27 Best French Hairstyle Tutorials To Nail The Parisian Look

There’s something undeniably captivating about French hairstyles—they embody an effortless elegance that seems both unattainable and surprisingly simple at the same time.

Whether you’re dreaming of channeling the chic sophistication of Parisian women or simply want to add a touch of French flair to your everyday look, mastering these hairstyles can transform your entire aesthetic.

This comprehensive guide on 27 Best French Hairstyle Tutorials to Nail the Parisian Look will walk you through the most iconic and beloved French hairstyles, from the classic French twist to the tousled bedhead waves that define Parisian cool.

Each tutorial is designed to be accessible, whether you’re a complete beginner or someone with advanced styling skills.

You’ll discover the techniques behind those seemingly effortless updos, learn how to create the perfect messy bun that doesn’t look too messy, and understand the secrets to achieving that coveted “undone” texture that French women wear so naturally.

By the end of this article, you’ll have a complete arsenal of French hairstyling techniques that will have everyone asking if you just stepped off a Parisian boulevard.

1. The Classic French Twist

The French twist is the cornerstone of Parisian elegance, representing timeless sophistication that works for both formal events and elevated everyday wear.

This vertical roll technique has been gracing the heads of French women for decades, offering a polished look that never goes out of style.

Start with day-old hair or add texturizing spray to give your hair grip and make it easier to work with throughout the styling process.

Brush all your hair to one side of your head (typically the left side) and secure it temporarily with bobby pins placed vertically along the center back of your head.
Twist the gathered hair upward and inward, creating a vertical roll that lies flat against your head while maintaining tension.
Tuck the ends of your hair into the twist, creating a seamless finish, and secure the entire structure with U-shaped hairpins inserted horizontally for maximum hold.

Gently pull a few face-framing pieces loose to soften the look and add that essential French touch of studied carelessness.
Finish with a light-hold hairspray to maintain the style without making it look stiff or overly structured.

2. Effortless Low Chignon

The low chignon embodies the French philosophy of “je ne sais quoi”—it looks incredibly polished yet appears as though it took mere seconds to create.

This versatile style transitions seamlessly from day to night and suits virtually every face shape.

Begin with slightly textured hair, either naturally wavy or enhanced with a texturizing product for better grip and dimension.
Gather your hair into a low ponytail at the nape of your neck, positioning it either center or slightly off to one side for added interest.

Twist the ponytail loosely and wrap it around the base, creating a soft bun shape rather than a tight, structured knot.
Secure the chignon with bobby pins, focusing on anchoring it from multiple angles to ensure it stays in place throughout the day.
Pull out strategic pieces around your face and gently loosen the bun itself to create that signature undone quality.

Allow some shorter layers to fall naturally rather than forcing every strand into submission.

3. Tousled French Bob Styling

The French bob is more than just a haircut—it’s an attitude, and styling it correctly makes all the difference between looking chic or simply unkempt.

This tutorial focuses on creating that perfect balance of texture and movement.

Start with damp hair and apply a volumizing mousse from roots to ends to create a foundation for long-lasting body.
Blow-dry your hair using a round brush, directing the hair slightly away from your face to create natural movement and volume.
Once completely dry, wrap random sections around a curling iron or wand, alternating the direction to create a more natural, lived-in wave pattern.

Run your fingers through the curls immediately to break them up and create that signature tousled texture.
Apply a small amount of texturizing paste or dry texture spray, working it through with your hands rather than a brush.
Finish by slightly tucking one side behind your ear for that classic asymmetrical Parisian look.

4. Messy French Braid

Unlike its pristine Dutch or regular braid cousins, the French messy braid celebrates imperfection and creates a romantic, bohemian aesthetic that’s quintessentially Parisian.

This style works beautifully for casual outings or as an elegant solution for second-day hair.

Begin with unwashed or texturized hair, as clean hair tends to be too slippery and won’t hold the braid’s structure as effectively.

