Picture this: You, a hairbrush-wielding wizard, create a fabulous hairstyle that even birds stop mid-flight to admire.
That’s the level of chignon magic we’re aiming for.
In this blog post, you’ll discover 28 gorgeous chignon hairstyles and expert tips on how to get the look!
Forget the complicated updos that make you question your life choices when you’re halfway through; we’re showcasing chic chignons that scream elegance without requiring a degree in hairstyling.
What Is a Chignon?
Chignons have a rich history that dates back centuries. The word “chignon” itself is derived from the French word “chignon du cou,” which means “nape of the neck.” This hairstyle has been popular among women for ages, with its origins traced back to ancient Greece and Rome.
In ancient Greece, women would wear chignons as a symbol of elegance and status. They would adorn their chignons with ribbons, flowers, and even jewels to enhance their beauty. The chignon was a fashionable hairstyle and a way for women to express their creativity and individuality.
During the Roman Empire, chignons became even more elaborate and intricate. Women would style their hair in elaborate updos, often incorporating braids and twists to create a stunning chignon. Noblewomen and commoners alike wore these hairstyles, as chignons became a symbol of femininity and grace.
As time passed, chignons evolved and adapted to different cultures and trends. In the 18th century, chignons were popularized in Europe, particularly in France, to create voluminous hairstyles. Women would use padding and hairpieces to create large, elaborate chignons that were the epitome of fashion and style.
Chignon vs. Bun
When it comes to chignons and buns, the line between them can sometimes blur. However, some key differences set them apart.
Check out this table highlighting the differences of each style.
| Hairstyle | Positioning | Style |
| Chignon | Lower on the head | Sophisticated |
| Bun | Higher on the head | Casual and practical |
While both hairstyles involve twisting and securing the hair, a chignon is typically positioned lower on the head, near the nape of the neck. Buns, on the other hand, are usually positioned higher on the head, towards the crown. The chignon provides a sophisticated and elegant look, while the bun leans more towards a casual and practical style.
How to Do a Chignon
Creating a chignon may seem intimidating initially, but fear not, ladies! With some practice, you’ll be a chignon maestro in no time.
Let me guide you through the process step by step:
| Step | Description |
| Gather Tools | Prepare essential tools: brush, bobby pins, and a hair tie. |
| Brushing | Smooth out tangles with a gentle brushing session. |
| Placement Decision | Decide where you want your chignon – higher for a bun, lower for elegance. |
| Secure Hair | Pull your hair back and secure it with a hair tie at your chosen position. |
| Twisting | Twist your hair into a rope-like shape, adding depth and texture. |
| Wrapping | Wrap the twisted hair around the tie, forming a bun or chignon shape. |
| Securing with Pins | Secure the bun with bobby pins, ensuring a seamless and elegant finish. |
Now, whether for a special occasion or a style elevation, your chignon will undoubtedly captivate. Remember, practice makes perfect!
Chignon Bun
The classic chignon bun holds a special place in our hearts. Its timeless elegance makes it a go-to choice for formal events or a chic everyday look. The chignon bun sits low on the neck, exuding sophistication with every twist and turn.
Zohna Tip
Elevate your chignon bun game by adding some decorative hair accessories like pearl pins or delicate flowers.
French Chignon
Ah, the French. They really know how to turn heads with their effortlessly chic style, don’t they? Well, the French chignon is no exception. This variation of the chignon combines elegance and nonchalance in the most charming way.
Braided Chignon
If you want to add a touch of intricacy and femininity to your chignon, this braided chignon is the style for you. This hairdo incorporates braided sections on the side of the head, weaving them into the chignon itself. The result is a stunning fusion of classic and modern elements.
Zohna Tip
If you love this style, check out our article on braid updo hairstyles.
Low Chignon
For those ladies who want a chignon with a touch of understated glamor, this low chignon is the style to embrace. Positioned at the nape of the neck, this low chignon brings a sense of effortless elegance to any occasion.
Zohna Tip
Embellish your low chignon with a delicate hairpin or a glamorous headband to add a touch of sparkle and make your look truly unforgettable.
