18 Chignon Hairstyle Ideas Perfect For Wedding Season

  • The word "chignon" translates to "bun" in French.
  • A chignon hairstyle is a type of bun that sits low at the nape of the neck.
  • Chignon hairstyles are great for formal events such as weddings, birthdays, and more.

If you're looking for the perfect hairstyle for your next formal occasion, like your best friend's wedding, look no further than these chignon hairstyles. While the style may sound and look intimidating, we assure you it's anything but. It's surprisingly easy to do at home, but if you plan on going to a salon, your hairstylist should have no problem pulling the look off. This style is also super versatile — you can play with accessories and braids to dress it up or down. Oh, and did we mention that it is perfect for all hair textures?

Hairstylist J.D. of Juan Juan Salon in Beverly Hills told POPSUGAR that she recommends those with straight hair add some curl to it and tease the roots before styling this look off-center and securing it with bobby pins.

What Is a Chignon Bun?

Chignon simply means "bun" in French and is often used interchangeably, but it best describes a specific type of low bun that's at the nape of the neck and gathered with pins. Wearing this updo style instantly elevates your look to one that's more sophisticated, making it perfect for brides and wedding guests.

What Is the Difference Between a Chignon and a Bun?

So what exactly is the difference between the two styles? Though all chignons are buns, not all buns are chignons. Chignons have a fixed location. They are often at the base of the head, whereas buns can vary in placement — from double buns at the top of the head to messy buns at the back. Additionally, buns often involve hair being wrapped around itself whereas chignons are tucked, with or without accessories.

Ahead, you're sure to find a chignon hairstyle that fits your taste.

Classic Chignon

Even without accessories or braids, a chignon bun can elevate your look and make you look instantly polished and sophisticated.

Loose Headband Braid With Chignon

This hairstyle features a loose headband braid connected to a tucked chignon with loose, face-framing curls on the side.

Simple Side Chignon Bun

This look is a great go-to for beginners — it's so simple and easy.

Chignon Bun With Small Braid

The small braid that wraps around this chignon bun pulls this elegant look together.

Floral Chignon Bun

We love the floral crown around this simple, twisted chignon bun.

Chignon Bun With Loose Twist

This elegant look is made up of loose twists and jeweled accessories.

Braided Chignon

You can add braids to your chignon to dress is up. Whether you choose to do a crown braid around your head and into the bun or just braid the base of your ponytail before pinning it up is your choice.

Simple Twisted Chignon

This chignon bun is simple with a delicate twist.

Side-Swept Braided Chignon

This side-swept hairstyle is balanced by the accessory that sits opposite of the braids.

Accessorized Chignon Bun

This simple chignon bun is dressed up with a bedazzled headband and tulle.

Chignon Bun With Accessories

This chignon bun is sleek and polished with a floral accessory.

Chignon With Scarf

Perfect for spring or summer, a bright, silk scarf is an easy way to personalize your chignon bun.

Chignon With Jeweled Crown

This center-focused chignon bun is pulled together beautifully by the jeweled crown at the back of the head.

Messy Chignon With Floral Accessories

Chignons don't have to be fancy. This style is a bit more undone and features floral accessories to give it an effortless feel.

Side-Swept Floral Chignon

This side-swept chignon style puts a twist on the classic low bun.

Curly Chignon

Chignon buns are perfect for all hair types. This curly example is proof.