French twist (hairstyle)

For other uses, see French Twist (disambiguation).

A French twist, also known as a French roll, is a common updo hair styling technique.[1] It is created by gathering the hair in one hand and twisting the hair upwards until it turns in on itself against the head. It is then secured with hair accessories.

French twists are usually worn to proms and weddings.[2] Hair clips or French pins are also commonly used with French twists.

History

The earliest known use of "French twist" to describe this hairstyle was in 1850,[3] but the hairstyle itself may have originated in the 18th century.[4]

The style gained popularity in the 1940s, often being associated with popular Hollywood actresses of the time, such as Grace Kelly and Audrey Hepburn. This popularity continued in following decades, and continues to be a staple in the fashion zeitgeist in the 2020s.[5][6]

Variations

Through the long history of the French twist, there have been many variations.[7] While shorter hair can be fully contained in the twist, there are several ways to wear longer hair. Sometimes, the excess hair is wrapped into a bun at the top of the twist, or left free as curls or a low ponytail on the side or bottom of the twist.

French twists with higher bouffants are considered to be a retro look, while sleeker and tighter French twists with no freely hanging strands are considered more formal and even associated with ballet.[8][9][10]

Various accessories may be used to hold, or to embellish, the French twist.[11] Barrettes, combs, hair sticks,[12] hairpins (such as bobby pins and French pins)[13] are commonly used to secure the style. Decorative items such as hair jewelry or flowers may be used to accessorize.[14]

Regional

This hairstyle is popular in Japan as a formal updo. Locally, it is referred to as 夜会巻き, which translates to "party roll" or "night party roll" in English. It is routinely worn by flight attendants, bar hostesses and other hospitality staff, or paired with traditional attire such as kimono in formal or semi-formal settings.[15][16]

See also

References

  1. ^ Mayntz, Melissa. "French Twist". LoveToKnow. Retrieved 2021-04-07.
  2. ^ Marco, Pasquale De (2025-05-08). The Empress's Hair. Pasquale De Marco.
  3. ^ "Definition of FRENCH TWIST". www.merriam-webster.com. Retrieved 2025-08-24.
  4. ^ "7 Modern French Twist Hairstyles for a Chic Look". Hairstyle Camp. 2023-03-25. Retrieved 2025-08-24.
  5. ^ "[Hair story]: the chignon through the ages". Jean Louis David. Retrieved 2025-08-24.
  6. ^ MacCulloch, Emily (2024-11-26). "The French Twist Is Back—and It's Perfect for Your Holiday Parties". The Kit. Retrieved 2025-08-24.
  7. ^ "This Is the Coolest Way to Style Your Hair Right Now". Byrdie. Retrieved 2025-08-24.
  8. ^ "The Ultimate Guide to French Twists | HOWTOWEAR Fashion". HowToWearFashion.com. 2020-07-14. Retrieved 2025-08-24.
  9. ^ Gary, Cara Marie (19 April 2015). "French Twist Tutorial". 4dancers.org. Retrieved 2025-08-24.
  10. ^ "Master the Ballet French Twist Hairstyle Tutorial Today". 2024-10-24. Retrieved 2025-08-24.
  11. ^ Rudiger, Margit; Samson, Renate Von (1998). 388 Great Hairstyles. Sterling Publishing Company, Inc. ISBN 978-0-8069-9401-7.
  12. ^ "French twist hair stick hairstyle + tutorial". Alex Gaboury. 2023-11-23. Retrieved 2025-08-24.
  13. ^ "Easy French Pin Hairstyles ❤️French Twist, Updo & Half Up + Video". Alex Gaboury. 2024-07-20. Retrieved 2025-08-24.
  14. ^ "Chic and Classic: The Ultimate Guide to French Roll Hairstyles". www.unice.com. Retrieved 2025-08-24.
  15. ^ "夜会巻きのやり方～接客スタッフの髪型～ | 株式会社mihaku 採用求人サイト". kyujin.mihaku.jp (in Japanese). 2019-10-08. Retrieved 2025-12-22.
  16. ^ "10 Stylish Hairstyles That Match Perfectly with a Kimono!". Kimono Rental Rikawafuku. Retrieved 2025-12-22.
  • The dictionary definition of French twist at Wiktionary


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