Emily in Paris Season 4 hits our Netflix screens next month, and with the Paris Olympics in full swing, our envy for French beauty and style has never been greater.
Brigitte Bardot, Camille Rowe and Jane Birkin are among the ultimate muses for French-girl hair – but Lily Collins has proven you don’t have to be Parisian to pull off the look.
We hear from European hair experts on how to effortlessly style your hair like a French girl – with only a bit of effort.
Effortless curls
The trick to these curls is to not overly define them. “Begin by using a straightening iron or a curling tong, wrapping the hair around it but leaving the ends out,” says celebrity stylist, Gustav Fouche. “This technique, known as the mid-wave, ensures the ends remain slightly straighter.
got2b gotCURLZ Define & Protect Curly Hair Spray 150ml, £7
The Parisian bob
Created by Vidal Sassoon in 1964, the modern-day bob took Europe by storm. Cropping up on French runways in the late Sixties, the bob was soon seen on women ubiquitously throughout the city, becoming synonymous with chic-Parisian style.
“Start by shampooing and conditioning, then apply a suitable heat protector, which contains a blend of oils to add shine as it protects, and blow dry in horizontal sections using a half round brush. With the dryer closely following the brush, wrap the hair around the head. Always pointing the dryer down the hair shaft to smooth the cuticle and promote shine.
“Towards the end of the drying process, and if the hair is long enough, gently turn the ends of the hair under in sections from the nape. Remember to cool shot, once the hair is completely dry. Comb through thoroughly and to further smooth and flatten the cuticle use a flat iron – always set these to the lowest temperature you can while still achieving the desired result – don’t just set them to the hottest heat.
Diva Pro Precious Metals Gold Dust Straightener, £159.99 (was £209.99)
A French fringe
Perhaps one of the most high-maintenance looks, integral to the French fringe are the tools and the texture.
1.
Sam McKnight Cool Girl Barely There Texture Mist, £12
2.
Once associated with Parisian girls attempting to cope with the summer city heat, this casual up-do climbed the ranks to Royal go-to, often showcased by the Duchess of Sussex.
3.
Beauty Pie Super Healthy Hair Smoothing Paddle Brush, £40