How to Achieve the Perfect Sleek Bun

Sleek buns are currently all the rage, and we’re absolutely loving it. They exude chic simplicity, are easy to accomplish solo, and can instantly elevate any ensemble. With celebrities like Kim and Khloe Kardashian, Hailey Bieber, and Sofia Richie rocking this style more frequently, it’s clear that sleek buns are here to stay.

“What I adore most about a sleek bun is its versatility across all hair types with the right products,” explains celebrity hairstylist Andrew Fitzsimons. “Whether your hair is thick, thin, straight, or curly, this look is achievable for everyone.”

However, it’s crucial to ensure your hair is the appropriate length for this style. “All hair types can pull off a sleek bun provided the hair is long enough to be gathered into a bun,” notes Meredith Kirkland, a stylist and ghd’s National Education Manager. “Individuals with very thick or curly hair may face more challenges, but with proper products and preparation, it’s achievable.”

Below, we’ve enlisted Fitzsimons and Kirkland to guide us through the simplest method to create a sleek bun that oozes sophistication, regardless of your hair texture.

What You’ll Need:

• Hairbrush
• Straightener or wet-to-dry hair tool
• Styling oil
• Smoothing cream
• Elastic
• Bobby pins
• Hairspray

Step 1: Preparation is key. Ensure your hair is ready by brushing out any knots or tangles. You can opt to start with either clean, wet hair or dry hair that hasn’t been washed for a few days. “The beauty of a sleek bun is that it doesn’t require freshly washed hair,” explains Fitzsimons. If beginning with wet hair, Kirkland suggests using the ghd Duet Style 2-in-1 Hot Air Styler for a smooth finish. Apply a styling oil like ghd Sleek Talker® – Wet To Sleek Styling Oil and dry your hair with the ghd Duet Style, using slow, steady strokes until dry.

Step 2: Apply a generous amount of thick styling cream, such as the Andrew Fitzsimons Prism Shine Creme, focusing on roots and ends to tame flyaways and provide hold.

Step 3: Using a natural bristle brush, slick your hair back into a ponytail, ensuring it’s positioned where you want the bun to sit, as this will be its base.

Step 4: Secure your ponytail tightly and wrap it into a bun, securing with a hair tie and tucking in any loose ends with bobby pins. To smooth any flyaways, Kirkland recommends using the ghd The Final Touch Narrow Dressing Brush to brush sections of hair from crown to base in a single motion towards the bun.

Step 5: Complete the look with a strong-hold hairspray like Andrew Fitzsimons Hard Strong Hold Hairspray to set your sleek bun in place.

Note: Avoid wearing a sleek bun daily, as tight updos can potentially damage hair by exerting too much tension on the scalp, cautions Fitzsimons.