French Inspired Hairstyles

French-inspired hairstyles should highlight your best features.

If hair could talk, it would probably speak French. From the tres chic (very chic) to the campagne d tendue (relaxed countryside), French-inspired hairstyles have been at the forefront of haute couture for centuries. There's a style for every mood, from the soft and romantic to the glamorous and sultry. According to the professional tips of Hair Styles Cut, individual face shapes determine how these styles should be adjusted to frame and accentuate the best features of a woman's face.

Classic Chignon

High chignon updo

The elegance of the classic chignon has origins that date back to ancient Greece, but the look was popularized in France during the Victorian period. The French term "chignon du cou" means nape of the neck. Variations include the bun, the twist or a loosely knotted bun secured with a single clip, allowing shorter pieces of hair to fall naturally.

French Twist

Variation of the French twist with a bun

The French twist is a more formal look for medium length to long hair. Hold a low ponytail at the nape of the neck. The ponytail should be slightly off center toward the left. Then twist it upward, folded it down into the original twist and secured it with bobby pins. It's and elegant look for a wedding or formal evening event.

French Braid

Loose French braid

The casual look of a French braid is particularly romantic as the braid begins to loosen throughout the day. The braid begins with three equal sections at the crown. Smaller sections of hair from each side are alternately added until the braid is complete and secured with an elastic band or secure decorative clip. Leaving three inches unbraided at the end creates the illusion of more length.

Fish Tail

The fish tail braid divides hair into two large sections. The braid can be worn down the middle of the back or to the side. A thin strand from the right section is crossed over to the left section. Alternately, a thin strand from the left section is crossed over to the right section. Sections are braided the end until the tip the braid tapers almost to a point.

Classic French bob

French bobbed hairstyle with curls

The French bob is traditionally a short haircut with graduated layers that are angled at the sides. The style became popular in France for women doing auxiliary work during World War I. Bobbed Hair is shorter at the nape of the neck and can be angled sharply to a point though modern versions typically feature a softer transition. Variations of the style include angles on medium and long hair bobs that add volume and lift to layers.

Tags: nape neck, secured with, best features, braid begins, crossed over, French braid