Try this chic braided pencil bun

• A braided pencil bun offers a chic, low-effort updo option
• Use a pencil or hair stick instead of elastics to reduce breakage
• Simply braid hair and weave a stick through the coil to secure it

We’ve all been there: you need to look put-together in a hurry, but a simple ponytail feels uninspired. Enter the braided pencil bun, a chic and surprisingly simple updo that adds instant texture and elegance with minimal effort.

The Effortless Appeal

The magic of this hairstyle lies in its fusion of classic techniques. A simple braid provides a woven texture that elevates the look beyond a standard bun, while the use of a pencil or hair stick to secure it is a game-changer. Not only is it a stylish nod to centuries-old hair practices, but it's also gentler on your hair. Unlike tight elastics that can cause breakage and tension headaches, a hair stick distributes weight more evenly for a secure hold that doesn't pull on your roots. It’s the perfect solution for everything from a busy workday to a special event, offering an elegant look without any complicated tools or techniques.

Gather Your Simple Tools

The beauty of this style is its simplicity. You won't need an arsenal of products or hot tools. Before you begin, gather these essentials: a hairbrush, a small hair elastic (clear ones work well to stay hidden), and your securing tool. This can be a decorative hair stick, a chopstick, or even a simple pencil for a quirky, intellectual vibe. If your hair is particularly fine or silky, you might also want a texturizing spray or dry shampoo to give it a bit more grip and volume before you start.

Step 1: Create Your Braid

Start by brushing your hair to remove any tangles. Gather your hair into a low or mid-height ponytail; where you place it will determine the final position of your bun. For this style, you don't need a hair tie for the ponytail itself. Simply hold the hair at the nape of your neck and begin a standard three-strand braid (an English braid). Braid all the way down to the ends and secure it with a small, clear elastic. For a softer, more romantic look, you can gently pull at the sides of the braid to 'pancake' it, making it appear fuller and more textured.

Step 2: Twist and Fold

Once your braid is secured, it's time to create the bun. Take the tail of your braid and fold it upwards against your head. Continue to fold or roll the braid upon itself, forming a compact bun shape against the back of your head. The goal is to create a neat coil with the end of the braid tucked inside, hidden from view. Hold the bun firmly in place with one hand while you prepare to secure it with the other.

Step 3: Secure with the Pencil

This is the key step that gives the hairstyle its name and its sturdy hold. Take your pencil or hair stick in your dominant hand. Starting from one side of the bun (say, the right side), push the tip of the stick downward through the outer edge of your coiled braid. Once the tip touches your scalp, angle it so it runs parallel to your head. Now, weave it through the base of the bun, catching the scalp hair underneath it. Finally, push the stick out through the other side of the bun. The tension created by weaving the stick through the bun and against your scalp is what locks the style in place securely.

Finishing Touches and Variations

With the bun secured, you can make some final adjustments. Gently tug at the top and sides of your hair to create a little volume and avoid a slicked-back look. You can also pull out a few face-framing tendrils for a softer, more effortless finish. For a different take, you can try this with a French braid or fishtail braid for even more intricate texture. If your hair is very long, you might try a double-braided bun, creating two smaller buns stacked vertically. The pencil or hair stick provides a reliable anchor for all kinds of creative updos.