How to Make a Chignon Bun: A Comprehensive Guide for Novices

Oh, you, stop scrolling.  That low, sleek bun you've been secretly crushing on?  This hairstyle, known as a chignon bun, is going to be your new best friend.  Ideal for that carefree yet contemporary look.  This bun is perfect if you're posting a TikTok GRWM, going out to breakfast with your group, or simply want to look put together for Zoom.

So, What Even Is a Chignon Bun?

A low bun at the nape of your neck is simply referred to as a "chignon" in trendy French.  It's not so much a style as it is a vibe.  It could be delicate and romantic, tight and beautiful, or a little messy and bohemian.  You're halfway there if you can tie your hair up in a ponytail.

Why We're All Low-Key Obsessed with This Hairstyle

Really, why does this hairdo appeal to us so much?  I'll outline the methods.

The Best Shape-Shifter Ever:  There is variation in this bun.  Dressed to impress during a job interview?  Verify.  For a romantic date night, are you soft and put together?  Verify. Too textured and a little disorganized to look good when running errands?  Check again.

On days when your hair is bad, it's a lifesaver:  For second- or third-day hair (don't judge me)... this bun is a savior.  You're set with a little dry shampoo for traction.

Instant “I Have My Life Together” Vibes: There is no easier way to seem polished and professional than to put your hair into a tidy low bun. It elevates a basic look from "meh" to "who is she?" in approximately five minutes flat.

It Just Feels Sophisticated: There's a reason Meghan Markle and Zendaya are constantly rocking this look. It instantly makes any outfit look more intentional and polished.

Your No-Sweat, Step-by-Step Guide to the Perfect Chignon

Seize This:  Light-hold hairspray, dry shampoo or texturizing spray, a number of bobby pins (there are actually more than you might imagine), and a hair tie.

Little Secret: Day-old hair is the best for this.  For more grip, apply texturizing spray to the roots of newly washed hair.

Create a Low, Untidy Ponytail:  Your hair should be brushed back to the nape of your neck, not too low, but just where your head and neck meet.  Use a hair tie to secure it.  The idea is to only pull the hair halfway through the last pull-through.  Your ponytail ought to be looped.  This is the base of your bun.

Make a Hole in the Middle: Using your fingers, carefully pull the loop apart to create a small hole in the center.

The Magic Tuck: Do you notice the hair falling down there?  Over the top of the bun loop, flip it up.  After that, insert it through the opening you created.  Pull the ends gently until the bun is snug against your head.

Now, to conceal the hair tie, wrap the remaining tail around the base of the bun.  It has that traditional "chignon" wrapped appearance because of this.

The most crucial step is to make Bobby Pins your best friend.  Open a bobby pin, then insert it into the bun, aiming it at the scalp's ponytail base.  Crisscross them for added protection.  Tuck any loose parts in.  Be bold and use a lot!

Lock It and Rock It: To eliminate any flyaways, softly mist everything with hairspray.  For that delicate, romantic feel, gently pull a few little pieces free over your face and neck.You're finished!

How to Make That Bun Last ALL Dang Day?

The worst thing, let's face it, is when your gorgeous bun is a lopsided mess by lunchtime.  Here's how to prevent that catastrophe:

 ✅ Accept the Texture: You cannot compromise on day-old hair or texturizing spray.  Hair that is slippery will not hold.

 Bobby pins positioned parallel to one another will slip out in a Criss-Cross for Victory.  An "X" pattern of pins will hold like concrete.

 ✅ Spray and Play:  Your last sealant is a mild, flexible-hold hairspray.  Mist it instead of soaking it.

Conclusion

That's it.  The chignon bun is a straightforward, timeless, and stunningly gorgeous hairstyle that you can definitely achieve; it's not some unattainable red carpet fantasy.  You will have a gorgeous, go-to updo for every occasion in your repertoire once you have mastered the tuck-and-roll action, which may take one or two attempts.