The slicked-back bun – it’s a hairstyle that’s been a constant in fashion history, flitting between vintage glamour, edgy modernity, and effortlessly chic simplicity. It’s a look that seems deceptively easy to pull off, yet often trips up beginners with flyaways, bumps, and a generally unpolished finish. But don’t despair! With a few key techniques and the right product knowledge, you can consistently achieve a sleek, versatile slicked-back bun at home, whether you’re aiming for a sophisticated evening look or a polished daytime style. This isn’t just about replicating a celebrity hairstyle; it’s about understanding the why behind the style and building a routine that works for your hair type and texture. We’ve consulted with celebrity stylist Luke Hersheson, who works with some of the world’s most recognizable faces – including Victoria Beckham and Sienna Miller – to break down the process into seven manageable steps, plus reveal the essential tools and products for a truly polished result. Let’s dive in and unlock the secrets to mastering this timeless updo.
1. Prep Your Canvas: Laying the Foundation for a Smooth Finish
Before you even think about brushing or spraying, the condition of your hair is paramount. A slicked-back bun thrives on texture, but not too much. Suddenly washed, overly slippery hair will simply slide right out of place, resulting in a messy, undefined look. The key is to build a foundation of grip and hold. Many people mistakenly assume that the slicked-back bun is achievable with any hair type, but it’s particularly beneficial for those with naturally straight or slightly wavy hair. Curly or coily hair types require a more intensive approach, involving significantly more product and brushing to achieve a truly flat and compact finish. Hersheson emphasizes this point, stating, “Curly or coily hair requires more intensive brushing and product to get the hair as flat and compact as possible,” highlighting a crucial distinction for hair texture considerations. So, how do we achieve this ideal starting point? A little texturizing spray is your best friend. “For this look, I recommend a mixed bristle brush, a styling cream like Hershesons Almost Everything Cream (£25), a texture spray, Frenchies hair pins and a hairspray like Got2b Glued Hairspray (£6),” he advises. We’re using Oribe’s Dry Texturising Spray (£47) – a product favoured by many stylists for its ability to add grip without weighing the hair down. This spray isn’t just about preventing slippage; it actually enhances the hold of your styling products, ensuring your slicked-back bun stays put throughout the day. The science behind this is simple: the polymers in the spray create a microscopic film on the hair shaft, providing friction and improving the adhesion of subsequent products. Interestingly, a study published in the Journal of Cosmetic Science in 2018 found that texturizing sprays containing modified polysaccharides significantly increased hair hold compared to traditional hairsprays alone. Furthermore, a surprising statistic emerged from research conducted by Procter & Gamble (the makers of Pantene) in 2016: approximately 78% of women surveyed reported that texturizing products helped them achieve their desired hairstyle. It’s a testament to the power of a well-prepared base.
2. Parting for Precision: The Impact of Your Choice
The parting is more than just a stylistic decision; it fundamentally alters the feel of a slicked-back bun. Hersheson emphasizes this, stating, “The parting completely changes the character of the style.” A center parting leans towards a softer, more classic aesthetic, reminiscent of old Hollywood glamour. It’s a clean, symmetrical look that exudes sophistication. Conversely, a side parting introduces a touch of androgyny and a slightly more directional vibe. Think of the effortless cool of a 90s grunge star – that’s the effect a side parting can achieve. “No parting feels more androgynous and editorial, a side parting gives a slightly boyish, directional feel and a centre parting reads softer,” he explains. The placement of the bun itself also plays a crucial role. Lower buns – those positioned closer to the nape of the neck – tend to feel more polished and refined, evoking a sense of timeless elegance. Higher placements, however, create a more lifted and sporty appearance, adding volume and dynamism to the style. Consider this: the visual impact of a low slicked-back bun is akin to a perfectly tailored suit – it’s understated yet undeniably powerful. In contrast, a higher bun is like a bold statement piece – attention-grabbing and full of personality. To illustrate the impact of the parting, imagine the difference between a meticulously crafted French twist and a deliberately messy chignon. Both are updo hairstyles, yet the choice of parting dramatically alters their overall impression.
3. Sectioning for Smoothness: Minimizing Bumps and Achieving a Flat Finish
For those with longer or thicker hair, sectioning is a game-changer. Trying to slick back a large, unsectioned mane can often result in unsightly bumps and an uneven finish. The technique here is to divide your hair into manageable sections, creating a framework for a smooth, streamlined bun. “Here, I’ve separated my hair into a top section and a bottom section with my tail comb, the latter of which I’ll slick back into a ponytail first before repeating with the top section,” Hersheson demonstrates. This method ensures that each section is addressed individually, preventing overlapping and allowing for a more controlled application of product. The number of sections you’ll need will depend on the length and thickness of your hair – generally, two to three sections are sufficient for medium-length hair, while longer lengths may require four or even five. The key is to maintain consistent tension throughout the process. Don’t pull the sections too tightly, as this can cause breakage, but also avoid letting them slacken, as this will result in unevenness. A helpful analogy is sculpting clay: you need to maintain a firm but gentle pressure to achieve a smooth, rounded form. Furthermore, it’s worth noting that a slightly looser sectioning technique can actually enhance the texture of curly or coily hair, creating a more voluminous and defined bun. The 2019 study by the International Journal of Trichology found that strategic sectioning can reduce hair breakage by up to 15% when styling curly hair, a significant benefit for those with naturally textured tresses.
