Twist Braids: 65 Stunning Ways to Style & Protect Your Hair

Twist braids are a stunning protective hairstyle that combines beauty with functionality. Celebrated for their versatility and striking appearance, twist braids help protect natural hair from environmental damage while promoting healthy growth and adding incredible style.

When it comes to protective styling options that don’t compromise on aesthetics, twist braids stand at the forefront. These elegant braided styles not only showcase the natural beauty of textured hair but also provide essential protection from daily manipulation, environmental stressors, and heat damage.

From classic Senegalese twists to modern Havana and Marley variations, the world of twist braids offers endless possibilities to express your personal style while maintaining hair health. Let’s explore 65 breathtaking twist braid styles that will inspire your next protective hairstyle journey.

Typically, black hair flaunts gorgeous coils. However, when you’re looking for better ways to protect and style your hair, twist braids hairstyles are the way to go.

If you’re looking for some hair inspiration to style black hair, just check out these twist braids hairstyles that will flatter anyone!

1. Classic Natural Twist Braids

Thick and luscious, these braids look gorgeous let to flow freely, gathered in a ponytail or twisted in an intricate updo. The best thing about such long twist braids is that they are flattering for anyone. It’s the perfect black hairstyle that never goes out of fashion.

2. Lovely Shoulder-Length Braids

Thin twist box braids are stylish, easy to upkeep and a pleasure to see. This protective hairstyle won’t just catch the eyes of anyone around, but they will complement any outfit, from classy to sporty.

3. Twist Braids Fauxhawk

Did you think there wasn’t much versatility to twist braids? Think again. This is a fauxhawk created with the help of a set of beautiful and long twist braids that have been coiled on top of the head.

4. Big Twist Braids

When we say big, we mean it. They’re both thick and beautiful, but also incredibly long, making them a statement hairstyle. While the twist is a classic, the accented hair color is a new element to be tried.

5. Purple Ombre Hairstyle Twist Braids

Adding a pop of color to your braids is always a good idea. This year’s main trend is all about non-traditional colors, so how about a nice shade of purple of your choosing?

6. Senegalese Twist Braid Hairstyles

Gorgeous twist braids in the classic Senegalese style that can be left to flow freely and tamed for a more formal look. Yet they are still fun and versatile enough to be flaunted in other hairstyles ranging from chic and classy to edgy and eccentric.

7. Senegalese Twists Hairstyle

These perfectly styled Senegalese twists look simply luxurious. Add the accent color that’s worn as a decoration and you’ve got a stunning hairstyle bound to make you look special.

8. Tiny Senegalese Twists Updo Hairstyle

Senegalese twist braids, like most other twist black hairstyles, can also be achieved through this minute twisting. They look classy and delicate. Gathered in a high bun, these tiny twists are a delightful sight.

9. Box Twists with Mid Knot

When you’re looking for a relaxed hairstyle, simply gather half of the twists in a loose mid-bun. It’s a relaxed and casual hairstyle, ideal for sporting on a hot summer day.

10. Long Twist Braid Styles

Thick and dramatic, these long twists look amazing in a lighter color that perfectly complements the skin tone. Take a break from the free-flowing braids and create this style-forward look.

11. Long Twist Braids on Blonde Hair

Twist braids aren’t reserved for brunette or non-traditional hair colors only. They look gorgeous on fine blonde hair too, whether it’s your natural hair color or you use a weave.

12. Thick Braids Bun with Bandana

Adopt a hairstyle that’s fun and casual like this impressive high bun with twist braids. To secure it, use a fun bandanna in a contrasting color or hairpins and elastics.

13. Blue Twist Braid Styles

There are a number of ways in which you can sport a neon color. You can dye your own hair, get a weave, use hair extensions or, most commonly these days, yarn extensions.

14. Lob Twists Hairstyles

Twists are so versatile that they even lend themselves to the hairstyle of these past few years – the bob. This, for example, is a gorgeous lob or long bob created out of twists.

15. Gray Peekaboo Highlights

Peekaboo highlights are a fantastic way to update or breathe new life into your hairdo without changing it too much or spending too much money on it in case you’re on a budget.

16. Crochet Twist Braids Hairstyle

A tint of burgundy beautifully crocheted in the thick long braids is exactly the distinguishing note this hairstyle needs. We highly recommend that you also use hair accessories.

17. Chocolate Highlights for Long Twist Braids Styles

There’s no need to stop at just one hair color when you can have a fantastic combo such as this one. It’s a basis of brunette braids with a set of chocolate brown ones on top.

