Widely considered the ideal formal updo hair style, the French Twist or French pleat is perfect for any formal or informal occasion. The traditional form is made using a lot of hair grips, spray and backcombing. But there is a quick and easy method using just your favourite hair clip or barrette.
In this article you will learn how to do a quick French twist or pleated style. Once you get the hang of the technique, you will be able to put your hair up beautifully in less than three minutes.
Step 1: Hold your hair in a ponytail with one hand.
Where you start your ponytail determines how low the line of your French pleat begins along the back of your head. For hair that is past shoulder length, start your ponytail at the very bottom of your hair line along your neck. For shoulder length hair, start your ponytail at the centre of your head.
Step 2: Start twisting your hair.
Keep your cialis tabs ponytail down for one or two twists. Twist tightly to keep the edge of your pleat looking neat.
Step 3: Holding the twisted section of your ponytail, fold your hair up to form the basic shape of your French pleat.
Still holding the ends of your hair, pull your ponytail straight up, quite taut, and continue to twist your hair tightly. This should pull your hair from the side neatly up and over your twisted ponytail. If it doesn’t, pinch some hair from the bottom and gently ease this up to create a smooth looking roll. Keep twisting your hair tightly all the way to the ends.
Step 4: Choose whether you prefer the ends of your hair tucked in or left out.
Once your pleat is completely formed and the crease runs up to the edge of your crown near the top of your head, if the ends of your hair are still sticking out you can leave them cascading loose, or fold them under for a clean, classic look.
To fold your ends into your pleat, tuck them into your pleated edge, hiding them underneath the roll and against your head.
Step 5: Choose your favourite hair clip to hold your French pleat.
Larger barrettes with a high arched clasp, as well as concorde style beak hair clips or Ficcare clips, are very good for giving your French pleat a strong, reliable hold. Just slide them across your pleat horizonally and close them across your hair.
If you are familiar with the Stone Bridge “back scoop” technique, then there are a variety of other hair accessories that will elegantly hold your hair in place as well.
French pleat combs, specifically designed for this type of hairstyle, are very effective and are particularly good if you have fine or slippery hair.
French U pins are very popular, as they almost disappear into your hair, but can provide an excellent strong hold.
Hair sticks and forks also look wonderful in a French pleat, creating a clean and simple finish to your hair.
