The Classic Low Bun
Timeless, elegant, and incredibly fast, the low bun is a workday staple. It keeps hair neatly away from your face, which is perfect for a day packed with meetings. Simply brush your hair back to the nape of your neck, with a centre or side part, and secure
it in a low ponytail. Twist the ponytail into a coil, wrap it around the base, and secure it with a few bobby pins. For a softer look, you can leave a few strands out to frame your face. This style works for most hair lengths and textures, providing a sophisticated finish in under five minutes.
The Modern Chignon
A chignon is a specific type of low bun, knotted at the nape of the neck, that offers a more structured and refined look. While it sounds fancy, a simple version is quick to master. Gather your hair into a low ponytail. On the final pull-through of the elastic, only pull the hair halfway to create a loop, leaving the ends out. You can then wrap the loose ends around the elastic to hide it, tucking them in with bobby pins for a clean finish. It’s a chic style that looks like it took far more effort than it actually did.
The Effortless Claw Clip Twist
The claw clip has made a major comeback for good reason: it’s the ultimate tool for a fast and stylish updo. The most popular method is a simple French-inspired twist. Gather your hair at the nape of your neck as if making a ponytail, then twist it upwards, folding it against your head. Secure the entire twist with a large claw clip. The key is to let it look a little 'undone' by allowing a few strands to fall naturally. It’s a versatile look that’s both casual and professional, perfect for transitioning from your desk to dinner.
The Sleek High Ponytail
A high ponytail is a power move. It’s clean, confident, and takes only a few minutes to perfect. Brush your hair thoroughly to remove any bumps and gather it at the crown of your head. Secure it tightly with an elastic. For an elevated touch, take a small section of hair from the underside of the ponytail and wrap it around the hair tie to conceal it, securing the end with a bobby pin underneath. A light mist of hairspray can tame any flyaways and ensure a sleek look that lasts all day. This style works beautifully for medium to long hair.
The Quick Half-Up Twist
For those who want their hair off their face but still like the length down, the half-up style is a perfect compromise. Take a section of hair from each side of your head, near your temples. Twist each section away from your face and bring them together at the back of your head. Secure the twists together with a small elastic, a decorative clip, or a few bobby pins. This style adds a touch of softness and works well for almost any hair length, from a short bob to long layers.
The Scarf-Tied Bun or Ponytail
An accessory can instantly elevate a simple style. Adding a silk scarf or ribbon to a low bun or ponytail adds a pop of colour and personality to your work attire. First, create your go-to low bun or ponytail. Then, simply tie a folded scarf around the base. This not only looks chic but is also great for days when your hair isn't cooperating, as the scarf can hide any imperfections. It's a creative and professional look that requires virtually no extra time.
