The 50 Hottest Twist Braid Styles Trending in 2023

The hottest twist braids ↓ Jump to Photo Gallery
Cindy Marcus
Cindy Marcus Hairstylist, Editor-in-Chief

Twist braids are a very popular technique among black hairstyles that uses two sections of hair twisted into a braid. Twists are braided into a spiral rope braid, also known as rope twists, and allow the extension of one’s natural hair via dreadlocks or quality commercial textured strands.

For African-American women with naturally curly hair, twist braid styles are one of the easiest and most popular protective hairstyles.

From simple to intricately detailed looks, natural and coarser texture to uniformly thick pleats, there are many chic ideas on how to style and protect your strands using braid twists. Whether you’re looking for volume, texture, or length, there’s always a twist braid hairstyle to wear for any special day!

Notice how trendsetting African-American celebs Leigh-Anne Pinnock, Brandy, Teyonah Parris, and Rihanna do their twist braid hairstyles and get women and braiders all over the world inspired! Like plaits, you can modify your look with beads, cuffs, and vibrant hues like Brooklyn-based expert braider Stephanie Lisha does on her clients!

A hairstyle that doesn’t require much styling to look glam? Possible with these twisted pieces! Moisturize your scalp regularly, listen to your stylist’s recommendations, and you’ll own these beauties for a long time.

Extra impressive and easy to do—different twist styles make a great alternative to braids. Time to check out this diverse round-up of the trendiest twist braids for women on the internet today!

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Medium-Length Twist Braids with Gold Cuffs
Instagram @loh_anytrancas

#1: Medium-Length Twists with Gold Cuffs

Medium-length twists are a great style option for hair that’s a little thick. Gold cuffs can be added for design. 2-strand twists tend to be lightweight and expand over time for the fullness. With this style, the strands of hair are twisted clockwise. Then, the rope twisting is counterclockwise. Mastering this technique is critical for different styling options that involve twists.

Cornrow Twisted Braids with Highlights
Instagram @meufua.trancasjp

#2: Cornrow Twisted Braids with Highlights

Cornrow twisted braids are great for an airy style. These types of twist braids require a specific rope twisting technique. Remember to ask your hairdresser how to style twist braids. Consider hair jewels for design.

Box-Braided Jumbo Twists
Instagram @lacassemiira

#3: Box-Braided Jumbo Twists

If you can’t decide between braids or twists, combine them and get box-braided jumbo twists. Stand out from the crowd wearing this eye-catching combo. Rock your protective style in a non-traditional form. Your box twists will last longer when twisting hair style since the base is more secure with the knots.

Sleek Knotless Twists with Blue Accents
Instagram @hair_by_favy__

#4: Sleek Knotless Twists with Blue Accents

A creative spin on knotless braids is sleek knotless twists with blue accents. There are different ways to begin two-strand twists, and starting with a three-strand braid is the most secure. This also makes it easy to pull up or down into different styles for any occasion. As a tip, it’s best to twist hair on straightened hair so it’s easier to smooth and tuck.

Very Long Side-Parted Twist Braids
Instagram @adaliahbeauty

#5: Very Long Side-Parted Twist Braids

Very long side-parted twist braids are timeless for all, young and mature. You should add different color accessories to jazz up your twists. After a week or so from installation, you can create a middle or side part. Long twist hairstyles for women like this will follow your every move.

Twisted Invisible Locks on Long-Length Dark Hair
Instagram @louloun.hairdesign

#6: Invisible Locks on Long-Length Dark Hair

Invisible locks on long-length dark hair are the latest twist of protective styles. This technique will make your base more secure for the two-strand twists. Talk with your braider about invisible locs and choose the best length, size, style, and finishing on the ends.

Twisted Box Braids with Knots
Instagram @nay.afrohaiir

#7: Twisted Box Braids with Knots

Twisted box braids with knots are ideal for women with fine hair who want twists. As cute as rope twists are, they can slip loose on fine hair. Installing them with a box braid, in the beginning, creates a long-lasting style that can last for six weeks.

Fulani Cornrows and Twists with Pops of Red
Instagram @tinajestinaa

#8: Fulani Cornrows and Twists with Pops of Red

If you need a low-maintenance style, Fulani cornrows and twists are perfect. You can style your twists into a bun, ponytail, half up/down, or even curl the ends daily. And you can do this all while keeping them out of your way. Creating different style options is possible because of the Kanekalon braid hair used. Maintain a twist with braiding hair using a hot water setting to keep the ends smooth or textured, depending on your vibe.

Auburn Brown Jumbo Box Twist Braids
Instagram @_madame_nago

#9: Auburn Brown Jumbo Box Braids

Like auburn brown jumbo box braids? I’ve found that this hairstyle is inspiring and salon-worthy. It’s great for women who want to make a statement with their hair, as it looks beautiful and unique. Ask your stylist for long box braids in an auburn brown shade to get the look. You can use braid spray or oil sheen for styling to keep them fresh.

