updos · hair styling
How to Do a French Twist: Classic andEasy Versions
How to do a French twist step by step, with bobby pins or a claw clip, on long or medium hair, plus a messy version and tips to make it hold all day.
Hairover Team
To do a French twist, gather your hair as if for a low ponytail but don’t tie it. Twist the hair upward, fold it flat against the back of your head so it forms a vertical roll, tuck the ends inside, and pin along the seam with bobby pins. It’s a classic, elegant updo for weddings, work, and evening events, and a claw clip makes an easy everyday version.
What you need
- Texturizing spray or dry shampoo
- A brush or comb
- 6 to 10 bobby pins (matching your hair color)
- Hairspray
- Optional: a large claw clip for the easy version
Classic French twist, step by step
- Prep. Spray texturizing spray or dry shampoo for grip. Freshly washed hair slips.
- Brush everything back to the nape.
- Gather hair in one hand like a low ponytail.
- Twist the hair upward, turning it clockwise (or anticlockwise, whichever feels natural).
- Fold up. Lift the twist against the back of your head so it forms a vertical roll.
- Tuck the ends into the top of the roll.
- Pin along the seam, sliding each pin in from the outside so it catches both the roll and the hair underneath.
- Finish with hairspray and smooth any bumps.
The easy claw clip version
- Gather and twist your hair upward as above.
- Fold it against your head.
- Secure it with a large claw clip along the twist.
Takes 30 seconds. See more ideas in claw clip hairstyles.
Variations
- Messy French twist: pull out face-framing pieces and loosen the top for a relaxed look.
- French twist with a side part: softer and romantic.
- Braided French twist: braid the hair loosely before twisting for texture.
- Low twist: keep it at the nape for a more modern feel.
Tips
- Pin direction matters. Slide pins in against the direction of the twist so they grip.
- Cross pins in an X where the twist feels loose.
- Layered hair: short layers may poke out. Pin them separately or leave them out as face-framing pieces.
Related guides
See your face with your hair up
An updo shows your whole face and neck. Hairover lets you upload a clear photo, get a hair analysis, and try hairstyles on your own face in Style Studio.
FAQ
How do you do a French twist?
Gather hair into a low ponytail without a band, twist it upward, fold the twisted hair against the back of your head, tuck the ends into the roll, and pin along the seam with bobby pins.
Can you do a French twist on medium-length hair?
Yes, if it reaches past your shoulders. Shorter hair works best with a claw clip, which holds the twist without needing as much length.
How many bobby pins do I need for a French twist?
Usually six to ten, slid in along the seam. Open the pin slightly, catch hair from the twist and from your head, then push it in.
How do I make a French twist hold all day?
Use second-day hair or texturizing spray, cross the pins in an X where it feels loose, and finish with hairspray.
