French twist held with TEGEN French Handmade hair pins

A Guide to French Hair Accessories

How to create classic French hairstyles, our bestselling French hair accessories and how to make a French hair pin stay in.

French hair accessories are loved for their elegance, their hold and the way they last. At TEGEN we have championed French Handmade accessories for over ten years. Each piece is made in France and finished by hand, to be worn for years, not months.

French hair accessories: the short answer

  • French hair pins hold a French twist or chignon with just one or two pins.
  • French barrettes suit everything from fine, silky hair to thick curls.
  • French claw clips make quick, effortless updos.
  • Hand-polished edges mean a smooth finish that is gentle on hair.

Collection of TEGEN French Handmade hair accessories

How to create classic French hairstyles

The French twist

Elegant and timeless, the French twist is perfect for weddings, dinners and the office. Twist your hair upwards at the back of your head, tuck the ends in and secure with small chignon pins or a strong French barrette.

The French pleat

Similar to the twist but more structured, the pleat tucks hair into a neat, sleek fold. Follow our guide to how to do a French pleat.

French waves

Loose, natural waves give that effortless French look. Try braiding damp hair overnight or using rollers, then add a claw clip or barrette for a relaxed finish.

French twist held with TEGEN French Handmade hair pins

Our bestselling French hair accessories

  • French hair pin: our 11cm Chignon Pin holds an elegant twist without pulling.
  • French chignon pins: a set of six small chignon pins, perfect for a secure twist or pleat.
  • French barrettes: from mini clips to statement pieces, our barrettes suit every hair type.
  • French claw clips: a must-have for easy styling, in a range of sizes. Explore our claw clips.

Our French Handmade pieces are made in a ten-step process, three of which are polishing, for smooth edges that will not snag. They are made from cellulose acetate, a plant-based material made from wood pulp and cotton, and come with our 1 year TEGEN Guarantee.

How to make a French hair pin stay in

  • Anchor it correctly. Insert the pin against the twist, then flip it back into the roll so it catches the hair underneath.
  • Choose the right size. A small pin will not hold thick hair, and a very large one may feel loose in fine hair.
  • Add grip. On freshly washed hair, use a little texture spray or dry shampoo first.
  • Layer your pins. Cross two or three pins for extra hold.

Bun held with a TEGEN French Handmade hair pin

Grey hair in an updo with a TEGEN French hair pin

Frequently asked questions

Where are TEGEN French Handmade accessories made?

In a family-run workshop in Oyonnax, France. Read more about how our French Handmade collection is made.

What makes French hair accessories different?

Careful handwork and hand polishing give a smooth finish and a strong, comfortable hold. Read the benefits of choosing French Handmade.

Which French accessory is best for thick hair?

A large claw clip, an extra large barrette or two crossed chignon pins. Discover our hair accessories for thick hair.

Find your perfect piece

Bring a little French elegance to every day. Shop our French Handmade collection.