Do the twist! 13 flat twist hairstyles from Instagram that you have to try

We have breaking news: it’s time to ditch the same old styles and take your hair from ‘meh‘ to mesmerising! How, you ask? With flat twist hairstyles, of course, which just so happen to be some of our favourite looks for black hair.

Not only do flat twist styles look absolutely stunning, they also help to protect your tresses in the colder months and are much easier to do than more intricate braiding methods. We know, what’s not to love?

So if this sounds like something you want to get in on, click through the gallery above to see some our favourite looks and get ready for your hairstyle overhaul…

13 looks to convince you to try a flat twist hairstyle

1. Halo updo

Whenever we get stuck creating a new look, we always turn to social media for a helping hand. And the second we saw this style maven’s stunning halo-effect updo, we totally fell in love!

While it looks complicated, in reality, this flat twist hairstyle is easier than a traditional halo braid, as it’s formed with a simple flat twist out rather than a Dutch braid.

Simply take a section of hair from either side of your temples and twist, then wrap each twist around your head to form a halo. Pin them in place and you’re all done! Credit: @actually_ashly

Editor’s tip: Black hair needs extra hydration as the coiled structure of the strands makes it more difficult for oils from the scalp to make their way down the hair. So, it’s good to nourish your strands before styling with a good leave-in conditioner.

We recommend the TRESemmé Oleo Radiance Bi-Phase Conditioning Mist, as it’s in an easy spray bottle format, making it great for on-the-go application!

2. Braided bangs

On days when we need to be up and out the door, we’re big fans of faux braided bangs – AKA one of our fave flat twist hairstyles!

Whether you’re currently rocking an au naturel ‘fro, or you’ve straightened your locks, this flat twist style is the perfect way to instantly spruce up your mane. Credit: @dr_kami

3. Low buns

Let’s go back to basics. Buns are some of the most practical ways of styling natural hair. But if you’re bored of ballerina buns and over the space buns trend, why not try creating low pigtail buns?

To get this flat twist hairstyle, section your hair into 4 portions, using clips if necessary. Then create 2 sub sections and begin to twist. As you move along your head, start adding extra hair to the twists (like a French braid), until you reach the nape of your neck. Secure with a hairband.

Repeat this process on the remaining portions of hair, securing each one at the nape of your neck. Now take the remaining hair from 2 of your twists and continually wrap them around one another until you have formed a bun shape.

Do this with the other twists and secure with a headband and pins. Et voila: flat twist out buns to die for! Credit: @lipstickncurls

4. Braided updo

Want to really show off your styling skills? Then take note of this look. This is one of the most intricate and unique flat twist styles, incorporating a variety of larger and smaller-sized braids for a seriously high-impact ‘do! Credit: @parlourrva

5. Multi-layered twisted bun

If it’s optimum ‘wow’ factor you seek with flat twist hairstyles, then we think you’ll be mighty pleased with this lovely ‘do.

It’s striking, simple to recreate and the perfect style to take you from desk to dance floor. Wrap your flat twists on top of each other until you create a chunky, multi-layered look with plenty of height. Credit: @ebonybomani 

6. Halo twist

The halo twist is one of those protective styles you’ll want to rock all winter long. Not only will it keep your tresses protected from the harsh winter climate, but it will look amazing – plus it’s pretty simple to style!

Create your parting, then start at the top of your head twisting as you go. Repeat on the other side, then secure both sections at the nape of your neck and tuck them under. Simply beautiful! Credit: @nossacarapinha

7. Flat twist pigtails

Thought because you were going to twist your strands that you couldn’t also get in on one of this season’s hottest trends? Think again! We’re big fans of pigtails and when you incorporate them with flat twist hairstyles, they go from super cute, to totally cool.

This ‘do is perfect for off-duty days spent at the gym or out for drinks with the girls, and could even be addorned with some glitzy hair rings for some extra style points… just a idea! Credit: @nossacarapinha

8. Flat twist ‘faux’ hawk

If you’ve always been wanting to try a mohawk, but can’t bring yourself to part with your locks, then the faux-hawk is the answer! This style is all about keep the sides of your hair incredibly sleek and frizz-free.

Fold your flat twists on top of one another over the centre of your head until you create a ‘mohawk’ effect. Cool and pretty… there’s nothing not to love about this look! Credit: @serenanaturalstyles

9. Reverse flat twists

The idea behind reverse flat twists is that they start at the nape of your neck and work upwards in sections, rather than from the top of your head downwards.

This is such a lovely way to mix up your repertoire of flat twist hairstyles, that we think it’s definitely worth adding to your list of ‘must try styles’. Credit: @embracehairart

10. 2-in-1 twisted pigtails

In our book, the best looks combine multiple trends into one style. But if you’re unsure on how to pull off such a feat, then take a look at how this mega babe rocks her pigtails in a twisted headband!

To achieve this same effect, roll your twists outwards (unlike the earlier pigtails which were rolled inwards), twisting away from your face to create the height and volume you need to get that headband effect. Credit: @curldaze

11. Reverse twists with curls

Don’t follow the crowd this season! Break free of conformity and rock a look that’s got tonnes of personality and charm. The look you need? A reverse twist updo.

Start at the back of the head and work your way upwards, until they cascade into curls. It allows you to neatly twist your strands away but also shows off your wonderful natural texture too! Oh and a few well-placed hair cuffs wouldn’t go amiss, either.  Credit: @naturallydoinme

12. Milkmaid twist

So you love an on-trend updo? Don’t we all? But if you’ve tried your hand at your fair share of pineapples and half-up styles, it’s about time you tried this edgy version of the milkmaid twist hairstyle.

Keep the front of your locks super sleek and create plenty of volume in your twists by taking large sections of hair each time you twist. Pretty fabulous we say! Credit: @swaaray 

13. Undone twist

Time poor but want to rock an awesome flat twist hairstyle? Then this ‘undone’ flat twist halo braid will be perfect.

All you have to do to recreate this style is be a little more relaxed with your twists. Instead of doing your twists super tight, try weaving them a little looser for a more lived-in look, it will still look super stylish, we promise! Credit: @afrugalafrogalhair

Did you enjoy this flat twist hairstyles round-up? If you did, click through to our Braids page, where you can try your hand at other woven ‘dos, all of which are sure to elevate your mane game!