The Hair Accessory French Women Use to Make Their Updos Look Chic

I don’t often get jealous, but when I do, it’s usually because I’m envious of women who can easily throw their hair into an easy updo and look effortlessly chic. Over the years, I’ve observed fashion people using various hair accessories—including scrunchies, hair scarves, and claw clips—to keep their updos in place. Recently, however, I’ve noticed women on TikTok and Instagram and even in person using something new (at least to me) to create relaxed and stylish buns: French hairpins.

For those who may be unfamiliar, allow me to describe the French hairpin. Originating in France during the 1600s, this large, U-shaped accessory is designed to wrap and secure all of your hair in place, enabling the creation of a myriad of hairstyles. Unlike traditional bobby pins, which can be short and straight, French hairpins feature a longer, curvier design with a rounded tip that minimizes slippage. Their gentle grip means they’re less likely to pull at the hair, cause breakage, or leave unsightly dents.