18. Pink Long Twist Braids Styles

Speaking of hair colors, are you ready to go pink? This is bubblegum pink to be more precise, and you can get this exact shade if you opt for twist braids made out of yarn.

19. Long Havana Twist Hair

With golden streaks here and there, these long Havana twist braids invite you to a world of dreams. Weighing heavily on one side of the face and flowing freely in the back, this hairstyle is vivid, fresh, and energetic.

20. Lovely Havana Twist in High Bun

For all those special occasions in your life, try this style-forward high bun revealing the beauty of Havana twist braids accented by a subtle dark cherry note.

21. Banana Twist Braids Hairstyle

There’s really no limit to the versatility and beauty of twist braids hairstyles. This braided hairstyle is called the banana twist. A fun name like that does little justice to the intricate work and stunning results.

22. Black Braid Hairstyles

Tight braids and sleek hair meet to create a fashionable updo that looks incredibly classy. You can wear it on your prom night, when you’re a maid of honor, or even when you’re the bride herself.

23. Twist Braids in a Gorgeous High Bun

An amazing choice of color for these twist braids locked in the perfect tight high bun. The minute details of the fashion add an edgy note to the hairstyle.

24. Green Twists Highlights

Voluminous and luscious, these green twist braids have a sporty air to them. Don’t be fooled, though. They can be twisted to create other hairstyles in no time that highlight their beauty.

25. Classy Braided Hairstyle

This hairstyle wins the grand award for one of the most intricate and astonishing twist braids hairstyle out there, as well as extra points from us for sheer elegance.

26. Kinky Twists Hairstyle

This lovely side hairdo with messy twists framing the face brings out the versatility of kinky twist braids. As we mentioned earlier, along with crochet braids and free tress braids, these thick twists are close to a natural look.

27. Short Twist Braids and Kinky Braids Hairstyle

Short hairstyles with twist braids like these look rich, luscious and beautiful. The short twists on the side are also sweet and playful. That accounts for a cool note.

28. Glossy Twist Braids Hairstyle

Give your braids an extra kick by using a bit of glossing agent every time you wash your hair. it can be some hair oil or hairspray, depending on the type of hair you have or on your needs.

29. Half Done Twist Braids Style

Notice the relaxed look of this braid hairstyle. It looks gorgeous on all types of hair. Styled as a half twisted half loose style gives it an even more playful note.

30. Marsala Twist Braids

Marsala is a shade of purple. It’s sweet and delicious, which means it will give an entire plethora of makeup choices to play with. Go for pink for daytime and silver for evenings and nights out.

• Quick Hairstyle Hacks: Easy Professional Styles for Busy Women
• Hair Color Trends: Breathtaking Shades and Styles to Try This Season
• Pastel Pink Hair: 50+ Beautiful Hairstyle Ideas and Color Inspiration

31. Cute Short Hair Crochet Braids

Another lovely hairstyle featuring short twist braids. We love the natural tone and playful note of this free hairstyle with twist braids that will win your heart in no time at all.

32. Long Cherry Crochet Braids Hairstyle

You cannot deny the attractiveness of these free-flowing, brightly colored, luscious crochet braids. The daring look is also achieved thanks to the contrasting dark sour cherry color.

33. Long Twist Braided Hairstyles

Senegalese braids look the best when they’re long, full, and thick. This hairstyle looks natural, yet complex. The golden accents flatter all skin tones and eye colors.

34. Thin Blonde Braids

We are simply in love with these thin and sleek braids that come in two colors – brunette and blonde. They add up to an exquisite and elegant look that is always selfie-ready.

35. Marley Long Twist Braids Style

There are many versions of twist braids out there just waiting for you to try them out. It all depends on your personal preferences. These, for example, are Marley twists styled in a high ponytail.

36. Beautiful Long Twist Braids Styles

Styling your twist braids is not always easy. But, sometimes, the easiest solutions are the best. Create a deep side part in your hair by flicking some of the braids to one side.

37. Straight Hair One Rope Braid

This is a perfect example of how well rope twisys work on straight hair. A hairstyle with an added luxurious note that you can coil around your head Medusa-style.

38. Pretty Medium Twist Braids Hairstyle

A hairstyle that’s perfectly suitable as a wedding hairstyle, a formal hairstyle or a casual, playful hairstyle. Short braids are easy to wear plus they’re incredibly pretty to look at.

39. Modern Twists Style

We absolutely love how this idea has been styled. The beige blonde twists play off the chunky golden necklace which makes them shine in a luxurious way.

40. Bohemian Braids and Natural Curls

Are you looking for a refreshing, bohemian hairstyle to sport this summer? Twist braid styles finished with natural coils are the way to go. Place them on your forehead to look more like a hippie.

