As the holiday season approaches, your calendar is likely filling up with festive gatherings. It’s the perfect time to experiment with a chic new hairstyle, and one trend making a major comeback is the classic French twist. With over 157 million posts on TikTok, this elegant updo is taking over social feeds and proving to be a go-to for holiday styling.
Once synonymous with glamorous ’50s stars like Brigitte Bardot and Catherine Deneuve, the French twist remained a staple on the red carpet and in Hollywood films well into the ’70s. After a brief hiatus, it made a major resurgence in the ’90s, when celebrities like Whitney Houston and Jennifer Aniston’s “Friends” character, Rachel Green, brought it back into the limelight.
“The French twist, also known as the French roll, is a timeless updo where the hair is twisted vertically from the nape of the neck to the crown, creating a sleek, funnel-like shape,” says Kristjan Hayden, a renowned Toronto-based hairstylist whose clients include Nicola Coughlan and Sandra Oh.
This elegant style is an instant holiday winner. Not only is it incredibly easy to achieve, but it also adds sophistication to any outfit. Whether you’re dressing up for a formal event or simply want to elevate your everyday look, the French twist elongates the neck and adds height to your silhouette, making it a popular choice for those attending galas or wearing gowns and heels. Kendall Jenner’s chic roll at the Vanity Fair party earlier this year is a perfect example of how this style can elevate any ensemble.
Even if you’re not attending a black-tie affair, the French twist can still amp up your look. Recently, Taylor Swift sported the classic updo at a Kansas City Chiefs football game, paired with a casual red-and-black checkered set. What’s more, the French twist works for all hair types. “The more texture your hair has, the easier it is to twist,” Hayden notes, making this style accessible for everyone.
How to Achieve the Perfect French Twist
Want to try this classic style at home? Follow these simple steps for a flawless French twist that will make your hair the star of the party.
Step 1: Prep Your Hair
For a sleek look like Scarlett Johansson’s at Cannes, start by blow-drying your hair straight. Add a texture spray to give your hair some grip, which will help the twist hold. If you’re aiming for more volume, consider using a roller set or curling iron. For those with wavy or curly hair, apply a smoothing serum or oil, followed by a bit of gel for frizz control and extra hold, as seen on Zendaya at her Challengers premiere.
Step 2: Twist It
Begin by gathering your hair at the nape of your neck as if you’re pulling it into a low ponytail. Use one hand to twist the hair upwards, creating the signature roll shape. Once you reach the ends of your hair, you can either tuck them into the roll or leave them out for added texture. Secure the twist with a U-shaped hairpin, inserting it horizontally across the top of the twist, then flip the pin flat to the head and push it in. If you don’t have a U-pin, bobby pins will work too. Just be sure to insert them as you twist, securing the roll in place with extra pins as needed, especially if you have layered hair.
Step 3: Set It in Place
To ensure your twist lasts all night, use hairspray to lock everything in place. Focus on the back of your head and any flyaways along the hairline or near the nape of your neck. A styling stick or toothbrush coated in hairspray can help smooth out any unruly baby hairs.
Step 4: Personalize Your Look
The French twist is incredibly versatile, and there are plenty of ways to make it your own. Experiment with different parts—try a dramatic side part or a trendy center part. You can also leave a few pieces loose to frame your face or add a touch of sparkle with a decorative barrette or festive bobby pins for extra flair.
With its effortless elegance and timeless appeal, the French twist is the perfect hairstyle for all your holiday celebrations. Whether you’re attending a gala or simply want to elevate your everyday look, this classic updo is guaranteed to make a statement.
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