Mastering Low Ponytails and High Top Buns: Step-by-Step Styling
Unlock salon-worthy hair at home with expert techniques for effortless low ponytails and polished high top buns.
How To Create Chic Low Ponytails and High Top Buns
Low ponytails and high top buns are timeless, versatile hairstyles favored by both celebrities and everyday style enthusiasts. Learning how to master these looks means you can easily switch between effortlessly elegant and playfully chic, no matter the occasion. This comprehensive guide breaks down the steps, offers insider tips, product suggestions, and troubleshooting advice for two of the most sought-after updos.
Table of Contents
- Introduction: Why These Styles Rule
- Runway-Inspired Low Ponytail
- Step-by-Step: Perfect Low Ponytail
- Best Products for Sleek Ponytails
- Troubleshooting Low Ponytails
- How to Create a High Top Bun
- Step-by-Step: High Top Bun Tutorial
- Best Products for Voluminous Buns
- Troubleshooting Buns & Flyaways
- Expert Hairdresser Tips
- Frequently Asked Questions
Introduction: Why These Styles Rule
Few hairdos transition as seamlessly from the office to a night out as the low ponytail and high top bun. These classics can be adapted for all hair types and lengths, whether you want a sleek, polished finish or a more relaxed, undone vibe. They also deliver that hard-to-achieve “I didn’t try too hard” look while keeping hair under control and out of your face.
Runway-Inspired Low Ponytail
The low ponytail is a staple of runway shows and red carpets alike. It exudes understated elegance, offering a minimalist look that can be elevated with a sleek finish or softened with loose strands.
- Versatility: Wears well at the gym, workplace, or formal events.
- Style Options: Tightly pulled for a modern look, or softly secured for boho chic.
- Face Framing: Add loose strands or a center part to flatter different face shapes.
Step-by-Step: Perfect Low Ponytail
Follow these strategic steps to get a ponytail as smooth and chic as those seen on the runways:
- Prep Your Hair: Start with clean, dry hair. Use a smoothing serum or light oil for added shine and frizz control.
- Detangle: Thoroughly brush using a paddle brush to smooth out tangles and flyaways.
- Parting: Decide on a center or side part for your finished look. Use the end of a rat-tail comb for precision.
- Gather: Gently pull hair back to the nape of your neck. Use palms to flatten any stray hairs as you work.
- Secure: Wrap a snag-free elastic twice around your ponytail. For extra polish, take a small section of hair and wrap it around the elastic, pinning it underneath.
- Finishing: Spray lightly with a flexible hold hairspray, then smooth over with your hands for a flawless finish.
Styling Table: Low Ponytail Variations
| Style | Best For | Added Features | Pro Tip |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sleek & Tight | Formal events, office | Serum for shine, fine-tooth comb | Cover elastic with hair for finish |
| Loose & Undone | Casual, daywear | Pull sections out for softness | Use dry shampoo for texture |
| Face-framing | Round, square faces | Leave out front pieces | Wave the strands with a flat iron |
Best Products for Sleek Ponytails
- Smoothing Serum: Adds gloss and controls frizz. Apply a pea-sized amount evenly.
- Flexible Hold Hairspray: Keeps hair in place without stiffness.
- Detangling Spray: Facilitates brushing and helps avoid breakage.
Celebrity stylists often use these at runway shows to maintain a camera-ready, glassy finish.
Troubleshooting Low Ponytails
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- Flyaways: Use a toothbrush spritzed with hairspray to tame unruly strands.
- Bumps: Flatten with the palm of your hand immediately after gathering, or re-brush before tightening the elastic.
- Lack of Volume: Before securing, tease the crown gently for a bit of lift. Finish by smoothing the top for shine.
- Elastic Slippage: Choose snag-free elastics and keep them tight enough without causing discomfort.
How to Create a High Top Bun
The high top bun is iconic for its ability to add height, volume, and a playful yet sophisticated splash to your style. A favorite among A-listers for both daily errands and big events, it’s also ideal when you want hair out of the way but want to maintain a sense of style.
Step-by-Step: High Top Bun Tutorial
- Ponytail First: Gather all hair into a high ponytail, securing at the crown.
- Add Texture: If hair is fine, mist in dry shampoo, texture spray, or a little volume powder.
- Divide & Knot: Split the ponytail in two. Twist each section and then knot them over each other. Secure with a clear elastic.