Take a section of hair from the crown of your head and divide it into three equal strands to start your braid.
Create a traditional French braid by adding small sections of hair to each strand as you braid down, but keep the tension deliberately loose.
Don’t worry about keeping the sections perfectly even—the irregularity adds to the effortless charm of this style.

Once you reach the nape of your neck, continue with a regular three-strand braid and secure with a hair elastic.
Gently pull apart the braid sections with your fingers, creating width and that desirable “undone” effect known as pancaking.
Pull out a few face-framing pieces and allow your baby hairs to remain free for a softer, more romantic finish.

5. Side-Swept French Waves

Side-swept French waves bring Old Hollywood glamour together with Parisian insouciance, creating a look that’s both polished and relaxed.

This style is perfect for those who want voluminous hair with sophisticated movement.

Wash and completely dry your hair, then apply a heat protectant spray to prevent damage from hot styling tools.

Section your hair into manageable pieces and curl each section with a large-barrel curling iron, wrapping the hair around the barrel rather than using the clamp.
Allow the curls to cool completely before touching them—this sets the curl and ensures longer-lasting results.
Brush through the curls with a paddle brush or wide-tooth comb to transform them into soft, flowing waves.

Create a deep side part and sweep all your hair to one side, securing it behind your ear with decorative bobby pins if needed.
Apply a shine serum to the mid-lengths and ends to enhance the glossy, healthy appearance that characterizes French hair.

6. French Bangs Tutorial

French bangs, or “fringe française,” are characterized by their soft, wispy texture and face-framing quality that differs dramatically from blunt, heavy bangs.

Learning to style them correctly ensures they enhance rather than overwhelm your features.

Start with damp bangs and apply a small amount of lightweight styling cream to prevent frizz while maintaining movement.
Use a round brush and blow dryer to direct the bangs slightly to the side, creating a soft sweep rather than a straight-across curtain.

Avoid pulling the bangs completely straight down, as this creates a harsh line that doesn’t align with the French aesthetic.
If your bangs are naturally straight, add a gentle bend with a flat iron by creating a subtle curve away from your face.
Finish with your fingers rather than a brush, separating the bangs into piece-y sections for that lived-in texture.

Use minimal product—French bangs should move and look soft, not crunchy or stiff.

7. Low Ponytail with Scarf

The scarf-adorned ponytail is a signature French look that instantly elevates a simple hairstyle into something special.

This accessory-driven style demonstrates how French women use small details to create maximum impact.

Create a sleek or slightly textured low ponytail at the nape of your neck, securing it with a hair elastic that matches your hair color.
Choose a silk or satin scarf in a complementary color or pattern—French women often opt for classic prints like stripes, polka dots, or paisley.
Fold the scarf into a long, narrow band and wrap it around the base of your ponytail, tying it in a bow or knot.

Allow the ends of the scarf to trail down with your hair, or tie them in a way that the bow sits prominently at the base.
Pull out a few face-framing pieces to soften the overall look and prevent it from appearing too severe.
Adjust the ponytail height and scarf placement until you achieve that perfect balance of polished and casual.

8. Half-Up French Twist

The half-up French twist combines the elegance of an updo with the freedom of wearing your hair down, creating a versatile style that works for various occasions.

This hybrid approach is perfect for those who want sophistication without full commitment.

Section off the top half of your hair from temple to temple, leaving the bottom section down and free.

Smooth the top section back with a brush and twist it inward, creating a miniature version of the classic French twist.
Secure the twist with bobby pins, making sure they’re inserted at angles to grip the hair effectively.
Allow the bottom section to flow naturally, either straight, wavy, or curled depending on your preference.

Gently loosen the crown area of the top section to create height and prevent a flat appearance.
Pull out a few strategic pieces around your face to maintain that essential French element of softness.

9. Textured French Pixie

The French pixie cut embodies confidence and minimalism, but it requires proper styling techniques to achieve that perfectly imperfect texture.

