Hailey Bieber’s French Twist Is Holiday Hair Perfected

This season’s most polished party hair has a decidedly classic core. Hailey Bieber’s latest take on the French twist has reignited love for the timeless updo, proving that minimal, sculpted styling can feel modern, wearable, and quietly luxurious for every festive calendar moment. Below, we unpack why the French twist is trending again, how it’s evolving, and what to know if you’re taking the look from inspiration board to real life—whether you’re heading to an office do, winter wedding, or New Year’s Eve.

Why the French twist is the holiday updo to beat

For decades, the French twist has been the shorthand for instant elegance. Its resurgence now is less about retro nostalgia and more about aesthetic refinement: the look feels finished without being fussy, sleek without being severe. Celebrity-led interpretations—like Bieber’s—lean into clean lines, flawless shine, and a considered silhouette that works as well with an oversized tuxedo blazer as it does with a sequinned slip.

What’s changed is the mood. Today’s twist is softer around the hairline, often with a touch of texture at the crown or a barely-there tendril. It’s less “set in stone” and more “effortlessly precise”—a balance that reads high-fashion in photographs and forgiving in real life, especially after a cold-weather commute or a dance floor.

• Quiet-luxury polish: smooth, reflective finishes are in; heavy lacquered shells are out.
• Soft structure: a secure roll with flexible, touchable edges.
• Versatility: pairs with bows, minimalist combs, pearls, or nothing at all.
• Universal wear: adapts to different hair types, lengths, and densities (with strategic prep).

Anatomy of the modern French twist

While the method remains classic—gather, lift, roll, pin—the contemporary twist is defined by detail. Think a clean parting (centre or deep side), tension that supports the shape without flattening volume, and a fold that sits neatly along the back of the head rather than protruding. The finish is glossy yet flexible; shine comes from good prep and heat technique rather than heavy product alone.

Consider these components when planning your version:

• Prep: Smooth, frizz-controlled hair is easier to sculpt. A light blow-dry with a round brush or a quick pass of a straightener can align the cuticle for that reflective sheen.
• Foundation: A workable mousse or a light-hold styling cream gives grip without crunch, helping pins hold and preventing the roll from slipping.
• Structure: French pins (U-pins) anchor the twist invisibly. Slide them in against the grain for the strongest hold, then lock with a very light mist of hairspray.
• Finish: A dab of serum on palms smoothed over the surface adds clarity and separation to flyaways, keeping edges photo-ready without stiffness.

Trend takeaways: what Bieber’s spin signals

The current wave of French twists championed by tastemakers signals several broader hair trends worth noting for the festive period:

• Precision over excess: We’re seeing cleaner silhouettes that prioritise craftsmanship over ornate embellishment.
• Texture where it counts: Subtle root lift or a gently expanded roll adds modern dimension without drifting into “undone” territory.
• Accessory minimalism: If add-ons appear, they’re purposeful—think a slim comb, a micro bow, or a single pin with a pearl or crystal accent.
• Hybrid styling: Natural texture isn’t erased; it’s guided. Curls and coils can be showcased at the front while the back remains structured.

Getting practical: taking the look from moodboard to midnight

While this is a trend-led story, a few practical notes can help you reconcile inspiration with real-world hair. The French twist is impressively adaptable, but approach and prep vary by hair type and length. Here are smart, stylist-informed pointers to set you up for success at home or in the salon chair.

• Fine or silky hair: Work with “day two” hair or add a mist of texturising spray for grip before rolling. Tease lightly at the crown if you want height, but brush the top layer smooth to keep it sleek.
• Medium to thick straight hair: Keep products lightweight and layer small amounts. Use French pins rather than grips for stronger hold without bulk.
• Wavy or curly hair: Stretch and smooth with a blow-dry brush if you want a glassy finish, or twist from your natural pattern for a softer, editorial feel. Define any face-framing tendrils with a curl cream or gel.
• Coily or natural hair: A silk press or tension blow-dry creates a sleek base if you want maximum shine. Alternatively, form the twist over stretched braids or a blowout to reduce manipulation on wash day.
• Short or layered hair: Use a hidden elastic to create a low pony base first; tuck ends into the roll and pin. A hair net matching your colour can invisibly secure shorter layers inside the twist.
• Extensions and wigs: On sew-ins or clip-ins, ensure anchor tracks sit below the twist line. For lace wigs, secure your hairline fully before styling; the twist’s neat profile showcases partings and edges.