- Wrap & Pin: Pull each twisted section outward, then gently wrap them around the ponytail base. Secure with bobby pins, sliding them inward toward the center.
- Plump Up the Bun: Loosen small sections with your fingers for volume and a layered look.
- Hide the Ends: Either tuck the ends inside with pins or leave a few out for an artistic, messy finish.
- Smooth Flyaways: Spray with light hold hairspray and run hands over the hair for a polished look.
Styling Table: High Top Bun Variations
| Bun Style | Look | Best Hair Type | Key Steps | Pro Finish |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Knotted Bun | Elegant, formal | Medium to thick hair | Knot sections, pin, smooth | Add a statement hair pin |
| Messy Top Bun | Carefree, everyday | Any texture | Loosen layers, spray | Leave ends out for effect |
| Braided Bun | Textured, boho | Long hair | Braid pony, wrap, pin | Add flowers or clips |
Best Products for Voluminous Buns
- Volume Powder: Adds grip and fullness to fine hair for bigger buns.
- Texturizing Spray: Gives body and helps layers hold their shape.
- Clear Elastics & Bobby Pins: Essential for securing buns invisibly.
- Flexible Hold Hairspray: Keeps flyaways in check without crunchiness.
Troubleshooting Buns & Flyaways
- Flat Buns: Lightly tease ponytail before wrapping for instant lift.
- Bun Unraveling: Use enough bobby pins, always angled toward the scalp. If needed, double up elastics for extra hold.
- Flyaways & Frizz: Smooth with a toothbrush and hairspray, or tuck stray hairs using clear gel.
- Messy Layers: Embrace them and pull a few face-framing strands for relaxed balance.
Expert Hairdresser Tips
- Second-Day Hair Works Best: Clean hair can be too slippery — styles hold longer and appear fuller on hair that’s a day or two old.
- Customize for Your Face Shape: Center parts elongate round faces, side parts soften strong jaws.
- Accessorize: Dress up your bun or ponytail with silk scrunchies, metallic clips, or decorative pins for instant glamour.
- Play with Texture: Use a flat iron or curling wand on loose sections for subtle waves and visual interest.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Are low ponytails and high top buns suitable for all hair types?
A: Yes, both styles can be achieved with straight, wavy, or curly hair. Texture can help add volume to fine hair, while smoothing serums can control frizz for thicker hair.
Q: How do I make my ponytail/bun look fuller?
A: If you have fine or thin hair, prep with a volumizing powder or dry shampoo. Tease the ponytail gently before styling, or use clip-in extensions for dramatic fullness.
Q: How do I prevent my bun from slipping?
A: Make sure to use an elastic that grips well; avoid overly stretched or worn out bands. Angle bobby pins toward the scalp and use enough to secure layers.
Q: What’s the best way to hide elastics and pins for a sleek look?
A: After securing the ponytail or bun, wrap a small section of hair around the elastic. Pin the end underneath with a bobby pin. Opt for clear elastics and matte pins to blend with hair color.
Q: Can I create these looks with layered or short hair?
A: Definitely! For shorter sections, use strong-hold pins and a little styling gel. Face-framing layers can be curled for softness or slicked back with serum.
Quick Styling Tips
- Always prep: Start with brushed and detangled hair for a more refined result.
- Flatter your features: Customize parting and pulled-out strands to frame and elongate your face.
- Finish strong: Seal the look with a light layer of hairspray for shine and flyaway control.
- Experiment: Don’t be afraid to try new products or styling accessories to make these classic styles your own.
Conclusion: Effortless Glamour Awaits
Whether you’re seeking a laid-back low ponytail or a high top bun with runway-worthy volume, these styles offer a wealth of possibilities for every hair type and event. With the right prep, products, and a few expert tricks, you can create updos that rival any salon result, customized to your unique features and personal taste. Add accessories to elevate your look or keep it minimalist for an elegant statement — the choice (and the style) is yours!
References
- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CshztFJPPFg
- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=joH-xnS9sZU
- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=N7t7MzcWcdY
- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=44Up1fATOoI
- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rRmS0EZoUn8
- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6Vdcnw9gcR4
- https://www.thesmallthingsblog.com/2017/06/the-2-step-bun-aka-the-way-ive-been-wearing-my-hair-all-summer/
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