The 14 Best French Hair Pins to Achieve Effortless Updos and More

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Hair pins of any kind can be intimidating, especially for those with thick hair that easily falls down, or slick hair that won’t hold anything. Claw clips and barrettes are having their day, sure, but may I present a more sophisticated option? French hair pins.

Perhaps one of the oldest hair accessories in existence, there’s a reason two-pronged hair pins have been around as long as they have, and across various cultures. Despite being known as French hair pins, double-pointed hair pins were also worn in ancient Chinese and Korean cultures. They’re often sturdier and easier to use than single-prong hair pins, which makes them accessible for many hair types. They also don’t leave creases, which can be super frustrating for lovers of claw clips and elastic bands.

Whether you prefer a sleek, simple look or something more ornate, the styles of chignon pins have expanded significantly over the past few decades. Perfect for any season, you can play around with your hairstyle or go for a classic effortless updo. For a flawless end-of-summer look, put on your favorite skirt, grab a straw handbag, and shop our favorite modern-day chignon styles below!

Gemology Orb Hairpin

Colette Malouf makes hair pins that aren’t just hair accessories, but hair art, and with the best materials.

Material: Lucite, 18k gold plated steel

Dimensions: 5.5 inches

French Hair Pin in Malachite

Machete is the go-to brand for all hair accessories, so of course they make great chignons, too, and in all sorts of fun colors and patterns.

Material: Italian acetate

Dimensions: 5 inches

Customer review: “I have thick wavy hair and this pin will hold it all! The pattern is unique and not found everywhere. Love it.”

Large Pin

Perhaps the chicest brand when it comes to French hair pins, Deborah Pagani has been specializing in hair accessories for years, with some of the best quality in the business.

Material: Stainless steel

Dimensions: 5 inches

Customer review: “This is so well made, so stylish and holds up my insanely thick hair all day long.”

Wavy Tooth Chignon Pin

This wavy hair pin is perfect for all hair textures, but especially for those with curly or thick hair who need just a little extra traction.

Material: Cellulose acetate

Dimensions: 4 inches

Camellia Ivory & Black Hair Pin

Did someone say French? Go extra Parisienne with this camellia-embellished chignon.

Material: Italian Cellulose Acetate

Dimensions: 12.5 cm

Jatasya Beaded Hair Pin

Thin yet ornate, this hair pin by Matr Boomie is perfect for everyday occasions or a special event.

Material: Glass seed beads; gold finish brass

Dimensions: 5.5 inches

Mesa Brass Hair Pin

Super simple and chic, this no-nonsense hair pin from Cedar and Hyde gets the job done without any extra fluff.

Material: Solid brass

Dimensions: 4.5 inches

Chantilly Hair Pin

Vibrant and easy, mix and match this hair pin from Chimmi for a fun, effortless look.

Material: Plastic

Customer review: “I love this hair pin, it’s magical bc so little can hold up a lot! Makes even a bed head an easy casual good hair day.”

Glossy Knot Hair Pin

The sculptural element on this hair pin from Lelet adds subtle elegance to any look.

Material: Brass

Dimensions: 5 inches

Toro Sterling Silver Hairpin

This understated hair pin from Marisa Mason is perfect for all styles, from edgy to sophisticated and everything in between.

Material: Sterling silver

Dimensions: 4 inches

Citrine Hair Pin

For those of us who are into crystals and gemstones, why not apply the same philosophies to your hair? Protect your energy from all angles with this hair pin from Cultiverre.

Material: Citrine, copper

Dimensions: 3.5 inches

Metal Hair Pins

Another no-nonsense hair pin, these from Kaxi come in pairs of two, so you can get extra hold for the same price.

Colors: Silver, gold, rose gold

Laelia Orchid Hair Pin

To anyone after a hair ornament with just as much function as fashion: I suggest you try this fabulous floral French pin.

Material: Hand-hammered brass

Dimensions: 4 inches

French Hairpin

Beachwaver has blown up for the brand’s hairstyling products, so they should know a thing or two about hair pins. Simple and chic!

Customer review: “I didn’t know if this would work on my long hair but it is my new favorite hair accessory!! I use it to put my hair in a bun and it is very secure! I’ve also used it to hold my hair in a bun while I sleep and I don’t feel it plus it doesn’t leave any dents in my hair!!”

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