look stunning on oval or heart-shaped faces, with dark brown eyes enhancing the natural beauty of this style. Senegalese twists’ length and thickness can be adjusted to suit for black women and for short hair, providing plenty of versatility.

To achieve this style, you’ll need synthetic hair extensions, such as Cuban twist or Marley hair. The hair is sectioned, then twisted with an equal amount of extension for a neat look. To maintain, use a leave-in conditioner like SheaMoisture’s Jamaican Black Castor Oil, which prevents breakage and keeps twists looking fresh.

Nubian Twists with Beads

Nubian twists deliver a lively, curly twist that exudes confidence. Styled at shoulder length or shorter, these twists are perfect for black girls kids or for kids due to their lightweight and playful texture. The look complements round and square face shapes, especially with hazel or brown eyes. These are versatile twists for both everyday styling and playful events.

The twists are created by rolling small sections of hair with Nubian synthetic hair and adding beads or shells for extra charm. A hydrating mist like Cantu’s Conditioning Mist is ideal for daily upkeep, ensuring that the twists stay bouncy and frizz-free.

Short Passion Twists

Short passion twists are ideal for those seeking a carefree, low-maintenance hairstyle with natural flair. The twists sit at chin length, adding volume without heaviness, making them a flattering choice for short hair and for black women. Best suited for heart-shaped faces, the style is eye-catching with green or light brown eyes, perfect for vacations or casual outings.

To create passion twists, start with wet hair, part it into sections, and twist each with synthetic hair extensions. Maintaining these twists requires minimal effort, but using a scalp spray like the Mielle Rosemary Mint can keep your scalp hydrated and prevent buildup.

Havana Twists with Jumbo Sections

With their thick and bold appearance, Havana twists create a stunning statement look. They’re a fantastic option for curly hair and complement rectangular face shapes, highlighting facial features and giving a regal feel. Great for special occasions, these twists radiate style, especially with outfits that include statement jewelry.

Achieving Havana twists requires thick sections of Jumbo extensions, twisting two parts tightly to create a thicker look. Maintain this style by applying a light oil like jojoba to your scalp, which keeps it moisturized and helps prolong the twist’s life.

Springy Afro Twists

Springy afro twists offer a natural, bouncy look that frames the face beautifully. This twist is a gorgeous choice for black women and for natural hair, especially for round or diamond face shapes. Ideal for festivals and parties, this twist’s charm lies in its voluminous and textured appearance, which suits vibrant makeup and bold fashion.

These twists are created using springy hair extensions that mimic a natural afro texture, twisting each section tightly at the base and leaving ends loose. Daily hydration is crucial, so use a water-based moisturizer like Aloe Vera Spritz, which preserves the twist without adding extra weight.

Crochet Twists with Half Up Half Down Style

Crochet twists are a time-saving option, bringing a unique, voluminous twist to the hair. The half up half down variation is chic and convenient for various settings, from casual to business formal. Square and oval faces benefit most from this style, especially with dark eyes that make the twists pop.

Using crochet hair extensions, loop the twists into cornrows, leaving some hair down. Secure the upper half with a clip or elastic for the style’s signature look. To keep crochet twists intact, use a lightweight leave-in conditioner, like the Taliah Waajid Protective Mist Bodifier.

Mini Passion Twists with Braid Accents

Mini passion twists are a cute, intricate style that’s both playful and professional. They’re especially popular for black girls kids and for curly hair due to their lightweight nature. This style complements oval and heart-shaped faces, with blue or green eyes adding an extra charm. Perfect for beach outings, these twists bring a natural elegance to any casual look.

Create these twists by sectioning the hair and twisting small pieces with extensions. Add braid accents for variety, and maintain the twists by gently moisturizing with a daily mist, like the Mielle Organics White Peony Leave-In Conditioner.

Short Bob Marley Twists

Bob Marley twists bring a fresh, edgy vibe for short hair enthusiasts. Sitting at chin length, they frame round or square faces elegantly, especially if paired with dark eye makeup for a more dramatic look. This style is a fit for both casual and semi-formal settings.

