Why the French Roll is Quietly Replacing Your Favourite Claw Clip
BY JENNY JUNG
Learn how to master the French roll with our easy guide, plus browse our favourite French hair pins!
05 NOV - 2024
The claw clip is officially resigning—here’s the new go-to hairstyle.
For the past few years, the claw clip has been the reigning champion of effortless hairstyles. From work-from-home Zoom meetings to casual coffee runs, its practicality made it the ultimate go-to for anyone seeking an easy, chic look. But as with any trend, styles evolve, and we’re starting to see a shift. The French roll—chic, sophisticated, and versatile—is making a quiet but undeniable comeback.
The French roll is hardly new to the world of hair. It has long been a symbol of timeless elegance, associated with French chic and classic Hollywood glamour. Popularised in the 1960s, this updo was the epitome of refinement and structure, worn to formal events or as a way to add a touch of sophistication to any look. Fast forward to the 90s, and the French roll made another splash, this time leaning into its more polished roots for office settings and red carpets.
Today, however, the French roll is being reimagined for modern sensibilities—think relaxed, undone versions that feel as casual as they do put-together. It’s a hairstyle that’s both nostalgic and forward-thinking, giving it a unique place in the hair trends of 2024.
So why is the French roll trending again now? It could be attributed to the broader shift towards “quiet luxury”—a movement in fashion and beauty where understated elegance reigns supreme. People are seeking hairstyles that feel elevated without trying too hard, and the French roll fits the bill perfectly. Plus, while the claw clip can be tricky for those with thicker hair, the French roll offers a versatile option that works well for all hair types. With that said, here’s a guide into styling our new favourite hair look.
Step 1: Texture
The more texture, the better. If you’ve got naturally messy or textured hair, this style is perfect for you since it thrives on volume and grip. For those with finer or smoother hair, building texture is key to keeping the French roll in place and adding dimension. One product worth trying is the Colour Wow Style on Steroids Texture Finishing Spray. It adds instant lift and grit without weighing your hair down, making it easier to twist and secure. Just a few sprays will give your hair that undone, effortless vibe, ideal for creating a long-lasting French roll.
Color Wow, Style on Steroids Texture Finishing Spray, $55 NZD.
Step 2: Gather Your Hair
Once you've prepped your hair with texture, it’s time to gather it into place. Start by sweeping your hair back as if you’re about to create a low ponytail, but instead of securing it with an elastic, begin twisting the length of your hair upward. The twist is what forms the structure of the French roll. Don’t worry about being too neat—this style looks best with a bit of natural looseness.
For a modern take, twist only halfway up the back of your head and leave the ends of your hair slightly tucked in or loose for a more relaxed feel. If you’re aiming for a sleeker, more polished look, twist all the way up and tuck the ends neatly into the roll. Make sure the twist is tight enough to hold, but not too tight—this style should feel soft and effortless. Once you’re happy with the twist, hold it in place with one hand while you prepare to secure it with pins in the next step.
Step 3: Secure with Pins
Secure with pins – Now that you’ve twisted your hair into a roll, it’s time to secure it in place. Use strong bobby pins or hairpins, starting at the base of the twist and working your way up, pinning as you go. Weave the pins into the roll towards the ears before you flip them back towards the roll in an 'X' formation to ensure extra hold and make sure the roll stays put throughout the day.
If your hair is super fine or tends to repel pins, try teasing the inner layers of your hair before pinning. This adds a bit more grip for the pins to latch onto and prevents them from slipping out. A light teasing comb can help create more texture and structure inside the roll, so it stays secure. Don’t be afraid to use as many pins as needed—better to over-secure the roll than risk it falling out! Once you’ve pinned everything into place, give the roll a gentle tug to make sure it feels solid and adjust any loose strands to achieve your desired look.
If you prefer a more one-and-done method, check out our favourite french pins below that can secure your roll all in one go!
AURA Jewellery U Chignon Pin
AURA Jewellery, U Chignon Pin, $49 NZD.
Sans [ceuticals] Bronze U Pin
Sans [ceuticals], Bronze U Pin, $150 NZD.
UNDO HAIRWARE Tapered Pin
UNDO HAIRWARE, Tapered Pin, Ivory, $49 NZD.
If you’ve been relying on the claw clip for your daily hair needs but are looking for an upgrade, the French roll is a perfect option. Not only does it offer a more polished finish, but it’s also incredibly adaptable, working for both formal settings and casual day-to-day activities. Plus, it’s quick and easy to achieve, so you don’t have to sacrifice time for style.
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