Twist hairstyles have been a staple in African and African-American hair culture for centuries, offering versatility, protection, and style. These timeless looks continue to evolve, providing endless possibilities for those seeking to express their creativity through their hair. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore 25 twist hairstyle ideas that cater to various hair textures, lengths, and personal preferences.
Why Choose Twist Hairstyles?
Before diving into our list of fabulous twist hairstyles, let’s consider why twists are such a popular choice:
- Versatility: Twists can be styled in numerous ways
- Protection: They help reduce breakage and retain moisture
- Low maintenance: Many twist styles can last for weeks
- Natural look: Twists enhance and showcase natural hair texture
- Styling options: Can be worn as is or used as a base for other styles
Now, let’s explore 25 stunning twist hairstyle ideas that will inspire your next hair transformation.
1. Classic Two-Strand Twist
The classic two-strand twist is a simple yet elegant hairstyle that works well for all hair lengths. To create this look, separate your hair into two sections and twist each section until it forms a spiral. Secure the ends with small rubber bands or hair clips.
Pro Tip: For a more defined twist, apply a styling cream or gel before twisting. We recommend the Cantu Coconut Curling Cream for added moisture and hold.
Variations:
- Micro twists: Create smaller sections for a more intricate look
- Chunky twists: Use larger sections for a bolder style
- Ombre twists: Incorporate different colors for a unique effect
2. Twisted Updo
For a more formal look, try a twisted updo. Start by creating two-strand twists all over your head. Then, gather the twists into a bun or chignon at the nape of your neck. Secure with bobby pins and finish with a light hold hairspray.
Pro Tip: To add volume to your updo, gently tease the twists before pinning them up. The Tangle Teezer Backcombing Hairbrush is perfect for creating volume without damaging your hair.
Occasion Ideas:
- Weddings
- Proms
- Business events
- Formal dinners
3. Twisted Bangs
Add some interest to your hairstyle by twisting your bangs. Separate your bangs into two sections and twist them towards your face. Secure the ends with small clips or bobby pins.
Pro Tip: For a sleek look, use a small amount of edge control gel on your hairline before twisting. The Eco Styler Olive Oil Styling Gel is a great option for long-lasting hold without flaking.
Bang Twist Styles:
- Side-swept twisted bangs
- Center-parted twisted bangs
- Twisted fringe with loose hair
4. Twisted Ponytail
A twisted ponytail is a great way to keep your hair out of your face while still looking stylish. Start by creating two-strand twists all over your head. Then, gather the twists into a ponytail at the crown of your head. Secure with a hair tie and wrap a small section of hair around the base to hide the elastic.
Pro Tip: To prevent frizz and add shine, apply a few drops of hair oil to your twists before styling. The Moroccanoil Treatment Light is perfect for all hair types and won’t weigh down your twists.
Ponytail Variations:
- High twisted ponytail
- Low twisted ponytail
- Side twisted ponytail
- Twisted bubble ponytail (using multiple hair ties along the length)
5. Twisted Bun
A twisted bun is a chic and sophisticated hairstyle that works well for any occasion. Start by creating two-strand twists all over your head. Then, gather the twists into a bun at the crown of your head. Secure with bobby pins and finish with a light hold hairspray.
Pro Tip: For a more secure bun, use U-shaped hair pins instead of traditional bobby pins. The Goody Spin Pin is an excellent choice for holding thick, twisted hair in place.
Bun Placement Options:
- High top knot
- Low chignon
- Side bun
- Double buns (space buns)
6. Twisted Braids
Twist braids are a fun and playful hairstyle that works well for all hair lengths. Start by creating two-strand twists all over your head. Then, braid each twist from the root to the end. Secure the ends with small rubber bands or hair clips.
Pro Tip: To prevent your twists from unraveling while braiding, use a small amount of styling pomade on each section. The Carol’s Daughter Mimosa Hair Honey is perfect for adding shine and control to your twists.
Braid Patterns:
- Dutch braid twists
- French braid twists
- Fishtail braid twists
- Rope braid twists
7. Twisted Mohawk
A twisted mohawk is a bold and edgy hairstyle that’s perfect for making a statement. Start by creating two-strand twists all over your head, leaving a section of hair down the center of your head untwisted. Secure the twists with small clips or bobby pins, leaving the untwisted section to form a mohawk.
Pro Tip: To achieve a more dramatic mohawk shape, use a rat tail comb to tease the untwisted section at the roots. The Tangle Teezer Blow-Styling Smoothing Tool is great for creating volume and shape without damaging your hair.
