The French Pin Updo Is The Latest Hair Trend - Here's How To Get The Look

The French pin updo hair trend is sweeping TikTok, much like the claw clip, which went viral in 2021. Pulling your hair into a tight ponytail is one of the common ways you can ruin your hair, so pinning your hair up into a pin is a desirable alternative. Both products allow you to create simple and stylish updos. The French pin, however,  stands out because of its durability, ease of use, and sophisticated look. 

The French pin is a U-shaped hair accessory that can look more discreet than a claw clip. Celebrity hairstylist Mara Roszac told Vogue that the simplicity is what has made the U-shaped pins desirable. "I find if secured properly, U-shaped pins hold the hair so incredibly well with hardly any effort. You're also able to get more volume and movement in your style with a U-pin than a pony, where you are more limited," she said.

While the claw clip can feel flimsy when used to hold up long, thick hair, the French pin can feel more secure for people with thick hair, as TikToker Ashley Kay points out in her TikTok showing how to use a French pin to create an elegant updo.

For a simple updo, first, pull all your hair back into your hands and then twist it from the crown of your head through the ends. Wrap it all around, and then place the French pin in from the top of the style for an all-day hold. If you've put your hair in a French pin updo and it doesn't feel sturdy enough, you can always add a second French pin to hold everything together. 

Though it may be ideal for people with thick hair because of how sturdy it is, a French pin can also be used to create updos on people with thin hair. In fact, the French pin can be used with every hair texture and type, though you may want to use a texturizing spray to help the clip grip your hair while styling.

The #Frenchpin hashtag has over 15 million views on TikTok, and many creators have shared videos about its multiple uses.

French pins can look more intimidating than other hair accessories, but they are easy to use and can lead to sleek-looking hairstyles in a small amount of time much like a claw clip is used to replicate cute hairstyles. A bun that's created with a French pin can be ready in just seconds with the help of tutorials on TikTok like Nichole Citti's. French pins can be used to create low buns, high buns, twists, a half-up, half-down look, and any other style you'd usually use hair ties or claw clips for. 

 "A French pin allows you to get more creative with your updos and is ultimately a healthier option to its alternative, the hair tie," hairstylist Doug Mengert told Byrdie.