If you’re anything like me, you are always looking for ways to cut down your time getting ready in the morning without sacrificing style. Beyond makeup, my hair is usually what takes me the longest to do. It’s for that very reason that I like to keep a great rotation of easy-to-copy hairstyles in my repertoire (think ponytail hairstyles and bun hairstyles like these messy bun ideas). One of my main go-tos in particular is the forever chic chignon.
Not only does the updo hairstyle look and feel effortless, but also it’s pretty much appropriate for any occasion. I wear a low slicked-back bun hair look to work out, to lunch with friends, to school dropoff and pickup, and was even this close to wearing one to my wedding. In essence, when it comes to no-fuss hair, my motto is a chic chignon can do no wrong.
I know I am not alone in this, as evidenced by the runways, red carpets, and my Instagram feed. Keep scrolling to see 20 easy chignon hairstyles from the most stylish of celebrities and influencers (even a princess!), but first I breakdown the true difference between a chignon and a bun.
When it comes to updo hairstyles, we’ve all heard the words bun and chignon used interchangeably, but is there truly a difference? In short, yes. Traditionally, a chignon is considered a single low bun that sits where your head meets your neck. In fact, the word chignon originates from the French phrase chignon du cou, which roughly translates to nape of the neck. A bun, on the other hand, can be placed anywhere on your head. Plus, you aren’t limited to having just one.
Caroline Daur completes her elevated sweaterdress look with an effortless low bun.
Claire Most mastered the slicked-back chignon and paired it with a cool black tank top and leather pants.
Ali Tate’s tousled chignon is the icing on top of her romantic look.
Stephanie Broek opted to wrap a scrunchie around her low bun.
Chrissy Rutherford kept the effortless vibe of her outfit with a side-parted chignon.
Rosie Huntington-Whiteley is the queen of chic chignons.
