Some hairstyles never go out of style, and the chignon is a perfect example. Effortlessly graceful and endlessly versatile, this chic updo has been a favorite for decades—and for good reason. It’s polished, flattering, and works for any occasion, from a casual brunch to a black-tie affair.
The best part? Chignons are far from one-size-fits-all. Whether you prefer a sleek low bun, a romantic twisted knot, or a modern, textured take, there’s a version that suits your personal style. It’s proof that elegance doesn’t have to be complicated—just a few strategic pins, and you’re ready to turn heads.
So, if you’re looking for an easy yet stunning way to wear your hair up, these 20 timeless chignon styles will have you feeling effortlessly sophisticated. Because great hair is always in season!
The Elegant Low Chignon
The elegant low chignon is a go-to for many seeking sophistication.
Placed at the nape, its allure lies in simplicity. A slight wave can add texture, giving it a modern twist. This style suits formal occasions, paired beautifully with evening gowns.
It’s easy to create with a bit of practice, making it perfect for those looking for timeless elegance without hassle.
Accessories can enhance this look, turning it from simple to stunning. Consider adding a vintage hairpin for a touch of glamour.
Soft Romantic Chignon
Soft romantic chignons are ideal for creating a gentle, feminine look.
This style features loose curls and tendrils framing the face. Perfect for weddings or romantic outings, it evokes a sense of softness and charm. It pairs well with floral dresses and natural makeup.
The beauty of this chignon lies in its relaxed structure, allowing for some imperfections, which add to its charm.
To achieve this, curl the hair beforehand and use pins to loosely gather the hair.
Twisted Chignon
The twisted chignon offers a polished yet intricate design.
This style involves twisting sections of hair before pinning them into a bun. Ideal for the workplace, it combines professionalism with style. It offers a neat appearance that stays intact throughout the day.
To master this look, twist sections tightly and secure them with strong pins.
The twisted chignon is especially effective for those with medium to long hair, providing a sleek silhouette that complements business attire.
Classic French Chignon
The classic French chignon is the epitome of timeless beauty. It’s characterized by its sleek, smooth finish, making it perfect for formal occasions.
Hair is swept back and rolled into a neat bun, showcasing the neck elegantly. This style exudes a vintage flair, often seen in old Hollywood glamour.
To achieve the classic French chignon, ensure hair is thoroughly brushed and use a holding spray for a smooth finish. Accessories like pearls can elevate this look further, adding a touch of sophistication.
Messy Bun Chignon
The messy bun chignon is a casual take on the traditional style, perfect for everyday wear.
It’s characterized by its relaxed, informal appearance with strands loosely pinned.
This style is quick to achieve, making it ideal for busy mornings. Pair it with casual attire for a laid-back look.
The key to a perfect messy chignon is embracing imperfections, allowing some strands to fall naturally. Use texturizing spray to add volume and grip, enhancing the effortless appeal.
Braided Chignon
Braided chignons combine the intricacy of braids with the elegance of a bun.
This style is versatile enough for both formal events and casual days. It involves braiding sections of hair before wrapping them into a bun, which adds texture and detail. Suitable for those with medium to long hair, it can be dressed up or down.
For a formal event, consider adding small flowers or decorative pins. To achieve this look, experiment with different braiding techniques to find what suits you best.
The Voluminous Chignon
Voluminous chignons are perfect for making a statement.
This style involves teasing hair at the roots to create fullness before pinning it into a bun. Ideal for formal events, it pairs beautifully with elegant gowns. The key to achieving volume is using a teasing comb and volumizing products.
This chignon works well for those with thick or medium-length hair. To ensure the bun stays intact all evening, secure it with strong pins and a finishing spray. This style exudes confidence and poise.
Sleek Side Chignon
The sleek side chignon offers a modern twist on the traditional style.
Positioned to the side, it creates a contemporary silhouette that’s both chic and elegant. Perfect for cocktail parties, it pairs well with sleek dresses and bold makeup.
Achieving this style involves smoothing the hair with a flat iron before pinning it into place.
This chignon is ideal for those seeking a polished look with a touch of sophistication. Add a decorative clip for added flair and interest.
Elegant Knot Chignon
The elegant knot chignon is a refined style that exudes sophistication.
It involves tying sections of hair into knots before forming a bun. This creates an intricate design that’s perfect for special occasions.
The elegance of this chignon is enhanced by its neat appearance, often paired with delicate accessories like pearls.
To achieve the knot chignon, section your hair and tie them into knots, securing each with pins. A holding spray ensures everything stays in place, keeping the style intact throughout the event.
Chignon with Bangs
Chignons with bangs offer a lovely contrast between the structured bun and soft fringe.
This style is perfect for those looking to frame their face while maintaining elegance.
Ideal for casual outings, it pairs well with everyday attire. The bangs add a youthful touch to the overall look, enhancing the chignon’s grace.