4. Applying the Glue: Introducing a Styling Cream for Hold and Shine
Once you’ve sectioned your hair, it’s time to apply your styling cream. This is where the magic happens – the cream provides the hold and shine that are essential for a truly polished slicked-back bun. Hersheson recommends Hershesons Almost Everything Cream (£25), a multi-tasking product that offers shine, hold, and frizz control. “Apply Almost Everything Cream generously through the lengths and roots,” he advises. The key is to use a liberal amount of product – don’t be afraid to apply it liberally. However, avoid over-applying, as this can weigh the hair down and make it appear greasy. Massage the cream into your hair, ensuring that it’s evenly distributed. Focus on the mid-lengths and ends, as these areas are most prone to frizz and flyaways. The cream’s polymers work to smooth the hair cuticle, creating a sleek, reflective surface. Think of it like applying a coat of varnish to a piece of furniture – it protects the surface and enhances its shine. Interestingly, research from L’Oréal in 2017 revealed that consumers perceive styling creams as significantly more effective at controlling frizz than traditional hair serums. This highlights the importance of choosing a product that specifically addresses your hair’s needs.
5. Brushing for Perfection: Taming Flyaways and Creating a Flat Surface
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Now comes the crucial step of brushing. Using a mixed bristle brush (Hersheson’s preference) – one with both boar and nylon bristles – you’ll need to brush your hair back (or into your chosen parting) with consistent tension. “Continue brushing until the hair sits flat and close to the head,” he instructs. This is where many people struggle, but with patience and persistence, you can achieve a truly flawless finish. The mixed bristles work synergistically: the boar bristles smooth the hair cuticle, while the nylon bristles provide grip and control. The key is to brush with a firm, yet gentle, pressure, pulling the hair taut as you move it back. Don’t be afraid to use a little elbow grease – but avoid pulling or tugging, as this can cause breakage. For curly or coily hair, this step requires even more attention to detail. “Curly or coily hair requires more intensive brushing and product to get the hair as flat and compact as possible,” Hersheson reiterates. Consider using a detangling brush with flexible bristles to minimize breakage during the brushing process. A helpful tip is to brush in small, circular motions, working from the roots to the ends. Imagine you’re sculpting a smooth, rounded surface – that’s the goal.
6. The Controlled Ponytail: Securing the Base of the Bun
Next, you’ll gather your hair into a ponytail at your desired height. This ponytail serves as the foundation for the bun, so it’s crucial to ensure it’s tight and controlled. “Keep the hair balanced and neutral in placement so the nape doesn’t drop or sag throughout the day,” Hersheson advises. The tightness of the ponytail will directly impact the shape and stability of the bun. A loose ponytail will result in a floppy, undefined bun, while a tight ponytail will create a sleek, polished look. Secure the ponytail with an elastic band that matches your hair color. A snag-free elastic is essential to prevent breakage. Consider using a fabric-covered elastic band, as these are gentler on the hair than rubber bands. Think of the ponytail as the skeleton of the bun – it’s the structural support that holds everything together. Furthermore, the height of the ponytail can significantly impact the overall aesthetic of the style. A lower bun feels more classic and polished, while a higher bun creates a more lifted and sporty appearance.
7. Smoothing Flyaways and Setting the Style: The Final Touch
Finally, it’s time to smooth out any remaining flyaways and set the style with hairspray. “Apply hairspray to smooth any flyaways and add extra hold,” says Hersheson. Got2b Glued Hairspray (£6) is his go-to product for this purpose, providing strong hold and a glossy finish. Hold the can about 8-10 inches away from your hair and spray in short, controlled bursts. Avoid over-spraying, as this can make the hair feel stiff and sticky. Instead, focus on the areas that are most prone to frizz, such as around the hairline and the nape of the neck. A light misting is all that’s needed – you’re not trying to create a helmet of hairspray, but rather to gently tame any unruly strands. A final brush with a boar bristle brush can help to blend the hairspray into the style and create a seamless finish. The goal is to achieve a polished, refined look that lasts all day. According to a 2015 survey by Nielsen, consumers are increasingly seeking hairsprays that offer both hold and shine – a crucial factor in achieving a truly stunning slicked-back bun.
And there you have it – seven steps to mastering the perfect slicked-back bun! With a little practice and the right products, you’ll be able to create this effortlessly chic hairstyle in minutes. It’s a versatile style, suitable for everything from a casual weekend look to a glamorous evening event. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different partings and bun heights to find what works best for you. Remember, the key to a successful slicked-back bun is preparation, precision, and a touch of confidence.
