Updos & hairstyles for your wedding, prom or formal event

All About Twists: Hair Twist FAQ

- the ultimate in elegant hair styles

In under 40 seconds, discover how to create this simple, yet stylish hairdo.

A hair twist is an updo that looks spectacular on pretty much anyone. It does not matter what color hair, skin tone or face shape you have, when you twist hair, your look goes from ordinary to extraordinary. Many people assume that you have to be going somewhere formal to wear one of these updo s but that is certainly not true. Plenty of women are wearing twists to the office, while shopping, or even just lounging around the house. Since they don’t create a permanent crease like a ponytail would, they are perfect for daywear, and as an added bonus you’ll get soft waves from the twist for the evening.

When It All Began

Just as the beehive was inspired by Marie Antoinette and Madame de Pompadour influenced the pomp, this twisting style has a dated history of its own. Hair twists were first acknowledged and documented in France in Hairstyle, 1380-1410. Celebrities like Amanda Seyfried, Marion Cotillard, Sophie Ellis Bexter, Carrie Underwood, Kristen Stewart, Emma Roberts and Christina Aguilera have all been spotted on the red carpet lately boasting a twist hair style but of course, it was Audrey Hepburn who made this look famous.

Don't Have Long Hair?

Interestingly, many women assume that you must have hair that’s shoulder length or longer to wear a hair twist, but you don’t. Twists are the perfect option for those with hair that’s a bit shorter as well. You may not get every last strand into the twist, but that’s what pins and hairspray are for!

To create this look with shorter hair, begin by backcombing the sides and crown for a bit of volume.
Now, smooth the sides and top without flattening by using a paddle brush, working your hair toward the direction of the nape of your neck.
Draw what hair you do have into a pony and twist it. Don’t worry about strands that don’t make it into the twist; you can deal with those after.
Twist the remaining hair toward the sky, tuck the ends in and twist hair until it’s tight. Pin where desired.
A tail-comb can be used to poke the hair that doesn’t reach the twist into place. Finish it off with hairspray.

Sometimes it is easier to simply let some of the shorter hairs fall naturally rather than fight to put them in place. Twist hair styles don’t always have to be neat; the messy look is just as popular. You can even use a pomade, gloss or light gel to add a bit of texture.

Don’t be afraid to glam up your hair twist, even if you are just heading the to the grocery store. It only takes a few seconds to add a decorative hair pin, clip or barrette that will make you feel even more sensational than you already look. Besides, people will think you must have just came from an exciting event to have such great hair!