The French Twist is perfect for various occasions, and can be adapted in numerous ways to suit different hair types and lengths.
In this article, I’ll share 27 different variations of the French Twist, each offering its unique charm and style.
Let’s begin!
27 French Twists
1. Classic French Twist
The Classic French Twist dates back to the late 18th century, known for its elegance and simplicity. It’s a timeless updo where hair is smoothly rolled and pinned vertically at the back of the head. This style suits formal occasions like weddings and galas.
To create it, start by brushing your hair to remove any tangles. Gather your hair at the nape and twist upwards, tucking the ends in and securing with bobby pins.
Finish with hairspray for a sleek look. This sophisticated hairstyle has graced the heads of many iconic figures.
2. Messy French Twist
The Messy French Twist is a modern twist on the classic, adding a relaxed, effortless vibe. This style became popular in recent years as a go-to for casual yet chic looks.
Start by adding texture with a volumizing spray. Gather your hair loosely at the nape, twist upwards, and secure with pins, allowing some strands to fall naturally.
It’s perfect for brunches, casual outings, and even laid-back weddings, providing a stylish yet unpolished appearance.
3. French Twist with Bangs
The French Twist with Bangs merges the classic updo with soft, face-framing bangs. This combination became trendy in the mid-20th century and continues to be a popular choice for adding a romantic touch.
Start by styling your bangs as desired, then gather the rest of your hair at the nape. Twist it upwards and secure it with pins, making sure the bangs fall gently around your face.
This look is ideal for romantic dinners and formal events, offering a delicate yet refined appearance.
4. High Volume French Twist
The High Volume French Twist is all about drama and glamour. This hairstyle adds extra volume at the crown, making it perfect for special occasions. It was particularly popular in the 1960s and remains a favorite for glamorous events.
To create this look, tease the crown of your hair to add volume, then gather and twist your hair upwards, securing it with pins.
5. Side French Twist
The Side French Twist offers a modern take on the traditional style by placing the twist to one side. This asymmetrical look became fashionable in the early 2000s and adds a unique touch to the classic updo.
Gather your hair to one side at the nape, twist upwards, and pin it securely. This variation is perfect for cocktail parties and evening events, providing a chic and stylish appearance that stands out.
6. Braided French Twist
The Braided French Twist combines the elegance of a twist with the intricate detail of braids. This style has been a favorite for weddings and special occasions due to its elaborate appearance.
Start by creating a braid with a section of your hair, then gather the rest and twist it upwards, incorporating the braid into the twist.
Secure with pins for a stunning, textured look. This hairstyle offers a beautiful blend of classic and contemporary styles.
7. Vintage French Twist
The Vintage French Twist is inspired by the glamorous hairstyles of the 1940s and 50s. Known for its polished and sophisticated look, it’s perfect for vintage-themed events or adding a touch of old Hollywood glamour.
To create this style, smooth your hair back, twist it upwards tightly, and secure it with pins. Add a decorative pin or barrette for an authentic vintage touch.
8. Textured French Twist
The Textured French Twist adds a modern twist to the classic by incorporating waves or curls. This style is ideal for medium to long hair and offers a relaxed, boho-chic vibe.
To create this look, add texture to your hair with a curling iron or texturizing spray. Gather your hair at the nape, twist upwards, and pin it securely, allowing some curls to fall naturally.
9. French Twist with Accessories
Adorning the French Twist with accessories like pins, barrettes, or flowers adds a personal touch to this classic style. This trend has been popular for bridal hairstyles and formal events.
You should start by creating a traditional French Twist, then add your chosen accessories for a customized look.
Whether it’s a jeweled pin for a wedding or a flower for a garden party, accessories can elevate the elegance of this timeless hairstyle.
10. Loose French Twist
The Loose French Twist offers a softer, more casual version of the classic updo. It’s perfect for everyday wear or relaxed events.
First, gather your hair loosely at the nape, twist upwards, and secure with pins, allowing some strands to fall naturally for a relaxed, effortless look.
This style is ideal for adding a touch of sophistication to your daily hairstyle without being overly formal.
11. French Twist for Short Hair
The French twist for short hair is a versatile adaptation of the classic updo. Historically, French twists have been associated with elegance and sophistication, often seen in vintage Hollywood. To create this style, start by sectioning the hair and teasing the crown for added volume.
Gather the hair at the nape of the neck and twist it upwards, securing with bobby pins as you go. Leave some loose strands for a softer, more casual look.
12. Beehive French Twist
The beehive French twist is a bold hairstyle that combines the volume of a beehive with the elegance of a French twist. This style became popular in the 1960s, epitomizing the glamorous looks of the era.
To achieve this look, tease the crown of your hair to create the beehive effect, then gather the remaining hair into a twist at the back of your head.
Secure with bobby pins and hairspray for a lasting hold. This hairstyle is perfect for making a statement at any formal event.
13. Upside Down French Twist
The upside-down French twist is a creative twist on the traditional style, starting from the nape and working upwards. This unique look gives a fresh take on the classic twist, ideal for those seeking a modern edge.
To create this style, flip your head upside down and start twisting from the nape of your neck, moving towards the crown.
Secure the twist with pins and finish with a touch of hairspray. This inverted twist offers a chic and contemporary look suitable for various occasions.
14. Curly French Twist
Perfect for those with naturally curly hair, the curly French twist maintains the hair’s volume and texture while offering a stylish updo.