Smooth Chignon
If you’re aiming for a chignon that exudes more sleekness than a smooth operator, this smooth chignon is your best bet. This style is all about achieving a flawless and refined finish. The key lies in creating a perfectly smooth base, free from any bumps or flyaways.
Easy Chignon
Are you in search of a chignon hairstyle that won’t take hours to create? Well, look no further, my time-conscious friend! Allow me to introduce you to the easy chignon. This style is perfect for those who want to achieve a stunning chignon in a short amount of time.
With a few simple steps and minimal products, you can create an effortless chignon that looks like it took hours to perfect. Trust me, it’ll be our little secret.
Messy Chignon
For ladies who prefer a more laid-back, carefree style, this messy chignon is here to save the day. This variation of the chignon oozes that “I woke up like this” vibe.
It’s all about embracing imperfections and creating a look that’s:
- Relaxed
- Chic
- Effortless
Zohna Tip
Tousle your hair, let a few strands escape, and give that messy chignon your signature touch.
Short Hair Chignon
Who says chignons are only for those blessed with long locks? Not me, that’s for sure! This short hair chignon proves that elegance knows no hair length boundaries. This versatile hairstyle can be achieved with a few clever tricks and the right styling products. It’s one of our favorite updos for short hair!
Zohna Tip
Consider adding some texturizing spray or styling mousse to give your short hair some extra oomph.
Twisted Chignon
For a chignon with an unexpected twist (literally), this twisted chignon gets the job done. This style takes the classic chignon to new heights by incorporating twisted sections of hair. The result is a mesmerizing and captivating hairstyle that will leave everyone in awe. It’s time to add a little twist to your hair game.
Loose Chignon
If you’re a fan of the laid-back, effortlessly stylish look, this loose chignon is a match made in heaven. It embraces loose strands and a relaxed vibe, evoking a sense of bohemian chicness.
Chignon Wedding Hair
A wedding day is a magical event filled with love, laughter, and breathtaking moments. And what hairstyle would better complement this special day than a chignon?
Chignon wedding hair exudes:
- Romance
- Grace
- Sophistication
Whether you’re going for a sleek and polished look or a boho-inspired masterpiece, chignons, and wedding updos have got you covered.
Simple Chignon
Beauty lies in simplicity, my ladies, and the simple chignon is a testament to that. This classic and understated hairstyle is perfect for women who prefer a minimalistic approach to their look.
Messy Chignon Bun
Here we have the messy chignon bun. It combines a messy chignon’s relaxed vibe with a bun’s elevated elegance. It’s the perfect marriage of two popular hairstyles, resulting in a look that’s:
- Charming
- Gorgeous
- Chic
Side Chignon
The side chignon is a modern twist on the classic chignon. With this style, the hair is gathered to one side and twisted into a stylish, asymmetrical chignon. It’s a great choice for ladies who want to add a touch of glamor to their look.
Classic Chignon
The classic chignon is a timeless hairstyle that’s always a hit. It’s simple, elegant, and perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re attending a wedding, a formal dinner, or simply want to look polished and put together, make this classic chignon your go-to choice.
Curly Hair Chignon
Have curly hair? Don’t worry, you can still rock a chignon hairstyle. This curly hair chignon is a beautiful, romantic option that showcases your natural curls in a chic and sophisticated way.
High Chignon
If you’re looking for a hairstyle that exudes confident style, this high chignon is the perfect choice. With its sleek, polished appearance, this high chignon is a great option for formal events or when you want to makes a statement.
Rolled Chignon
The rolled chignon is a chic, sophisticated twist on the classic chignon. With this style, the hair is rolled into a loop and pinned in place, creating a beautiful, intricate look while a few strands are left loose to frame the face.
Chignon Black Hair
If you have black hair, the chignon can be a stunning, eye-catching hairstyle choice. Whether your hair is naturally black or dyed, this chignon can showcase your hair’s unique color and beauty.
Chignon For Long Hair
If you have long hair, you have a world of chignon possibilities. Updos for long hair (like this) allow you to create intricate and voluminous chignon styles that will turn heads, just like this fuller example!
Sleek Chignon
If you prefer a polished, sleek look, this sleek chignon is the perfect choice for you. With its satiny, refined appearance, this sleek chignon is a great option for ladies who love a smooth aesthetic.
