The 411 On Marley Twists: How To Do And Top 20 Styles

Just like Chubby Checker sang it, “ Everybody, twist!”

Twists are fast becoming the go-to hairstyle for many African women. They are a protective hairstyle that lasts for about eight weeks with the right care. Not only do they make you look like a queen, but they also make your hair look thicker. You may have heard about Senegalese twists and Havana twists, so let’s talk about the ever-so-chill Marley twists.

What Are Marley Twists?

Marley twists are two-strand twists that use Marley braid extensions. These Marley braid extensions are coarse and look natural. Marley twists are also called Kinky twists. They were originally designed to look like dreadlocks and, hence, were named Marley twists after Bob Marley. However, over the course of time, they have evolved into looking more like twists than dreadlocks. These twists allow you to tie your hair in a high ponytail or a bun since they are not aligned to your scalp. They can be jumbo or thin in size.

Still confused about how Marley twists are different from Senegalese and Havana twists? We’ve got you covered!

What’s The Difference Between Marley Twists, Senegalese Twists, And Havana Twists?

The main difference between these three types of twists lies in the hair extensions used to do them. Though Marley hair is synthetic, it is a close match to natural African-American hair. It can be found in most American local beauty stores. The major difference between Marley and Havana twists is that the latter are bigger and chunkier twists. You would need to use two pieces of Marley extensions to do one Havana twist.

So, here’s the big question…

How Long Do Marley Twists Last?

Marley twists can last for up to 8 weeks with proper maintenance. It is not advisable to keep them for longer. To make them last the full 8 weeks, hydrate and nourish your roots with an water and oil solution on a regular basis.

Now that we know everything about Marley twists, let’s check out how you can do them!

How To Do Marley Twists

What You Need

• Marley hair extensions
• Rat-tailed comb
• Hair cream
• Hot water
• Towel
• A pair of scissors

How To Do

1. Divide your kinky locks into sections using the tail end of your comb. Clip up all the sections, leaving one section loose.
2. Divide this section into two sub-sections.
3. Apply hair cream to the sub-sections for better grip and to curb strays.
4. Take a handful of Marley hair extensions. Fold it in half at the center.
5. Place it between the sub-sections until it covers the roots. Merge each half of the extensions with each of the sub-sections.
6. Twist the extensions clockwise with your natural hair to merge them further. Do the same with the other sub-section as well.
7. Now, twist both the sub-sections with each other in a counter-clockwise motion. Do this until you reach the very end.
8. Use a pair of scissors to trim off the excess hair extensions at the end.
9. Repeat steps 2 to 8 with all the sections of hair.
10. Dip the ends of the twists in boiling hot water to seal the ends. Use the towel to dab off excess water from your hair.
11. Allow the ends to cool down before you touch them.

It’s time to look at some gorgeous ways to style your Marley Twists. Scroll down!

20 Stunning Marley Twists Styles

1. Long Marley Twists

You can get long Marley twists regardless of how short your hair is. That’s the beauty of using hair extensions. Just make sure that you apply hair cream to your natural hair ends to merge them seamlessly into the extensions.

2. Dreaded Marley Locks

Marley twists were made to look like dreadlocks. But, over time, they have become more versatile and look more like twists than dreads. This dreaded Marley style is reminiscent of those old school Marley twists.

3. Twisted Half Updo

Just like braids, twists are great add-ons for updos. Try twisting two twists together (boy that’s a tongue twister!) on either side to do a half crown updo. Accessorize it with small beads to finish off the look.

4. Naturally-Wrapped Marley Twists

Having a low-maintenance kinda day and don’t feel like styling your hair? This casual half-up style is perfect for such days. Just pull back the Marley twists at the top of your head and tie them up. You can leave out a twist on either side to frame your face.

5. Half Top Knot

The best thing about having Marley twists is the volume and length they add to your natural hair. You can style your hair in a half top knot, and it will still look thick. Not just that, it also looks super cool!

6. Highlighted Marley Twists

A small dash of color can go a long way! So, sprinkle some colored hair extensions into your Marley twists to create a highlighted look. It is the perfect hair look for that summer vacay you’ve planned!

7. Colorful Marley Twists

Why not go all out with color? If your personality is quirky and colorful, you can pull off this look brilliantly. Try vibrant shades like purple, red, and electric blue to get your groove on.

8. Touches Of Brown

Like I said, a little color can change your hair look completely. Subtle hints of brown can make your Marley twists look rad. If you partitioned your hair in a cool pattern before doing the twists, this is a great way to draw attention to it!

9. Marley Twists Mohawk

Mohawks look super badass. Weave your hair at the sides in thin cornrows, making sure you bring the rest of the hair to the center to form the mohawk. Twist your hair in small sections. Don’t forget to accessorize!

10. One Bead Marley Twists

Beads are the perfect accessories to add a touch of glamor to your Marley twists. It has now become a trend to just have one bead in your hair. Looks pretty killer, right?

11. Brown Marley Dread Twists

Jumbo dreads are all the rage! They look edgy and cool. When you twist your hair, make sure the twists are bunched together and tight. This will give you the perfect Marley dreads.

12. Finger Waves Marley Twists

Twists and waves go hand in hand, especially when it comes to sculpting baby hair. You can get those finger waves around your front hairline with the help of some mousse and a toothbrush. Stunning, right?

13. Thin Ends

A great thing about Marley twists is that you can embrace your thinning ends with them. Moreover, they protect your fragile ends from damage. So, try out this long Marley twists look if you have thin hair.

14. Half Ponytail Marley Twists

Marley twists are so versatile that you can easily style them in a half ponytail. A half ponytail adds height to your locks while also making them look thicker and fuller.

15. Loose Marley Twists

If are a laid-back person, this style is for you. These loose Marley twists are perfect for a day at the beach and some flawless Insta pics. You can tie them in a loose braid or side ponytail to create a chic look.

16. Curly Ends Marley Twists

This hairdo is super relaxed and easy to accomplish. First, accessorize your Marley twists with some gold threads and beads. Then, pull them back and tie them in a half ponytail.

17. Thin Marley Twists

Marley twists, unlike Havana twists, don’t have to be only big and chunky. You can slay with this stunning thin Marley twists look too. They might take more time to do than jumbo and medium twists, but they are definitely worth it.

18. Free Ends Marley Twists

Add a chic twist to your Marley twists with these curly free ends. To achieve this look, stop twisting your hair a couple of inches above the ends. Dip the ends in hot water to seal the extensions and prevent them from unraveling.

19. Accessorized Marley Twists

How could I complete this list without adding some true African beads to the mix? No twist or braid hairstyle is ever complete without accessories like the hair rings, gold thread, and hair beads.

20. Contrasting Marley Twists

Clearly, Marley twists are all about boldness! Try this excellent hairdo to turn heads and have all eyes on you. The fantastic part about this look is that it is easy to do on your own. All you need to do is use hair extensions in multiple shades of blonde.

If you want to let out your inner free spirit, you absolutely need to sport Marley twists. Which of one of these styles will you try out? Comment below and let me know!