Two-Tone Blonde Twist Braids
Instagram @as.tranca

#10: Two-Tone Blonde Twist Braids

Two-toned twist braids bring beauty to warm brown skin tones. Also known as Havana twists, this bold-colored protective style can be worn half up and half down. Because this style can be worn long or short, your braider can make your kinky twist hair as long as your natural hair.

#11: Classic Black Twists with Thinner Ends

Get into classic black twists with thinner ends to give yourself styling options. With standard box braids with knots installed on your scalp, twists last longer in water. Keeping the ends thinner and smaller allows you to curl with Flexi rods easily. You could also make crinkles and re-straighten. They also make it much easier to wrap a bun without needing any hair or bobby pins.

Big Golden Blonde Twist Braids with Cuffs
Instagram @as.tranca

#12: Big Golden Blonde Twists with Cuffs

Try getting big golden blonde twists with cuffs to keep a warm facial profile. Women seeking a feminine style tend to lean towards twists instead of 3-strand braids. And although the twists are softer, they can still be worn in buns and ponytails.

Layered Twists with Ombre
Instagram @adaliahbeauty

#13: Layered Twists with Ombre

There are several types of twists, such as layered twists with ombré ends. While Havana twists are common, an even softer and bouncy style is bomb twists. You only need human hair extensions to keep the style airy and light. Perfect for an active lifestyle. This type of twist holds twists in place wherever you go very well and can become beautiful soft locs in time.

Pink-Purple Twist Braid Style with Sleek Edges
Instagram @as.tranca

#14: Pink-Purple Twist Style with Sleek Edges

You can be bold with a pink-purple twist style with sleek edges. Ideal for the youthful woman, sharp edges will make your hair stand out even more with fun color combos. While it’s pretty, to fully protect your natural hair, you’ll need more twists installed along the edge line. So consult with your braider about the strength of your natural hair first.

Half Up Braids and Twists
Instagram @e.spacoluz

#15: Half Up Braids and Twists

Half-up braids and twists are one of the many style choices. One of the best ways to switch up standard box braids is by turning them into two-strand twists halfway down. As well as adding hair jewelry. Trying to decide between braids or twists can lead to the sudden inspiration to do both. It can create something new and glamorous.

Twisted Braids on Short Hair
Instagram @adannamadueke

#16: Twisted Braids on Short Hair

A more natural-looking style is twisted braids on short hair cuts for black women. An experienced braider can begin the two-strand twist with just two strands. And, make the twist braids with natural hair look casual and, of course, classy.

#17: Golden Brown Twist Braids with Hair Cuffs

Compliment your warm caramel skin with golden brown twist braids. Jewels and cuffs can be added anytime to match your vibe. As with many protective styles, the half-up, half-down style can easily be done if you’re going to be active. These twists braids also work if you want them out of your face. Use a spray glosser like Pink Luster’s Glosser to keep them glossy for a pretty shine.

#18: Mid Back-Length Large Twists with Rubber Bands

Something for the girls who want to keep on the go is mid-back-length large twists with rubber bands. Large sections show off your detailed rope twists and brick lay parting, which adds to the design. Marley hair, typically used for Havana twists, comes in various colors. You can mix color combos to fit your taste.

#19: Blonde Color Melt on Long Boho Braids

An ombre, or a blonde color melt on long boho braids, creates a beautiful transition in color. It’s best to use Marley hair that is already ombre colored. The look is created with a flattering shift in color. Rope twists for women will always stay in style. They are one of the oldest protective styles to date and continue to be a favorite.

Long and Thick Twist Braids with Silver Cuffs
Instagram @isafro_

#20: Long and Thick Braids with Silver Cuffs

One of the simplest protective styles with reservation is long and thick braids. The cuffs can be silver or any other color. The various style choices include updos for formal events. And they can be worn down beautifully and free-flowing. Wearing hair jewelry is fun and endless with all the hair jewelry on the market today.

Vivid bob twist braids
Instagram @ijelalacrochet

#21: Vivid Bob Twist Braids

If paired with radiant brown color, bob twist braids with a side part appear vivid and daring. Short twist braids look even more stylish with hair jewelry like silver cuffs around your face, adding a bit of shine. The combination of collarbone-grazing length and twisting hairstyle adds a fuller effect with better dimension, especially on colored locks.

Unique mambo twist braids
Instagram @leilaluz

#22: Unique Mambo Twist Braids

These mambo braids are guaranteed to give ladies hair envy. It’s unique and looks fire! Such great twisting braid styles are an excellent option if you want extra length and thickness to your hair. Feel free to give it more spice by painting it with red tones, such as a copper or burgundy shade.

