The French roll, an elegant updo that gathers hair into a smooth roll across the back of the head, is experiencing a resurgence in popularity. Distinguished from the sleek and formal French twist, the French roll offers a voluminous and rounded appearance. This hairstyle is ideal for medium to long hair, but those with shorter styles can achieve the look with clip-in extensions or a ponytail. Recent red carpet appearances by celebrities like Keke Palmer, Gigi Hadid, and Taylor Swift have contributed to its comeback, exuding a retro Parisian chicness.
To create a French roll, clean and dry hair serves as the starting point. Essential tools include texturizing product, bobby pins, hairspray, and finishing spray. For individuals with fine or silky hair, adding texture is crucial. Mayara Macedo, a hairstylist at The Second Floor Salon, advises using mousse or texturizing spray to achieve the desired texture. She explains the technique:
"Take the loose hair and twist it upward, directing it back to the center of your head and tuck the ends into the roll." – Mayara Macedo
The process begins by sweeping all hair to one side and securing it with bobby pins in a vertical line along the back of the head. Adjustments can be made based on personal preference, such as pulling out wisps for a softer look or smoothing the surface for a polished finish.
"If you have bangs, you can either pull them back with the rest of the hair, or leave them out and style in your preferred way—split in the middle or to the side." – Mayara Macedo
The origins of the French roll may trace back to glamorous French actresses from the '60s, such as Brigitte Bardot, who were known for their distinctive updos. Macedo speculates:
"Glamorous French actresses from the '60s, like Brigitte Bardot, often worn updos—perhaps this is the origin of its name," – Mayara Macedo
Kimberly Gueldner, a celebrity stylist and founder of VOËL, emphasizes that this hairstyle works best with medium to long hair. She observes that while sleek ponytails have been fashionable, there's a growing demand for something more effortless and gentle on hair.
"I think the slicked-back and snatched ponytails have been popular for a while now, so we are searching for something more effortless and nicer for the hair," – Kimberly Gueldner
Furthermore, Gueldner highlights the practical benefits of alternating hairstyles to prevent hairline damage:
"Having your hair slicked back all of the time can cause breakage to the hairline, so it's also nice to switch it up." – Kimberly Gueldner
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