Classic French Pin
Made for You, Only You
Because hair accessories are worn close to the scalp, we treat them as personal items. To ensure every piece arrives brand new and unused, all hair accessories are final sale. This policy allows us to maintain the highest standards of care, cleanliness, and quality — just as it should be.
- Description
- How to Use
- Material & Care
- Shipping
Effortless, elevated, and endlessly versatile — the Classic French Pin is our signature take on a timeless styling tool. Whether you're securing a low bun or sweeping your hair into a French twist, this piece makes everyday styling feel intentional.
Handcrafted in Kenya by our skilled artisan partners, each pin is thoughtfully made with attention to detail and care. The result is a piece that strikes the perfect balance of form and function — lightweight yet durable, designed to hold hair securely, and finished with a subtle sculptural presence.
Made with intention. Designed for daily wear. Loved for years to come.
- Low Bun – Gather your hair into a low ponytail and twist it into a bun. Hold the bun in place with one hand and weave the French Pin through it — starting at the edge, grab a small bit of the bun with the pin aimed outward, then in a sewing motion insert the pin into the bun, ensuring it goes through to the other side. Quick video demonstration here.
- French Twist – Sweep your hair back into a ponytail and begin twisting it upward as you go. Slide the French Pin in away from the twist, weaving it back into the twist to lock it in place.
- With a Hair Tie for Extra Hold – For fine or thick hair, first secure your desired style with a loose hair tie. Then, use the French Pin as described above for added support.
This piece is made from 100% solid brass — a warm, golden-hued metal known for its strength and vintage appeal. Over time, brass naturally develops a soft patina, giving it a lived-in, organic character. To maintain its original shine, gently polish with a soft cloth or your favorite brass cleaner as needed.
Avoid exposure to moisture, lotions, and perfumes to preserve the finish, and store in a dry place when not in use.
We offer complimentary domestic shipping on all orders. Once you place your order, you will receive a tracking number with your order and can follow it every step of the way. You may also purchase added package insurance to reduce risk of lost packages (highly recommended)
We ship your order within 48 hours from our Solana Beach, California studio and offer express shipping upgrades at checkout if you need your item to arrive quicker.
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I was excited to try the Large Classic French Pin, which I purchased to use in my long and thick hair. After a few attempts I got it to hold well. However, when I removed the pin it was permanently bent. I don’t know if I’m able to bend it back and have it work or if that will damage it further. I was surprised that it lost its shape so easily. I did really like how it worked and looked in my hair the one time it was in.
Hi Cheri!
Thank you for taking the time to share your feedback with us, we apologize that the Large Classic French Pin did not meet your expectations.
We understand your frustration with the pin bending easily, but please know that brass is a pliable material and we intentionally use it for our pins to provide a secure hold without causing discomfort. With that being said, we'd be happy to set up an exchange/return or assist you with any further concerns you may have. Please reach out to our customer service team at hello@natalieborton.com and we will make sure to resolve this issue for you!
- Team NBD
Love this pin so much, after a little bit of experimenting I found a half up/half down that has become my go to. I got the large size and would strongly recommend opting for larger size to anyone with medium to thick hair.
Hi there! Thank you for leaving such a lovely review for our Classic French Pin. We're so glad to hear that it has become your go-to hair accessory.
I have long, straight, yet very fine hair and haven't worn a proper French pin in years, I love it! Although wish I went with the large one so it was more visible. Easy to use and looks great, thanks Natalie!
Looks gorgeous in your hair!!
I can’t believe I waited so long to buy these! They create a secure hold that’s effortlessly chic. Love!
We are so happy to hear that you love them!
I waited a really long time to buy this and I wish I hadn’t! It’s perfect!! Thank you!
This is my new favorite accessory. I bought the set of 2, but if I had to pick just one to get, I'd recommend the bigger one. The smaller one is better for half-up styles. I was somewhat skeptical that the pins would actually hold in my hair in a bun the way they do when Natalie demonstrates, but they do! My hair is lightweight, wavy, and chest-length. For years I've been using a lower quality, somewhat curved French pin that I had to do a crazy twist with to get it to stay, and this one is so much better and stronger. It really holds well. The brass is pretty and goes with everything. I think a brushed brass version might be even prettier. I don't think I'll ever go back to a scrunchie, this feels so much more feminine and put together.
These are my second NB hair pins (as in, the other is a single one) and I love them so much. They’re light and effective. I had to watch some videos to learn to use them, but once I got the hang of it I love the look and the feeling of being able to put my hair up without a tie. I like using them to hold up wet hair and make waves, too—much healthier on the hair than a hairband.
So chic and holds my slippery hair perfectly!
Thank you for your kind words! We're so glad to hear that you love our Classic French Pin and that it's keeping your hair in place.
I’m having happiness moments when I’m wearing my French pin. Not only does it give my hair a lift, my intentions are clear joy. It truly is the small touches that exude the most beauty, Natalie!
Hi Julie, thanks for your review. We are so happy to hear you're loving the French Pin and that it's bringing you joy!
I have medium length, fairly stick straight hair and doubted if I could get it to work for me, but after promising myself to give it a good 30 minutes of practice I finally had it. Once you get it, you don’t forget. I love that it gives my pulled back hair an elevated look. Beautiful accessory(small classic purchased) Will definitely purchase a larger size to show off more of the pin.
Hi Tyri, thanks for your review! We're happy to hear that you've successfully figured out how to make the Classic French Pin work for you, it's a bit different for everyone depending on hair texture and length. We will definitely be posting more tutorials soon, so stay tuned!
Bought this as a way to throw my hair up "professionally" so I wouldn't just have a hair tie in. It was perfect. Wore it to a girls' weekend and immediately got a bunch of compliments. Also, despite looking a bit sharp, made it through TSA.
Great way to keep my hair up without a pony tail holder. It also looks more fancy. I had a hard time getting it to stay but watched a YouTube video and got it to work.
Works on my thick curly hair like a charm!
This is the most gorgeous piece and I have been using it constantly!
I have very long, and thick hair. I love to wear my hair in a low bun, secured with the pin and an additional hair tie for extra support. It’s super cute, and I don’t have to keep fixing my hair throughout the day (which I would if I were to wear only a hair tie). I have gotten numerous compliments as well! Would buy again, and have thought about which friends I can purchase one of these for!
Thank you for this review, Monica! We are so happy you love your French Pin!
Loved that I was able to use this even though I have thin hair. Initially thought it would be too big but it works great!
Shipping
Free & fast shipping
We ship your order within 48 hours from our San Diego, California studio and offer express shipping upgrades at checkout if you need your item to get to you ASAP.
Order tracking & insurance
You will receive a tracking number with your order and can follow it every step of the way. You may also purchase added package insurance to reduce risk of lost packages.
Get in touch
Do you have additional questions about products, orders, shipping, or anything else? Please don't hesitate to reach out via chat or email!