Mohawk Variations:
- Twisted faux hawk
- Braided mohawk with twisted sides
- Curly mohawk with twisted sides
- Twisted mohawk with shaved sides
8. Twisted Cornrows
Twisted cornrows are a classic hairstyle that works well for all hair lengths. Start by creating two-strand twists all over your head. Then, braid each twist into a cornrow, securing the ends with small rubber bands or hair clips.
Pro Tip: To keep your cornrows neat and frizz-free, wrap your hair in a silk or satin scarf at night. The Evolve Satin Edge Wrap Cap is perfect for protecting your twisted cornrows while you sleep.
Cornrow Designs:
- Straight back twisted cornrows
- Zigzag twisted cornrows
- Curved twisted cornrows
- Geometric twisted cornrow patterns
9. Twisted Halo Braid
A twisted halo braid is a romantic and ethereal hairstyle that’s perfect for special occasions. Start by creating two-strand twists all over your head. Then, braid each twist into a crown around your head, securing the ends with bobby pins.
Pro Tip: To add extra hold and prevent flyaways, use a strong-hold hairspray like the L’Oréal Paris Elnett Satin Extra Strong Hold Hairspray. This will keep your halo braid in place all day long.
Halo Braid Embellishments:
- Add flowers or small clips for a bohemian look
- Incorporate ribbon or colorful thread for a unique touch
- Use metallic hair cuffs for a modern twist
- Add sparkly hair pins for a glamorous effect
10. Twisted Faux Hawk
A twisted faux hawk is a bold and edgy hairstyle that’s perfect for making a statement. Start by creating two-strand twists all over your head, leaving a section of hair down the center of your head untwisted. Secure the twists with small clips or bobby pins, leaving the untwisted section to form a faux hawk.
Pro Tip: To create a more defined faux hawk shape, use a strong-hold styling gel like the Got2b Ultra Glued Invincible Styling Gel. This will help you mold and shape the untwisted section for a dramatic look.
Faux Hawk Styling Options:
- Sleek and straight faux hawk
- Curly faux hawk with twisted sides
- Braided faux hawk with twisted sides
- Twisted faux hawk with colorful extensions
11. Twisted Braid Updo
A twisted braid updo is a sophisticated and elegant hairstyle that’s perfect for formal occasions. Start by creating two-strand twists all over your head. Then, braid each twist into a cornrow, securing the ends with small rubber bands or hair clips. Gather the cornrows into a bun or chignon at the nape of your neck and secure with bobby pins.
Pro Tip: To add extra shine and tame flyaways, use a lightweight hair serum like the John Frieda Frizz Ease Extra Strength Serum. Apply a small amount to your hands and smooth over the finished updo.
Occasion-Specific Twisted Braid Updos:
- Bridal twisted braid updo with pearl pins
- Red carpet twisted braid updo with a sleek finish
- Casual twisted braid updo with loose tendrils
- Festival-inspired twisted braid updo with colorful accessories
12. Twisted Fishtail Braid
A twisted fishtail braid is a fun and playful hairstyle that works well for all hair lengths. Start by creating two-strand twists all over your head. Then, braid each twist into a fishtail braid, securing the ends with small rubber bands or hair clips.
Pro Tip: To create a fuller, more textured fishtail braid, gently pull apart the braid after securing the end. This technique, called “pancaking,” gives the braid a more relaxed and voluminous appearance.
Fishtail Braid Variations:
- Side twisted fishtail braid
- Double twisted fishtail braids
- Twisted fishtail crown braid
- Mermaid-inspired twisted fishtail braid with colorful extensions
13. Twisted Bun Updo
A twisted bun updo is a chic and sophisticated hairstyle that works well for any occasion. Start by creating two-strand twists all over your head. Then, gather the twists into a bun at the crown of your head. Secure with bobby pins and finish with a light hold hairspray.
Pro Tip: For a more polished look, use a boar bristle brush like the Mason Pearson Popular Mixture Hair Brush to smooth any flyaways around your hairline before creating the bun.
Bun Updo Styles:
- Twisted ballerina bun
- Twisted sock bun
- Twisted donut bun
- Twisted messy bun updo
14. Twisted Headband Braid
A twisted headband braid is a stylish and practical hairstyle that keeps your hair out of your face. Start by creating two-strand twists all over your head. Then, braid each twist into a cornrow, securing the ends with small rubber bands or hair clips. Leave a section of hair untwisted at the front of your head to form a headband.
Pro Tip: To add extra hold and definition to your twisted headband braid, use a styling mousse like the Ouidad Curl Quencher Moisturizing Styling Gel. Apply it to damp hair before twisting and braiding for long-lasting hold and frizz control.
