woman with box twist braids

12 Best Box Twists Looks for Natural Hair

Looking for an alternative to box braids? Then box twists (AKA rope twists or Senegalese twists) are your next best option. They’re similar to box braids in the sense that your hair is sectioned off into squares before braiding. But, as they’re twisted, the finished result is different and they’re much quicker to do.

In case you couldn’t tell, we’re big fans. Have a look through the gallery or keep scrolling for a selection of covetable box twist braids you can choose from.

Protective Twists

Woman with very long chocolate brown box twists parted in a centre parting with yellow gold yarn wrapped around them
Instagram #hairgoals. Credit: Instagram.com/shinestruck

The #1 reason we love twist box braids? They give you a stylish break from your natural hair, and protect it from all sorts of weather extremes and styling damage, while also giving you the freedom to try out lots of different hairstyles.

SheaMoisture Manuka Honey & Yoghurt Hydrate & Repair Shampoo Front Bottle View

Editor’s tip: If your hair is extremely dry and brittle, consider switching to a shampoo like the SheaMoisture Manuka Honey & Yoghurt Hydrate & Repair Shampoo – it gently cleanses the hair and scalp of impurities, while also adding a dose of hydration.

Not-so-basic Box Twists

Woman in a roll neck cream jumper with long brunette box braid twists
Box twists are a perfect protective style for afro hair. Credit: Instagram.com/natalyneri

We’ve lost track of all the ’90s throwback hairstyles making their return, so why not rewind your braids to the previous century too?

Medium Box Twists

Close-up selfie of a woman with dark brown shiny long box twists in a half-up half-down style.
A half-up half-down is the perfect match for your box twist braids. Credit: Instagram.com/ashaloraine

Channel your inner Janet Jackson (circa 1993) with these Poetic Justice-inspired twist box braidsand it’ll be the perfect cherry on top of your mom-jeans-and-crop combo. It’s what your look’s been missing!

Small Box Twists

Double selfie of a woman with side-swept box twists.
Side-swept hairstyles add an element of glam to even the simplest styles. Credit: Instagram.com/mrsbxoxo

New to braids or have quite a sensitive scalp? Smaller box braids twists look really pretty and won’t feel so heavy on your head.

Decorative Yarn

Car selfie of a woman with long box twists with coloured yarn and hair cuffs.
Up the standout factor with decorative thread. Credit: Instagram.com/deneemadison

When it comes to accessories our love knows no bounds, so the fact box twists can be spruced up with them in so many ways, makes us adore them even more.

TRESemmé Keratin Smooth Shine Oil Front

Editor’s tip: To take your braids to the next level, dab a light layer of TRESemmé Keratin Smooth Shine Oil that will add a subtle sheen.

Beachy Box Twists

Woman with long golden blonde twist braids with wraps, beads and shell details.
The devil is in the detail! Credit: Instagram.com/rellyjae

Complete with hair wraps, beads and a few shells thrown in for good measure, we’re feeling totally inspired by this summery look.

Editor’s tip: You might think that because your hair is in box twist braids it is protected enough, not needing any extra care, but it definitely does.

We recommend using a spray leave-in conditioner, like the TRESemmé Botanique Nourish & Replenish Hydrating Mist, to nourish and condition your hair.

Not only is this the easiest way to protect your strands, but it will keep your braids looking shiny and well-kept, too.

Glossy Twist Box Braids

Woman with glossy long box twists with gold cuff details wearing a pink silk zip up.
Go glossy! Credit: Instagram.com/ehbonito

The type of hair used to create your braids can make all the difference. Some styles of marley hair will leave you with a more matte, natural-looking texture, whereas this Instagrammer has gone for more glossy Senegalese twists, for a look with extra shine.

Golden Twists

Woman with golden blonde box twists swept over one shoulder.
Experiment with new colours you haven’t tried before, like this golden blonde. Credit: Instagram.com/j_rockii

The best thing about twist box braids? As the lengths aren’t your own hair, you can play around with whatever hair colour trends you like, without having to worry about damaging your own hair. You get all the fun of dyeing, just with none of the long-term commitment!

Silver Grey Twists

Collage of 4 selfies of a woman with long silvery grey box twists wearing a blue patterned t-shirt.
Channel the grey hair trend with a frosty, ice queen-inspired shade. Credit: Instagram.com/unitedcolorsofafro

If conventional colours aren’t bright enough for you, this silver siren’s icy locks are giving us major ice queen vibes. And with grey hair being all the rage RN, what better time to try it?

Peekaboo Twists

Woman wearing a red tshirt with long dark box braids with peekaboo red coloured sections
Pops of colour can make all the difference to your look. Credit: Instagram.com/ugoegenti

Add a pretty burst of colour to classic box twist braids by weaving in a few coloured pieces into your ‘do. Keep the coloured sections of hair underneath for a hidden surprise and your chosen hue will just peek through!

Oversized Havana twists

Woman with large havana box twists with cuffs and shell accessories.
I like big braids and I cannot lie! Credit: Instagram.com/twistsdaily

If you’re used to wearing your hair in larger dookie braids and prefer them to micro braids, you can opt for bigger Havana twists. To create bigger twists you’ll need to divide the hair into fewer, larger squares of hair at a time and then twist as normal.

Bob Box Twists

Close up selfie of a woman with jumbo bob box twists wearing pearl earrings and a denim shirt.
See, shorter styles work just as well! Credit: Instagram.com/geri_curls

Always wanted to rock ultra long princess hair? Or maybe you prefer the low-key life of bob braids? Luckily twist box braids work in all different lengths, so you can do you!

 

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