This summer, it’s all about the bun! From messy top knots to chic chignons, buns are a great way to beat the heat and still look hot at the same time. We tracked down a few of our favorite hairstylists to show us how to recreate some of the looks we love. Check ‘em out below, and get inspired.
The classic chignon
Classics never go out of style, and in the case of the bun, this couldn’t be more accurate. Caile Noble, master stylist at the Serge Normant at John Frieda Salon in Los Angeles, spills his tips and tricks for achieving the perfect polished chignon in four simple steps.
![The classic chignon]()
Step 1: Apply styling product
To prevent fly-aways and to do away with frizz, start by applying a styling paste or smoothing cream around your hairline.
Step 2: Pull hair back
Using a flat brush, pull your hair back into a low, tight ponytail with plenty of tension. Remember to keep your tresses taut and sleek, and secure the pony with an elastic hair band the color of your mane.
Step 3: Twist into a bun
Next, apply a small amount of styling cream or paste onto your pony. Twist it in one direction until you have a sleek and smooth chignon.
Step 4: Secure in place
Finally, using bobby pins that match your hair color, secure the bun in place, grabbing the back with a pin and anchoring it down behind the base of the ponytail.
Photo credit: Andres Otero/WENN.com
The braided bun
Channel your inner Jessica Alba this summer, and mix things up with a funky, fun braided bun that works for day or night. Trust us -- it looks way more complicated to achieve than it actually is. Simply follow these tips, courtesy of Paul Cucinello, Creative Director of the Chris Chase Salon in Chelsea, and you’ll be good to go.
![The braided bun]()
Step 1: Tease hair
Start with hair that has been blown dry smooth using a large round brush. Tease lightly for volume, and direct the crown back to create a center part.
Step 2: Use pomade
Now, lightly coat your hands with a clear, thin layer of pomade. Use only a small amount -- just enough to get a bit of grip in the hair.
Step 3: French braid
French braid along your hairline, continuing back and over your ear. Secure with a pin, and repeat on the other side.
Step 4: Add small braids
Next, create a few small random braids. Secure the ends, and then tease the remaining hair in the back.
Step 5: Roll into a chignon
Last but not least, gather all of your hair and gently roll it into a soft chignon. Secure with bobby pins, and you’re all set.
Photo credit: Apega/WENN
The rolled top knot
Put a twist on the traditional top knot, and create a larger-than-life rolled bun. With a little help from celeb stylist Paul Cucinello, we’ll teach you how.
![The rolled top knot]()
Step 1: Spray with dry shampoo
First, flip your head over, and spray the interior generously with dry shampoo.
Step 2: Create a high ponytail
Gently back comb your hair, and pull it up into a high ponytail secured with an elastic hair tie.
Step 3: Divide into three sections
Divide your ponytail into three sections. Roll each section down to the base, and then secure with bobby pins. Finish off with a quick shot of dry shampoo , and you’re ready to "roll" -- quite literally!
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Tell us
Which bun will you try for summer? Share in the comments below!
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Step 1: Tease hair
Step 1: Spray with dry shampoo
