How to Master the Cool-Girl Version of a Low Bun

When done right, low buns are the perfect mix of elegant and cool, a combination that’s difficult to achieve. We went straight to celebrity hairstylist Jen Atkin to figure out exactly how to pull off the look.

Scroll through for a step-by-step tutorial on a sleek and chic low bun!

If your hair is naturally straight or has just a slight wave you can start with your natural texture. Otherwise, blow it out smooth.

For optimum sleekness, Atkin likes to spray the hairbrush with hairspray before brushing through. This tames flyaways and adds shine.

Brush your hair back into a low ponytail at the nape of your neck. To get it really smooth, Atkin recommends using a boar-bristle hairbrush.

Smooth a small amount of styling cream down the length of your ponytail to make your strands extra silky.

Divide your ponytail into two equal parts.

Tie off each one with a small rubber band (it will be hidden in the bun later).

At the bottom of each section, insert a bobby pin vertically, so one prong is inside the hair tie and the other is out.

Grab both ends of the bobby pin and start rolling your hair away from your face and up towards the back of your head.

Roll that piece all the way up the base of your ponytail, and pin it in place with a few bobby pins.

Do the same thing on the other side. Grab the bobby pin, and roll it up and away.

Once you’ve reached the top, secure it with bobby pins. This section should fit nicely in with the first one—you’ll be able to feel a spot for it to slip into.

Tackle any rough bits with a dab of styling cream, and you’re done! There you have it: a chic, sleek chignon that’s way cooler than your average low bun.

Photographer: Justin Coit

Hairstylist: Jen Atkin

Makeup Artist: Roxy

Producer: Jenna Peffley

Model: Ashley Rogers

Fashion credits: Topshop sweater

Don’t miss Atkin’s undone waves tutorial and find even more hair inspiration on her website Mane Addicts!