The Easiest Way to Put Your Hair in a Modern French Twist

Updated on 4/1/2023 at 2:15 PM

Experimenting with your beauty look can boost your confidence. Regardless of what your signature hair-up style is, it's always fun to mix it up and add new ideas to your rotation. Whether you're attending a special occasion like a loved one's wedding or just want to try an easy updo, we've got the perfect style for you: the french twist. While there are various iterations of the look, including the french twist updo, french twist braid, and french twist clip, the classic take on the style is our favorite.

This look is extremely similar to the french roll. It looks elegant, shows off your neckline and shoulders, and even serves as a protective style where you don't have to worry about your hair getting in your face. If you're ready to learn how to master the french twist hairstyle, keep scrolling. Ahead, we called on stylist Gina Schiappacasse of Hairstory, a cool downtown members-only salon. Here, she gives a french-twist-updo tutorial so you can master the look at home. After, try your hand at these easy pin curls.

— Additional reporting by Renee Rodriguez

How to Do a French Twist: Step 1

In order to achieve the perfect french twist, start by sectioning off the front of your hair into a triangular shape using your fingers or a comb. Take this piece and gently twist once while pushing it forward from where it naturally lies on your head. This creates a slight pompadour. You can get more or less volume by adjusting the placement of this twist, so experiment to see what looks best on you. Once you've found a placement you like, secure it with a few bobby pins.

How to Do a French Twist: Step 2

With just your hands, gently gather the rest of your hair into a low ponytail. Using a finger on your right hand as an anchor, pull the end of the tail taut to your left side. With the anchored right finger, twist your hair clockwise toward the back of your head twice and lay it against the back of your head. While twisting, be sure to continue to hold the ends of your hair securely with the left hand until they are all wrapped up in the french twist.

How to Do a French Twist: Step 3

On the left-hand side of your french twist, slide in several bobby pins and make sure that it's secure.

How to Do a French Twist: Step 4

Pull a few pieces of hair free on either side of your temple and separate by rubbing them between your thumb and forefinger. These tendrils add a delicacy to the french twist and create a little softness around the face, allowing for a perfectly lived-in look.

How to Do a French Twist

And there you have it. You've officially created a gorgeous french-twist hairstyle.

How to Do a French Twist

Here is a look at the french twist from the side.

French Twist Updo

While some french twists can be positioned lower on the head, others can sit higher for a more dramatic french twist updo.

French Twist Clip

One way to step-up your french twist is to add a clip to the look. This style features two rhinestone clips that give the look a little something extra.

French Twist Braid

A french twist braid is another popular style of the french twist. It features the same base hairstyle, but the hair in the back is braided for a more intricate look.

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