This tutorial transforms a simple short cut into a statement of Parisian cool.

Start with damp hair and work a small amount of volumizing mousse through from roots to ends.
Blow-dry using your fingers to tousle and direct the hair in various directions rather than creating uniform smoothness.

Once dry, apply a texture paste or pomade to your fingertips and piece out sections throughout your pixie cut.
Focus on creating movement and separation rather than smoothness—French pixies should never look too “done.”
Use a tiny amount of product to slightly lift the crown area for added dimension and shape.

Finish by running your hands through your hair one final time to ensure nothing looks too structured or intentional.

10. Loose French Braided Updo

This romantic updo combines the texture of braiding with the sophistication of an elevated style, creating a look that’s perfect for weddings, formal events, or any occasion requiring elegant beauty.

The key is maintaining looseness throughout.

Begin with textured, day-old hair or add dry shampoo and texturizing spray for grip and volume.
Create one or two loose French braids starting from different points around your head—you can braid from the sides, back, or crown.
Keep the braids intentionally loose and pull them apart gently as you work to create width and romantic texture.

Wrap and pin the braids around each other at the back of your head, creating an intricate-looking bun or twist.
Secure everything with bobby pins, but don’t worry about perfection—some pieces should naturally fall and create softness.
Pull out face-framing pieces and allow some of the shorter layers to escape for that signature undone French quality.

11. Parisian Beach Waves

French beach waves differ from typical beachy waves by their more polished, less extreme texture—they’re relaxed but never messy, casual but still refined.

This style captures the essence of French Riviera elegance.

Apply a sea salt spray to damp hair, scrunching it with your hands to encourage natural wave formation.

Allow your hair to air-dry about 70% of the way, maintaining the natural texture rather than forcing it with heat tools.
Use a large-barrel curling wand on random sections, wrapping the hair loosely and leaving the ends out for a more natural appearance.
Alternate the direction of the curls and skip sections randomly to create an organic, non-uniform wave pattern.

Once cooled, run your fingers (never a brush) through the waves to soften and blend them together.
Finish with a light texturizing spray or dry oil for piece-y definition and subtle shine without greasiness.

12. French Pin Curls Revival

Pin curls are experiencing a renaissance in French styling, offering a vintage-inspired technique that creates beautiful, long-lasting waves without heat damage.

This method requires patience but delivers stunning results.

Start with slightly damp hair—not soaking wet, as this will take too long to dry, but moist enough to be moldable.
Take small sections of hair and wrap them around your finger, creating a flat coil against your scalp.

Secure each pin curl with a bobby pin or small clip, arranging them in uniform rows across your head.
Allow the pin curls to dry completely—this can be air-dried overnight or accelerated with a hooded dryer or diffuser.
Once fully dry, carefully remove all the pins and gently separate the curls with your fingers, never a brush.

Shape the waves into a vintage-inspired style by pinning certain sections in place or allowing them to fall naturally for a more modern interpretation.

13. Slicked-Back Low Bun

The slicked-back low bun represents French minimalism at its finest—it’s clean, sophisticated, and makes a powerful style statement through simplicity.

This look works exceptionally well for professional settings or contemporary formal events.

Begin with clean, slightly damp hair and apply a smoothing serum or gel from roots to ends.
Use a fine-tooth comb or brush to slick all your hair straight back, eliminating any bumps or irregularities.
Gather the hair into a low ponytail at the nape of your neck, securing it tightly with an elastic.

Twist the ponytail and wrap it around the base to create a smooth, compact bun.
Secure the bun with bobby pins and apply additional gel or pomade to any flyaways or baby hairs around your hairline.
Finish with a strong-hold hairspray to maintain the sleek appearance throughout the day.

14. French Rope Braid

The French rope braid, also known as a twist braid, offers a unique alternative to traditional braiding techniques and creates a beautiful spiral effect that’s distinctly elegant.

This style is surprisingly easy once you understand the twisting motion.

