Indulge in the timeless elegance of a low bun hairstyle, a coiffure that exudes both sophistication and effortless allure. This classic style, favored by countless fashion icons throughout the decades, is universally flattering, accentuating your facial features while keeping your hair neatly secured. Whether you seek a polished look for a formal event or a casual yet stylish option for everyday wear, the low bun is an ideal choice.
Before embarking on the creation of your low bun, it is essential to prepare your hair. Begin by detangling any knots or tangles using a wide-toothed comb or brush. For added smoothness and shine, consider applying a leave-in conditioner or serum to damp hair. These products will help tame flyaways and enhance the overall appearance of your bun.
To achieve the perfect low bun, follow these simple steps: Gather your hair at the nape of your neck, securing it with a hair elastic. Divide the ponytail into two equal sections and twist each section in opposite directions. Wrap the twisted sections around each other, creating a bun shape. Secure the bun with bobby pins, ensuring that it is firmly in place. For a more polished look, wrap a strand of hair around the base of the bun to conceal the hair elastic and any loose ends. Finish by misting your bun with hairspray to hold it in place and add a touch of sheen.
Gather Your Tools
Before embarking on your low bun journey, assemble the necessary tools to ensure a smooth and successful hairstyling experience. Let’s delve into the essentials:
Essentials for a Flawless Low Bun
| Item | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Brush or Comb | Distribute hair evenly and remove tangles |
| Bobby Pins | Secure the bun in place, especially for shorter hair |
| Elastic Band | Create the initial base for the bun |
| Hairspray (Optional) | Lock in the hairstyle for extended hold |
Additional Considerations
Depending on your hair type and desired look, you may also consider these additional tools:
- Leave-in Conditioner: Tame flyaways and enhance smoothness
- Hairspray: Enhance hold and provide extra shine
- Headband: Conceal hairpins or add a touch of glamour
With these tools in hand, you’ll be well-equipped to craft a stunning low bun that exudes elegance and sophistication.
Prep Your Hair
Before you begin styling your hair into a low bun, it’s essential to prepare it properly. This will ensure that your bun holds in place and looks its best. Here are some steps to follow:
Wash and Dry Your Hair
Start by washing your hair with a clarifying shampoo to remove any dirt or buildup that may prevent your bun from holding. Towel dry your hair gently and let it air dry or blow it dry using a low heat setting. This will help to create a smooth, tangle-free base for your bun.
Optional: Add Texture or Volume
If your hair is thin or fine, you may want to add some texture or volume to it before styling it into a bun. This will help to give your bun a fuller, more polished look. Here are a few ways to do this:
- Use a volumizing mousse or spray at the roots of your hair and blow it dry upside down.
- Create loose waves or curls using a curling iron or wand.
- Tease your hair at the crown of your head to add height.
Detangle Your Hair
Once your hair is dry and has the desired texture, thoroughly detangle it using a wide-tooth comb or brush. This will help to prevent any snags or tangles from ruining your bun.
Create a Low Ponytail
Secure the Ponytail
Once the hair is gathered at the nape of the neck, secure it with an elastic band. Choose a band that matches the hair color for a seamless look. Make sure the elastic is tight enough to hold the ponytail in place but not so tight that it causes discomfort.
Smooth the Hair
After securing the ponytail, use a brush or comb to smooth down any flyaways. You can also apply a small amount of hairspray to help keep the hair in place. If desired, use a wide-tooth comb to gently loosen the ponytail for a more relaxed look.
Create Volume (Optional)
For a more voluminous ponytail, gently pull up on the hair at the crown of the head, creating a small bump or bouffant. This will add height and fullness to the ponytail without making it look overdone. The amount of volume you desire is up to personal preference.
| Step | Description |
|---|---|
| 1 | Gather hair at the nape of the neck. |
| 2 | Secure ponytail with elastic band. |
| 3 | Smooth hair and create volume (optional) |
| 4 | Wrap hair around ponytail base. |
| 5 | Secure with bobby pins. |
| 6 | Finish with hairspray (optional). |
Divide the Ponytail into Three Sections
Once you have a secure ponytail, you’re ready to divide it into three sections for braiding. This is a crucial step that will determine the overall look and hold of your low bun.
