A chignon is one of the hairstyles that has survived the test of time. Most people associate elegance, sophistication, and grace with it. This updo is versatile and gorgeous. It can be worn sleek and polished, relaxed and messy.
It is, therefore, an updo perfect for any occasion. Whether you are preparing for a wedding, attending a gala, or just want to polish up your look for the day at work, it offers an effortless yet elevated look.
In this article, we will look into the history of the chignon, and its variations, and walk you through how to create the perfect Chignon Hairstyle For Women for any occasion.
What is the Chignon Hairstyle?
The chignon is one of the classic updos and is typically located at the back of the neck or just below it. In this hairstyle, hair is twisted, pinned, and gathered in a neat bun shape but a bit more polished and structured. Though somewhat complicated-looking, it is an age-old style and can easily be adapted for formal as well as casual events.
What are some of the characteristic features of a chignon?
- Elegance: The chignon can be said to have that air of grace and class that transverses all events, from weddings to office affairs.
- Timelessness: It is a classic and timeless style that defies trends and can be adapted to suit both classic and modern styles of dressing.
- Versatility: The chignon ranges from sleek and polished to relaxed and tousled in its different styles.
Where Did the Chignon Hairstyle Originate?
The word “chignon” is French, meaning “nape of the neck,” and this hairstyle has been associated with the upper classes in France since the 18th century. It evolved from a simple, functional style to one that symbolizes femininity, grace, and refinement. The style remains a go-to choice for brides, red-carpet events, and formal gatherings.
How Does the Chignon Differ from Other Updo?
A chignon is not one of the conventional buns or ponytails that are often used by women in formal events or gatherings. Chignons are placed lower down at the back part of the head, close to the nape of the neck, and therefore, tend to be neater and polished in comparison to some buns or ponytails, which might get messy and unpolished if they were only a simple bunch of hair coiled on top of the head.
What Are the Different Types of Chignon Hairstyle For Women?
Chignons come in different types of hairstyles, and each offers a unique look. Depending on your mood, the event, and your personal preferences, you can customize your chignon to suit your needs. Here are some of the most popular chignon variations:
How Can You Style a Classic Chignon?
A classic chignon is smooth, structured, and polished. You get this look by first gathering your hair into a low ponytail and twisting it into a spiral shape at the nape of your neck. Then, with some bobby pins, secure that chic into place, making sure to tuck in those loose ends, and for an added classy touch, give it a hold with hairspray. This style is ideal for weddings, formal galas, or any event that requires an elegant, sophisticated appearance.
What is a Messy Chignon and How Do You Create It?
A messy chignon is a relaxed, more carefree vibe. This style is ideal for casual outings or when you want to achieve a romantic, undone look. To create a messy updo, gather your hair loosely at the nape, leaving a few strands loose around your face. Twist the hair into a loose spiral or knot and secure it with pins, making sure the shape isn’t too structured. For a truly “undone” look, pull out a few strands to soften the appearance.
How Do You Make a Low Chignon for Formal Occasions?
A low chignon is generally held at the nape of the neck and is often associated with a sleek, timeless look. It would be great for weddings or dinners. For a low updo, start by smoothing your hair into a ponytail at the nape of the neck, then twist the ponytail into a neat bun and secure it with bobby pins. For extra drama, use decorative hairpins or a jeweled comb to finish the look with added elegance.
What is a side chignon, and when should you wear it?
The side chignon is the asymmetrical version of the traditional coiffure, which is placed on one’s side. This creates a look very modern and edgy; one can wear it at night, on a date, or simply at a more relaxed event. A side updo would start with bringing your hair over to one side and twisting it into a very loose bun; secure with bobby pins. Soft waves or curls go great with this style.
How Can You Add Braids to Your Chignon?
Adding braids gives a chignon texture and depth, making it look more complex and feminine. Start by braiding small portions of hair, then gather all of them together in a ponytail. Then twist the braids into the chic to achieve a boho-chic look. This version is ideal for romantic dates, festivals, or casual gatherings.
What Makes a French Chignon Unique?
A French chignon is a highly complicated twist, fold, and sometimes volume at the crown. Such a variation is great for creating a sophisticated and romantic look. To achieve this, start by teasing the hair at the crown to add some volume, then twist the remaining hair into a updo shape. Secure this style using pins, and add finishing touches in the form of decorative combs or pins for a polished finish.
How to Create the Ideal Chignon Hairstyle?
A flawless chignon can be achieved by practicing, being patient, and having the proper tools. The following steps will make you master the art of the bun updo in no time.
What Are the Tools Necessary for Creating a Chignon?
To have a perfect chignon, the following tools will be necessary:
- Bobby Pins: To pin the bun hairstyle in place
- Hair Ties: To pull all the hair together before twisting.
- Hairspray or Mousse: Adding volume and holding power.
- Teasing Comb: Adding volume at the crown
- Hair Donut (optional): To create fullness and structure.
What Is Involved in The Basic Styling Steps for Chignon?
- Start with clean, dry hair. The excess product has been removed.
- Tease the crown to add volume; then brush your entire hair out, smooth.
- Ponytail: Gather all the hair into a low ponytail at the nape of your neck and secure it with a hair tie.
- Twist the Hair: Twist the ponytail tightly and arrange it into a spiral shape.
- Secure with Pins: Use bobby pins to hold the updo in place, ensuring it’s neat and tight.