Headband Braid Accessories:
- Incorporate a silk scarf for a vintage-inspired look
- Add small flowers or leaves for a nature-inspired style
- Use metallic hair cuffs for a modern edge
- Weave in colorful ribbon for a playful touch
15. Twisted Messy Bun
A twisted messy bun is a laid-back and effortless hairstyle that works well for any occasion. Start by creating two-strand twists all over your head. Then, gather the twists into a messy bun at the crown of your head. Secure with bobby pins and finish with a light hold hairspray.
Pro Tip: To create a perfectly imperfect messy bun, use a texturizing spray like the Oribe Dry Texturizing Spray before styling. This will add volume and grip to your twists, making it easier to achieve that effortless look.
Messy Bun Variations:
- Half-up, half-down twisted messy bun
- Low twisted messy bun
- Side twisted messy bun
- Double twisted messy buns
16. Twisted Waterfall Braid
A twisted waterfall braid is a romantic and ethereal hairstyle that’s perfect for special occasions. Start by creating two-strand twists all over your head. Then, braid each twist into a waterfall braid, securing the ends with small rubber bands or hair clips.
Pro Tip: To enhance the waterfall effect, use a sea salt spray like the Bumble and Bumble Surf Spray on the loose sections of hair. This will add texture and beachy waves to complement the twisted braid.
Waterfall Braid Styles:
- Twisted waterfall crown braid
- Side twisted waterfall braid
- Double twisted waterfall braids
- Twisted waterfall braid with curls
17. Twisted Bun with Bangs
A twisted bun with bangs is a chic and modern hairstyle that works well for any occasion. Start by creating two-strand twists all over your head. Then, gather the twists into a bun at the crown of your head. Secure with bobby pins and finish with a light hold hairspray. Leave a section of hair untwisted at the front of your head to form bangs.
Pro Tip: To keep your bangs looking fresh throughout the day, carry a small bottle of dry shampoo like the Living Proof Perfect Hair Day Dry Shampoo. This will help absorb excess oil and add volume to your bangs.
Bang Styles with Twisted Bun:
- Side-swept bangs with a twisted bun
- Blunt bangs with a high twisted bun
- Curtain bangs with a low twisted bun
- Wispy bangs with a messy twisted bun
18. Twisted Updo with Curls
A twisted updo with curls is a romantic and glamorous hairstyle that’s perfect for special occasions. Start by creating two-strand twists all over your head. Then, gather the twists into an updo at the crown of your head. Secure with bobby pins and finish with a light hold hairspray. Use a curling iron to add some waves or curls to the ends of the twists for added texture and volume.
Pro Tip: To protect your hair from heat damage while curling, use a heat protectant spray like the CHI 44 Iron Guard Thermal Protection Spray. Apply it to your hair before using any hot styling tools.
Curling Techniques for Twisted Updos:
- Spiral curls for a classic look
- Beach waves for a relaxed vibe
- Pin curls for a vintage-inspired style
- Ribbon curls for a unique texture
19. Twisted Halo Braid with Bangs
A twisted halo braid with bangs is a stylish and modern hairstyle that works well for any occasion. Start by creating two-strand twists all over your head. Then, braid each twist into a crown around your head, securing the ends with bobby pins. Leave a section of hair untwisted at the front of your head to form bangs.
Pro Tip: To keep your halo braid secure all day, use small clear elastic bands to secure sections of the braid as you go. The Scunci No-Damage Elastic Hair Bands are perfect for this purpose and won’t leave creases in your hair.
Halo Braid Styles with Bangs:
- Twisted halo braid with side-swept bangs
- Double twisted halo braid with blunt bangs
- Twisted halo braid with curtain bangs
- Twisted halo braid with braided bangs
20. Twisted Faux Hawk with Shaved Sides
A twisted faux hawk with shaved sides is a bold and edgy hairstyle that’s perfect for making a statement. Start by creating two-strand twists all over your head, leaving a section of hair down the center of your head untwisted. Secure the twists with small clips or bobby pins, leaving the untwisted section to form a faux hawk. Shave the sides of your head for added drama and contrast.
Pro Tip: To maintain your shaved sides between salon visits, invest in a good quality trimmer like the Wahl Professional 5-Star Cord/Cordless Magic Clip. This will help you keep your undercut looking fresh.
Faux Hawk Designs:
- Geometric patterns shaved into the sides
- Fade effect on the shaved sides
- Colorful designs on the shaved areas
- Asymmetrical shaved sides for a unique look
21. Twisted Bun with Bangs and Curls
A twisted bun with bangs and curls is a chic and glamorous hairstyle that works well for any occasion. Start by creating two-strand twists all over your head. Then, gather the twists into a bun at the crown of your head. Secure with bobby pins and finish with a light hold hairspray. Leave a section of hair untwisted at the front of your head to form bangs. Use a curling iron to add some waves or curls to the ends of the twists for added texture and volume.