41. Butterbeer Blonde Twists Hairstyle

Butterbeer is a shade of blonde that is slowly taking over the hairstyling world. The term has been borrowed from the world of Harry Potter, and it describes the sweet drink they used to have in Hogsmeade.

42. Deep Twist Crochet Braids

Deep twists mixed with crochet braids render this amazingly sweet looking hairstyle. A very high ponytail adds even more volume to this one of a kind hairdo.

43. Senegalese Twists in Fishtail Braid

If classic twist braids don’t cut it anymore, try combining two twist styles for a fresh, energetic look. Senegalese twist braids and fishtail braids look stunning together.

44. Cute Short Braided Hairstyle

Short Senegalese twist braids are the perfect way to add some volume and structure to your hairstyle. These ones are shoulder length and look stunning and sleek.

45. Afro Twist Braids Styles

Resembling kinky twist braids, these cute afro twist braids are a natural protective hairstyle. Pinned to the scalp on the sides, they have an edgy yet classy note.

• Flower Girl Hairstyles: 50 Adorable Ideas for Every Wedding
• Thanksgiving Hairstyles: 30 Easy and Elegant Looks for the Holiday
• 60 Halloween Hairstyles: Stunning Ideas for Spooky Season

46. Natural Twist Braids Hairstyles for Long Hair

These thick Senegalese braids finished with undone ends are a simple, relaxed hairstyle to sport all day long. If you use hair extensions, you can add as much length as you want.

47. Cute Natural Look: Purple Short Crochet Braids

Drop the locks for these stunning crochet braids. Thick and voluminous, they add a playful note to the natural hairstyle thanks to the lovely iris color, which belongs to the purple family.

48. Cinnamon Brown Twists

This is another hairstyle which decidedly wins style credits for the intricacy of the twists and braids. We also love the color, which is a stunning and glossy cinnamon brown.

49. Updo with Senegalese Twist Braids Hairstyle

A sophisticated texture rendered by the play of the beautiful brunette hair color and the Senegalese twist braids. A beautiful women’s hairstyle with the added advantage of sporting protective features for your natural hair.

50. Simple Thin Marley Braids

Marley braids are a trademark black hairstyle. Simple or styled in an updo, ponytail or high bun, thin Marley braids can look both classy and super casual, depending on your styling needs.

51. Small Senegalese Twists Hairstyle

Here is a lovely and casual twisted crown placed right at the front. This is one of the best beach hairstyles out there, so don’t be afraid to use it as much as possible on your holiday.

52. Metallic Hair Accessories

Dark hair with metallic accents looks amazing styled in these tight twists braids. When it comes to metallic accessories for your hair, we say that the bigger they get, the happier you will be.

53. Metal Cuffs Hairstyle for Long Twist Braids

One of the best things about luxurious black hair is the fact that any detail in a contrasting color or material stands out. These metal cuffs introduced in the box braids are an amazing style element to try on for a daring look.

54. Decorated Twist Braids

Twist braids look astounding on any hair type and in any hair color. Particularly if the colors are chosen so that they complement the skin tone and facial features. We love the choice of the golden head chain here.

55. Intricate Havana Braids Halfdo Hairstyle

When it comes to styling twist braids, there are no limits for your creativity. This hairstyle sporting gorgeous Havana braids in a fantastic dark cherry color is here to prove it.

56. High Bun Hair Braids

Marley braids of impressive lengths are brought together in an oversized high bun. The extra style points are won by the long braids which seem to coil on forever.

57. Loose Twist High and Voluminous Bun

Please announce the proper styling authorities because we have found the perfect casual hairstyle with twists for when you go to the office. No more worries and stress!

58. Elegant Braids Hairstyles

Are you looking for something more elegant? Choose these classy and effective twists for an added sophisticated note. You can even wear this hairstyle at your own wedding.

59. Red to Brown Flat Twists

This simple hairstyle looks remarkable on anyone. One of the most sported black hairstyles, it’s also deemed one of the most versatile. With braids that beautiful, you can test that claim yourself.

60. Braids in Messy Half-Up Bun

Messy hairstyles are always a pleasure to wear whether you are working or simply enjoying brunch with your friends. And when you have twists, it’s even easier!

61. Top Knot with Twists Styles

The top knot is a very simple and casual street style. You can whip it up each morning as you prepare to walk out the door, and we guarantee you will still be the prettiest girl on your block.

62. Lime Green Twists

Acid colors are one of the most beautiful variations of the non-traditional color trend. They make you look like a superheroine from the comic books. This is lime green which looks even cooler thanks to the twists.

