Red Carpet-Worthy Hairstyles: The Updated Bun

Met-itude. That’s our way of saying Met (as in the Met Gala) and attitude (as in the fierceness of the red carpet occupants), and oh did the ladies of Met 2015 give some serious met-itude. There is so much that goes into creating a look – from the outfit choice to the accessories to hair and makeup. Today, we’re delving into one facet of the glam process: How to style your strands for red carpet-worthy hair. Specifically, how to rock the updo like Emma Roberts, Jessica hart, Jennifer Lawrence, Poppy Delevingne, and Alexa Chung, who each chose a unique variation of the bun.

On almost every red carpet, a constant hair trend is the updo. Whether it’s classic and positioned on the nape of the neck or tucked, twisted, or knotted on top of the head, the bun is getting a serious revamp. John Frieda celebrity hairstylist Ryan Cotton – who gave Emma her origami-inspired bun for the Met – discusses the revamped bun.

“This season, buns are less messy. They are more polished and clean,” explains Cotton. “Today’s buns are created in a more twisted shape rather than the traditional circular one.” But how do we do this twist-up? Cotton suggests starting on damp hair and prepping with John Frieda Sea Waves Sea Salt Spray ($9) to add some texture. Create a ponytail, then twist the hair in a desirable shape, explains Cotton. Attach the hair with bobby pins or hair pins. These Nina Antique Star Mini Hair Pins ($79) are a festive way to add some bling to your updo. Keep everything in place with a flexible hold hairspray. Cotton’s pick is John Frieda Frizz Ease Keraflex ($10)

“The dirtier the hair, the better,” says Cotton. “It’s best to do these styles on hair that has not been washed in a day or two for best results.” So, basically, the bun should be our go-to dirty hair style. We’re into that!

When it comes to determining the height of your bun, Cotton says: “The neckline of the dress is a huge factor in deciding on what bun to do. Hair length also comes into play. For short hair, a low bun will be more ideal. High buns tends to work better with longer hair.”

Editor’s Picks For Updo Product Must-Haves:
L’Oreal Elnett Satin Strong Hold Hairspray ($15) – The HG of hairsprays.
Davines This Is A Sea Salt Spray ($27) – They call it life-changing and, well, it’s definitely hair-changing.
Verb Sea Spray ($10) – Like a dip in the ocean, part messy, part masterful volume.
Living Proof Amp Instant Texture Volumizer ($24) – If you prefer your texture in a jar instead of a spray, this product is a must.
Bumble and Bumble Hairdresser’s Invisible Oil ($39) – For a sleek updo, add this oil pre-twisting to tame flyaways. Mega-shine with a lightweight feel.