Formal Buns: The Ultimate Guide to Achieving the Perfect Updo for Special Occasions

When it comes to formal events such as weddings, proms, or black-tie dinners, finding the right hairstyle is essential to completing your look. Formal buns, also known as updos, have been a popular choice for such occasions for many years. Not only do they look elegant and chic, but they also keep your hair out of your face, allowing you to enjoy the event without having to worry about your hair constantly getting in the way.

Types of Formal Buns

When it comes to formal buns, there are several different types to choose from. Here are some of the most popular ones:

Classic Bun

The classic bun is a timeless style that has been around for centuries. It’s a simple yet elegant updo that works for almost any occasion. Here’s how to achieve the classic bun:

How to Achieve the Classic Bun

• Start by brushing your hair to remove any tangles.
• Gather your hair into a ponytail at the back of your head.
• Twist your ponytail around itself to create a coil.
• Wrap the coil around the base of the ponytail, tucking the ends underneath.
• Secure the bun with bobby pins, making sure to hide the pins.
• Use hairspray to keep your bun in place.

Styling Tips

• For a more polished look, use a smoothing serum or cream before creating the bun.
• Add volume to your bun by backcombing the crown of your head before gathering your hair into a ponytail.
• To create a more romantic look, leave a few strands of hair loose around your face.

Braided Bun

The braided bun is a popular choice for formal events as it combines the elegance of a bun with the intricate detail of a braid. Here’s how to achieve the braided bun:

How to Achieve the Braided Bun

• Start by brushing your hair to remove any tangles.
• Gather your hair into a high ponytail and secure it with an elastic band.
• Divide the ponytail into three equal sections and braid it all the way down.
• Wrap the braid around the base of the ponytail, tucking the ends underneath.
• Secure the bun with bobby pins, making sure to hide the pins.
• Use hairspray to keep your bun in place.

Styling Tips

• For a more textured look, use a fishtail braid instead of a traditional three-strand braid.
• Add volume to your bun by backcombing the crown of your head before gathering your hair into a ponytail.
• To create a more bohemian look, leave a few strands of hair loose around your face.

Twisted Bun

The twisted bun is a chic and sophisticated updo that works well for formal events. Here’s how to achieve the twisted bun:

How to Achieve the Twisted Bun

• Start by brushing your hair to remove any tangles.
• Divide your hair into two equal sections at the nape of your neck.
• Twist each section towards the crown of your head and secure them with bobby pins.
• Take the ends of both sections and twist them together to create a bun.
• Secure the bun with bobby pins, making sure to hide the pins.
• Use hairspray to keep your hair.

Accessories for Formal Buns

Accessories are a great way to add a touch of glamour to your formal bun. Here are some accessories that complement formal buns:

Hair Pins

Hair pins are a great way to add some sparkle to your formal bun. They come in a variety of shapes and sizes, and can be used to secure your bun or to add some detail to it.

Hair Combs

Hair combs are another accessory that can be used to add some sparkle to your formal bun. They can be placed at the back of the bun or on the side to add some detail.

Headbands

Headbands are a great way to add some interest to your formal bun. They can be worn alone or with other accessories to create a unique look.

Flowers

Flowers are a great way to add a touch of romance to your formal bun. They can be fresh or silk, and can be placed in the bun or around it.

How to Style Formal Buns

There are several ways to style formal buns, each with its unique twist. Here are step-by-step instructions and tips for finishing touches for the most popular types of formal buns.

Classic Bun

• Start by brushing your hair and pulling it back into a high ponytail.
• Twist the ponytail into a tight spiral and wrap it around the base of the ponytail, securing it with bobby pins.
• Use hairspray to tame any flyaway hairs and add shine to your hair.
• Add a finishing touch to your classic bun by accessorizing it with a jeweled hair clip or a delicate hairpin.

Braided Bun

• Start by parting your hair to one side and creating a loose braid that falls over one shoulder.
• Gather the rest of your hair into a low ponytail and secure it with an elastic band.
• Twist the ponytail into a spiral and wrap it around the base of the ponytail, securing it with bobby pins.
• Use hairspray to hold the bun in place and tame any flyaway hairs.
• Finish off your braided bun by tucking the end of the braid into the bun and adding a floral hairpin or a ribbon.