Using Marley extensions, twist the hair in sections, leaving the ends blunt for a bob look. To care for these twists, a dry shampoo like Carol’s Daughter Wash Day Delight keeps them fresh between washes.

Dutch Braid Twists

Dutch braid twists are a unique blend of twists and braid style, ideal for kids or for short hair due to their playful, easy-to-maintain structure. The look is best for oval faces, with hazel or brown eyes enhancing the hairstyle’s charm. These twists are perfect for school or active days, keeping hair secure and stylish.

Create this look by parting the hair and making Dutch braids on each side, finishing each braid with twists. Maintain the look with a light hairspray like the ORS Olive Oil to keep flyaways at bay.

Marley Twists with Bangs

Marley twists with bangs are a twist on the traditional, adding bangs for a fun, contemporary look. Suitable for black women and for curly hair, this style complements heart-shaped faces, especially those with brown or blue eyes. A go-to for dinner dates or stylish evenings out, this twist stands out in a crowd.

To achieve this, start with Marley extensions, section the hair, and twist it in chunky sections, leaving a few pieces at the front for bangs. Apply a leave-in conditioner, like the Aunt Jackie’s Quench Moisture Intensive Leave-In, to keep the twists and bangs hydrated.

Fulani Twists with Beaded Accents

Fulani twists embrace a culturally rich braid style with intricate twists and bead adornments. This style is stunning for black women and for kids, particularly for round and square faces with dark eyes that highlight the beaded details. Great for cultural events or summer festivals, the beads add a lively touch to this style.

To create Fulani twists, twist the hair in thin sections, weaving in beads for decoration. For maintenance, regularly apply a shine mist, such as Carol’s Daughter Black Vanilla, to keep twists looking radiant.

Side-Swept Twists with Shag Layers

Side-swept twists combined with shag layers offer a trendy and effortless look. This style is perfect for short hair or for curly hair, bringing volume and texture to round or heart-shaped faces. The sweeping twist is a great choice for casual events, outdoor gatherings, or even a date night with a natural makeup look.

To achieve this style, twist the hair while creating layers at different lengths, allowing some to fall naturally over the shoulder. Use a lightweight curl cream, like Aunt Jackie’s Curl La La, to enhance texture and keep twists hydrated.

Halo Braid Twist

A halo braid twist provides an angelic, circular look that crowns the head with intricate twists. It’s ideal for any formal occasion, from weddings to graduation ceremonies, especially for oval or square faces. This updo can be highlighted with a touch of shimmer or subtle accessories for an elegant finish.

To create a halo braid twist, divide the hair into two sections and twist each around the head, securing them with pins to form a full halo. Maintain with a setting spray like TRESemmé Compressed Micro Mist to keep flyaways in place and add a soft shine.

Twisted Top Knot Bun

The twisted top knot bun is a bold, elevated style that’s easy yet sophisticated. It works wonders for natural hair and for short hair, bringing a youthful flair to oval and round faces. Perfect for gym days or quick errands, it keeps hair off the face and neck, staying in place all day.

For this style, gather the hair into a high bun, twist sections tightly, and wrap them into a knot, securing with bobby pins. For long-lasting hold, use a gel like Eco Styler Olive Oil to smooth edges and enhance shine.

Jumbo Cuban Twists

Jumbo Cuban twists are a statement hairstyle, offering a chunky twist that exudes confidence. Suitable for face shapes with strong angles, like square or diamond faces, these twists are great for black women looking to add dramatic volume. This look is well-suited for photoshoots or nights out with friends.

To create these, use Cuban hair extensions for thickness, sectioning and twisting each piece for a bold effect. Add a touch of lightweight oil, such as jojoba or argan, to keep the twists nourished and prevent frizz.

Twisted Side Ponytail

The twisted side ponytail combines style with comfort, great for everyday wear for black girls kids and for natural hair. It’s a fitting look for round or oval faces, especially paired with natural makeup for a soft, charming appeal. Great for school or casual days, it’s both stylish and functional.

