36 Twist Hairstyles for Black Women for Natural Short, Medium and Long Hair Perfect for Any Age
Twist hairstyles for black women offer both beauty and versatility, perfect for those who want a natural look or a bold style statement. From short twist updos to long blonde braids and classic bob styles, there’s a twist hairstyle for every occasion and preference. Whether you’re over 50 or seeking a fresh color or weave style, these 36 unique twist options bring out the best in every texture and length.
Classic Senegalese Twists
Senegalese twists showcase a timeless style with long, sleek twists that frame the face beautifully. They’re a natural option for those with long hair but can be tailored to fit short lengths as well. The elegance of this style makes it ideal for formal events, such as weddings or corporate gatherings. For those with oval or heart-shaped faces, Senegalese twists help balance the proportions, while darker eye colors particularly stand out against these bold, beautiful twists.
Achieving Senegalese twists typically requires braiding hair extensions into small sections using a twisting technique. To keep these twists looking fresh, a color-safe leave-in conditioner can help maintain their sheen. Try Shea Moisture’s Jamaican Black Castor Oil Strengthen & Restore Leave-In Conditioner, and consider a silk scarf at night to reduce frizz.
Chunky Marley Twists
Marley twists are perfect for adding volume and a more textured look to your style. This twist variation uses thicker sections of hair, creating an eye-catching, medium length twist that works well for day-to-night looks. This style is flattering on most face shapes and is especially striking for women with warm or deep-toned eyes, adding a soft frame around the face.
These twists are achieved with Marley hair, which mimics natural hair texture, and can be completed by twisting synthetic hair into each section. For maintenance, regularly applying an anti-frizz cream, like Cantu’s Moisturizing Twist & Lock Gel, keeps the twists in place and reduces flyaways, making it easier to maintain the twist’s shape for longer.
Short Passion Twists
Passion twists are known for their bohemian vibe, giving short hair a textured, free-flowing look. This style suits beach outings, casual brunches, and outdoor festivals, where a relaxed, playful look is desired. Passion twists add a hint of volume, making them suitable for oval and square face shapes. Light eye colors, like hazel or amber, often pop against this style’s playful curls.
Creating passion twists involves a two-strand twist technique, using spring twist hair to achieve a more textured appearance. It’s best to use a lightweight mousse for upkeep, such as the ORS Olive Oil Wrap/Set Mousse, which keeps twists defined without weighing them down, ensuring a frizz-free finish for days.
Blonde Havana Twists
Blonde Havana twists add a sun-kissed dimension to traditional twists, enhancing any skin tone and lending a bold pop of color. Perfect for spring and summer events, these twists brighten up both casual and semi-formal looks. For women with round or diamond face shapes, blonde Havana twists create flattering angles, drawing attention to the cheekbones.
Havana twists use larger sections of hair, so they’re ideal for a faster styling session. When twisting, use blonde-colored extensions and a conditioning twist cream to keep the style in place. To maintain the color’s vibrancy, a sulfate-free shampoo, such as Joico Color Balance Purple Shampoo, is essential for preventing brassiness.
Shoulder-Length Twist Bob
The twist bob is a chic, shoulder-length style that brings both elegance and practicality, particularly appealing for women over 50. It’s a timeless look suited for professional settings, social gatherings, or date nights. The style frames the face gracefully, flattering oval and heart-shaped faces while highlighting eye colors from blue to dark brown.
A twist bob is achieved with a combination of Marley or synthetic hair extensions cut to shoulder length, twisted in neat rows. To keep the bob looking smooth, apply a daily spritz of nourishing oil, like Carol’s Daughter Black Vanilla Moisture & Shine Hair Sheen. This will help keep the twists shiny and prevent frizzing.
Twisted Faux Hawk Updo
The twisted faux hawk updo combines edginess with elegance, ideal for those wanting to make a bold statement at a party or concert. This twist updo accentuates angular face shapes like square or diamond and works well with bold eye colors like green or blue, which stand out against the structured twists.
Creating a faux hawk updo involves sectioning the hair into twists along the sides and pinning them up towards the center. For a secure hold, use edge control gel and extra-hold pins. To keep the style intact, finish with a light mist of holding spray, such as TRESemmé Compressed Micro Mist Hair Spray for a touchable yet lasting hold.
Twist Out for Natural Volume
A twist-out brings out the best in natural hair texture, creating voluminous twists that highlight the beauty of afro-textured hair. This style is perfect for casual settings, yet adaptable for any occasion with the right accessories. Twist-outs are universally flattering, bringing out the cheekbones for round or heart-shaped faces.