Pro Tip: To create long-lasting curls that blend seamlessly with your twists, use a small barrel curling iron like the BaBylissPRO Nano Titanium Spring Curling Iron (3/4 inch). This size is perfect for creating tight curls that match the texture of your twists.
Styling Options:
- Messy twisted bun with curly tendrils and side-swept bangs
- Sleek high bun with spiral curled ends and blunt bangs
- Low twisted bun with beach waves and curtain bangs
- Half-up twisted bun with cascading curls and wispy bangs
22. Twisted Cornrows with Beads
Twisted cornrows with beads are a fun and playful hairstyle that works well for all hair lengths. Start by creating two-strand twists all over your head. Then, braid each twist into a cornrow, securing the ends with small rubber bands or hair clips. Add beads or other accessories to the ends of the cornrows for added flair and personality.
Pro Tip: To make threading beads onto your cornrows easier, use a thin crochet hook or a bead threader tool. The Mayam Hair Bead Threader Tool is perfect for this purpose and comes with various sizes to accommodate different bead types.
Bead Styles and Patterns:
- Alternating colored beads for a rainbow effect
- Metallic beads for a glamorous look
- Wooden beads for a natural, bohemian vibe
- Patterned beads to create specific designs or shapes
23. Twisted Bun with Braids
A twisted bun with braids is a stylish and modern hairstyle that works well for any occasion. Start by creating two-strand twists all over your head. Then, braid each twist into a cornrow, securing the ends with small rubber bands or hair clips. Gather the cornrows into a bun at the crown of your head and secure with bobby pins.
Pro Tip: To add extra shine and reduce frizz in your braided twists, use a light hair oil like the OGX Renewing Argan Oil of Morocco Penetrating Oil. Apply a small amount to your fingers and run them over the braids for a polished finish.
Braid and Bun Combinations:
- Twisted cornrows leading into a high bun
- Flat twists transitioning into a low bun
- Mixed braid patterns (e.g., cornrows, Dutch braids, fishtail) gathered into a messy bun
- Zigzag parted braids ending in a sleek top knot
24. Twisted Faux Hawk with Shaved Sides and Curls
A twisted faux hawk with shaved sides and curls is a bold and glamorous hairstyle that’s perfect for making a statement. Start by creating two-strand twists all over your head, leaving a section of hair down the center of your head untwisted. Secure the twists with small clips or bobby pins, leaving the untwisted section to form a faux hawk. Shave the sides of your head for added drama and contrast. Use a curling iron to add some waves or curls to the ends of the twists for added texture and volume.
Pro Tip: To maintain the shape of your faux hawk throughout the day, use a strong-hold styling pomade like the Suavecito Firme Hold Pomade. Apply it to the roots of the faux hawk section for lasting hold and definition.
Faux Hawk Variations:
- Ombre or balayage color on the twisted faux hawk
- Intricate designs shaved into the sides
- Asymmetrical faux hawk with one side longer than the other
- Mohawk-inspired faux hawk with extra height at the crown
25. Twisted Bun with Braids and Beads
A twisted bun with braids and beads is a fun and playful hairstyle that works well for all hair lengths. Start by creating two-strand twists all over your head. Then, braid each twist into a cornrow, securing the ends with small rubber bands or hair clips. Add beads or other accessories to the ends of the cornrows for added flair and personality. Gather the cornrows into a bun at the crown of your head and secure with bobby pins.
Pro Tip: To prevent your beads from making noise or causing discomfort when sleeping, use a silk or satin pillowcase like the Slip Pure Silk Pillowcase. This will reduce friction and help maintain your hairstyle overnight.
Bead and Accessory Ideas:
- Mix different bead sizes for added texture
- Incorporate hair cuffs or wire wraps between beads
- Use glow-in-the-dark beads for a fun, nighttime effect
- Add small charms or pendants to certain braids for a personalized touch
In conclusion, twist hairstyles are a versatile and stylish way to add some flair to your look. Whether you prefer a classic two-strand twist or a bold and edgy twisted faux hawk, there’s a twist hairstyle idea for everyone. By incorporating braids, curls, beads, and various styling techniques, you can create unique and personalized looks that suit your style and personality.
Remember to take care of your hair while styling by using appropriate products, protecting it from heat damage, and maintaining a healthy hair care routine. With these 25 twist hairstyle ideas and their variations, you’ll have plenty of inspiration to transform your look and express your creativity through your hair.