34 Marley Twists Styles To Try in 2023 

Marley twists are a type of protective hairstyle achieved when you two-strand twist Marley braiding extensions with your own hair. They are popular because they’re closer in texture to natural hair than a lot of other braid styles and are super easy to look after. Plus, they look good!

A-list stars such as Brandy, Solange and Keke Palmer have coveted this style and it’s clear to see why. With Marley twisted hair, you don’t have to worry about styling your hair every day because it requires no maintenance, making it the perfect get-up-and-go style.

Long Marley Twists

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Long and loose or short in an updo, Marley twists can be worn in lots of stylish ways..

Long Boho Marley Hair

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If you’re a fan of boho style, you’ll love these gorgeous twists. They’re the perfect summer hairstyle for natural-haired girls.

Editor’s tip: Twists require particular care and an essential step is to keep them hydrated. We recommend using SheaMoisture Manuka Honey & Mafura Oil Intensive Hydration Shampoo in between styles for frizz-free and glowy tresses.

Short Marley Hair

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If you prefer shorter looks, this style is made for you. The best part? Shorter hair means you’ll spend less time in the salon chair. Feeling thrifty? Why not try to DIY your braids at home!

Shoulder-Length Twists

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Shoulder-length hair is always in style! This flattering length is sure to make you stand out.

Editor’s tip: Want to know a secret? You can style and care for your twists while you go about your day-to-day with a leave-in conditioner like SheaMoisture Miracle Hair Styler Leave-In Treatment.

’90s Ponytail

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This is one of our favourite ways to style Marley twists! For an instant ’90s vibe, work your hair into a ponytail and leave some bits out at the front.

Ombre Twists

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Who says you can’t get in on the ombre hair trend with Marley twists? If you’re contemplating trying dip-dyed hair, let this beauty’s locks show you the way.

Blonde Marley Twists

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Here’s another colour you have to try with this protective hairstyle: blonde.

Red Twists

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Channelling your inner redhead is easy (and pretty!) with red Marley twists.

Editor’s tip: Give your twists the nourishment they need in between styles with a replenishing and moisturising mask like SheaMoisture Jamaican Black Castor Oil Strengthen & Restore Hair Treatment Masque.

Two-Toned Twists

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If you’re afraid of committing to one colour, try two-toned Marley plaits. Black and brown is one beautiful combination that never fails!

Jumbo Twists

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Take your look to the next level by getting these chunky twists. Word of warning: bigger twists will require more maintenance (totally worth it though!)

Small Twists

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If you prefer smaller braids, these flattering Marley twists are perfect for your look.

Half-Up Ponytail

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The Arianna Grande of Marley twists, this half-up, half-down ponytail is hair goals if we ever saw them.

Half-Up Bun

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We all know that capturing the perfect selfie isn’t easy but with this half-up bun, you’ll look amazing from every angle!

Wrapped Updo

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We all know that capturing the perfect selfie isn’t easy but with this half-up bun, you’ll look amazing from every angle!

Marley Twist Lob

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Medium hair lengths have become the hottest cut thanks to a-list stars like Jennifer Lopez and Gabrielle Union.

Accent Colour

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Adding accent colours is a great way to add some fun to Marley twists. Which colour will you choose?

Elegant Chignon

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Now, you may be thinking that Marley twists are a little too edgy to be worn in an elegant and sophisticated manner – but that couldn’t be further from reality! Just one look at this refined chignon and all your doubts will melt away. So, if you’re dreaming of wearing your hair up, worry not: this chic and long-lasting hairstyle is the perfect hairdo for you. Now all you have to do is find a swanky soiree to rock it at!

Casual Updo

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Are you a lazy girl at heart? No judgement, we are too – which is why we think you’ll instantly fall in love with this simple, stylish updo hairstyle. See? Marley twist styles don’t have to be intricate to pack a fashionable punch!

Asymmetric Bob Cut

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With short hairstyles having a fashionable revival, it’s only right for us to include short Marley twist styles in our round-up! And this braid queen’s look is the ideal example: we love how her big twists have been cut into a short asymmetric shape.
So, if you’re after a no-fuss look that’s universally appealing and trendy, you know what to do!

Editor’s tips: To keep your baby hairs in check, use the TRESemmé Freeze Hold Hairspray. This will provide long-lasting hold, all without the sticky look and feel.

Side-Swept Twists

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Looking for romantic Marley twist styles to rock on your next getaway? Then prepare to fall in love with this side-swept ‘do, that’s perfect for the beach and date nights alike.

Marley Space Buns

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It’s no secret we’re avid space buns supporters, so when we saw this Marley twist variation, we fell head over heels for it! This sweet-and-chic hairstyle is great for any occasion (especially festivals!) and is a fail-safe way to stand out from the crowd.

The Pineapple

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In need of a get-up-and-go look for your daily life? Twisted Marley braid hairstyles can seem complicated, but a pineapple updo is sure to have you out the door in an instant!

So if you’re weekends are jam-packed – and you’re looking for a hairstyle that won’t get in the way of your plans (but still look uber stylish!) – just throw up your hair into a high bun and you’re good to go.

The Hun

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Can’t decide on the best way to wear your Marley twists? Then let us introduce you to your new BFF: the hun (AKA half-up, half-down bun), that’ll show off your tresses while also keeping your face in the spotlight!

Colourful Twists

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If you want to jazz up your Marley twists even more, then what better way to add a little ‘wow’ factor to your look than with a flash of colour?

Side Sweep

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If you want to give your Marley twists a sultry edge, then ask your stylist to work in a strong side parting, so that you can easily sweep your long tresses over to one side. We love how this simple twist can make this hairdo look achingly glam. 

Jumbo Long Twists

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Keep things classic and wear your Marley twists long and free! We love this carefree look. Plus, it will also help protect your tresses in the colder months. And remember, if you’re ever bored of this look, simply choose one of the other styles to mix it up!

Pigtails

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When it comes to totally cute looks, you just can’t beat pigtails! A little bit old school and a whole lot stylish, your Marley twists will look so good swept up into two high ponytails on either side of your head. Not only does this look fab, but it will also keep your face free of twists, so it’s a great workout style of choice!

Short Accessorised Twists

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Want to get all eyes on you? Then try adding accessories into your twists, like these golden clips. Can you feel the inner goddess energy yet?

Twisted Updo

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Give your look a whole new edge by sweeping your locks up and twisting as you go. From the back, this should like a French twist, except once you reach the front, you’ll twist your hair on top of itself until you forms (an almost) double-donut.

We think you’ll agree, this style is super flattering and perfect for a more formal occasion! 

Half-Up, Half-Down

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You really can’t go wrong with a half-up, half-down hairstyle and when you’re also rocking Marley twists, the look is suddenly so much more glam.

Marley Twists with Hair Accessories

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Marley twists featuring golden hair accessories makes them look all the more beautiful, isn’t that right, Lupita Nyong’o?

Marley Hair with Curly Ends

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Marley twist styles are great and all, but leaving your ends curly (as you would with curly box braids) like Teyonah Parris, instantly takes this ‘do to the next level.

Marley Twist Pony with Shaved Side

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Not afraid to give your Marley twists a unique, edgy feel? Why not team them with shaved sides? Just picture how cool it will look when you style them into a ponytail.

Caramel Marley Twists

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Whether you sport short Marley twist braids or long mermaid-worthy ones, this caramel colour is everything. And, guess what? The inspo doesn’t have to end here, because we’ve got 15 African braiding hair trends