A bun is considered one of the most low-maintenance hairstyles and the best one to rock when you need to be a total boss and get things done that day. But that doesn't mean an "effortless" bun can't look polished (unless, of course, you're purposely aiming for sexy and messy). Achieving a beautiful bun takes more than a rubber band and one spare minute. If your goal is to create an artsy, cool style, avoid these three common bun mistakes, which can look dated, messy, and may not do your face shape justice.
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You aren't considering your hair texture
When styling your hair in a bun, you need to pay heed to its natural texture, says Celebrity Hairstylist and Makeup Artist Christina Flach, CEO of Pretty Girl Makeup. "If your hair is dry and frizzy, imagine how your hairstyle would look after you've applied a product to address the issue," Flach says. A curly haired bun can bring out your pre-Raphaelite beauty, while upswept straight hair can look sleek and elegant, but know which look you're after before you get started so that you can use the right products to either enhance your natural hair texture or change it.
You aren't parting your hair to suit your face shape
There's more than one way to throw your hair in a bun and the way you part your hair can make all the difference. "A side part helps to make a round face look slightly longer; a middle part is best suited for women with square face shapes," Flach says. "Those with oval faces can rock a deep side part that makes the face appear visually shorter while those with heart-shaped faces should go for an off-center hair part that looks both stylish and different. This is especially important information to remember when doing a bun."
Your bun is too tight
There are times when a slicked-back Bella Hadid bun is gorgeous and pairs well with killer, casual boyfriend jeans, a slouchy sweater, and heels. But this look isn't always the most youthful and when worn with a formal outfit, can look downright severe. If you want to soften your look without losing your bun, pull a few strands out and leave them to fall around the face.