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

Low buns aren't as meh as they sound. Buns can help you get one more day out of oily hair and can also be a simple way to switch your look up without too much fuss. When done right, low buns are the perfect mix of elegant and cool, a combination that's difficult to achieve without the right guidance.

We went straight to celebrity hairstylist Jen Atkin to figure out exactly how to pull off the look. After you're done following this tutorial, don't be afraid to accessorize with a pearl headband or crystal bobby pins to put your unique spin on a cool-girl classic.

Grab your boar-bristle brush, a few bobby pins, snag-free rubber bands, hairspray, and styling cream to give this tutorial a try. 

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

Before

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

Step 1: Spray

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

Step 2: Brush

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.

Step 3: Smooth

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

Step 4: Split

Divide your ponytail into two equal parts.

Step 5: Tie

Tie off each part with a small rubber band. (Don't worry, it will be hidden in the bun later.)

Step 6: Pin

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

Step 7: Roll

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

Step 8: Secure

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

Step 9: Repeat

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

Step 10: Place

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.

Done!

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.