The French twist [1] is a classic and elegant updo [2]. Hair is gathered at the nape of the neck and then twisted upwards and inwards while gathering more hair from the sides until it reaches the crown of the head. It is secured in place by bobby pins or hair combs along the way.

The French twist has remained a popular hairstyle since the early 1800s. It can be worn tight and tidy or unkempt and messy for a more relaxed look.

To see instructions on how to create a French twist at home, .

• STEP 1: Tease [3] (or back-comb) the crown of your hair area. Then gather your hair as you would for a low ponytail, but don't secure it with an elastic.
• STEP 2: Clasp your "ponytail" with one hand and point it upwards. Coil the hair inwards towards your head until your entire ponytail is twisted and lying flush against your head.
• STEP 3: Using your free hand, secure your hair with hair clips or bobby pins (criss-cross the pins for optimal hold) until you get to the top.
• STEP 4: You'll have a good amount of hair remaining at the top of the twist. Tuck this hair, facing downward, into the French twist and secure it underneath.
• STEP 5: If the top is bumpy, that's OK. Gently smooth it out with a boar-bristle brush and then mist your entire head with hairspray [4].

Source [5]