When a bride comes into the studio and asks for a ‘classic’ hairstyle, I immediately think of the chignon. The word ‘chignon’ comes from the French phrase ‘chignon du cou’, which translates as ‘nape of the neck’.
Chignons are generally a roll or knot of hair worn at the back of the head or at the nape of the neck. There are many different variations of the style, frequently worn for weddings and special occasions. Why do I love the chignon? Because of its versatility. So whether your opting for the sleek stylish structured roll or something more retro, you’re bound to find something gorgeous!
How to Style a Very Simple Chignon in Four Easy Steps
- If washing your hair first, dry your hair thoroughly (this style is perfect on day old hair). Brush your hair straight back making sure it is tangle free.
- Gather your hair and make a low ponytail at the nape of your neck, using a hair band to secure. Divide your ponytail into two sections so that you have two smaller ponytails, holding one in each hand.
- Twist the sections in opposite directions and then place one coil inside the other, securing with pins.
- To help hold your chignon, spray with a fine mist of hairspray.
Another variation is…
- Brush your hair back, gathering the hair to make a high ponytail.
- Create a plait using three strands and fasten the end with a rubber band.
- Pull the plait gently to loosen and then simply twist around to make a chignon. Secure with pins.
- Spray with hairspray to hold into place.
Guest post by Severin Hubert of The Hepburn Collection
Image from Jamie Penfold Photography
