The ‘French woman’ archetype has mastered many things: subtle romance, ageing without care, natural beauty, and effortless hair. Their nonchalance and less-is-more attitude sees natural texture and volume thrive, in direct opposition to the overly-styled glam of the magazine pages.
French hair is undone, perhaps a little messy. It’s a kind of chic that many have tried to define and recreate, but it is tricky to nail and even trickier to look authentic. There’s a laidback art to looking like you haven’t spent hours styling. So, in the interests of doing it as the Parisians do, here our seven favourite French heads of hair (and the iconic women attached, of course).
Jane Birkin
She’s the 60s icon we will never get over, known for her long uniform length and long bangs that completely cover the forehead and brows. As the fringe grows, turn them into long curtain bangs.
Jeanne Damas
A messy lob and wispy bangs is the standard for the Parisienne, of which Jeanne Damas is one. There is little to no definition, instead just easy volume and textured locks.
Carla Bruni
As the perfect European example of style, the French-Italian model has remained a constant on our hair inspo boards for decades. She nails the French finish and texture, with a messy centre part and frequently seen with a fringe that skims her lashes in shades of brunette and subtle red.
Brigitte Bardot
Long, blonde and volumised, of course the one and only Brigitte Bardot has made our list. Layered bangs blend perfectly into the hair, topped with a 60s bouffant and with enough depth to bring out a natural wave. For the blondes amongst us, a regular tone and purple shampoo will be your best friend when achieving a light French colour.
Mélodie Vaxelaire
A staple on our Pinterest boards and the ultimate French muse, Mélodie wears her natural corkscrew curls with a short, voluminous fringe. She believes the definition provided by her bangs make it look like she’s put more effort in than she has, and only cuts her hair every two months or so.
Louise Follain
To make the French look even more perfectly imperfect, Louise is known for trimming her own bangs. When paired with long, brushed out lengths, it’s the quiet kind of cool we will forever be chasing.
Léa Seydoux
There is no more enviable hair evolution than that of Léa Seydoux, who seems to suit any colour and cut you can think of. From bangs to pixie cuts, each style is casual and romantic, with just enough texture to convince us she isn’t trying too hard.
HOW TO STYLE THE FRENCH DO
Styling hair the French way calls for subtlety. From bobs to lobs to long and Bardot-esque, the length of the hair will depend on its natural fall. One thing stays constant, however, and that is that less truly is the most.
If you’re styling hair at home, put the blowdryer away and let it air dry. To enhance any texture, a soft bend or very simple wave will do the trick. A little texturising spray with scrunching and tousling will add to the ‘I-just-rolled-out-of-bed-I-always-look-this-chic’ look. Importantly, frizz should be quietly smoothed to reduce flyaways. For natural or afro-textured hair, any look and length that highlights the way your hair sits naturally is the way to go.
For those who fancy a fringe, make it wispy and layered. Bangs should blend with the rest of the hair and sit just at the brow line (or slightly longer for those clients who can commit to more frequent appointments). Refrain from a cut that is too blunt or too neat, and opt for effortless volume.