Excluding the one time I cut my hair into a bob to donate to the Little Princess Trust, I’ve always had long hair. And by long I mean it normally sits around my waist. Any person who has long hair will tell you that as nice as it is to have your locks loosely flowing around your shoulders, there comes a time when you’re desperate to have it out of your way. Of course, there are plenty of options—buns, braids, and more. But as I hunted for an elegant way to refine a sleek updo, I found the hair accessory that French people swear by. Enter the French hairpin.
When I first saw the hairpin, I was immediately drawn to the minimalism of it, as it added to the overall elegant feel I was going for. Whether you’re drawing your hair back for work or trying to achieve a chic look for an evening out, don’t overlook the power of this little clip. And though I sit in the long-hair club, this nifty little accessory can be used on mid-length or short hair to create easy updos in literal seconds. The U-shaped pin can seem intimidating at first glance, (trust me, I was nervous, too), but I’ve figured it out and broken it down so we can all obtain that chic French updo. And it's as simple as twist, pin, secure.
Keep scrolling for the easy three-step tutorial, and shop everything you need to perfect the French hairpin look.
Step One: Twist
The first step is to pull all your hair into one and begin to twist it into a bun. I twist the hair as I wrap it into the bun form just to ensure it's secure.
Step Two: Pin
Now, this is the part that requires a bit of practice. Take you hairpin and invert so the prongs are facing upward. (If your pin is curved, hold with pin curving upward.) Now, insert the pin into the top section of the bun, and when it touches your scalp, turn it vertically. Your hair should then be pinned.
Step Three: Secure
Finally, push the pin in and down through the bun. Tip for beginners: Angle the pin when pushing down for best results and maximum hold. And you're done!
SHOP HAIRPINS
A classic.
These are their own work of art.
This went straight in my basket.
If you have particularly thick hair, opt for a larger pin.
This pack of eight gives a wide array of options.
Choose from nine colors.
Truly beautiful.
Simple and chic.
For an Extra-Sleek Look, Try These Products
Add a sleek, matte finish.
A natural-bristle brush is ideal for catching all your hair for a slick-back look.
Tame flyaways and smooth edges with this kit.
For an extra-sleek look, try hair oil.
This post originally appeared on Who What Wear UK.
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