How to Do a Chignon Bun and The Styles To Try Now
It’s time to become BFFEs with the chignon ‘do. A chignon or chignon bun is a hairstyle featuring a low bun at the nape of the neck. The name of this hairstyle comes from the French phrase ‘chignon du cou’, which translates to the ‘nape of the neck’.
Did you know buns are big right now? Thanks to the likes of Sofia Richie (on her wedding day) and Elle Fanning (at the Cannes Film Festival 2023), buns are back and they’re here to stay.
The low chignon look is a refined and sophisticated style that works across most hair types and is ideal for weddings, proms and parties – or simply to add a touch of Parisian elegance to your office style.
Intrigued? Here’s our go-to guide to the chignon bun and our favourite looks…
There’s no need to be intimidated by the chignon bun. You can easily create this ‘do by watching our video tutorial.
Roll And Tuck Ponytail.
Loop and roll your ponytail over to create a chignon shape and secure with bobby pins.
Twist Your Front Sections.
Loop and roll your ponytail over to create a chignon shape and secure with bobby pins.
8 Elegant Chignon Hairstyles to Try
If there’s one thing we love about chignons, it’s that there are so many different variations to choose from. From intricately braided updos to more undone, messy buns, there’s a look to suit every occasion. Keep scrolling to see some of our favourite chignon hairstyles, all perfect for your next fancy occasion.
Classic Low Bun
Sometimes less really is more and this stunning yet simple low bun certainly proves this. With the front pieces left out and curled, it adds an ethereal, feminine touch, making it absolutely perfect for any bridal or bridesmaids’ look.
Retro Curly Chignon
Channel the glamour of stars like Bette Davis and Rita Hayworth with this retro-inspired chignon. Curling your hair before sweeping it back into the style will help to add extra texture and volume, giving it that finishing touch. Finish your styling off with TRESemmé Freeze Hold Hairspray, for a sleek looking and frizz-free bun.
Wrapped Chignon
This is another simple twist on the classic chignon that is perfect for weddings and sophisticated affairs alike. First, leave out 1-2 inches of hair near your temples. Then start creating your chignon at the nape of your neck before concealing the base with the strands you’ve set aside. Do this by diagonally crisscrossing the sections and securing the ends underneath the chignon with bobby pins.
Chignon with Twists
If you like the idea of a braided chignon but don’t feel very confident braid-wise, then this ‘do is the answer. Leave two small sections of hair loose at the front, near your temples. Pull the rest of your hair into a low ponytail, then twist into a bun and secure with pins. To finish, take each piece of hair and divide into two, twisting it back towards the bun. Wrap the ends around the base and conceal underneath with more pins and voilà: a quick and easy twisted chignon.
Dutch Braid Chignon
Don’t be put off by the intricate aesthetic of this braid. Believe it or not, it’s actually easier than it looks! Just start by weaving a Dutch braid on one side, working your way to the back of your head and secure with a hair tie. Then create your chignon with your ponytail, pinning your hair to conceal the base.
Braided Chignon
The slicked-back look and neat braided details give this hairstyle a ballerina-like elegance. All you need to do is braid your hair, wrap it around itself into a standard bun format and pin to your head until fully secure.
Messy Braided Bun
The perfectly undone style of this messy bun makes for a more relaxed option while still being formal. To achieve this look, you need to master a similar technique to the braided chignon, but this time, make the braid looser and feel free to pancake your style before twisting it around and pinning it to your head.
Knotted Chignon
This knotted bun offers a unique statement twist on the classic braided bun for a fresh and modern look. First of all, you’ll want to make sure your hair is sleek and smooth, then create a tight low ponytail. With your right hand, pull your ponytail around your left hand (to the left, counter-clockwise) in one full circle, then pull the ends through the middle for the knot, tucking it under the bun. Finally, pin the look tight to your head.