To create this, twist the hair from the roots to the ends, gathering it at one side and securing it as a ponytail. Use a leave-in conditioner spray like Carol’s Daughter Hair Milk to keep twists soft and manageable.

Marley Twists with Half Updo

Marley twists with a half updo give a laid-back, boho vibe that’s perfect for black women. It works well with heart and diamond face shapes, highlighting the cheekbones and eyes. This look is ideal for music festivals or outdoor events, pairing well with statement earrings.

Twist the hair using Marley hair extensions and pull half of the hair up, securing it with a clip or band. Spritz with a light hold hairspray, like Pantene Pro-V Flexible Hold, to keep the updo in place without making it stiff.

Island Twists with Beads

Island twists bring a tropical flair, accented with beads for a bit of fun and vibrancy. This style complements oval or square faces and is perfect for a beach vacation or summer festival. The beads add a playful touch to any outfit, making it stand out.

For this style, use medium-thick sections, twist, and add beads at the ends or along each strand. Keep twists fresh by applying a lightweight scalp oil, like ORS Coconut Oil, to maintain moisture and prevent dryness.

Spring Twists with Layered Bangs

Spring twists with layered bangs provide a unique, voluminous look for any season. This is a fantastic style for black women and for natural hair, enhancing round or oval faces. Perfect for art shows or date nights, the layered bangs create a soft, face-framing effect.

Create these twists using springy hair extensions, twisting tightly at the roots and layering bangs to frame the face. Keep the twists’ texture intact with a moisturizing spray like Jane Carter Solution Hydrate Quench.

Mini Crochet Twists

Mini crochet twists offer a lightweight, protective style with a fine texture. This style suits all face shapes and can be a great choice for school or work. It’s especially good for kids due to its low maintenance and durability.

Install by crocheting mini twists into cornrowed hair, securing each twist firmly. Use a conditioning mist, such as the Mielle Rice Water Moisturizing Spray, to keep twists shiny and soft.

Afro Puff Twist with Side Part

The afro puff twist with a side part is a chic, voluminous style that’s effortlessly cool. Ideal for curly hair and for black women, this look adds height and volume to round or heart-shaped faces. Perfect for casual or semi-formal settings, it pairs well with minimalistic accessories.

To achieve this, section hair for the puff, twisting each section lightly and securing with an elastic. Maintain the puff’s shape with a gel like Curls Blueberry Bliss Control Paste, which keeps edges smooth and defined.

Twisted Faux Hawk with Flat Twists

The twisted faux hawk with flat twists combines edgy style with a protective approach, creating a bold look that adds height and volume. Perfect for black women with short hair or for natural hair, this style enhances oval and square face shapes, especially those with strong cheekbones. Ideal for events like concerts or nights out, the faux hawk offers a modern twist on classic twists, allowing for bold accessorizing.

To create this look, section the sides of the hair and twist them flat against the scalp, leaving the center free to form the “hawk.” Twist the top into individual sections, stacking them for height. Use a strong-hold gel, such as Eco Styler Olive Oil Gel, to maintain the shape and keep the edges neat.

Double-Strand Twist with Halo Braid

The double-strand twist with a halo braid offers a soft, ethereal look that’s perfect for special occasions. This hairstyle works beautifully on curly hair and is a versatile choice for black women and for kids. It’s ideal for heart and oval face shapes, bringing out delicate facial features, especially with light makeup and minimal jewelry. Perfect for weddings, garden parties, or family gatherings, this twist radiates elegance and charm.

Start by creating two-strand twists all over, leaving a section at the crown to form a halo braid. Wrap the braid around the head and secure it with pins, creating a soft frame. Keep it fresh with a moisturizing spray like Jane Carter Solution Revitalizing Leave-In, which adds shine without weighing down the twists.

Twisted hairstyles offer endless creativity, allowing people to express their style while maintaining a protective, low-maintenance look. Whether you’re aiming for a bold look with beaded Fulani twists or a relaxed vibe with bob Marley twists, there’s a twisted hairstyle for every preference and occasion. Share your favorite twisted hairstyles below, and let us know which one speaks to your style!