This old granny hair trend is back
For this week's hair trend, we've conjured up something from the old trick box. There's a good chance you recognize it: the French comb (aka side comb) is back. Yes, that one comb your grandma used to fix a hairstyle in the 70s that no storm could ruin. Or maybe you remember it from your mother, who clicked it into her hair with a few quick movements before disappearing on date night with your father. You too may have to believe it: the time of the colored claw clip in every kind and size is over. The French side comb is now completely in. Because let's be honest: this centuries-old accessory screams elegance.
Oldest hair trend ever
Okay, okay, maybe this isn't the absolute oldest hair trend, but this comb has been widely used since the 18th century. Back then, these weren't transparent, plastic things, but real jewelry. You know, those women in the Rococo period, like Marie Antoinette? They were already walking around with these combs. Think of those golden showpieces that were half jewelry, half hair comb. Over-the-top filigree work, miniature roses, cameo portraits in pastel, and sparkles everywhere. Totally that ‘Marie Antoinette would definitely wear this’ energy. Not really to practically style your hair, but mainly to show how much drama your hairstyle could handle.
@nicolette_hairglam How to do a bun with a French comb #combhairstyle #frenchpin #frenchcomb #buntutorial #easybuntutorial
A century later, these were still the latest fashion. Victorian ladies couldn't get enough of these pin-like combs. This was just ideal for a simple updo. Want to put your hair in a bun? Then use the French side comb. Are you more of a loose bob person, but still want to emphasize those soft curls? Then slide this to the side. Actually, we see these handy things throughout the 19th century. In a time of wars and countless new developments, it is fashion that consistently adapts. Because yes, in the 40s and 50s, these combs made a comeback. And now we didn't see them at the back of your hairstyle, but at the sides. Many women wore a voluminous side ponytail, and that comb was there to tuck all the side strands away on one side.
20 years later, the look of accessories also begins to change with the times: the thin metal edges were replaced by plastic. Just now, color was allowed: they came in dark red and orange with all sorts of designs. Ten years later, everyone wanted the biggest hairstyles ever (hello, it was also the 80s) – and of course, those French combs were used for that. You slid them to the side to pull wide strands tightly back, so the sides stayed neat and the volume underneath looked extra large. Simple, but exactly that typical 80s look.
@monicaaaleigh Maybe the 3rd try I’ll get it😂 #80shairstyle #80shairtutorial #hairtok #hairinspo #hairideas #sidecomb #frenchsidecomb #hairstyleideas #tutorial #overnightcurls #foryou #fyp
That comb is really nice, but how do you style such a thing?
That's a question many people ask themselves. Just like a lot of fellow sufferers online, I really couldn't get these combs to stay in place. They fell out every time and it looked quite awkward. A bit of volume is great, but no one wants those weird bumps in their hairline, right? It's very handy that you can use these combs for all kinds of hairstyles, but then you have to master it. So I had to dive into the TikTok banks for a lesson on how to apply a side comb. Are you also struggling or do you want to learn how to do this right before you buy 80 of them? Then you need to pay close attention:
1. Don't swipe, but twist and insert
The mistake many people make is that they use these combs like pins. You can't just stick them in your hair, say a quick prayer, and hope they stay put. You have to hold them upside down to start with. Hold your hair tightly and slide the comb to the position you find good. By pulling it through your hair, it actually works the same as a large comb: it pulls your hair along. Once you're at the right point, turn the comb forward. This way, the beautiful side lies on top. After that, you insert the comb into the piece of hair you just pulled forward. This is the trick that ensures it doesn't fall out. It just needs to be inserted firmly.
@bilintinamakeup ✨French side hair comb✨ #hairstyle #hairtutorial #haircombaccesory
2. Comb your hair back and hold it tight
Now you can light a candle and just stick that comb into a strand of hair, but usually, you really need a bit more precision. Especially if it’s not really working for you. As I mentioned above, you need to hold your hair. Think about which piece you want to bring to the side. Brush it through and pull the strand(s) back. Hold it with one hand and comb the side comb through with the other hand. This way, you pull it extra tight so that everything looks neat. Twist it and then let go. This is the secret to perfect tight strands.
@mattloveshair if u saw the French side comb hair clips all over hairtok but now u have them and think they suck, try these hair tips to get the best hairstyle results from them!
♬ L.Boccherini, Minuet from String Quartet No.5 in F major – AllMusicGallery
3. If it still doesn't stay put? Then try texture spray
Yes, seriously. Have you tried all these tips and that thing still won't stay? Then you can spray texture spray on that comb. This makes it a bit sticky, so it stays better.
4. Do them ‘traditionally’ to the side
@fifinikole The ultimate princess hairstyle #frenchcomb #hairstyleideas #easyhairstyles #longhair
@eggdressesup testing out the french comb like the classy lady i am #frenchcomb #hairaccessories #hairtrend #summerhair #hairstyleideas
5. Use it like a claw clip
You do need a slightly larger French side comb for this, but it works. Hold your hair as you would with a claw clip. Roll it up and then slide the side comb in. Do the same on the other side and voilà: you have an updo without elastics.
@roanmclean I'm predicting that French combs will be trendy this fall! Here’s how to use them ✨ #fallhair #hairstyle #hairaccessories #falltrends
6. Put it on top
Of course, you don't have to use that side comb on the side. It's really nice to put it on top. That's a bit different from most.
@josefinewerp chiiiic #frenchcomb #layers
@avigailadam1 Replying to @🧚🏻
So… Are you looking for an easy hairstyle that you can do in a minute? Then this French comb is really something for you. And who knows… maybe your grandma has an old one lying around in a yellowed toiletry bag.