#23: Modern Twist Braids and Cornrows

Twist braids and cornrows can be intertwined for some creatively soft styles. Transforming cornrows into twists allows versatility in how you wear your braids. Twist braiding hair is a simple technique that you can ask your braider to give you when you can’t decide between braids or twists. Keep a diluted foam wrap product at home, such as Nairobi Foam Wrap, to keep your kinky twists from getting fuzzy.

Red Hair with Twist Braids and Curly Ends
Instagram @hairby_seraiah

#24: Red Hair with Twist Braids and Curly Ends

Rocking the red hair with twisting braids is one way to amp up your long tresses. The shade is so vibrant it complements both cool and warm skin complexions. Spice up your twist braids with curly ends to give your hair a fuller result.

Sexy Havana Twist Braids for Black Women
Instagram @leonegoddess

#25: Sexy Havana Twist Braids

Havana twist braids are the perfect soft braid style for natural ethnic hair. The twists are larger than other African braid twists. Black women wanting minimal tension in their braid style should ask their braider about this look. Twisted typically with very light Marley hair, this high-volume braid style is one of the least heavy natural styles you can wear.

#26: Stunning Twist Senegalese Braids

Twist Senegalese braids are rope-like twists that can be achieved with different types of braid hair. This rope twist look weighs much less than standard box braids and moves about more freely. Ideal for black hair that won’t get wet or sweat much, twist styles is a great protective style for your natural hair.

#27: Sassy Twist Out Mohawk

A twist-out mohawk is another new version of a mohawk for black women. With so many designs that can be implemented on your sides, a twisting braid (called a flat twist) is a soft hold twist that your braider can get creative with into your curls. A great product to use is Lock N Pomade by EBIN New York.

Superb blonde twist braids for black women
Instagram @forynine

#28: Superb Blonde Twist Braids for Black Women

Gorgeous blonde twist ombre braids for black women make a superb hair trend. Such a stylish color flatters a warmer skin tone. The style offers a fuller finish, and these twist African braids suit a longer hair length.

elegant afro twist braids
Instagram @razorempress

#29: Elegant Afro Twist Braids

Try these afro twist braids for a sleeker, more elegant vibe. The style keeps your twisted afro-textured hair looking neat. Its medium-length haircut is perfect for maintaining fullness in your hair. Black hair with twist styles results in a very classic and shiny finish.

#30: Radiant Marley Twist Braids

Marley braids and ombre? Yes—these two work nicely together! The splashes of blonde add radiance to the black twist kinky braids. It’s the perfect style to go for when you want a fun, edgier vibe. To keep your tresses looking fuller, ask for a shoulder-length bob.

#31: Thick Twist Braids for Natural Black Hair

Thick and big twist braids capture most of your hair strands in a massive braid style, resulting in a more pronounced, chunky-looking rope! Styling twist braids with a half updo make them more mesmerizing. A unique cornrow style would also be a great addition to your hair!

#32: Stylish Micro Braids for Natural Hair

Feel free to go for anything avant-garde when styling African twist hairstyles! Long and fine micro braids with red highlights like these are enough to inspire you to get your own plaited wig.

Sweet single twist braids hairstyle
Instagram @hairbyugochiii

#33: Sweet Single Twist Braids

Simple single twists are thrilling to try! You can work with chunkier, medium-twist braids, or smaller twist braids. Either way, you can wear a single twist with any technique.

Vibrant African twist braids for black women
Instagram @nayabeauty95

#34: Vibrant African Twist Braids for Black Women

The tapered ends distinguish a feature from the vibrant African twist braid pattern from the roots of the head. Classic and timeless, you can wear this style with pride if you’re one of those melanin ladies out there.

Sassy small black twist braids
Instagram @grip_and_twist

#35: Sassy Small Black Twist Braids

Micro hair work produces vibrant small twist braids like this one. I say the smaller the braid, the sassier the lady! Intricate thin twist braids help lock the moisture in, so try them out and see for yourself.

Luscious spring twist braids
Instagram @sashacheveux

#36: Luscious Spring Twist Braids Hairstyle

Hold tight to your best olive oil product to get the right luscious spring twist braids. Proper moisturizing and taking care of are necessary for such types of braids.

kinky twist braids for curly hair
Instagram @cosmogirlnedd

#37: Kinky Twists Hairstyle for Curly Hair

Super tight kinky twists are still a sight to look at even after all these years of being a top pick for black twist hairstyles. Thick curling creates breathtaking twist curly braids, helping your locks maintain more volume and body.

Versatile crochet braids twist
Instagram @tresonsweaves

#38: Versatile Crochet Twist Braids

Twist crochet braids are famously known as ones that can be altered by weaving hair extensions. Good thing crochet twist braids are versatile because it suits any face shape and hair color you may have.

