33 Innovative Flat Twists Styles For Short Hair (2024)

Looking to switch up your wolf cut for something simpler but cute this spring? We’re going to go ahead and assume that’s a yes because who doesn’t want to rock these drop-dead gorgeous flat twist styles all season?

But before we even get to the crazy-cute styles, let’s first look at what flat twists are all about and why they are better than your regular cornrows and two-strand twists.

Check it out.

What Is A Flat Twist Hairstyle?

Flat twists are exactly what their name suggests – twists that lie flat against your scalp.

They are a form of protective hairstyle (like cornrows), but instead of forming three separate strands, flat twists involve twisting two sections of hair around each other to create a flat and neat twist that lies against your head.

Flat twists can be done on numerous hair lengths and textures and a path to healthier strands, thanks to minimal manipulation.

So, whether they’re your first step to getting voluminous, bouncy curls overnight (flat twist-outs) or the base to a stunning updo, flat twist styles are every naturalista’s dream and one of the most customizable styles you could rock for spring or summer.

Keep scrolling for a step-by-step guide on how to do flat twists on natural hair.

How To Do Flat Twists Step By Step

Flat twists are an easy DIY 3C or 4C hairstyle. To do them, all you have to do is:

1. Start with clean, stretched hair to get that neat, smooth look. And you don’t need to do a blowout or use heat to get stretched strands. You can use a wide-tooth comb or work on hair that’s already stretched out with other styles such as a braid out or twist out.
2. Part your hair into sections using a rat tail comb. The smaller you need your twists to be, the more sections you’ll need, and vice versa.
3. Next, apply a styling product. Leave-in conditioner or styling gel helps moisturize and define your curls, making the process easier and neater. Also, doing this will help provide hold and definition to your twist.
4. Take a tiny section of your hair at the point you started your part on the hairline. Then divide that section into two equal parts.
5. Twist the two sections around each other, moving back along the parted section. As you keep twisting, gently incorporate hair from along your parted section into the twist as you work backward.
6. Secure the end of your flat twist stylewith a butterfly clip, bobby pin, or elastic band to prevent unraveling. You can also tuck the end under your flat twist to create a more seamless look.
7. Repeat the process on the other sections of your hair until you’ve achieved the desired number of flat twists.

Here’s a full tutorial on how to do flat twists as a beginner

Tip: Remember to tame and lay your edges as the last step to help keep your flat twist style frizz-free and sleek.

How Do You Maintain Flat Twists?

To ensure your flat twists serve you for more than a week, make sure you:

• Always start with clean, detangled hair. Use your shampoo, deep conditioner, and hair treatment also to ensure it is adequately moisturized and healthy
• Avoiding twisting too tightly to prevent pain and hair damage
• Clean your twists and scalp once a week to prevent product buildup and itchiness
• Sleep with a satin scarf or bonnet to safeguard your hair from friction and tangling, which can cause your flat twists to come undone
• Refresh your flat twists on natural hairstyle. If your hairstyle starts looking frizzy or loose, apply a small amount of styling product and re-twist that section of hair. This helps prolong the life of your twists.

Frequently Asked Questions

What’s A Flat Twist Out?

A flat twist out is created by taking down flat twists. It’s the easiest, heatless way to achieve volumized, bouncy curls overnight. Also, flat twist-outs can last you up to five days with proper maintenance, making it the perfect low-maintenance styling option.

Can Flat Twists Help Promote Hair Growth?

Yes, they can. They are a low manipulation style, making them ideal for any Queen looking to grow out their 4C hair or anyone who can’t stand tugging and pulling that comes with other hair styling options.

How Long Do Flat Twists Last?

Flat twists can last up to two weeks with proper care and maintenance.

What’s Better? Flat Twists or Two-Strand Twists?

Two-strand twists and flat twists are beautiful protective styles that require low manipulation and help lock in moisture.

However, two-strand twists work better on all-natural 4C and 3C hair, as the ends usually hold together without additional help from bands or pins. Thus two-strand twists last longer compared to flat twists.

30 Gorgeous And Incredibly Innovative Flat Twist Hairstyles

These are some of the most head-turning and jaw-dropping flat twists we came across. Hopefully, you can steal one or two flat twist ideas:

Flat-Twisted Halo

Create a crown or halo of flat twists around the perimeter of your head, leaving the center section loose. This creates a regal, stunning look you can comfortably dress up or down.

Zig-Zag Flat Twist Style

Part your hair in a zig-zag pattern and create cute flat twists along each part. It’s a fun and playful look, especially when you throw in some beads like Ms. Lola.

Flat Twist Faux Hawk

Create a row of flat twists on both sides of your hair and add/gather some loose pieces at/along the center. It gives you a bold, edgy look that is perfect for babes who want to make a statement.