Gather your hair into a high ponytail and secure it with an elastic, then divide the ponytail into two equal sections.

Twist each section individually in the same direction (both clockwise or both counterclockwise) until they’re tightly wound.
Then twist the two sections around each other in the opposite direction, which prevents them from unraveling.
Continue twisting down the length of your hair, maintaining tension to keep the rope braid tight and defined.

Secure the end with a hair elastic and gently pull apart sections of the braid to create more volume and texture.
Wear the rope braid over your shoulder or down your back, pulling out face-framing pieces for softness.

15. Bardot-Style Half-Updo

Named after the iconic Brigitte Bardot, this voluminous half-updo became synonymous with French sex appeal and effortless glamour.

The style emphasizes height at the crown and soft, feminine volume throughout.

Start by backcombing or teasing the crown section of your hair to create substantial volume at the roots.
Smooth the top layer over the teased section so the backcombing isn’t visible, maintaining the volume underneath.

Gather the top section of hair loosely and secure it at the back of your head with bobby pins, avoiding creating a harsh line.
Leave the bottom section down and add soft curls or waves for movement and body.
Pull the half-updo apart slightly to create more width and that signature “big hair” quality associated with Bardot.

Allow pieces to fall around your face, and don’t worry about making everything perfect—the charm is in the controlled chaos.

16. French Fishtail Braid

The French fishtail braid combines the intricate appearance of a fishtail braid with the integrated technique of French braiding, creating a stunning, complex-looking style that’s more approachable than it appears.

This braid makes a beautiful statement for any occasion.

Begin at the crown of your head by taking a small section and dividing it into two equal parts.
Take a thin strand from the outer edge of the left section and cross it over to join the right section.
Then take a thin strand from the outer edge of the right section and cross it over to join the left section.

As you continue this pattern, add in new hair from the sides with each crossover, incorporating more hair as you work down your head.
Maintain thin sections throughout the braiding process, as this creates the characteristic detailed, intricate appearance of a fishtail.
Secure at the bottom with an elastic and gently pull apart the braid to create width and a more relaxed, French-inspired finish.

17. Tucked Bob Technique

The tucked bob is a clever styling trick that creates the illusion of a shorter haircut while maintaining your actual length, and it’s a favorite technique among French women who love versatile styling options.

This works best on medium-length hair.

Start with straight or slightly wavy hair that falls around shoulder length or slightly below.

Create a deep side part or center part depending on your preference and face shape.
Take sections of hair on each side and tuck them behind your ears, then continue tucking under to create the appearance of a shorter bob.
Secure the tucked sections with bobby pins placed horizontally against your head, hiding them beneath the visible layer of hair.

Adjust the length of the faux bob by tucking more or less hair under, customizing it to your desired look.
Finish by styling the visible portion with a flat iron or curling iron to create movement and polish.

18. French Top Knot

The French top knot differs from other top knot styles through its deliberately undone quality and positioning—it’s never too high, too tight, or too perfect.

This elevated bun works for both casual and dressy occasions.

Flip your head upside down and gather all your hair into a high ponytail, positioning it slightly back from the very top of your head.
Twist the ponytail loosely and wrap it around the base, creating a bun shape that’s soft rather than compact.

Secure with bobby pins, but don’t over-pin—the bun should feel secure but maintain some looseness and movement.
Pull out pieces intentionally around your face and at the nape of your neck to create that signature French undone quality.
Allow some shorter layers to escape naturally rather than forcing them into the bun with gel or spray.

Gently pull apart sections of the bun itself to create more volume and texture.

19. Side French Braid into Low Ponytail

This asymmetrical style combines the romance of a side braid with the practicality of a ponytail, creating a look that’s both functional and beautiful.

The technique works wonderfully for active days when you need your hair secured but still want style.