To create this style, simply gather the rest of your hair into a bun while leaving the bangs out. Use a straightener to ensure the bangs lay flat, adding polish to the style.
Vintage Roll Chignon
The vintage roll chignon brings a touch of retro elegance to the present day.
Characterized by rolled sections of hair that form a neat bun, it embodies the charm of the 1940s. This style is perfect for themed parties or anyone who loves vintage fashion.
Pair it with a vintage dress and accessories for a cohesive look.
To achieve the vintage roll chignon, roll sections of hair tightly before pinning them. A setting spray helps ensure the style remains intact, embracing the vintage aesthetic.
Curly Chignon
Curly chignons are ideal for those with natural curls or those who love adding texture to their hair.
This style embraces the natural beauty of curls while offering an elegant updo. Perfect for garden parties or casual events, it pairs beautifully with floral dresses.
The curly chignon is achieved by gathering curls and loosely pinning them to create a bun.
Allow some curls to fall naturally for a soft, romantic look. A touch of hair serum can enhance shine and define curls further, adding to the style’s allure.
High Bun Chignon
The high bun chignon offers a chic, contemporary aesthetic.
Positioned high on the head, it creates an elongated silhouette that’s both stylish and elegant. Ideal for casual settings or work environments, it pairs well with turtlenecks or high-collared tops.
Achieving this look involves pulling hair up and securing it tightly.
This chignon adds height and sophistication, perfect for those seeking a polished everyday style. Use a strong hold spray to maintain the bun’s position, ensuring a sleek finish that lasts all day.
Loose Bun Chignon
The loose bun chignon is all about relaxed elegance. It features a loosely gathered bun that exudes an effortless charm.
This style is ideal for beach walks or casual days, pairing beautifully with light, airy outfits. Its appeal lies in its simplicity and ease of creation.
To achieve the loose bun chignon, gather hair loosely and pin it at the nape.
Allow a few strands to escape for a natural, carefree look. This style is perfect for those who love a laid-back yet stylish appearance.
The Double Knot Chignon
The double knot chignon is a unique take on the classic style. It involves creating two knots in the hair before pinning it into a bun.
This adds an interesting twist, offering a playful yet elegant look. Ideal for sunny garden parties, it pairs well with light, breezy blouses.
The double knot chignon is achieved by sectioning the hair into two parts, knotting each, and then securing them together.
It’s a fun style that exudes creativity while maintaining the elegance of a traditional chignon.
Side Swept Chignon
The side swept chignon offers a gentle twist on the classic bun.
By positioning it to one side, it creates a softer, more romantic silhouette. This style is perfect for family gatherings or relaxed social events. It pairs well with comfortable, cozy outfits.
To achieve the side swept chignon, gather hair to one side and pin it into a loose bun. This allows for a relaxed look with a hint of elegance.
A few loose strands enhance its softness, making it an appealing choice for any occasion.
Low Twisted Chignon
The low twisted chignon combines elegance with a touch of flair. Positioned low at the nape, it offers a sophisticated look perfect for business meetings or formal occasions.
This style involves twisting sections of hair before securing them into a bun, creating a textured appearance. It pairs well with formal suits and tailored outfits, enhancing the overall polished look.
To achieve this chignon, twist hair sections tightly and pin them securely.
The low twisted chignon is all about precision and style, providing a refined and professional appearance.
Floral Adorned Chignon
Floral adorned chignons are perfect for adding a touch of nature’s beauty to your hairstyle.
This style incorporates small flowers or floral pins into the bun, creating a fresh, romantic look. Ideal for weddings or summer events, it pairs beautifully with pastel or floral dresses.
The floral chignon is achieved by arranging flowers strategically within the bun, ensuring they are secure. This style exudes a sense of freshness and elegance, making it a delightful choice for outdoor celebrations.
Ensure the flowers complement your outfit, adding harmony to your overall look.
Festive Braided Chignon
The festive braided chignon is all about celebration and joy.
It incorporates braids into the chignon, adding texture and a lively touch. Perfect for festive events or holiday gatherings, it pairs well with colorful accessories and outfits.
This style is achieved by braiding sections of hair before forming the bun, creating a dynamic look. To enhance the festive feel, consider adding ribbons or decorative pins.
The braided chignon not only offers elegance but also a playful energy, making it a wonderful choice for any celebration.
Sculpted Art Chignon
The sculpted art chignon is a striking style that combines creativity with sophistication.
This chignon is meticulously crafted, often featuring unique shapes or intricate designs. Ideal for art gallery openings or fashion events, it pairs well with modern, stylish outfits.
Achieving a sculpted chignon involves precise styling and strong hold products to maintain the desired shape.
This style is perfect for those looking to make a bold statement, showcasing their individuality and artistic flair.
Embrace the sculpted chignon for occasions where you want to stand out with elegance.