Havana twists are two-strand twists made with Havana hair, a fluffy, kinky-textured extension that is lighter and fuller than many other braiding fibres. Because each twist is chunky, the style installs faster than smaller twists and gives lots of volume, which is why it is such a popular protective option. This gallery covers the full range of lengths, from a bouncy bob and shoulder-grazing puffy twists to chest-length boho styles, waist-length twists with curly ends and dramatic thigh-length versions.
You will also find different finishes: matte natural-looking twists, silky sleek ones, knotted ends, invisible locs, tapered jumbo twists with curled tips and twists with sharp geometric parts. Colour ideas include burgundy accents on black, honey and dishwater blonde, multi-tone blends, ombré and bright pops.
Before booking, think about weight and tension. Very long or very thick twists can strain the edges and scalp, so mid-length styles are kinder if your hairline is fragile. Smaller twists last longer and look denser, while jumbo ones are quicker to install. Most Havana twist styles are best kept in for around six to eight weeks.
1. Medium-Length Jumbo Twists
Jumbo twists that stop around armpit level are ideal if you prefer fullness over length. The medium size keeps the style lighter than longer versions while still delivering plenty of volume. It is also quicker to install and easier to wear up or down.
Inspiration: @marykbella
2. Invisible Locs
Invisible locs give a smooth, almost undetectable finish. Natural hair is flat twisted first, then the extension hair is fed in and secured so the transition looks seamless. Knotted ends add a neat finishing detail and help stop unravelling.
Inspiration: @locdbyki
3. Sleek and Middle-Parted Style
Even with full-bodied twists, this style lies sleek against the scalp. A crisp centre part gives balance and symmetry, making the look polished enough for work or formal occasions. A little edge control keeps the hairline tidy.
Inspiration: @tbihsalon
4. Custom Color Twists
Matching extensions to your own colour is a classic choice, but custom shades are even more fun. Choosing a bespoke blend for your twists lets you try something unique without dyeing your natural hair. Talk to your braider about mixing packs for depth.
Inspiration: @dajavu_hair
5. Shoulder-Length Twists
Soft, loose twists that brush the shoulders create a puffy, playful style. Because they are not too long or tightly installed, they are gentle on the edges, making them a smart pick if your hairline needs a break.
Inspiration: @hairbyjeleah
6. Waist-Length Style with Curly Ends
Sleek chocolate brown twists taper gradually toward the ends and finish in soft curls around waist level. The tapering keeps the style looking natural and lighter at the bottom. It is a glamorous choice for anyone who loves length.
Inspiration: @magichandsbraids
7. Chunky Matte Twists
Chunky matte twists feel relaxed and comfortable. The longer you wear them, the softer and more relaxed they become, settling into a natural movement. The matte finish closely resembles natural hair texture for a realistic look.
Inspiration: @afro_dreamz
8. Twists with Color Pops
Extensions are available with built-in colour gradients, so no dyeing is needed to get vibrant results. Here bright pops of colour show off beautifully in a half-up bob. It is a playful, low-risk way to experiment with bold shades.
Inspiration: @narahairbraiding
9. Thigh-Length Twists
Thigh-length twists take longer to install, but nothing beats the swish and drama of hair this long. Keep in mind the extra weight; tie them up regularly to give your scalp a rest, and sleep with them loosely wrapped.
Inspiration: @layedbylee216
10. Black Twists with Burgundy Highlights
Burgundy highlights on black twists strike a perfect balance: noticeable without being harsh. The warm red tone adds depth and richness to the dark base. It suits a wide range of skin tones and looks especially striking in sunlight.
Inspiration: @mawafofanaq_
11. Tapered Jumbo Twists
Rather than sealing the ends by burning them, these jumbo twists finish in bouncy curls. Wrap the tips around perm rods and dip them in hot water to set. The centre part keeps the overall look balanced and neat.
Inspiration: @aishybraidinghouse
12. Chest-Length Boho Twists
Adding curls to chest-length twists creates a relaxed boho texture, much like with other braided styles. Knotted ends keep everything secure. The loose curly pieces soften the shape and frame the face beautifully. Mist them with a leave-in spray every few days to stop tangling.