Beautiful big twisted braids
Instagram @b.versatile_

#39: Beautiful Big Twisted Braids

Because being extra is the new black, big braids twist rule this year! Interlocking chunks of strands create beautiful braided twist hairstyles. They’re easily completed with steady hands, patience, and a sense of style.

romantic braided twist updo
Instagram @beautiibraidz

#40: Romantic Braided Twist Updo

What makes something romantic is if you can bring out the best in yourself. This type of twists for black hair sure can. Wear your braided twists high and proud with an updo to ensure your sparkling, lovely eyes are clear of any hair.

Dramatic rope twists style
Instagram @adornbraids

#41: Dramatic Rope Twists Style

An a-class on large rope twists gives adequate protection and style. Like sturdy ropes that can take on anything, your twist single braids will surely get some love and give you lady strength and confidence. If wanting an edgier and more dramatic result, jazz up your twist braids with shaved sides and paint your rope twist locks midnight blue or purple!

#42: Long Twist Braid for Long Hair

Manage your waist-length locks by putting them in a long twist braids hairstyle. You’ll still be able to flex your braids while keeping them neat. A set of extension pieces is ideal for long twist hairstyles if you need an added illusion of thick hair.

#43: Twisted High Bun Hairstyle with Color

Are you tired of having your twists flowing down? Make an exciting look by putting them in a high bun, exposing your shoulders and neck! The details of the high bun twists are still seen as you show a unique braided pattern placed at your nape area. You’ll have a refreshing new look!

Ideal passion twist braids hairstyle
Instagram @hairbyclipperz

#44: Ideal Passion Twist Crochet Hair

These passion twist braids are also ideal for kids and adults. These use springy store-bought hair, loosening up before being incorporated into your normal twist crochet hair. The technique to achieve kinky twist crochet hair boosts volume and texture and deviates from your normal smoothed-up twists.

#45: Cascading Thick Twists Hairstyle

Putting one whole twist onto your twists brings a whole lot of surprises! For this cascading twist braids hairstyle, the diagonal patterns bring your eyes across a beautiful masterpiece that is your twisted braids!

Outstanding short twist braids
Instagram @poplaura.b

#46: Outstanding Short Twist Braids

Chunky twists in a short braided style are a great look! The ends fall perfectly around your jaw area, emphasizing your face shape and making you look so petite at the same time. Fashionable short twist braid hairstyles like this one fit any event and occasion.

Related: Hottest short natural hairstyles for black ladies.

twist box braids
Instagram @elyt_styles

#47: Box Braids Hair Twists

This box braid twist hairstyle complements black kinks and a rounded face shape. My favorite thing about these twist braids hairstyles is how complex it is. It gives you a braid and a twist, two techniques in one style. Box braid twist hairstyles are perfect for all women with textured locks, specifically transitioning from relaxed to natural hair and seeking something low-maintenance. A protective style like twist box braids can last up to four weeks.

Twist braids styles allow women the advantage to wake up and go. Cutting down on time spent in the mirror, you can throw it in a side ponytail or leave it down by only spending two minutes instead of one hour on your natural twist-out. When maintaining box braid twist styles, moisturize your hair with a lotion and oil your scalp with grease.

Amazing waist-length jumbo twist braids
Instagram @stylesbysmyley

#48: Amazing Waist-Length Jumbo Braids

The jumbo kinky twist style uses kinky braiding hair called Fluffy Kinky – a Kenyan brand (Darling Hair Kenya). Their kinky texture creates a more natural hair look with an African vibe. 4C has the best grip among all hair types since twists and the twist jumbo braids are kink hair. For other soft hair textures, the stylist has to be careful and gentle with the fixing. Always use a self-convenient product that works best for you and your scalp for the upkeep.

I recommend pure castor oil because it helps with your hairline. It gives out a sheen look on the edges and scalp as well.

Elegant jumbo Senegalese twist braids
Instagram @devinerootz

#49: Elegant Jumbo Senegalese Twist Braids

The simplicity and elegance of this twist braids hairstyle are beyond compare! Senegalese twists are versatile and look stunning if worn down or styled into an updo, a bun or knot, ponytails, etc.  It’s no surprise that Senegalese hair twists are a popular choice amongst ladies, mainly the style uses Kanekalon type of hair that can last up to 6-8 weeks, depending on how it is managed.

Twist hairstyles for black women require research. Protective styling benefits and hair breakage partially depend on your hairdresser’s technique. The way how you handle your hair can have an effect, too. One example is if you’re tying your hair up too tight. This can put too much tension on your hair and cause damage.

#50: Easy Medium Braids for Shoulder-Length Hair

Opt for medium, shoulder-length braids a few inches past your shoulders for an easy-to-maintain twist style. Part your locks on whatever side you like. Bring them up or style them down. The choice is yours! Use a satin scarf to avoid frizz in your kinky twist hairstyles when sleeping.


Posted In: Black Hair Braids