The French twist is the chicest hairstyle for 2026 - here's how to get the look

When Audrey Hepburn graced the silver screen in the 1961 classic Breakfast at Tiffany's, it wasn’t only the sleek little black dress designed by Hubert de Givenchy that cemented her enduring je-ne-sais-quoi image. Part of her chic appeal was her coiffed French twist, crowned with a delicate tiara. It is a Parisian style that's remained present over the decades, but today we're seeing it pepper the beauty sphere with a modern edge.

The French twist is a romantic updo created by gathering the hair at the nape, twisting it upwards and securing it vertically against the head. The expertly pinned hairdo was resurrected on the recent runways through a fresh lens. During The Row's spring/summer 2026 show, hairstylist Guido Palau reimagined the look with a sculptural finish, using hair combs to create smooth folds by tucking them into the hair. 

The updo also found its way onto the autumn/winter 2026 shows in London. At Richard Quinn, hairstylist Sam McKnight complimented the embellished evening gowns at show by fashioning slicked back locks on the models. Meanwhile, over at Conner Ives, hairstylist Claire Grech embodied the 1930s Art Deco allusions by styling side-parted iterations on models draped in asymmetric dresses and silk scarf tops.

© The Row

Claire spoke to H! Fashion about how she conjured up the look back in February. "For the Conner Ives show, I created a more modern version of the French twist still keeping the classic iconic shape," she shared. "I gave the models a deep sharp side parting and went for a high shine finish on their hair. I felt the style balanced heritage with modernity, which reflected the spirit of the collection and added a strong, elegant silhouette."

© Getty Images

The renowned hairstylist believes the updo is trending due to its "done yet wearable" look. "I think it fits perfectly with the current move towards timeless, elevated beauty. As trends like quiet luxury and classic glamour continue to resonate," Claire explained. "Its versatility is also a big part of its appeal – depending on how you do the style it works for both everyday wear and special occasions."

© Mondadori Portfolio via Getty Im

Today's approach to the style plays on the 18th century image – think Marie Antoinette's brushed back pouf – but with a different structure. Hairstylist Stephane Lancien created Aja Naomi King's funnel updo at the 79th annual Cannes Film Festival to echo the French Twist with a contemporary finish courtesy of a micro fringe. Meanwhile, hairstylist Nikki Nelms crafted an updo for Zoë Kravitz at the 2026 Golden Globes that blended the style with face-framing tendrils for a playful twist.

How to perfect the French Twist

© FilmMagic

Claire recommends starting with a little texture in the hair using dry shampoo or a texturising spray for extra grip. "Gather the hair at the nape, twist it upwards and secure it with pins along the seam. If your hair is particularly silky you could backcomb the mid lengths slightly to get extra grip and volume," she explained.

"For every day effortless styles, don't focus on getting it too perfect. Some face framing loose pieces are great for softening the style."

Get the look

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