If you’re visiting a stylist, bring a couple of reference photos and decide on your parting, height, and finish (ultra-sleek versus softly textured). Communicate outfit neckline and earring choice: the French twist beautifully frames shoulders and collars, and a stylist can adjust width and placement to complement your look.

Step-by-step: a news-led classic you can actually wear

Because trend pieces shouldn’t leave you guessing, here’s a streamlined approach to the modern French twist that aligns with the celebrity-approved aesthetic making waves this holiday season:

• 1) Prep and smooth: Blow-dry hair with a round brush for direction and shine. Create your chosen parting and smooth a light styling cream from mid-lengths to ends.
• 2) Gather and lift: Sweep hair to one side at the back of your head as if making a low side pony. Keep the surface sleek, using a soft boar brush to guide flyaways.
• 3) Pin the base: Place two to three bobby pins vertically up the centre back to create a “spine” for the twist.
• 4) Roll and fold: Wrap the lengths around your hand and roll towards the pinned spine, tucking ends inside the roll. Stand the roll upright and press gently against the head.
• 5) Secure invisibly: Insert French pins along the seam, weaving them through the roll and back toward the scalp. Use as many as needed for your hair density.
• 6) Refine edges: Smooth the hairline with a tiny amount of serum or edge-control, keeping the finish glassy but touchable. Release a micro tendril only if you want softness.
• 7) Lock and set: Mist a light, flexible-hold hairspray from a distance for even coverage that preserves movement and sheen.

Optional: Add a slim comb, minimalist bow, or a single statement pin near the top of the twist. Keep adornment understated to maintain the sleek, contemporary profile that defines this iteration of the style.

Who it suits—and how to make it yours

The French twist’s great leveller is its adaptability. On round faces, extra height elongates. On long faces, a gentle, wider roll adds balance. A deep side part can lend drama; a centre part feels modern and minimal. If your hair is very thick, consider a slightly lower twist with a wider roll so the silhouette feels intentional and not overstuffed. If your hair is fine, compress less and use the twist to create the illusion of fullness by softly expanding the roll once secured.

For longevity on a long night out, stash two French pins and a small mist-sized hairspray in your bag. The beauty of today’s twist is that a slight loosening over time reads chic rather than chaotic—precisely why it’s a party-season hero.

Key Takeaways

• Hailey Bieber’s recent French twist spotlights a classic updo reimagined for 2025: sleek, polished, and quietly luxurious for party season.
• Modern twists balance structure and softness—clean lines, flexible edges, and a reflective, healthy-looking finish.
• The look adapts to all hair types with tailored prep: add grip for fine hair, guide texture for curls and coils, and refine edges for shine.
• Minimalist accessories—slim combs, micro bows, single pearls—enhance without overwhelming the silhouette.
• Longevity comes from good foundation: light prep products, French pins for structure, and a flexible hairspray to set without stiffness.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the French twist hard to do at home?
It’s simpler than it looks with the right prep. Work in front of a mirror, use French pins for structure, and don’t overload product. A practice run before an event helps.

Will a French twist hold in fine, slippery hair?
Yes—start with texture: dry shampoo or texturising spray at the roots, a touch of mousse through lengths, and use French pins inserted against the grain for grip.

How do I adapt the style for curly or coily hair?
Decide your finish first. For a sleek look, stretch or silk-press before styling. For a softer, editorial finish, twist from your natural pattern and define any face-framing curls.

Can I wear a French twist with extensions or a wig?
Absolutely. Ensure tracks sit below the twist line for natural balance. On lace wigs, secure and smooth the hairline first; the twist’s clean profile highlights neat edges and partings.

What accessories work with the modern version?
Keep it minimal: a slim metal comb, a micro bow, or a single pearl or crystal pin. Place near the top of the roll to accentuate the twist without clutter.

How do I prevent the style from looking too severe?
Soften at the hairline, release a tiny tendril if desired, and avoid over-lacquering. A flexible-hold spray preserves movement and a contemporary feel.