Finding a hair pin that holds beautifully and stays comfortable all day can make such a difference. Here is our guide to the No.1 hair pin for each hair type, alongside some lovely words from the customers who wear them.
What is a French hair pin?
A French hair pin is a two-prong hair styling accessory, also known as a chignon pin. It allows you to create a sleek updo with very little effort. A single hair pin is all you need for an elegant updo in seconds, and it is a gentle alternative to hair elastics.
Here at TEGEN Accessories, we have been designing and perfecting quality hair accessories since 2012. Over that time, we have found the No.1 hair pin for each hair type. This guide shares our favourite for your hair, for a secure, comfortable and elegant hairstyle every time.

Our No.1 hair pin for all hair types
“It is so comfortable to wear, and looks great. Looking forward to using it for years to come and definitely recommend it.”
“Another gorgeous purchase from TEGEN. As previously, my item arrived quickly and beautifully packaged. The Onyx hairpin is really lovely and stays in my fine hair and makes a subtle statement. I'm not sure there is another website that sells quality hair accessories quite like these.”
“Love it! Purchased because a competitor's No.1 hair pin broke after 5 days on holiday.”
Our Essentials No.1 hair pin: Waved French Hair Pin
“I was really surprised that this worked so well as I have thick long hair. I couldn't work out how to use it but watched the video from TEGEN, followed the directions and it worked brilliantly. Love it!” Lynne
“I love putting my long fine hair up with this. It is elegant, strong and I can twist my hair up in a variety of styles and know it will stay up. Excellent quality as usual, TEGEN!” Caroline
Looking for something from our Ooh La La! French Handmade collection? Karin chose our Long Hair Pin.
“I am new to TEGEN and received my first order last week. I particularly love their range of French handmade accessories and ordered the 11cm Chignon Pin. I have long and fine hair, which I wear in a low bun. The chignon pin is the perfect size, and the subtle blue hues of the opal colourway are beautiful. The pin is well made, gentle on my hair (no snagging), looks classy, and adds a subtle pop of colour. Love, love, love.” Karin
No.1 hair pin for curly hair: Long Chignon Pin
“This chignon pin is really good. It's very easy to use and I have long thick hair. The lady at the checkout admired the way my hair was held in place so perfectly. She said she couldn't achieve it, so as there was no one waiting I took my hair down and showed her how I did it and what was holding it so perfectly. She said she would get some.” Susan
No.1 hair pins for fine hair: 6x Small Chignon Pins
It helps to know which hair pins suit fine hair best, and we have chosen the 6x Small Chignon Pins as our No.1 for fine hair. You can build these pins up to hold fine, silky hair by placing a few down the side of the twist to keep it secure all day.
“These are great and keep their hold all day. I have very fine hair and they really work, also the grey is so good with my grey hair.” Teresa
No.1 hair pin for long hair: Small Square Hair Pin

“I adore this hair pin! It actually holds my hair securely in place and is super comfortable.” Sophia
“These are terrific. Very smooth to go in and get out again, and a great length for my thick, strong hair. My bun stays up and in until I want to take it down again at the end of the day. Previous chignon pins from other brands this size bought online snapped at the bend on first or second use, all broken within a week of use. These are lasting the pace. I would recommend these and will buy again to have as spares. Good to have a choice of colours too.” Alison
Do hair pins damage your hair?
Have you ever removed a hair elastic and found a few strands of hair tangled in it? Swapping to hair pins is a gentler way to wear your hair up. Our Ooh La La! hair pins are handcrafted in France from quality cellulose acetate, a strong yet flexible material. Each one is polished to a smooth finish, so they are kind to your hair.

How do you do a French pleat step by step?
Frequently asked questions
What is the best hair pin for fine hair?
Our 6x Small Chignon Pins. Place a few down the side of the twist to keep fine, silky hair secure all day.
What is the best hair pin for thick or curly hair?
The Long Chignon Pin, designed for medium to thick or long hair.
Is a French hair pin the same as a chignon pin?
Yes. Both names describe the same two-prong pin used for buns and French pleats. Read our guide to choosing the right hair pin for your hair type.