For a twist-out, apply a curl cream like Miss Jessie’s Curly Pudding to each twist before unraveling for defined curls. Regular maintenance with a curl refresher, such as Mielle Organics Coil Sculpting Custard, keeps the curls moisturized and bouncy, enhancing the twist-out’s natural volume.
Long Goddess Twists
Goddess twists, known for their lengthy, flowing twists, provide an ethereal vibe perfect for formal events like galas or red carpet affairs. These long twists are particularly stunning for heart-shaped faces, adding volume below the cheekbones to enhance balance. Eye colors like dark brown and black harmonize well with the length and richness of the twists.
Goddess twists are created by twisting long synthetic hair with added volume, using a combination of shine serum and moisturizer. For upkeep, a silk bonnet helps preserve the style’s smoothness overnight, while light oil keeps the twists shiny without making them greasy.
Colorful Ombre Twists
For a daring look, colorful ombre twists are a vibrant way to express individuality, especially in shades like burgundy, caramel, or ash blonde. This twist style is perfect for creative events or gatherings where a bold style is celebrated. Ombre twists suit round faces well and bring out green and hazel eyes.
Ombre twists require specialized extensions, blending a base color with a bold hue for the ombre effect. Use a color-safe mousse to maintain definition, and consider a protective spray to prevent color fading in bright sunlight. This style thrives with a touch of leave-in conditioner for lasting moisture and sheen.
Twists with Braided Roots
Twists with braids at the roots add dimension to traditional twists, providing extra security and a unique style twist. This hairstyle is ideal for anyone seeking a versatile style that works for both professional and casual settings. Twists with braided roots flatter oval faces and look particularly striking with warm, dark eye colors.
To create this style, begin by braiding the roots before transitioning to two-strand twists. This approach adds durability to the hairstyle. For maintenance, spritzing with a scalp oil helps to keep roots moisturized, and a refresher mist keeps the twists looking polished and neat.
Weave Twist Ponytail
A twist ponytail created with weave extensions is both chic and functional, ideal for a polished look on-the-go. It’s a sleek style for corporate environments or any event where an elegant presentation is key. A twist ponytail best suits heart and oval face shapes, emphasizing their natural angles and enhancing deep brown or dark blue eyes.
This style is achieved by attaching twisted weave extensions into a high or low ponytail, securing with bobby pins and styling gel. Regular conditioning keeps the weave soft and natural-looking, while a shine spray like OGX’s Nourishing Coconut Oil Mist provides a glossy finish for an all-day sheen.
Jumbo Twists
Jumbo twists are bold, statement-making twists that add instant volume to your look. They’re perfect for low-maintenance styling while still giving a full-bodied appearance, ideal for those with long hair. These twists look great for square and heart-shaped faces, enhancing cheekbones and drawing attention to the eyes. Jumbo twists suit casual outings or low-key events, where effortless style is key.
To achieve this look, section the hair into large parts and twist using thicker extensions or your natural hair if it’s dense. To maintain, apply a light oil, such as argan oil, to prevent dryness. This style lasts for weeks with minimal upkeep, just a weekly spritz of moisturizing mist.
Twisted Crown Updo
The twisted crown updo is a regal look that’s versatile enough for weddings or formal events. This updo suits oval or diamond face shapes by framing the face and drawing attention upward. It works beautifully for dark eye colors, creating a contrast that’s both elegant and striking.
Creating this look involves twisting sections of the hair from the sides and pinning them at the crown. Use bobby pins and a medium-hold hairspray to keep everything secure. Adding a touch of finishing cream helps achieve a sleek, polished finish, and wrapping at night maintains the updo’s shape.
Ombre Marley Twists
Ombre Marley twists bring a splash of color to traditional twists, with a gradual color transition that’s both chic and playful. These twists are excellent for bold individuals who want to try a fresh look without fully committing to a vibrant hue. Ideal for square faces, ombre Marley twists add volume and dimension that highlight the jawline.
To create the ombre effect, start with darker Marley hair at the roots, transitioning to a lighter shade towards the ends. Regular use of a color-protecting spray, like Pureology Color Fanatic, preserves vibrancy while a lightweight conditioner prevents frizz.
Short Twist Bob
The twist bob is a chic option for those with short hair, offering a clean, structured look that’s great for both casual and professional environments. This hairstyle works particularly well for round and heart-shaped faces, adding definition around the jawline and cheekbones. It’s a refreshing choice for women over 50, combining style and comfort.
To create a twist bob, part hair into small sections and twist close to the scalp, finishing just above the shoulders. A leave-in conditioner spray helps maintain moisture, and a weekly twist refresher keeps the twists defined and frizz-free.