Create a deep side part and begin a French braid starting from the heavy side of the part.
Braid along your hairline, following the curve of your head and incorporating hair as you work toward the opposite side.
Once you reach the area behind your ear on the opposite side, stop adding in new hair and continue with a regular three-strand braid.

Gather the braid together with the remaining loose hair on the light side of your part into a low ponytail.
Secure with an elastic and consider wrapping a small section of hair around the elastic to conceal it.
Pull apart the braid slightly and pull out face-framing pieces for a softer, more romantic finish.

20. Voluminous Blowout

The French approach to the classic blowout emphasizes natural movement and touchable texture over stiff perfection, creating bouncy, voluminous hair that looks healthy and alive.

This technique is essential for achieving authentic Parisian polish.

Begin with freshly washed hair and apply both a heat protectant and a volumizing mousse while hair is still damp.
Section your hair into manageable pieces and blow-dry with a large round brush, starting from the back and working forward.
Roll each section around the brush and direct heat from roots to ends, creating tension and smooth curvature.
Focus on lifting at the roots to create volume, keeping the brush moving to prevent creating harsh bends or lines.
Once each section is dry, roll it up in the brush and blast it with cool air to set the shape and add shine.
Finish by running your fingers through the blowout to break up any uniformity and applying a lightweight oil for movement and gloss.

21. Twisted Crown Halo

The twisted crown halo creates a romantic, bohemian look that’s perfect for special occasions or when you want to feel effortlessly beautiful.

This style incorporates twisting techniques around the perimeter of your head like a crown.

Start by parting your hair down the middle from forehead to nape, creating two equal sections.
Begin on one side by taking a small section near your hairline and dividing it into two strands.
Twist these two strands around each other while gradually adding more hair from below with each twist, similar to a rope braid technique.
Continue twisting along your hairline, working from front to back and then around the back of your head.
Repeat the process on the opposite side, working toward the back to meet the first twisted section.
Pin the two twisted sections together at the back and tuck any remaining ends under, securing everything with bobby pins.
Pull apart the twists slightly to create more volume and pull out face-framing pieces for softness.

22. French Girl Shag Styling

The French girl shag is characterized by choppy layers, textured ends, and that perfectly imperfect styling that defines Parisian cool.

This tutorial focuses on enhancing the cut’s natural movement and piece-y texture.

Start with damp hair and apply a texture spray or sea salt spray throughout for grit and hold.
Blow-dry with a diffuser or simply rough-dry with your fingers, scrunching as you go to enhance natural texture.
Once dry, take random sections and wrap them loosely around a curling iron, focusing on mid-lengths rather than curling from root to end.
Immediately break up each curl with your fingers, never allowing it to cool in a uniform shape.
Apply a small amount of texturizing paste or cream to your palms and work it through the hair, focusing on the ends and layers.
Finish by shaking your head and using your fingers to piece out sections, creating that deliberately disheveled appearance.

23. Low Twisted Chignon

The low twisted chignon offers a sophisticated alternative to the traditional bun, incorporating twisted sections that add visual interest and dimension.

This elegant style works beautifully for formal events while maintaining French understated elegance.

Part your hair down the middle and divide it into two equal sections on either side of the part.
Twist each section individually from roots to ends, keeping the twists relatively tight to prevent unraveling.
Cross the two twisted sections at the nape of your neck, then wrap them around each other to create an intertwined bun shape.
Tuck the ends under the chignon and secure everything with bobby pins, making sure to pin from multiple angles for security.
Gently pull apart sections of the twists to create more volume and texture while maintaining the overall structure.
Leave a few face-framing pieces loose and allow some shorter layers to fall naturally for softness.

24. Curtain Bangs with Loose Waves

Curtain bangs paired with loose waves create the ultimate French girl aesthetic—they frame the face beautifully while the waves add movement and dimension throughout.

This combination is universally flattering and timelessly chic.

