21 Ways to Wear Senegalese Twists

woman with senegalese twists — @abanaturelle

Senegalese twists are one of the most popular protective hairstyles in the natural hair community (outside of box braids and cornrows). It only requires two strands wrapped around each other for each section. Hair is neatly tucked away and looks somewhat similar to a rope–which is why this style is often nicknamed "rope twists."

Most people like to use braid hair extensions so their style can be long-lasting and as protective as possible. This can include smooth synthetic textures like Kanekalon or natural-looking textures like Marley hair, though there is no rule that says you can’t twist your regular hair if that’s what you prefer. Here are 21 fun ways you can style your Senegalese twists.

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Multicolored Ponytail

Your Senegalese twists don’t have to be one hue. You can play around with as many shades as you want. We love this trifecta of black, brown, and blonde. It has so much dimension!

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Natural Queen

Senegalese Twists Natural — @shinestruck

Whether you have long, natural hair or you want installed extensions that look as natural as possible, both look amazing in Senegalese twists. The key to making this style last lies in the thin, twisted sections. And if you really want this style to appear effortless, don’t make your baby hairs look overdone.

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Giant Middle Part

They say beauty is symmetry, and that must be why middle-parted hairstyles are so popular. It looks great with these giant Senegalese twists.

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Gray Ombré

Senegalese Twists Gray Ombre — @lisaalamode

Who doesn’t like a dramatic ombré? This unique black to gray style is giving us life.

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Purple Twists

If you have a deeper skin tone, a purple shade like violet will always look good on you.

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Accessorized to the Max

Senegalese Twists Accessorized — @brittnebabe

Having a distinct protective style like Senegalese twists doesn’t mean you can’t wear a fashionable hat. The straw fedora looks great alongside Brittne Babe’s varied metallic braid charms and decorative twine. In this case, less isn’t more; more is more.

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Simple Half-Up, Half-Down

Senegalese Twists Half Up Half Down — @protectivestyles

Sometimes simplicity is the best option. That’s very well the case with these medium-sized Senegalese twists that are in a half-up, half-down style. It looks great with hoop earrings.

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Bandana and Curls

Show a little sass by pairing your Senegalese twists with a bold patterned bandana. The cowrie shell accents and loosely curled tendrils add a sweet pan-African feel to the overall look.

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Shoulder Length

Natural Senegalese twists look fantastic with a shoulder blade-grazing length. For a romantic aesthetic, part your hair in a way that allows your twists to be whimsically side-swept.

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Wood Blocks and Rings

OK, so this isn’t an everyday hairstyle, but it still looks very cool—and of course it is, since it’s highly inspired by Ciara’s “melanin” cover story in Fault Magazine. YouTuber Shanell Khan recreated the style with twists instead of faux locs. The woodblocks and rings are certainly eye-catching accessories.

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Balayage Bob

Having tight twists doesn’t mean you can’t have curly ends for a spring effect. We admire the smooth transition between the dark to light brown shades. It looks very similar to a balayage bob.

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Big Bun

Having a head full of chunky Senegalese twists can be a lot. That’s why we won’t blame you for wanting to throw your hair up in a high bun.

Try leaving two Senegalese twists out of your topknot to frame your face and add dimension to your look.

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Reinvented Rubber Bands

Who needs rubber bands as a twist fastener when there are braid charms around to do the job? These accessories add a pop of shine while securing your ends for a longer-lasting style.

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Adorned Twists

Senegalese Twists Adorned Kerry Washington — Getty Images

Beads and charms aren’t just for braids—they work for twists, too. Just check out Kerry Washington's red-carpet-ready adornments if you need proof.

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Rapunzel Twists

Senegalese Twists Rapunzel Extra Long Ciara — @ciara

Do you have a flair for theatrics? Do you like long locks? Why not go for Rapunzel-length twists like Ciara?

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Gunmetal Bob

If you’re not afraid to go gray, you should make your twists a gunmetal shade. And even better if you go for a shoulder-grazing style—it adds a low-key edge.

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Fauxhawk

Getting Senegalese twists doesn’t mean you have to give up fauxhawks. Check out this bold, front-twisted knot and ponytail combo for a fauxhawk-esque style. Bonus points if you add charms to complete the look.

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Hip Length

Love length but you don’t want to go for an ankle-grazing Rapunzel look? Go halfway and choose hip-length Senegalese twists. Smaller twists look refined and highlight your length.

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Medium Twists with Baby Hairs

Senegalese Twists Medium with Baby Hairs — @protectivestyles

Super skinny Senegalese twists are very common to see, but if you’re willing to be a little different, you can save styling time and steal the show with medium-sized twists. And don’t forget: Smoothing down that baby hair is a must with this look.

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Regal Updo

Have a wedding to go to or another special event? Then sweep those glamorous Senegalese twists into a low-placed chignon and you’re ready to go. It's the perfect regal updo.

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Princess Twists

If you’re a princess and you know it, get this twisted ponytail plait. It’s extravagant and gorgeous. And, of course, it surely makes good use of those braid charms.

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