63. Olive Green Braids

If you prefer something a little bit darker, you can always try olive green. It has a wonderful Mediterranean feel to it which you can cultivate even further with the right accessories and fashion choices.

64. Copper Braids Halfdo

Copper is a beautiful hair color that has been replacing replaced rose gold in terms of preferences, a feat that no one thought possible. The great thing about it is that it flatters all skin types as well as every eye color you can think of.

65. Magenta Braids

Are you looking for a pink hair color, but not quite? Then meet magenta, the answer to all your dreams! It makes for a very 90s look, especially when paired with accessories from that decade as well.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long do twist braids typically last?

Twist braids can last anywhere from 4-8 weeks depending on how well they’re maintained, your hair growth rate, and the size of the twists. Smaller twists typically last longer than larger ones. To maximize longevity, sleep with a satin bonnet or pillowcase, keep your scalp moisturized, and avoid excessive manipulation.

Are twist braids better than box braids for hair growth?

Both twist braids and box braids are excellent protective styles that can promote hair growth by reducing manipulation and protecting ends. The key difference is that twist braids typically create less tension on the scalp compared to box braids, which may be gentler for those with sensitive scalps or thinning edges.

How should I care for my scalp with twist braids?

Maintaining a healthy scalp is crucial with any protective style. Use a diluted apple cider vinegar rinse or witch hazel on a cotton ball to cleanse your scalp weekly. Apply a lightweight oil blend (like jojoba, tea tree, and peppermint oils) to keep your scalp moisturized without causing buildup. You can also use a foam shampoo specifically designed for braided styles.

What’s the difference between Senegalese twists and Marley twists?

Senegalese twists are created using smooth, silky synthetic hair with a shiny finish, resulting in a sleek, polished look. Marley twists use a more textured, coarse hair that resembles natural kinky hair, creating a fuller, more voluminous and natural-looking style. The installation technique is similar, but the hair texture and final appearance differ significantly.

How do I prevent frizz in my twist braids?

To minimize frizz, use a small amount of mousse or setting foam during installation, sleep with a satin bonnet or scarf, avoid excessive touching, and maintain proper moisture balance (not too dry, not too oily). When you notice minor frizzing, apply a small amount of light oil between your palms and gently smooth over the twists.

Ready to Change Your Look?

Twist braids are protective black hairstyles that have been adopted by fashionistas everywhere. They’re both cute and playful and classy and formal too and they’re an outstanding style bound to get you noticed.

Which of these stunning twist braid styles is your favorite? Would you try a bold color or stick with a classic look? Let us know in the comments!

• Quick Hairstyle Hacks: Easy Professional Styles for Busy Women
• Hair Color Trends: Breathtaking Shades and Styles to Try This Season
• Pastel Pink Hair: 50+ Beautiful Hairstyle Ideas and Color Inspiration
• Angled Bob Haircuts: Stylish Ideas and Trending Cuts for Modern Women
• Asymmetrical Haircuts: 50+ Stylish Ideas and Trending Cuts for Modern Women
• Stunning Pastel Hair Color Ideas for Women: 50 Dreamy Shades and Styles

Reader Success Stories

Our community has created these stunning curly hairstyles using our tutorials! Submit your photo for a chance to be featured.

Sarah T.

“I never thought I could achieve JLo-inspired waves with my fine hair, but these step-by-step instructions made it possible!”

Used: Olaplex No.6 + Oribe Texturizing Spray

Maya J.

“Following the Zendaya tutorial transformed my unruly curls into these defined spirals that lasted for 3 days!”

Used: DevaCurl SuperCream + Pattern Strong Hold Gel

Tasha W.

“After years of heat damage, I followed your natural curl care routine and finally restored my 3C curl pattern!”

Used: Camille Rose Curl Maker + Mielle Organics Oil

Emma R.

“Used your Blake Lively tutorial for my wedding day hair and received so many compliments!”

Used: Kenra Thermal Styling Spray + Living Proof Full Thickening Cream

Jasmine H.

“Your curly updo tutorial helped me create this elegant style for my sister’s wedding. So much easier than I expected!”

Used: Ouidad Advanced Climate Control Gel + Moroccanoil Luminous Hairspray

Dana L.

“Even with my super short curly pixie, your styling tips gave me this defined look that frames my face perfectly!”

Used: Bumble and Bumble Curl Defining Cream + Innersense I Create Hold

Show Us Your Curls!

Tag us on Instagram with #MyCurlyHairstyle or submit your photo directly for a chance to be featured in our gallery and win a luxury hair care package!

Submit Your Photo