Faux Locs Twists
Faux locs twists offer a unique, bohemian vibe with a touch of edge. This style is perfect for creative settings, festivals, or casual outings where you want a laid-back yet stylish look. Faux locs twist styles complement round and oval faces, adding height and dimension to the look.
To create faux locs twists, braid the hair and wrap synthetic loc extensions around each section. This style can be kept fresh with regular application of light oil to the scalp, and a root refresher spray will keep the locs looking defined.
Blonde Havana Twists with Accessories
Blonde Havana twists are a playful, eye-catching look made even better with accessories like beads or cuffs. These blonde twists are perfect for summer gatherings, beach days, or vacations, adding a sunlit glow to your look. The style flatters heart and oval faces, drawing focus to the cheekbones.
To achieve this style, use blonde extensions and finish with beads or cuffs at the ends. Keeping the hair moisturized with a leave-in conditioner is essential for the color’s longevity, and occasional touch-ups maintain the accessory placement.
Medium-Length Twists with Curly Ends
Adding curls to the ends of medium twists creates a stylish hybrid that’s both playful and elegant. This twist style works for both professional and casual settings, providing a versatile look for everyday wear. It suits oval and diamond face shapes, adding softness around the face and balancing facial angles.
To get curly ends, twist the hair halfway down, then use a curling rod to define the ends. For maintenance, apply a lightweight curl cream to the ends to keep them bouncy, and a satin pillowcase will help maintain the style overnight.
Cornrow Twists Combo
Combining cornrows and twists creates a dynamic look with texture and dimension, ideal for those who enjoy intricate styling. This hairstyle suits square and diamond face shapes, with the cornrows adding structure to the face. It’s a great choice for active days or sporty outings.
Create cornrows along the sides, transitioning into twists towards the back. Use a styling gel to define the cornrows and secure with small elastics. For upkeep, spritz with a scalp oil to prevent dryness and use a leave-in mist to maintain shine.
Twisted Bun with Braids
A twisted bun with braids is an elegant option that works well for both formal events and professional settings. This updo suits oval and round faces by adding height at the crown, creating a balanced look. This style pairs beautifully with statement earrings, adding to its sophisticated appeal.
To achieve this look, braid the front sections and twist the remaining hair into a bun at the back. Secure with pins and finish with a light-hold hairspray to keep everything in place. For a smooth, polished bun, apply a bit of styling cream before twisting.
Twists with Bantu Knots
Combining twists and Bantu knots creates a bold, cultural look that’s both unique and fashionable. It’s perfect for casual events or creative gatherings, where a distinctive style is appreciated. Bantu knots with twists are great for diamond and oval face shapes, adding structure around the face.
To create this style, part the hair into sections, twist each part, then wrap it into a Bantu knot. Secure with pins or small elastics, and for longevity, use a nourishing oil on the scalp. Wrapping the knots with a satin scarf at night keeps them intact and frizz-free.
Half-Up Half-Down Twists
This half-up half-down twist style combines elegance and ease, perfect for casual or semi-formal settings. It’s especially flattering for medium length hair, allowing the twists to cascade while keeping hair off the face. Ideal for oval or heart-shaped faces, this style frames the face beautifully and works well with eye colors from hazel to brown.
To create this look, twist the top half of the hair and secure it in a high bun, leaving the bottom twists to flow freely. Use a lightweight setting spray for hold, and add a shine serum to enhance the twists’ luster for a polished finish.
Blonde Twist Ponytail
A blonde twist ponytail brings a vibrant twist to a classic style, ideal for summer events or beach days. This bold color draws attention to facial features, making it great for round or square face shapes. The high ponytail offers a youthful, playful look that complements warm or dark eye colors.
To create this look, gather the twists into a high ponytail using blonde extensions, and secure with a strong elastic band. For a frizz-free finish, spritz with a color-safe, anti-humidity spray. This style can be refreshed with a weekly conditioning treatment to keep the blonde color vibrant.
Updo with Braided Roots
An updo with braided roots combines the structure of braids with the elegance of a twist updo. This style is perfect for formal occasions, adding dimension and texture. It’s especially flattering for oval or heart-shaped faces and works well for dark eye colors, bringing focus to the eyes.
Start by braiding the roots of each section and then twist the remaining hair, pinning it into an updo. This style holds best with a medium-hold setting spray, and a bit of edge control keeps the roots sleek. Regular touch-ups with light oil help maintain moisture at the scalp and roots.
When it comes to twist hairstyles, the versatility and creativity are endless. These styles allow you to personalize your look while also providing protection for natural hair. Try one of these styles or mix and match elements from each to create a look that reflects your personality and lifestyle. Don’t forget to share your own twist hairstyle ideas or experiences in the comments; we’d love to hear from you!
