5 Easy French Pin Hairstyles for Thick or Curly Hair – Quick Updos & Styling Tips

If you have thick or curly hair, you know that finding a hairstyle that’s both quick to do and long-lasting can feel like a daily challenge. Enter the humble French pin — a versatile, damage-free tool that can transform your mane in minutes. Whether you're heading to the office, out for brunch, or simply want to keep your curls off your face, French pins offer a secure hold without the tugging or creases of elastic bands. In this guide, we'll walk you through five easy French pin hairstyles specifically designed for thick and curly textures. Along the way, we’ll recommend a few must-have products from Pipsticks to help you achieve each look with ease.

Why French Pins Work Wonders for Thick and Curly Hair

French pins (also called hair forks or hair pins) are ideal for thick and curly hair because they distribute tension evenly across your strands. Unlike standard hair ties that can cause breakage or leave dents, French pins grip your hair without pulling. They also allow your curls to maintain their natural shape while being secured. For best results, start with hair that’s clean, slightly damp, or lightly misted with a leave-in conditioner. If your curls need extra definition, a quick refresh with a curl cream or styling foam can help.

Product Prep: Set Your Curls Up for Success

Before diving into the styles, it pays to have the right tools on hand. A high-quality brush like the Vented Detangling Brush For Most Hair Types is perfect for gently working through knots without disrupting your curl pattern. For added volume and hold, consider the Dream Curl Essentials Bundle For Most Hair Types, which includes products that enhance bounce and reduce frizz. Now, let’s get styling!

1. The Classic French Twist for Thick Hair

The French twist is a timeless updo that looks elegant but takes less than two minutes once you get the hang of it.

How to Do It:

1. Gather your hair at the nape of your neck as if you’re making a low ponytail.
2. Twist the hair upward, tucking the ends into the twist as you go.
3. Slide a French pin vertically through the twist from top to bottom, securing it against your scalp.

Pro tip: For thicker hair, use two pins crossed in an X shape for extra security. This style works beautifully on second-day curls because the texture grips the pin better.

2. The Messy Crown Bun with French Pins

This bohemian-inspired style is perfect for days when you want your curls to shine but stay off your neck.

How to Do It:

1. Tip your head upside down and gather your hair into a high ponytail at the crown of your head.
2. Twist the ponytail loosely and wrap it around its base to form a bun.
3. Secure with two French pins inserted from opposite sides, crossing them in the center.

Let a few curls escape around your face for a soft, romantic look. If you have finer curls, you can add a little texture spray beforehand to give the pin more grip.

3. Half-Up French Pin Twist

This style gives you the best of both worlds: volume on top and flowing curls below.

How to Do It:

1. Take a section of hair from each temple and bring them to the back of your head.
2. Twist the sections together into a rope, then wrap the rope around itself to create a small bun.
3. Secure with a single French pin pushed through the bun horizontally.

This look works especially well with the Lay Back Small Clip Set For Fine or Thinner Hair if your hair is on the finer side of thick — those mini clips provide extra hold without weighing curls down.

4. Low Side Sweep with French Pin Accents

Perfect for formal events or a dressed-up everyday look, this style sweeps all your curls to one side.

How to Do It:

1. Brush your hair to one side (choose your dominant side).
2. Twist the hair loosely from the nape of your neck upward, tucking the ends under.
3. Insert a French pin horizontally through the twist, angled slightly downward.

To keep flyaways at bay, mist with a light-hold hairspray. The Double Down Jumbo Claw Clip For Thick or Curly Hair - City Rouge can also be used as an alternative anchor if you prefer a claw clip over a pin.

5. Double Pin Accent for Volume and Hold

When your hair is extra thick or heavy, a single pin may not cut it. This technique uses two pins for maximum staying power.

How to Do It:

1. Create a deep side part.
2. Gather the majority of your hair into a low ponytail at the back, leaving a few face-framing pieces out.
3. Twist the ponytail into a figure-eight shape, then secure with one pin at the top and one at the bottom.

This style holds even through a full day of activity. For an extra touch of shine, run a few drops of hair oil through your ends after styling.

Tips for Making French Pins Stay in Thick or Curly Hair

• Start with slightly dirty hair: Natural oils help pins grip better. If your hair is freshly washed, add a bit of dry shampoo or texturizing spray.
• Use the right pin size: Longer pins (4–6 inches) work best for thick hair because they can reach through all layers.
• Insert at an angle: Pushing the pin straight in can cause it to slip out. A 45-degree angle provides a more secure hold.
• Cross your pins: Using two pins in an X shape creates a lock that won’t budge.

FAQs About French Pin Hairstyles

Can I use French pins on wet hair?

Yes, but be gentle. Wet curls are more fragile, so avoid pulling or twisting too tightly. Let your hair air-dry about 80% before styling to reduce breakage.

Do French pins damage curly hair?

Not when used correctly. Unlike elastic bands, French pins don’t create tension points or cause breakage. Just avoid leaving them in overnight to prevent snagging.

How do I clean my French pins?

Wipe them with a damp cloth and mild soap. For metal pins, dry immediately to prevent rust. Avoid soaking them in water.

Ready to Upgrade Your Styling Routine?

With these five easy French pin hairstyles, you can keep your thick or curly hair looking polished and feeling comfortable all day. The key is having the right tools and a little practice. To make styling even easier, check out the Dream Curl Essentials Bundle For Most Hair Types at Pipsticks — it includes everything you need to prep, protect, and perfect your curls. Happy styling!