Inspiration: @zonthebraids
13. Havana Twists Bob
Big twists look amazing in a bob too. Large sections maximise volume and create a full, rounded shape that sits around the jaw. The shorter length is light, comfortable and quick to install, and it puts far less strain on the edges than long twists.
Inspiration: @sammy.did.it
14. Dishwater Blonde Locks
Extensions let you test a new colour without commitment. Trying dishwater blonde twists first shows you how a shade flatters your skin before you ever dye your own hair. It is a smart, low-risk experiment.
Inspiration: @sealenebailey_happyhealthyhair
15. Large Silky Twists
These large twists have a soft, touchable, silky finish. The quality of the extension hair makes a big difference to how smooth and shiny the final result looks, so it is worth investing in good fibre.
Inspiration: @kaysbeautiquesalon
16. Twists and Boho Curls Mix
Atlanta braider Kāilah Miller believes boho curls can elevate any style, and this mix proves the point. Loose curly strands woven between the twists add texture, softness and movement for a free, romantic finish. Human hair curls hold their shape longest.
Inspiration: @kailovestyle
17. Medium Twists
If you like your twists dense and full, choose a smaller size and simply add more of them. Medium-to-small twists create a thick, abundant look and usually last longer than jumbo versions before needing a refresh.
Inspiration: @glamlookconnectshairstudio
18. Multi-Tone Twists
Combining extensions in several complementary shades creates a unique multi-tone effect. Honey blonde mixed with darker tones gives warmth and depth, and the blend looks more natural than a single solid colour. Ask your braider to pre-blend the packs so the shades are evenly spread.
Inspiration: @slaybraids.bytaqueen
19. Knotted Ends
Knotting the ends of each twist does two jobs: it stops them from unravelling and adds bulk along the bottom edge. The finish looks tidy and intentional, and it keeps the twists neat for longer.
Inspiration: @albertinecouture_hairsalon
20. Long Twists with Highlights
Longer twists give you more room to play with colour. An ombré that gradually lightens toward the tips is especially effective at this length. Crochet installation can also speed up the process for long styles.
Inspiration: @stylesbysmyley
21. Twists with Distinctive Partings
Sharp geometric partings make these twists resemble box braids from afar. Only up close do the rope-like twists become clear. Clean parts are the key detail, so ask your braider to section carefully. Neat parts also make the scalp easier to clean and oil.
Inspiration: @ocey_hairstyle
22. Island Twists
Island twists bring a carefree vacation feel, thanks to their soft swing and bounce. Worn half up, they keep hair off the face while showing off the length. They are ideal for beach trips or anyone who loves a relaxed aesthetic.
Inspiration: @hairby_erial
23. Large Twists with Curly Tips
Licensed stylist Mesha Ta’Queen, who specialises in braids and natural hair, sees twists as a hallmark of long, healthy hair. These large twists with curly tips show why: they protect the ends while looking full and bouncy.
Inspiration: @slaybraids.bytaqueen
Making Havana twists last
- Keep your scalp moisturised with a light oil or leave-in spray, focusing on the parts rather than the extensions.
- Wrap the twists in a satin scarf or bonnet at night; Havana hair frizzes easily with friction.
- Re-dip curly or tapered ends in hot water if they lose shape, and trim stray fuzz with small scissors instead of pulling it.
- Wash gently every two weeks or so, squeezing shampoo through the scalp and letting the twists dry fully.
Havana, Marley or Senegalese?
All three are twist styles, but they feel different. Havana hair is fluffy and voluminous, so twists look full and soft. Marley hair has a coarser, more natural kinky texture and tends to be used for slightly smaller twists. Senegalese twists use smooth, silky fibre for sleek, rope-like twists. If you want maximum volume with a lightweight feel, Havana is the one to choose.
When taking the style down, unravel slowly, detangle the new growth with conditioner and give your hair a deep treatment before the next install.