How To Do A Low Bun Hairstyle
Okay, let’s be real some hairstyles look easy in YouTube tutorials and somehow turn into a chaotic mess the minute you try them yourself. The low bun? Totally not one of them. It’s actually one of those few styles that looks super chic and is ridiculously easy to pull off. Like, “did this in five minutes and still look like I have my life together” easy.
So if you’re tired of messy top knots, sick of your hair sticking to your neck in summer (ew), or just want that effortless Parisian vibe, you’re in the right place. I’ve worn this look to weddings, workouts, Zoom calls you name it. Let’s walk through how to get the perfect low bun with zero stress and maximum slay.
Why a Low Bun? (Other than Looking Like You Have Your Life Together)
Ever wonder why the low bun keeps popping up in runway shows and Pinterest boards? It’s because it’s one of the most versatile hairstyles out there.
- Elegant enough for weddings, but casual enough for a coffee run.
- Works on dirty hair, clean hair, curly hair, straight hair—any hair, really.
- Takes literally under 10 minutes (unless you get distracted scrolling TikTok).
FYI: It also saves you on wash days. You know what I’m talking about.
What You’ll Need (AKA the Low Bun Starter Pack)
You don’t need a salon kit or fancy hair tools. Here’s what I personally swear by:
- A hairbrush or wide-tooth comb
- Hair tie (the kind that doesn’t pull half your hair out when you take it off)
- A few bobby pins (have extras those things vanish like socks in the dryer)
- Hair spray or styling cream for flyaways
- A scrunchie, ribbon, or clip (optional, but cute)
Pro Tip: If your hair is super silky or clean, add a little dry shampoo or texture spray to give it some grip. Slippery hair = low bun’s worst enemy.
Step-by-Step: How To Do a Low Bun Hairstyle
1. Start with Smooth(ish) Hair
Brush through your hair to get rid of any knots. You don’t need it pin-straight, but let’s not try to tame a bird’s nest either. I usually go for a middle or side part—whatever flatters your face the most.
2. Gather Hair at the Nape of Your Neck
Pull your hair down toward the base of your neck. Want it polished? Make it tight and sleek. Want it romantic and soft? Loosen the grip slightly and pull out a few strands near your ears.
3. Twist and Coil It into a Bun
Now for the actual bun: twist your ponytail, then coil it around the base to form a bun shape. Secure it with a hair tie or bobby pins (or both if your hair’s being a rebel).
Can’t get the bun to stay? You’re probably using weak pins or not crossing them for grip. Criss-cross those babies and you’re golden.
4. Secure Loose Ends Like a Boss
Tuck in the rogue strands with extra pins. If you’re feeling fancy, wrap a small section of hair around the base to hide the hair tie. It’s the little things.
5. Set It and Forget It (Almost)
Spritz a little hairspray if you want it to stay in place all day. I usually carry a couple of bobby pins in my bag, just in case. Hair has mood swings, okay?
Bonus: Style Variations That Keep It Fresh
Because one bun doesn’t fit all moods. Here are some super simple twists on the classic low bun:
Messy Low Bun
Channel that “just rolled out of bed but still hot” energy. Loosen the bun a little, skip the hair spray, and let a few pieces fall naturally. Effortless chic? Nailed it.
Braided Low Bun
Braid your ponytail before coiling it into a bun. It’s elegant, textured, and perfect for date night or when you want compliments. (Don’t lie, we all do.)
Low Bun with a Part
Add a deep side part or a sharp middle part before pulling your hair back. It gives your look instant sophistication like you actually read the news this morning.
Low Bun with Accessories
Wrap a silk scarf, throw on a velvet scrunchie, or clip in some pearls. Accessories = instant glow-up. IMO, this is how you make a basic bun look expensive.
Troubleshooting: Low Bun Edition
Because things don’t always go as planned (ask my 7th-grade school photo).
Hair Keeps Slipping Out?
- Try dry shampoo or texture spray
- Use a grippy hair tie
- Pin in sections, not just at the end
Bun Looks Flat?
Fluff it up, tease your ponytail before twisting, or tug lightly at the coils once it’s pinned. Volume is your friend.
Too Much Frizz?
Smooth it with a bit of serum or styling cream. Or just lean into the chaos—frizz is texture, and texture is in.
Final Thoughts: Low Buns, High Style
So there you go! That’s how to do a low bun hairstyle without losing your cool—or your bobby pins. It’s quick, classy, and totally customizable depending on your vibe that day. Whether you’re heading to brunch, a boardroom, or binge-watching in bed, the low bun has your back (well, your neck).
Seriously, give it a try tomorrow. Worst-case scenario? You take it down and rock a ponytail instead. Best case? You look in the mirror and go, “Dang, I did that.”