Chic Chignon
If you want a hairstyle that’s truly stylish, look no further than this chic chignon. With its loose, relaxed appearance, the chic chignon is the perfect choice for women who want an effortlessly cool look.
Elegant Chignon
The elegant chignon is a sophisticated, refined hairstyle that’s suitable for any day of the week. Its polished appearance and timeless appeal allow this elegant chignon to make you feel like a million dollars.
Modern Chignon
Looking to update the classic chignon? This modern chignon will do the trick. With its unique, edgy twist, the modern chignon is a great choice for ladies who want to add a modern flair to their look, especially with those face-framing bangs.
Tousled Chignon
If you prefer a more relaxed, effortless look, this tousled chignon will excite you. Its messy and tousled appearance adds a touch of bohemian charm to your look.
Tight Chignon
Want a hairstyle that’s sleek and polished? This tight chignon is the perfect choice. With its clean and precise appearance, this tight chignon is a great option for formal events or to achieve a sophisticated, put-together look.
Chignon Wrap
This chignon wrap is a simple yet elegant hairstyle perfect for any occasion. To create the chignon wrap, brush your hair and gather it into a low ponytail at the nape of your neck. Secure the ponytail with an elastic band and twist it into a bun.
Take a section of hair from the bun and wrap it around the bun’s base, tucking the ends under and securing it with bobby pins. Finish the look with a spritz of hairspray for added hold and shine.
Faux Chignon
If you have short hair or want to add volume and length to your chignon, this faux chignon does wonders. With its fauxhawk style braids, this hairdo allows you to achieve a full, voluminous chignon even if your natural hair length is shorter.
This section untangles the mysteries surrounding this timeless, sophisticated updo. Whether you’re a styling novice seeking guidance or a seasoned enthusiast looking for pro tips, this section is your go-to resource.
FAQ
How To Use Chignon Pin Can You Do a Chignon with Thin Hair?
You may wonder if you can still rock a chignon hairstyle if you have thin hair. The answer is yes! You can use some tricks and techniques to create a voluminous, full-bodied chignon, even with thin hair.
First, add some texturizing spray or dry shampoo to your hair to create volume and grip. Then, gather your hair into a low ponytail and secure it with an elastic band. Tease the ponytail gently to add some volume and twist it into a bun. Secure the bun with bobby pins, hiding the pins and creating a full and voluminous chignon. Finish the look with a spritz of hairspray for added hold and shine.
Can You Do a Chignon with Short Hair?
Similarly, you can still create a beautiful chignon hairstyle if you have short hair. The key is adding extra length and volume using hair extensions or a faux hairpiece. Simply gather your natural hair into a low ponytail, attach the hair extension or faux hairpiece, and twist the hair into a bun. Secure the bun with bobby pins and style as desired for a stunning chignon.
Is It Hard to Do a Chignon Yourself?
Creating a chignon hairstyle yourself can be a bit challenging, especially if you’re new to hairstyling. However, with practice and the right tools, you’ll be able to master the art of the chignon in no time.
To create a chignon yourself, it’s important to have the right tools on hand. This includes bobby pins, elastic bands, a comb, hairspray, and any additional styling products, such as texturizing spray or dry shampoo. Additionally, watching tutorials or following step-by-step guides can be helpful to ensure you’re using the correct techniques.
How Long Does a Chignon Hairstyle Last?
The duration of a chignon hairstyle can vary depending on various factors, such as the texture of your hair, the products you use, and the climate you’re in. However, a chignon hairstyle can last through the busiest of days with the right preparation and products.
It’s important to note that chignon hairstyles are not designed to withstand intense physical activities or sleep. If you want your chignon to last as long as possible, avoid touching or fidgeting with your hair too much, and try to keep it protected from wind, rain, or excessive humidity.
It’s Time to Look Your Best
In conclusion, the chignon is a versatile and elegant hairstyle that can be customized to suit any hair type or occasion. Whether you prefer a classic, modern, sleek, or tousled look, a chignon style will make you feel like a true queen. So, don’t be afraid to experiment and have fun with your chignon hairstyles. With a little practice and creativity, you can rock a gorgeous chignon hairstyle confidently and in style.
