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A braided chignon is a simple way to gather your hair into an updo using small braids, twists, and pins. This style keeps the steps straightforward and can be adjusted to suit the length of your hair. Follow the guide below, securing each section as you go so the finished style feels comfortable and stays in place.
How to style a braided chignon
Work with manageable sections and avoid pulling too tightly. A ponytail holder gathers the pieces at the back, while bobby pins can help secure any ends that do not tuck in neatly.
- Braid one side. Take a small section of hair on one side of your head and braid it. Keep the braid loose enough to sit comfortably.
- Twist the section below it. Underneath the braid, take another section of hair and twist it. Repeat the braid-and-twist combination on the other side of your head.
- Gather the sections. Bring the braids and twists together at the back of your head and secure them with a ponytail holder. Check that the sections sit evenly before moving on.
- Tuck in the remaining hair. Take the hair that is still hanging down and tuck it into the smaller braids. Add bobby pins where needed to hold the ends in place.
Adjust the style to your hair length
The amount of hair left to tuck will depend on its length. If your hair is too long to tuck neatly in one step, braid the loose back section first, then tuck that braid into the smaller braids and secure it with pins as needed. For shorter hair, tuck in smaller portions at a time so the ends are easier to manage.
Helpful finishing tips
- Use a mirror to check the back and sides for loose ends.
- Place pins where sections overlap, rather than adding them randomly, to help hold the shape.
- If a section feels too tight, loosen it slightly before securing the updo.
- Once the style is gathered, check that the ponytail holder and pins feel comfortable.
This braided chignon relies on a few simple techniques rather than complicated styling: braid, twist, gather, and tuck. Adjust how you secure the remaining hair to fit its length, and use pins only where they help keep the style in place.
By Katie