- Finish with Hairspray: Apply hairspray to keep the style in place and add extra shine.
How Can You Keep Your Chignon Secure All Day?
To prevent the chignon from coming loose all day or at night, use enough pins to secure your hair in its position. Then, before the styling of a bun, spraying a texturizing spray may add hold and texture. Finishing the look with a good hairspray to lock it will make it more secure.
How Do Diverse Hair Textures Influence the Styling of Chignons?
Your hair type plays a significant role in how your chignon turns out. The good news is that this style is highly adaptable to different hair textures and types.
How Can You Style a Chignon for Straight Hair?
For a straight hairstyle, begin with some volume on top using a teasing comb or a volumizing spray. In this way, the chignon will not appear flat. Straight hair can create sleek and sleek chignons because the hair tends to hold its form well.
What are the best techniques for curly hair chignons?
Curly hair would add natural texture to a chignon; however, it would take a lot more effort to retain a neat style. To create chignons on curly hair, apply a curl cream or mousse for maximum curl definition, and then gather your hair loosely and pin the bun in place with plenty of pins to hold the curls tightly in place without coming unraveled.
How Do You Style a Chignon with Fine or Thin Hair?
Fine or thin hair can use some volume for the chignon to look more full. A hair doughnut or padding may be used to give the chignons more body. Adding texturizing products, such as dry shampoo or mousse, can add volume and help keep the style from looking flat.
What Do You Need to Know About Styling Chignons on Thick Hair?
Thick hair would present more challenges in trying to get into a chignon but is also best suited for creating a lot of volume and giving off a dramatic look. When working with thick hair, make sure you apply enough bobby pins to stabilize the chignons and use a strong-hold hair spray to keep flyaway down and the style intact for a longer period of the day.
What Are the Best Occasions to Wear a Chignon Hairstyle?
Chignons are very versatile, and there is no shortage of occasions on which you can wear them. Whether you are dressing up for a wedding or keeping it professional for a work event, the chignons can be styled to suit any occasion.
How Can You Style a Chignon for a Wedding?
This classic style is so beautiful for weddings. A bride can go for sleek chignons with skinny hairpins or a very romantic look, with soft curls framing the face and creating an ethereal aura, or wear a veil and hair jewelry. The best thing about this hairstyle is that it makes chignons perfect for formal events.
Chignons command elegance, which can make them the most perfect bun for formal events such as galas and proms or black-tie dinners. A polished bun can complement an elegant gown and help create a glamorous, red-carpet-worth look.
Can You Wear a Chignon for a Professional Look?
A neat and structured chignon is ideal for professional settings, such as business meetings, office events, or networking functions. It keeps your hair out of your face, creating a polished and sophisticated look.
What Are the Benefits of Wearing a Chignon for Date Nights?
A messy or soft chignon is very suitable for a romantic, effortlessly chic date night. It’s the perfect combination of sophistication without being too rigid-just perfect for an evening out.
Conclusion
The chignon hairstyle is a timeless, versatile choice that can be adapted to various occasions, from casual outings to elegant weddings and formal galas. Whether you prefer a sleek and polished look or a more relaxed and messy style, the bun hairstyle offers endless possibilities for personal expression.
With the right techniques, tools, and accessories, you can easily create the perfect chignons that suit your hair type, face shape, and personal style. From its origins in France to its current glory on red carpets and wedding events, the chignons remain a staple of elegance and sophistication.
With step-by-step styling instructions, creative twists, and helpful hints, you can master the chignons with confidence and wear them with pride. Whether you are getting ready for a wedding, a night out, or a professional setting, this hairstyle will surely give your look an added touch and leave a lasting impression.
FAQs on Chignon Hairstyles
What is the difference between a chignon and a bun?
The key difference between a chignons and a bun is placement and structure. A bun hairstyle tends to sit lower on the head and looks sleeker and more refined. A bun may be placed higher on the head or can look much more casual.
Can I make a chignon without any styling products?
Well, the chignon could be done with no styling product at all. However, using very light products, such as hairspray or a texturizing spray, really helps to build volume and holds the style all day.
How to make my chignon look thicker?
You may give your chignon more volume with teasing at the crown, you can use the volume-boosting product, or add a hair doughnut to build fullness at the roots of your hair.
What is the best accessory for a chignon?
The hairpins, barrettes, tiaras, and decorative combs would add an elegant touch to this style.
Is chignon suitable for every face shape?
Yes, a chignon can be done for any face type. If one has a round face, asymmetrical or messy chignons work well; however, oval and square faces will look better in a sleek hairstyle.
How do I keep my chignon from falling out?
Use enough bobby pins to secure the style and finish with a strong-hold hairspray to keep it intact throughout the day.
Can I wear a chignon if I have short hair?
Yes, a chignon can be achieved with short hair by using extensions or creating a smaller, more compact version of the hairstyle.
What’s the best way to make my chignon last throughout the day?
To ensure your chignon lasts, use a texturizing spray for grip, bobby pins for security, and a finishing hairspray to lock the style in place.
Can a chignon be worn for casual events?
Absolutely! A messy or relaxed chignon works well for casual events like brunch, a day out, or a casual date.
How long does it take to create a chignon hairstyle?
It usually takes around 15 to 20 minutes to make a chignon, considering the complexity of the style and the texture of your hair.