To create this look, start by defining your curls with a curling iron if needed. Gather the curls and twist them upwards, securing them with bobby pins.
The curls will add a playful and textured element to the classic twist, making it ideal for both casual and formal events.
15. Glam French Twist
The glam French twist is a sleek, polished updo often seen on the red carpet. This version exudes elegance and sophistication, making it perfect for formal occasions.
You should start with smooth, straightened hair. Gather your hair at the nape of your neck, twist it upwards tightly, and secure it with bobby pins.
Finish with a shine-enhancing hairspray to achieve that glossy, red-carpet-ready finish. This hairstyle pairs beautifully with formal gowns and evening wear.
16. Side-Swept French Twist
The side-swept French twist is a modern, elegant take on the classic updo. By sweeping the hair to one side before twisting, this style adds a contemporary twist to a timeless look.
Part your hair to one side and gather it at the nape of your neck. Twist the hair upwards and to the side, securing with bobby pins.
This asymmetrical twist is perfect for weddings, proms, or any formal event where you want to stand out.
17. Elegant French Twist
The elegant French twist is a smooth, sophisticated hairstyle ideal for mature women. This timeless look has been popular for decades, known for its refined and polished appearance.
You should start with straightened hair. Gather your hair into a low ponytail and twist it upwards, tucking the ends in and securing with bobby pins.
Smooth out any flyaways with a light hairspray. This hairstyle is perfect for formal events or professional settings where you want to exude grace and poise.
18. Bouffant French Twist
The bouffant French twist features a teased crown for added volume and drama, often seen at weddings and formal events. This style combines the height of a bouffant with the sleekness of a French twist.
Tease the hair at the crown to create volume. Gather the hair at the nape of your neck, twist it upwards, and secure with bobby pins.
The bouffant adds a dramatic flair, making this hairstyle perfect for making a statement at any special occasion.
19. Faux Hawk French Twist
The faux hawk French twist is a bold, edgy take on the classic updo, styled to resemble a mohawk with added volume and texture. This hairstyle is perfect for those looking to make a daring fashion statement.
To create this look, tease the hair at the crown and sides for volume. Gather the hair in sections, twist them individually, and pin them upwards to create the mohawk effect.
20. French Twist with Loose Bangs
The French twist with loose bangs softens the look by leaving bangs or shorter layers loose around the face. This variation adds a romantic and relaxed touch to the classic twist.
First, section out the bangs or shorter layers at the front. Gather the remaining hair into a low ponytail, twist it upwards, and secure with bobby pins.
Allow the bangs to fall naturally around your face. This hairstyle is perfect for both casual and formal occasions.
21. Ribbon Bouffant Twist
The Ribbon Bouffant Twist originating from the iconic hairstyles of the 1960s, this look channels the glamorous essence of old Hollywood.
To create this style, start by teasing the crown to achieve a bouffant effect. Secure the teased section with pins.
Next, gather the remaining hair into a smooth French twist, securing it with bobby pins. Finally, incorporate a decorative ribbon, wrapping it around the base of the twist.
22. Asymmetrical French Twist
The Asymmetrical French Twist is a modern take on the classic updo, featuring an off-center roll that adds a unique flair.
Begin by parting the hair slightly off-center. Gather the hair to one side and twist it upward, securing it with pins as you go.
The twist should not be perfectly centered but rather slightly to one side. This asymmetrical approach gives the traditional French twist a contemporary twist.
23. Romantic French Twist
The Romantic French Twist exudes softness and femininity, making it a perfect choice for romantic occasions. This style often features wispy ends and a delicate twist, creating a gentle and ethereal look.
Start by lightly curling the hair to add texture. Gather the hair loosely at the nape of the neck, twist it upward, and secure it with pins.
This hairstyle, with its soft, flowing lines, adds a touch of romance and grace, ideal for weddings or intimate dinners.
24. Formal French Twist
The Formal French Twist is a sleek, polished updo that exudes sophistication, making it perfect for black-tie events or formal gatherings.
To create this look, smooth the hair back into a low ponytail, then twist it upward tightly, securing it with bobby pins.
Ensure the twist is neat and sleek, with no loose strands. Finish with a strong-hold hairspray to keep everything in place.
25. Flirty French Twist
The Flirty French Twist adds a playful and fun element to the traditional updo, making it great for casual outings or dates.
You should begin by adding texturizing spray to the hair. Tease the crown for volume, then gather the hair and twist it loosely, securing with pins.
Allow some pieces to fall out for a tousled look. This casual twist is perfect for a day out shopping or a relaxed dinner date.
26. Vintage U-shaped Twist
The Vintage U-shaped Twist is a polished and sophisticated hairstyle that features a distinct U-shaped roll, reminiscent of styles from the mid-20th century.
Use a large foam hair roll to achieve the volume needed for the U-shape. Twist the hair over the foam roll and secure with pins, ensuring the U-shape is prominent.
This vintage-inspired twist adds a touch of old-world charm and is perfect for themed parties or retro-inspired events.
27. Intricate Wavy French Twist
The Intricate Wavy French Twist combines the elegance of a traditional twist with the softness of waves, creating a sophisticated and textured hairstyle.
Part the hair to one side, then twist the hair upwards, incorporating the waves into the twist and securing with pins.
This intricate twist showcases the natural waves, adding a luxurious and elegant touch to the hairstyle, perfect for weddings, proms, or formal gatherings.