Style your curtain bangs by blow-drying them with a round brush, directing them away from the center part and toward the sides of your face.
Allow the bangs to dry with a slight outward curve that opens up your face rather than hanging straight down.
For the rest of your hair, create loose waves using a large curling iron or wand, wrapping random sections around the barrel.
Alternate the direction of the curls and leave the ends straight for a more modern, undone appearance.
Run your fingers through the waves to soften and blend them, creating flowing movement rather than defined curls.
Apply a light texturizing spray throughout for piece-y definition and that slightly tousled Parisian texture.

25. Braided Low Bun

The braided low bun incorporates braid details into a classic bun shape, adding texture and visual interest to an otherwise simple style.

This elegant updo works for everything from office settings to evening events.

Begin by creating one or two regular three-strand braids with sections of your hair, either starting from the front or sides.
Leave the remaining hair loose and gather everything (including the braids) into a low ponytail at the nape of your neck.
Twist the ponytail loosely and wrap it around the base to create a bun shape, allowing the braided sections to be visible within the bun.
Secure with bobby pins, making sure to catch both the bun and the incorporated braids for stability.
Pull apart sections of the bun and braids slightly to create more volume and texture.
Pull out a few pieces around your face and any shorter layers to maintain that essential French softness.

26. Sleek High Ponytail with Volume

The sleek high ponytail with volume at the crown balances polish with playfulness, creating a style that’s both sophisticated and youthful.

The French interpretation focuses on achieving height without looking too “done” or artificial.

Start by sectioning off the crown area of your hair from temple to temple, clipping it away temporarily.
Smooth the bottom section back and secure it into a high ponytail with a strong elastic.
Tease or backcomb the crown section to create volume at the roots.
Smooth the top layer of the crown section over the teasing and secure it into the same ponytail, concealing the backcombing.
Take a small section from the ponytail and wrap it around the elastic to conceal it, securing the wrapped section with a bobby pin.
Gently pull apart the crown area to create more height and soften any harsh lines.
Finish the ponytail itself with a light curl or wave for movement, or leave it sleek depending on your preference.

27. Undone French Waves with Middle Part

This final style represents the epitome of Parisian hair philosophy—effortless, textured waves paired with a simple middle part that looks as though you simply woke up with perfect hair.

The beauty lies in its apparent simplicity.

Begin with damp hair and apply a sea salt spray or texturizing mousse throughout for grip and definition.
Create a clean center part from your forehead to the crown, allowing the rest to fall naturally.
Braid your hair into two loose braids while it’s still damp, or twist sections and pin them up to set while air-drying.
Once completely dry, release the braids or twists and gently separate the waves with your fingers, never using a brush.
Apply a small amount of texture cream or dry oil to your palms and scrunch it through the waves for piece-y definition.
Allow the hair to fall naturally without overthinking placement or perfection—this style is all about embracing natural texture.
Tuck one side behind your ear occasionally throughout the day for that signature French asymmetry.

Conclusion

Mastering the 27 Best French Hairstyle Tutorials to Nail the Parisian Look is about more than just learning techniques—it’s about embracing a philosophy of beauty that celebrates natural texture, apparent effortlessness, and understated elegance.

Throughout this comprehensive guide, you’ve discovered that French hairstyling isn’t about perfection but rather about creating beautiful imperfection, where each style maintains an element of undone charm that makes it uniquely Parisian.

From the classic French twist that never goes out of style to the tousled waves that define modern French beauty, each tutorial offers you the tools to recreate these iconic looks in your own home.

The common thread running through all these styles is the emphasis on making hair look touchable, moveable, and naturally beautiful rather than overly styled or stiff.

Remember that the secret to truly nailing the Parisian look isn’t just in the technical execution but in the confidence with which you wear each style—French women understand that hair is meant to be lived in, touched, and allowed to move throughout the day.

By incorporating these tutorials into your styling repertoire, you’re not just learning hairstyles; you’re adopting a timeless approach to beauty that prioritizes authenticity and ease over rigid perfection, ensuring that you’ll always look effortlessly chic no matter the occasion.