Twisted Bun

• Start by dividing your hair into two sections and twisting them together from the nape of your neck to the crown of your head.
• Secure the twisted hair with bobby pins at the top of your head.
• Gather the remaining hair into a low ponytail and twist it into a spiral, wrapping it around the base of the twisted hair and securing it with bobby pins.
• Use hairspray to hold the bun in place and tame any flyaway hairs.
• Add a finishing touch to your twisted bun by accessorizing it with a pearl headband or a rhinestone barrette.

By following these step-by-step instructions and adding your unique finishing touches, you can create a stunning formal bun that will leave you feeling confident and beautiful for any special occasion.

Tips for Achieving the Perfect Formal Bun

Achieving the perfect formal bun takes some practice, but with these tips, you’ll be able to create a flawless updo every time:

Prep Your Hair

Preparing your hair is key to achieving the perfect formal bun. Start by washing and conditioning your hair the night before your event. This will allow your hair to dry naturally, which will give it more texture and hold. If you prefer to blow dry your hair, use a volumizing mousse to add some volume to your roots.

Use the Right Products

Using the right products is important to achieving the perfect formal bun. Start by applying a heat protectant to your hair before using any hot tools. Use a styling cream or serum to smooth your hair before creating the bun, and finish with a strong hold hairspray to keep your bun in place all night.

Practice Makes Perfect

Creating the perfect formal bun takes some practice. Start by practicing a few days before your event to get the hang of it. Try different types of buns and accessories to see what works best for your hair type and face shape.

Get Professional Help

If you’re not confident in creating the perfect formal bun yourself, consider getting professional help. A hairstylist can create the perfect updo for you and ensure that it stays in place all night.

 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can formal buns be worn for casual occasions?

Yes, formal buns can be dressed down for more casual occasions. Simply add some texture to your hair and use more relaxed accessories, such as a scarf or a headband.

What face shape is best suited for a formal bun?

Formal buns can be adapted to suit any face shape. For those with a round face, try a high bun to elongate the face. For those with a square face, try a low bun to soften the jawline.

Can formal buns be achieved on short hair?

Yes, formal buns can be achieved on short hair. However, it may require the use of hair extensions or the use of additional accessories to create the illusion of a fuller bun.

How long does it take to create a formal bun?

The time it takes to create a formal bun depends on the complexity of the style and the skill level of the person creating it. It can take anywhere from 10 minutes to an hour to create a formal bun.

Can formal buns be created on curly hair?

Yes, formal buns can be created on curly hair. However, it may require the use of additional products and accessories to smooth and secure the hair.

Maintaining Formal Buns

Once you’ve created the perfect formal bun hairstyle, it’s important to maintain it throughout the day or night. Here are some tips and techniques for keeping your formal bun in place and refreshing it when needed.

How to Keep Formal Buns in Place

Using hairspray and other hair products is essential for keeping your formal bun in place. Here are some tips and products to consider:

• Hairspray: choose a hairspray that is specifically formulated for hold and shine. Hold the can about 8-10 inches away from your hair and spray evenly over the hairstyle. Avoid spraying too much, as this can make the hair stiff and difficult to work with.
• Pomade: this is a great product for taming flyaways and adding shine to the hair. Apply a small amount of pomade to your fingertips and gently smooth it over the hair.
• Gel: this is a great product for creating sleek and polished hairstyles. Apply a small amount of gel to your fingertips and gently smooth it over the hair.

How to Refresh Formal Buns

Formal buns can start to lose their shape or volume throughout the day or night. Here are some techniques and products to consider when refreshing your formal bun:

• Teasing comb: use a teasing comb to gently backcomb the hair at the roots to add volume and texture.
• Dry shampoo: this is a great product for absorbing oil and refreshing the hair. Spray dry shampoo at the roots and gently massage it into the scalp.
• Bobby pins: use bobby pins to secure any loose pieces of hair and to reshape the bun if needed.

Final Thoughts

Formal buns are a classic and elegant hairstyle that can elevate any formal look. With the right accessories and styling tips, you can achieve the perfect updo for your next special occasion. So go ahead and try out different types of buns and accessories to find the perfect look for you. And remember, practice makes perfect!

Conclusion

Formal buns are a timeless hairstyle that can be adapted to suit any occasion. From high buns to low buns, and from simple to elaborate, there is a formal bun style for everyone. With the right accessories and styling tips, you can achieve the perfect updo for your next special occasion. So go ahead and try out different types of buns and accessories to find the perfect look for you.