Flat Twist and Curls

Create small twists in the front section of your hair and allow the back to remain loose. Once your flat twists are settled, curl the loose part of your hair with a curling iron to create a bouncy and defined look.

If you’re not in heat, twist the loose section, then undo them for a curly, voluminous look.

Half-Flat Half-Free Flat Twist Combo

Create some cool flat twists at the front section of your hair and then some two-strand twists at the back. It’s the most iconic combo for anyone looking to change up their fall haircut for a sexy spring/summer look.

Flat Twist Updo

This is one of the most beautiful flat twist styles and is perfect for any special occasion. It also doubles up as one of the best protective styles since it keeps the ends tucked away.

Flat Twists With Ponytail

Got a quick business trip you can’t escape? This flat twist pony combo has your back. It’s easy to do and can be styled any way you like. And if you’ve got short hair, don’t worry. You can always rock extensions like this Queen over here.

Curve-Patterned Flat Twist

These jaw-dropping flat twists feature a stacking of curve-patterned twists. The twists begin at the edge of your hair, moving towards the center in a gorgeous, intricate curve pattern.

Very innovative, right?

Feed-In Two-Strand Flat Twists

To add some oomph to your hairstyle this spring, rock these extensions and strut your way to happiness, sis!

Criss-Cross Flat Twist

The eye-catching style works perfectly for work or any other formal event. The twists overlap in a criss-cross pattern on one side. The rest can have the pattern or shift to free single or two-strand twists.

Flat-Twisted Bantu Knots

We looove this flat-twisted style. It’s light, playful, and head-turning! And since it’s all-natural, this style is one of the most straightforward looks.

Flat Twist Out For Short Hair

This look is just as its name suggests. You work flat twists onto your hair and then unravel them in the morning for a cool, curly look. It’s the easiest and best #heatlesscurl trend you could ever try.

Colored Flat Twist Out

Why not go bold and enjoy some splash of color on your flat twist out?

Flat Twists Low Bun

This cute, partial flat twist style is done on stretched hair for a more elongated yet elegant look. The pink lip and exquisite earrings are just an added bonus

Bridal Flat Twist Styles

We couldn’t pick one bridal flat twist style, so we gave you three. Check ’em out!

All-Back Flat Twists Braids

Combine your flat twist style with braids to create a unique, textured look.

Intricate Flat Twist Out

They say go big or go home, and this babe definitely did that with her flat twist out. Save it as your next look or for that date you’ve been looking forward to.

Flat Twist Bob

This flat twist bob proves you can never go wrong with a bob – whether it’s on your natural hair, weave, wig, or flat twists. Bobs, show up and show out!

Flat Twist Style With A Tapered Cut

Create small flat twists throughout your hair, and then cut your hair into a cute, intricate tapered shape.

Flat Twist On Short Hair With Marley Hair Extensions

You can also some Marley braids to your flat twist style for a sexy updo like this one!

Flat Twist Updo Puff

You can never go wrong with a sexy puff. Try this style, and let us know if your besties don’t compliment you all day!

Flat Twist Hairstyle On 60+ Year-Old Queens

Who said your nana couldn’t rock a flattering, flat twist? No one! So let her shine with her grays with this beautiful bunned look.

Flat-Twisted Pin Up Style

If you’re looking for something bolder, go for this pin-up flat twist style. It’s bound to turn a few heads and get your frenemy looking on with envy.

Ginger Flat Twists

Just dyed your strands? Get this flat-twisted protective style to relax and protect your hair from damage.

Flat Twist X Cornrows

Combine flat twists and cornrows to create a cute look. Plus, isn’t it the perfect hairdo for any active Queen?

Flat Twist Pigtails

Pigtails are known to give anyone a youthful look, and this style does just that.

Flat Twist X Pigtail Puff

If the above style is plain and boring for you, try this out-of-the-box look instead. It’ll get you turning some heads.

Pineapple Flat Twists

Pineapple anything helps reduce frizz and keep hairstyles looking good for longer. Plus, they are perfect for every occasion.

Double Flat Twists Mohawk (Patewo)

One mohawk look is gorgeous. But two? Two’s edgy, bold, and super-stunning. Try it and tell us if you don’t feel like a baddie!

Side-Swept Flat Twists

This spring-approved style is created by flat twisting your hair into a stunning side-swept look. It is versatile, easy to achieve, and allows you to unravel the twists to reveal some pretty curls.

Flat-Twisted Look With Flat Twist Out Bangs

This sophisticated and elegant hairstyle involves creating flat twists at the back and twist-out bangs at the front.

Flat Twist With Hair Extensions

If you love having some volume when you get your flat twists done, this hairstyle would be perfect. Just get some kinky hair extensions or Marley braids, add them to your twists, and voila! You’ve got volume and a knockout flat-twisted high pony style.

Accessorized Flat Twists

Throw in some beads, springs, or strings for a drop-dead gorgeous flat-twisted style!