The Chignon Pin: How to Create an Effortless Chignon

The chignon is the effortless updo seen on red carpets and catwalks, and it is surprisingly simple to recreate at home. All you need is the right hair pin.

A French hair pin, like our handmade 11cm Chignon Pin, holds a messy chignon, a low twist or a classic updo with just one piece.

How to do a chignon: the short answer

1. Gather your hair at the nape of your neck.
2. Twist it into a low bun and tuck in the ends.
3. Slide a U-shaped hair pin through the bun, catching hair from the outside edge into the centre.
4. Leave a few face-framing pieces loose for a relaxed, romantic feel.

Which hair pin suits your hair?

Fine hair

The Small Square Chignon Pin is lovely for fine hair. Its French U-shape lets you twist and secure hair easily, adding volume where you want it.

Medium-length hair

One 11cm Chignon Pin is all you need. Twist your hair into a low bun, tuck the ends and slide the pin through.

A messy chignon

Pull your hair into a low twist and let a few strands fall naturally. Secure it with a classic or decorative U-shaped pin for a look that is deliberately undone.

The TEGEN edit

• Everyday ease: the Waved French Hair Pin. Its gentle wave helps it grip, so it suits both fine and thicker hair, from a quick weekend twist to a polished office updo.
• Understated elegance: the Long Filigree Hairpin, perfect for French-girl chic.

Frequently asked questions

How do you use a chignon pin?

Twist your hair into a bun, then push the pin in from the outside edge towards the centre, turn it and slide it in so the prongs catch the bun. Read our step-by-step guide to how to use chignon pins.

Will a hair pin hold thick hair?

Yes, with the right size. Choose a longer pin for thick hair, or use two pins crossed over each other. See our guide to choosing hair pins for your hair type.

Are hair pins kind to your hair?

A smooth, polished hair pin holds hair without the tight pull of an elastic. Read the benefits of hair pins for your hair health.

Find your perfect piece

Create a chignon that is as effortless as it is elegant. Shop our French hair pins.