The Chignon bun is a classic and sleek bun that is great for both easy days and big events. This guide can help you create this elegant hairstyle easily at home.
What is a Chignon Bun?
Chignon is a French term relating to the nape of the neck, where the bun generally lands. The Chignon style is created by twisting the hair into a knot and using bobby pins hidden below to make it look natural. It is a popular hairstyle design for special occasions, like weddings, anniversaries, and other big events. While more intricate or stylized chignon buns are best left to professionals, a basic one is easy enough to put together at home. Learn to create a simple chignon bun and switch up your updo style for your next event or lazy hair day.
Step 1 – Preparing Your Hair For a Chignon
The Chignon works best on hair that hasn’t been washed that day. Freshly cleaned hair is often slippery, which can make it harder to wrap properly. If your hair is feeling oily, use dry shampoo first. Brush your hair thoroughly to remove the dry shampoo, and remove knots or tangles. From there, use a small amount of styling cream to slick your hair back and prevent frizzing. Pull your hair back, as if you were making a ponytail near the nape of your neck.
Step 2 – Starting with a Low Ponytail
Pull your hair into a low ponytail and secure it with a hair tie or elastic band. Don’t pull it too tight, as you will adjust the band as we continue.
Step 3 – Create a Twisting Loop
Hold the end of the ponytail and turn it to create a twist. Pull the twisted hair through the hair tie to create a looped bun. The tighter the bun, the more you will pull through. You’ll want to leave at least 2-3 inches of length at a minimum. As you pull it through, the ends of the hair will point up toward the crown.
Step 4 – Apply Bobby Pins to the Chignon
Use bobby Pins to secure the bottom of the bun to the nape of the neck. This will hold the bun in place and prevent it from bouncing too much. If it doesn’t feel secure enough, a light spritz of hairspray can go a long way.
Step 5 – Wrap Your Ends
Wrap the ends of your hair clockwise around the base of the chignon. This helps hide the hair tie. Use a bobby pin on the underside of the tie to conceal the wrap and hold it close. This creates the illusion that it is all held together by hair.
Step 6 – Finishing Touches
Finish your chignon with some hairspray. If you have some baby flyaways, you can apply some hair gel gently to them. Use gel sparingly. Otherwise, the bun may feel too stiff in some places.
Planning Your Event Hairstyle? Let Us Help
The stylists at Ooh La La are happy to style your hair for your next big event. Our hair and makeup specialists can help you choose the right look and be photo-ready for the big day. For weddings and other special events, we also offer our private Bridal Suite upstairs. You and your party can prepare for the day together, with our team of stylists ready to assist.
Ooh La La specializes in a variety of hairstyle techniques to help you find the right look for you. Book a time with one of our professional hairstylists today. Contact us or call 718-727-2694 today.