Looking for a sophisticated yet simple hairstyle that works for any occasion, from a casual brunch to a formal event? The side braided low bun is your answer. This elegant updo combines the romantic charm of a braid with the classic grace of a bun, creating a look that is both timeless and effortlessly chic.
Follow this easy tutorial to master the style in just a few simple steps.
What You’ll Need:
Hairbrush
Hair elastics (small and clear)
Bobby pins
Texturizing spray or dry shampoo (optional, but recommended for grip)
Hairspray
Decorative hairpins or flowers (optional)
Step 1: Prep Your Hair
Start with dry hair. This style works best on second-day hair as it holds braids and pins better. If your hair is freshly washed, mist it with a texturizing spray or a little dry shampoo at the roots and mid-lengths. This will add grip and volume, making the styling process much easier. Brush your hair to remove any tangles.
Step 2: Create a Deep Side Part
Using the end of a comb or your fingers, create a deep side part on your preferred side. This will be the starting point for your braid. The deep part adds a touch of modern asymmetry to the final look.
Step 3: Begin the Side Braid
On the side with more hair, take a section of hair from the front, right next to your part. You will be creating a Dutch braid (also known as a reverse French braid).
Separate the section into three equal strands.
Cross the right strand under the middle strand.
Cross the left strand under the new middle strand.
As you continue to braid, add a small section of hair from the side to the strand before you cross it under.
Continue braiding along your hairline, following the curve of your head, until you reach just behind your ear.
Step 4: Secure the Braid
Once your braid reaches the back of your ear, secure the end with a small, clear hair elastic. Don't worry about the rest of your hair for now; let it hang freely.
Step 5: Gather Your Hair into a Low Ponytail
Gently gather all of your hair—including the end of the braid—at the nape of your neck, on the opposite side of your part. This is where your bun will sit. Secure all of your hair into a low ponytail with a hair elastic.
Step 6: Form the Bun
You now have a ponytail with a beautiful side braid leading into it. There are several ways to create the bun, but here’s a simple one:
Twist the ponytail section tightly until it begins to coil on itself.
Wrap the twisted hair around the base of the ponytail, creating a neat, circular bun.
Tuck the ends underneath and secure the bun with bobby pins. Insert the bobby pins from the outside of the bun, pushing them toward the center, to hold the bun firmly against your head.
Tip: For a more relaxed, fuller bun, you can gently tug on the loops of the bun before pinning to loosen it up.
Step 7: Final Touches
Gently pull on the loops of the braid to "pancake" it, making it look wider and fuller.
Carefully pull a few strands of hair out around your face to soften the look.
Finish with a generous mist of hairspray to lock everything in place.
Optional: Add Accessories
Elevate your side braided low bun with a few well-placed accessories. Slide in some decorative hairpins along the edge of the bun or tuck a small flower behind your ear for a touch of bohemian elegance.
This hairstyle may look complicated, but it's a surprisingly simple and beautiful way to create an updo that is both secure and stylish. Give it a try—you'll be amazed at how easily you can achieve this elegant look!