To divide the ponytail, use your fingers or a comb to gently separate it into three equal strands. You can use a mirror to help you ensure even distribution. Label the strands as “Left,” “Middle,” and “Right” for easier reference during braiding.
Creating the Three Strands
Here’s a detailed guide to creating the three strands:
| Strand | Description |
|---|---|
| Left | Take the leftmost portion of the ponytail and separate it from the rest. |
| Middle | Isolate the middle section of the ponytail, which will serve as the base for the braid. |
| Right | Separate the rightmost portion of the ponytail from the middle section. |
Once you have clearly defined the three strands, you’re ready to start braiding your ponytail for the low bun.
Braid Each Section
Once your hair is brushed and parted, begin braiding each section. Start at the base of the section and braid it tightly towards the ends. Secure the braid with a clear elastic band.
If you want a messier or more voluminous bun, you can gently pull apart the braids after you’ve finished securing them.
Alternatively, you can braid each section loosely and then wrap it around the base of the bun to create a more polished look.
Braiding Techniques
| Technique | Description |
|---|---|
| Three-strand braid | The most common type of braid, created by dividing hair into three sections and crossing them over each other. |
| French braid | Similar to a three-strand braid, but new hair is added from the sides as you braid. |
| Dutch braid | Also known as an inverted French braid, where the hair is crossed under instead of over. |
| Fishtail braid | A more intricate braid created by dividing hair into two sections and crossing small pieces from each side over each other. |
Choose the braiding technique that best suits your desired look and skill level.
Wrap the Braids Around Each Other
Now that you have two braids, it’s time to wrap them around each other. This is what will give your bun its shape and volume. Here are the steps:
- Take the left braid and wrap it over the right braid.
- Take the right braid and wrap it under the left braid.
- Continue alternating the braids until you reach the end.
- Secure the end of the braids with a bobby pin.
- Fluff up the bun to give it more volume.
Tips for wrapping the braids:
- Keep the braids taut as you wrap them.
- If the braids are too loose, the bun will be loose and messy.
- If the braids are too tight, the bun will be uncomfortable and may cause headaches.
- Once the braids are wrapped, secure them with bobby pins. This will prevent the bun from falling apart.
Variations on the low bun hairstyle:
- Use a different braid: Instead of a three-strand braid, you can use a fishtail braid, a French braid, or any other type of braid you like.
- Add accessories: You can dress up your low bun with accessories such as hairpins, headbands, or ribbons.
- Create a messy bun: For a more casual look, you can create a messy bun by pulling out a few strands of hair around the bun.
Secure the Bun
Once you have gathered the hair into a ponytail, it’s time to secure it into a bun. Follow these steps to ensure your bun stays in place all day:
1. Create a Tight Base:
Use an elastic hair tie to fasten the ponytail as close to your head as possible, creating a smooth and secure base for the bun.
2. Split the Ponytail:
Divide the ponytail into two equal sections. This will help create a balanced and symmetrical bun.
3. Form the Loops:
Take one section of the ponytail and wrap it around the base of the ponytail, forming a loop. Repeat with the other section, creating a second loop.
4. Cross the Loops:
Take the first loop and cross it over the second loop. Then, take the second loop and cross it over the first loop, forming an interlocked pattern.
5. Wrap the Loops:
Continue wrapping the loops around each other, similar to braiding. As you wrap, tighten the loops to create a firm and compact bun.
6. Secure the Ends:
Once the loops have been securely wrapped, tuck the remaining ends of the hair into the bun. Use bobby pins to fasten any loose strands and ensure the bun stays in place.
