When Emily in Paris first hit our screens, it wasn’t just the whirlwind romance or the questionable marketing tactics that captured our collective imagination—it was the unapologetic, high-octane fashion. Central to Emily Cooper’s transformation from a Chicago marketing executive to a Parisian “it girl” is her hair. Played by the ethereal Lily Collins, Emily’s tresses have become a character of their own, evolving from classic American curls to sophisticated, French-inspired masterpieces.
Whether she is navigating a fashion show at the Louvre or sipping a glass of Sancerre in the Marais, Emily’s hair is always perfectly coiffed. From the controversial “trauma bangs” to the effortless silk scarf wraps, here are 12 iconic hairstyles from the show that you can recreate for your own Parisian moment.
1. Signature Waves
The “Emily Cooper” starter pack begins with her signature voluminous waves. In the early episodes of the series, this was her go-to look. These aren’t the messy “just rolled out of bed” waves the French are known for; instead, these are polished, high-shine, and distinctly American. To achieve this look, use a large-barrel curling iron and curl away from the face, ensuring you leave the ends slightly more structured. A shot of shine spray is essential to give that “main character” glow that Lily Collins carries so effortlessly.
2. Trauma Bangs
Perhaps the most talked-about hair moment in the history of the show was the Season 3 debut of the “trauma bangs.” After a series of personal and professional crises, Emily takes a pair of kitchen shears to her hair—a move hairstylists everywhere warned against. However, the result was a stunning, wispy fringe that instantly elevated her look to “French-girl chic.” These bangs are versatile, light, and perfectly frame the face, proving that sometimes a little “trauma” can lead to a major style upgrade.
3. Parisian Beret
You cannot talk about Emily’s style without mentioning the beret. While some Parisians might find it cliché, Emily leans into the aesthetic with full force. The key to the “Beret Look” is the hair underneath. It shouldn’t be too flat; Emily typically pairs her headwear with soft, brushed-out waves. By placing the beret slightly back on the head or tilted to one side, she allows her bangs or front layers to peek through, creating a balanced, playful silhouette that screams “weekend at the boulangerie.”
4. Chic Low Bun
For more formal office days at Agence Grateau or high-stakes meetings with Sylvie, Emily often opts for a sleek low bun. This hairstyle is the epitome of sophistication. It’s pulled back tightly to accentuate the cheekbones and jawline, with every flyaway tucked into place. It’s a minimalist look that balances out her often maximalist outfits. To recreate this, use a fine-tooth comb and a light-hold gel to snatch the hair back into a low ponytail before twisting it into a neat, circular bun.
5. Retro Ponytail
Emily often draws inspiration from 1960s icons like Audrey Hepburn and Brigitte Bardot. The retro ponytail is a perfect example of this vintage influence. This style features a high ponytail with a “flipped-out” end, achieved by using a round brush or a curling iron on the very tips of the hair. It’s bouncy, youthful, and adds a touch of mod-glamour to any ensemble. It’s the perfect choice for a gallery opening or a night out in Saint-Germain-des-Prés.
6. Embellished Headband
When Emily wants to feel like a modern-day princess, she reaches for the accessories. One of her most iconic looks involves the use of padded, embellished headbands. Whether they are encrusted with pearls, crystals, or made of rich velvet, these headbands act as a crown. They work best when the hair is teased slightly at the crown for extra height, allowing the headband to sit securely while creating a dramatic, polished profile.
7. Vintage Finger Waves
For the more theatrical moments in the show—like the “Versailles” runway or the Pierre Cadault events—Emily often steps out in structured vintage waves. These are inspired by the 1920s and 30s, featuring deep, “S” shaped ridges that are pinned close to the head. This look is incredibly glamorous and requires a bit of setting lotion and precision. It’s a departure from her usual soft curls and shows off the more experimental side of her Parisian style journey.
8. Braided Updo
Romantic, ethereal, and quintessentially European, the braided updo is Emily’s go-to for outdoor events and summer parties. Often featuring a halo braid or a series of interwoven plaits, this style is designed to look intricate yet effortless. It’s a practical choice for long days spent filming in the French countryside, keeping the hair off the neck while still looking incredibly detailed and feminine.
9. Half-Up Bow
Nothing says “coquette” quite like a giant bow. Emily Cooper has a knack for taking classic accessories and making them feel fresh. By pulling the top half of her hair back—leaving her bangs or front layers to frame her face—and securing it with a luxury silk or velvet bow, she creates a look that is both sweet and sophisticated. This hairstyle is perfect for a lunch date or a casual afternoon browsing the shops at Rue de Rivoli.
10. Sleek High Pony
When Emily means business, she leans into the “snatched” look. The sleek high ponytail is a power move. Unlike the retro version with the flip, this ponytail is straight, long, and impeccably smooth. It creates an instant face-lift effect and allows her bold makeup and statement earrings to take center stage. To get this look, use a flat iron to ensure the hair is pin-straight before securing it at the crown of the head with a heavy-duty elastic.
11. Silk Scarf Wrap
Taking a cue from the effortlessly chic women of the French Riviera, Emily often incorporates silk scarves into her hairstyles. One of the most creative ways she does this is by weaving the scarf directly into a braid. This adds color, texture, and a sense of wanderlust to her look. It’s the ultimate “vacation hair” that works just as well for a boat ride on the Seine as it does for a weekend trip to Saint-Tropez.
12. Polished Curls
Finally, we have the “Hollywood-meets-Paris” polished curls. This is Emily at her most refined. These curls are more uniform than her signature waves, often brushed out to create a seamless, undulating pattern that looks like silk. It’s a red-carpet-ready look that Lily Collins wears with incredible grace. To achieve this, curl the hair in the same direction all over the head, let it cool completely, and then gently brush through with a boar bristle brush to merge the curls into waves.
Styling Tips for Your Own Parisian Transformation
Achieving the Emily in Paris look requires a mix of the right tools and a bit of “joie de vivre.” Here are a few tips to keep your locks looking Lily Collins-level perfect:
- Prioritize Shine: Emily’s hair is never dull. Invest in a high-quality hair oil or a glossing serum to maintain that mirror-like finish.
- Embrace Accessories: Don’t be afraid of the “extra.” Whether it’s a scarf, a bow, or a designer headband, accessories are the fastest way to turn a basic style into a statement.
- Volume is Key: Even Emily’s sleekest looks have a bit of lift at the root. A good volumizing mousse or root-lift spray is a must-have in your styling kit.
- The Fringe Factor: If you’re considering “trauma bangs,” consult with a professional stylist first. They can tailor the wispy French look to your specific face shape.
Emily Cooper’s hair journey is a testament to the power of a great stylist and the courage to try something new. Whether you’re a fan of the classic waves or the daring bangs, there is an Emily-inspired look for every occasion. So, grab your curling wand, find a chic café, and prepare to turn heads. Santé!
