What kind of hair do you use for Marley twists?

The hair used for Marley twists is synthetic Marley hair, which is rough in texture and ideal for creating loc-type twists. Some might instead opt for Kanekalon hair, an affordable option with a slightly more straight texture that resembles natural, 4c type hair,

How many packs of hair do you need for Marley twists?

You will need about 5-6 bags of Marley hair to replicate the look (Marley hair is generally cheaper than the hair used for Havana twists and runs about $5-$6 a pack).

How do Marley twists compare to Havana twists?

Marley twists are usually thinner, but heavier, than Havana twists, which are usually larger in size.

How long do Marley twists take to install?

Marley twists require a few hours to install—either at home or by a professional stylist.

18 Marley Twists Looks for Natural Hair

woman with marley twists — @natural_elemenets_hair_studio

It’s been said before and it’ll be said again—natural hair offers a wide array of versatility that’s hard to beat. You can wear it out with the texture that sprouts from your head, or you can get a protective style done that lets your hair rest while looking effortlessly chic.

Marley twists are one option that offer a similar appearance to locs, but are much easier to install since they only require two strands to wrap around each other, as opposed to one strand being locked down with beeswax. Aside from being a low maintenance and temporary style, these twists get their fluffy character from the required hair extensions that are aptly named after reggae legend Bob Marley, which are close in texture to natural hair. The end result is typically a fun and free hairstyle that is reminiscent of its musical namesake.

If Marley twists have been on your list of protective styles, here are 19 different looks you can look toward for inspiration.

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Rapunzel Marley Twists

Marley Twists Rapunzel Winnie Harlow — @winnieharlow

If you have an affinity for fairytales or just want to feel like a goddess, you should try your hand at Rapunzel-length Marley twists. No fancy charms or dramatic colors are necessary since your hair will do all the talking with this look.

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Marley Mermaid

Release your inner mermaid with vibrant Marley twists that show you're the queen of the sea. Multicolored thread woven into your twists takes the look up a few notches.

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Sleek Topknot

Marley Twists Top Knot — @narahairbraiding

Can’t decide whether you look better with your hair up or down? You can easily create a lusciously twisted topknot and let a few tendrils fall down for a beautifully streamlined 'do.

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Braided Marley Twists

Add a little spice to your Marley twists with a braided crown. The length of these twists make them a great low-maintenance 'do.

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Flat Twist Bun

Getting Marley twists done doesn’t mean you have to keep your hair down. Try flat twisting your hair into a double stand flat twist against your scalp and sweeping them back into an elegant bun.

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Unraveled Marley Twists

If your Marley twists are at the end of their life cycle, you can sport a whole new look by unraveling them. Or crocheting the loose Marley hair in to achieve any style. The end result? Defined waves with a whole lot of fullness.

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Shoulder Length Twists

Who said Marley twists have to be long? You can still show off your beautiful face with an unfussy shoulder-length style.

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Two-Toned Twists

Alternative naturalistas can show off their style with two-toned Marley twists. Black and purple is one beautiful combination that unites edginess and convenience.

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Faux Pony

Marley Twists Drawstring Ponytail — @adilaalvesoficial

Want to have the experience of Marley twists without the commitment? Opt for a drawstring ponytail that uses Marley hair and twist it yourself for a temporary style. When it’s all ready, secure it around a sleek bun.

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Classic Twisted Updo

Sometimes you can’t beat the classics—and that’s apparent with this gorgeous Marley twist updo. Sweep your locks up into a chic French twist and you’ll be ready for nearly any occasion.

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Curly Ends

Marley Twists Curly Skai Jackson — @skaijackson

Since Marley hair comes in a naturally curly texture, it offers a whole lot of body. You can employ this look at the bottom of your twists by leaving these sections a little undone.

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Ultra-Chunky Marley Twists

If you’re a believer that bigger is better, you might want to apply this philosophy to your Marley twists. Just note that although you’ll be making a bold statement, larger twists are harder to maintain and usually don’t have the longevity medium- or small-sized twists do.

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Beaded Twists

Marley Twists Beaded Kerry Washington — Getty Images

Get in touch with your boho roots with Marley twists adorned with beads. Sticking with a subtle palette, like these gold beads with tiny pearls, is sure to highlight the beauty of your twists.

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Space Buns

Whoever said space buns are for children definitely hasn't seen the style on Marley twists. Simply split your hair in half, create two buns at the top of your head, and secure them with big, clear elastic bands.

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Statement Bun

Take your bun to the next level with chunky Marley twists that’ll create a large and stunning statement. You can also leave a single twist out to frame the face. On fancy nights, accessorize your tendril with gold yarn.

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Caramel Marley Twists

If you’ve ever been told you’re an autumn, then a warm caramel brown should be on your list of hair colors to try. Opting for long strands in this color will give you an ethereal golden glow.

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Purple Majesty

Is purple your favorite color? Show off that love with a monochromatic hairdo that features lavender Marley twists in the front and ultraviolet twists in the back.

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Blonde Ends

For naturalistas that want a bold color but don’t want to break the mold completely, opt for a bright blonde at your ends. Keep an eye out for Marley hair in the level nine region to recreate the look.

FAQ

What kind of hair do you use for Marley twists?

The hair used for Marley twists is synthetic Marley hair, which is rough in texture and ideal for creating loc-type twists. Some might instead opt for Kanekalon hair, an affordable option with a slightly more straight texture that resembles natural, 4c type hair,
How many packs of hair do you need for Marley twists?

You will need about 5-6 bags of Marley hair to replicate the look (Marley hair is generally cheaper than the hair used for Havana twists and runs about $5-$6 a pack).
How do Marley twists compare to Havana twists?

Marley twists are usually thinner, but heavier, than Havana twists, which are usually larger in size.
How long do Marley twists take to install?

Marley twists require a few hours to install—either at home or by a professional stylist.