7. Set the Bun:
To keep the bun looking fresh and polished, consider using hairspray or other styling products to set it. This will help prevent flyaways and keep the bun in place throughout the day.
| Styling Products | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Hairspray | Holds the bun in place and prevents flyaways. |
| Mousse | Adds volume and texture to the hair, making the bun look fuller. |
| Gel | Provides a strong hold and helps tame any unruly strands. |
Smooth Out the Look
To give your low bun a polished and professional finish, take the time to smooth out any flyaways or frizz.
8. Tame Flyaways with Hairspray or Mousse
Mist a small amount of hairspray or mousse onto a brush or comb and gently run it through the top of the bun. This will help to eliminate any stray hairs and create a sleek and polished look. Be sure to avoid over-applying products, as this can weigh the hair down and make it look greasy.
Tips:
- Use a hairbrush with natural bristles for a gentler touch and less static.
- Hold the can of hairspray or mousse several inches away from the bun to prevent product buildup.
- For a more natural look, apply a small amount of hair oil to the flyaways before using hairspray or mousse.
- If you have particularly stubborn flyaways, try using a toothbrush with a small amount of hairspray to carefully smooth them down.
Finishing Touches
Perfecting your low bun requires meticulous attention to detail. Here are some tips to elevate your hairstyle:
1. Smoothing Flyaways
To tame flyaways and create a polished look, apply a small amount of hairspray or pomade to a brush or your fingers. Gently brush over the surface of the bun, smoothing any loose strands.
2. Enhancing Shine
Add a touch of shine to your low bun using a hairspray or serum that contains argan oil or keratin. Spray or apply a small amount to the bun, focusing on the top and sides to enhance its brilliance.
3. Securing the Bun
To ensure the bun stays in place throughout the day, use bobby pins to secure loose ends and reinforce the shape. Insert the pins strategically into the base of the bun and under the coiled strands to prevent any unraveling.
4. Accessorizing
Elevate your low bun with accessories that complement your outfit and personal style. A headband, hairband, or decorative pins can add a touch of flair and enhance the overall aesthetic.
5. Perfecting the Part
Whether you prefer a center part, side part, or no part at all, ensure it is clean and defined. Use a brush or comb to gently create the part and smooth the hair on either side to create a polished look.
6. Enhancing Texture
If your hair lacks volume or texture, consider using a texturizing spray or volumizing mousse before creating the bun. This will give the bun more body and make it appear fuller and more stylish.
7. Adding Waves or Curls
Add some pizzazz to your low bun by adding waves or curls to the loose strands that frame your face. Use a curling iron or wand to create loose curls or waves and lightly set them with hairspray to maintain their shape.
8. Personalizing the Bun
Make your low bun unique by adding a personal touch. Incorporate a braid, a twist, or a knot into the bun to create a custom look that reflects your individuality.
9. Balancing the Style
To achieve a harmonious look, consider the shape of your face and body when styling your low bun. A round face may benefit from a loose, messy bun, while an oval face can handle a more structured, polished style.
10. The Perfect Placement
The position of your low bun can significantly impact your appearance. Experiment with placing the bun higher or lower on the nape of your neck to create different effects. A higher bun can elongate your face, while a lower bun can add volume to the back of your head.
How To Do A Low Bun Hairstyle: A Step-by-Step Guide
A low bun is a classic and versatile hairstyle that can be dressed up or down. It’s perfect for any occasion, from a casual day out to a formal event. Here are the steps on how to do a low bun:
- Start with clean, dry hair. Brush your hair to remove any tangles.
- Gather your hair into a low ponytail at the nape of your neck. Secure the ponytail with a hair elastic.
- Divide the ponytail into two sections. Cross the right section over the left section and secure it with a bobby pin.
- Cross the left section over the right section and secure it with a bobby pin.
- Continue crossing the sections over each other and securing them with bobby pins until you reach the end of the ponytail.
- Tuck the end of the ponytail under the bun and secure it with a bobby pin.
- Smooth out any flyaways and finish with hairspray to keep your bun in place.
