Chignon Hairstyle: 35+ Elegant Variations for Every Occasion
Dive into the world of chignons, where elegance meets effortless casualness. Let yourself be inspired by timeless classics or modern twist variations, whose charm catches every eye.
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French Twist
Elegance meets simplicity – that's exactly what makes the French twist, also known as a chignon, a timeless hairstyle classic. Do you have celebrations on the horizon, or are you simply looking for the perfect business hairstyle? Then the French twist is your secret weapon for a stylish appearance. With a touch of finesse and a few hairpins, you can create a chic updo as effortlessly as applying a subtle lipstick. Preparation is key: Straightening or curling beforehand adds an extra dose of glamour. Smooth hair through conditioners or hair masks makes styling easier and lets your chignon shine. So, grab a comb, brush your hair back smoothly, and tie it into a ponytail – the start of your masterpiece is set. Now, patiently wrap the hair around the base, pin it in place, and your look is complete, perfectly suited for champagne and ball gowns or just a casual coffee break.
Braided Crown Bun
The braided crown bun is the highlight for any occasion and so enchanting that you will draw all eyes on you! You start with a simple three-strand braid, just like the classic braid you're familiar with. The special thing here: you braid your hair into a crown around your head, which requires some practice but is absolutely doable. For hold that lasts into the night, I recommend braiding each strand tightly to the head and later securing it with ultra-thin bobby pins. If you have thin hair, a bit of volumizing spray can work wonders to give your chignon more fullness. The result is a gorgeous braided hairstyle that effortlessly combines elegance and boho charm.
Casual Messy Bun
The casual messy bun is your secret weapon for days when you're in a hurry but still want style. Hair that isn't freshly washed is ideal because it provides the necessary texture to master the laid-back tousled look. Bonus: A bit of dry shampoo or texturizing spray enhances the grunge effect and helps the bun stay put even better. And don't worry if a few strands escape – they only enhance your unpolished urban chic! Show the world how charmingly nonchalant your hair can be.
Side Bun
Charming yet so simple: The side bun gives you a touch of elegance while being delightfully uncomplicated. Perfect for everyday wear or as a chic evening style! Your hair gets a new twist as you gently lead it to the side and form it into a bun. With this look, you opt for asymmetrical sophistication that charmingly highlights your facial features. Stylish accessories like sparkling hairpins or a silky ribbon complete the look. Play with the texture of your hair by lightly spraying it with sea salt spray before tying it back for that special finish. This way, the side bun becomes your personal signature style!
Chignon with Braided Strands
Create a beautifully elegant variation of the classic chignon with braided strands and showcase your flair for creative elegance! Start by braiding small sections of hair—these can be woven into the bun as an avant-garde detail. The great thing about this: depending on the thickness of the strands you choose and the braiding technique you apply, you can create new looks over and over again. For a touch of exclusivity, you can adorn hidden braids in the chignon with beads or floral hair accessories. Add the finishing touch with a shine spray to give it that final polish. This way, your chignon becomes not only a standout feature but also an expression of your individual style!
Related styles
Hair Preparation for the Perfect Chignon
Careful hair preparation is the secret to a beautiful and long-lasting chignon. Ideally, you shouldn't wash your hair right before styling, as slightly unwashed hair holds better. If your hair is freshly washed, work in a bit of dry shampoo or texturizing product to give your hair more grip and structure. If you're aiming for a sleek and smooth chignon, use heat protection before straightening or curling and apply a touch of shine serum to the lengths and ends. Remember to organize all necessary tools like a hairbrush, hair ties, hair clips, and bobby pins so that everything is within reach during styling.
Tips for Long-Lasting Chignon Hold
The strong hold of your chignon not only depends on hair preparation but also on the right technique when securing it. Start with a stable ponytail, depending on where you want to position your chignon. Make sure the hair elastic is tight enough but not so tight that it causes headaches. When wrapping the hair around the elastic, use enough bobby pins to secure the shape. Ensure that the bobby pins are placed almost invisibly by tucking them under the hair. A common mistake is not using enough hairpins, so don't be stingy with them. Finally, spray your chignon with a good hairspray to keep everything in place. A tip for extra long hold is to spray the hairspray directly on the bobby pins before placing them.
Varying the Chignon for Different Occasions
The chignon is a versatile hairstyle that you can easily adapt to suit the occasion. For a formal event, you can create a sleek and structured chignon by brushing all your hair tightly back and wrapping it smoothly and elegantly around the hair tie. For a more relaxed setting, like a cozy dinner or a day at the office, work in a texturizing spray before styling and leave a few strands intentionally loose to create a messy chignon. To make your chignon more romantic, try incorporating small braided sections or add delicate accessories. Remember, the position of the chignon also plays a role: a low bun at the nape of the neck appears classic and elegant, while a higher chignon looks casual and modern. Experiment with different positions to find out what suits you best and what best fits the occasion.
