The Polished Low Ponytail
A low ponytail is a timeless style that signals sleek sophistication with minimal effort. For a look that’s perfect for the office, start by brushing your hair to remove any tangles. Gather your hair at the nape of your neck and secure it with an elastic.
To elevate the look, take a small, half-inch section of hair from the ponytail, wrap it around the elastic to conceal it, and secure the end underneath the ponytail with a bobby pin. This simple trick makes the style look intentional and refined. For a frizz-free finish, apply a small amount of anti-frizz cream before you begin.
The Quick Twisted Chignon
A chignon sounds fancy, but a simplified version can be achieved in minutes. Start by creating a low ponytail. Create a small opening in the hair just above the elastic, then flip the ponytail up and pull it through this gap to create a twist. Now, take the length of the ponytail, twist it tightly, and then coil it up towards the base. Tuck the coiled hair into the opening you created earlier or secure it against your head with bobby pins. This creates an elegant low bun that looks intricate but is deceptively simple.
The Effortless Messy Topknot
The messy topknot is a go-to for a reason: it's fast, stylish, and works well even on second-day hair. Gather your hair into a high ponytail at the crown of your head. Twist the ponytail loosely, then wrap it around its base to form a bun. Don't aim for perfection; a few loose strands add to its relaxed charm. Secure the bun with another elastic or a few bobby pins. You can gently pull at the bun to add volume and create a fuller, more 'undone' appearance.
Mastering The Classic Bun
The classic bun is the cornerstone of updos, a versatile style that can be dressed up or down. Whether you have five minutes or ten, knowing how to secure a solid bun is a crucial skill. The main difference comes down to your tools: a single elastic offers speed and ease, while bobby pins provide a more sculpted and secure hold. Both methods begin the same way: by gathering your hair into a smooth ponytail at your desired height—be it at the nape of the neck for a classic look or higher on the head for a ballerina style.
The Elastic-Only Method
For the quickest version, start with your ponytail. Twist the entire length of the ponytail firmly from the base to the ends, creating a tight 'rope' of hair. Coil this rope around the base of the ponytail, continuing in the direction of the twist to prevent it from unraveling. Tuck the ends of your hair underneath the coil. Now, take a second hair tie and wrap it around the entire bun two or three times until it feels secure. This method is perfect for a quick gym session or a casual day out.
The Bobby Pin Method
For a bun with superior hold, bobby pins are your best friend. After twisting and coiling your ponytail into a bun shape, hold it in place with one hand. With the other, insert bobby pins around the bun's perimeter to secure it to the hair on your head. For the most secure hold, use a 'sewing' motion: insert the pin into the edge of the bun, catch a bit of the scalp hair, and then push the pin back into the base of the bun. This locking technique ensures your bun stays put all day. Use as many pins as you need until it feels completely stable.
