When it comes to the French, their effortless aesthetic transcends their classically chic wardrobes and minimalist makeup routines. There are plenty of things to envy about the French girl look, but the good news is that their chic vibes are not only attainable but might actually be a way to simplify your own morning routine. Just like their skincare and makeup, French girls value simplicity, and authenticity when it comes to their hair. Keep reading for 11 French girl hairstyles you’ll want to show your hairdresser at your next appointment.
1. French Bob
The French girl bob is a style that rises above all trends and fleeting fads when it comes to hairstyles. This cut falls just below the ears and above the chin – and is the epitome of effortless French elegance. The short bob takes little maintenance other than maybe a quick blow dry and a ruffle through of your fingers with texture spray.
In the 1920s, this classic cut emerged as a style rooted in rebellion against societal norms of long, flowing locks. From then on, it was popularized in wider culture by the likes of Coco Chanel and American actresses like Louise Brooks.
The French love the bob for its low-maintenance look that highlights their natural features. It’s daring, chic, and edgy enough to make any outfit look chic. Pair it with a messy fringe and you’ve got yourself the quintessential French girl hairstyle.
2. Wavy Hair
Speaking of low-maintenance cuts, an effortless wavy look is all the rage in France when it comes to hairstyles. Relaxed, beachy waves perfectly encapsulate the laidback look of French girls. These waves fall somewhere in between pin-straight hair and perfectly coiled curls for an effortless, undone vibe.
Get the look by brushing out your loose curls and then locking them in with texture spray or a bit of hairspray. The trick is to avoid perfection – alternate your curl sizes, the direction of your curler, etc. to get that un-styled look.
3. Natural Texture
I have some good news for all of you night owls out there! French girls love to embrace their natural hair texture, which is great news if you struggle to get out of bed in the morning.
The French love a natural, authentic look that highlights their natural features. Just as they don’t abide by a heavy makeup routine, they also like to keep it simple when it comes to their hair. Instead of heat treating their locks with straighteners or curling irons, they embrace the natural state of their hair – which is also a huge benefit to their hair health. This undone style will save you time, money, and split ends.
4. Lob with Layers
If you’re not quite ready to commit to a cut as short as the French bob, this next look might be for you. A lob with layers is the chic sister of the chin-length cut. If your hair texture (or your face shape) doesn’t suit a super short style, a lob will still give you that fresh, low-maintenance look with slightly longer locks.
If you have thinner hair and want to add volume, ask your hairdresser for layers. Whether you commit to bangs or not is up to you! Either way, adding layers will make your hair appear thicker and fuller.
5. Blunt Cut
Love a dramatic look that’s as chic as you are? Go bold with a blunt cut. This style is the same length all the way around your head and gives you a sharp, edgy look like the French girl above. This sleek, modern haircut requires minimal styling, which is why the French girls love it. The blunt cut can be utilized for all different lengths and then be grown out.
French girls also love the versatility of this style. It’s easy to pull back in a ponytail, claw clip, or braid if they want to keep their hair up. This no-fuss look embodies their love of timeless styles.
6. Long Layers
For those girls with long hair, long layers are a popular choice. This cut adds shape and movement to a long cut, and can also create the appearance of added fullness and volume. It’s another low-maintenance cut that’s easy to dry and go – no need to spend time messing with it before you head out the door. French girls embrace their natural texture with this look.
You can also add bangs or face-framing layers to the cut. These additions will help to highlight and contour your facial features for a softer look.
7. Messy Bun
Here’s another time-saving look that the French love to wear. If you’re crunched for time in the morning and running out the door, don’t be afraid to throw your hair up in a messy bun. It’s an effortless look that goes right along with the French chic vibe that doesn’t ever make it look like they’re trying too hard.
The trick to elevating the messy bun is to make sure that your outfit is styled properly. The 2/3 rule is a popular one to follow – if you want to look put together, ensure that two out of the three following things are styled: your makeup, hair or outfit. Any combination will do.
8. Bangs
Ready to make a change and try out bangs? This look is French girl-approved! Bangs have that magic ability to instantly transform your entire look, so if you’re looking for something new, they could be a great solution. Plus, there are so many types of bangs. There’s sure to be a sub-type that fits your own features and face shape.
You can find bangs inspiration from some of the most iconic French girls. Brigitte Bardot sported face-framing curtain bangs that parted in the center. Jane Birkin rocked wispy, straight-across bangs with slightly longer sides. Coco Chanel wore a bold look with thick bangs that cut straight across her forehead. No matter which style you choose, bangs will instantly transform your look – and make you appear younger.
9. Tied with a Scarf
Not ready to commit to a big chop? Here’s a French girl hairstyle that you can recreate at home instead of at the hair salon. First, pull out your favorite scarf. This is one of a French girl’s favorite accessories. Whether she’s tying it around her bag handle, wearing it around her neck, or styling it in her hair, the silk scarf is the perfect addition to a French capsule wardrobe.
You can style this piece in your hair as a bandana, wrap it around a headband, or tie it on your ponytail for a pop of color. It’s the perfect addition to spring or summer looks.
10. Chignon or Claw Clip
Do you prefer to wear your hair up and out of the way? Consider using a claw clip or French pin to style an effortless chignon. Either of these styles gives you an elegant, elevated look without much effort at all. Plus, it’s an opportunity to show off another accessory. Coordinate your clip or pin with your outfit, and have fun with patterned pieces in pearlescent white, leopard print, tortoiseshell, etc.
11. Loose Braid
Last, but not least is a French girl style for those with mid-length to longer hair. A loose braid is another effortless solution if you’re looking to keep your hair out of your face, without detracting from your chic outfit. The “French braid” in particular can help to tuck away any face-framing layers, as the braid starts closer to the crown of your head.
There’s also an added bonus to braids – take them out later on and your hair will more than likely have that relaxed, beachy wave texture that we talked about earlier!
How the French Do Hair
French girls approach their haircuts and styles in a similar fashion to how they approach their makeup and everyday fashion. They prefer an effortless, timeless look that transcends trends, and that plays up their natural features. Just like their makeup, they prefer their haircuts and styles to embrace their natural features because they know that these features ultimately suit them best! Try out one of the chic styles from this list and find yourself also saving time, money, and maybe most importantly – sleep.
Want to give your daily style a French makeover, too? Up Next: 13 Ways to Dress French in Your Day to Day Life
