The Unofficial Hairstyle of the Championships
This year at Wimbledon, amidst the powerful serves and intense rallies, a specific hairstyle has emerged as a key player. The glossy low chignon—a sleek, tightly gathered bun sitting at the nape of the neck—is proving to be the unofficial look of the 2026
tournament. Unlike the casual high ponytails or functional braids of years past, this style feels more deliberate and polished. Players are opting for a clean, almost wet-look finish that keeps every hair in place, offering a look that is both intensely practical for play and strikingly elegant. The style was spotted on Naomi Osaka, who paired a slickback bun with a traditional kanzashi hair ornament for her dramatic entrance. The look is a clear reflection of the broader "tenniscore" aesthetic that has gripped fashion, where on-court functionality meets off-court chic.
Function Meets High Fashion
The rise of the chignon at Wimbledon isn't just a style choice; it's a strategic one. For elite athletes, focus is everything. A secure, low-profile hairstyle prevents distractions from flyaways or the swing of a ponytail, allowing for complete concentration on the game. But its appeal goes beyond pure function. The slicked-back bun has become a beauty uniform for the minimalist, "quiet luxury" aesthetic dominating 2026 fashion. It projects a sense of control, polish, and intentionality. By adopting this style, players are aligning themselves with a modern, sophisticated look that feels perfectly at home on the pristine grass courts of the All England Club, which has always celebrated a blend of athletic battle and refined beauty. The style's appearance at London Fashion Week, where sculptural chignons were featured in several collections, further cements its high-fashion credentials.
Beyond the Baseline: A Look for a Serious Summer
What makes this on-court trend so compelling is its effortless transition into everyday life. The glossy low chignon is the ultimate multi-purpose hairstyle for a packed summer schedule. It's sharp enough for the office, elegant enough for a wedding, and practical enough to withstand a sweltering heatwave. The sleek finish elevates any outfit, from a simple dress to tailored separates, making it a go-to for anyone looking to cultivate a polished and put-together aesthetic. This versatility is key to its inclusion in any "Serious Summer Edit." It’s a style that communicates confidence without requiring complex styling, proving that sometimes the simplest choice is also the most sophisticated.
Get the Look: The Modern Tennis Bun
Achieving the Wimbledon-worthy glossy chignon is surprisingly straightforward. The key is in the preparation and the finish. Start with damp or dry hair and apply a generous amount of styling gel or smoothing serum from roots to ends to tame flyaways and achieve that signature high-shine, almost-wet look. Create a sharp center or side part, then brush the hair back smoothly toward the nape of the neck. Gather it into a low ponytail and secure it tightly with an elastic. From there, twist the ponytail into a compact bun and secure it firmly against your head with bobby pins. A final spritz of strong-hold hairspray will ensure the style remains immaculate, whether you're facing a tie-break or a long day of meetings.
