
Braids & Buns, Ponies & Pigtails: 50 Review hairstyles Buying Guide – Oemiu
Braids & Buns, Ponies & Pigtails: 50 Review Hairstyles Buying Guide
Choosing the right hairstyle can be a daunting task. With endless options available, from classic braids to trendy buns, deciding on a look that suits your personal style, hair type, and the occasion can feel overwhelming. This comprehensive guide explores 50 different hairstyles, providing detailed reviews, styling tips, and considerations to help you find your perfect ‘do. Whether you’re looking for a chic updo for a special event, a practical and stylish everyday look, or a fun and playful style for a casual outing, we’ve got you covered. We’ll delve into the intricacies of each hairstyle, exploring its suitability for different hair lengths, textures, and face shapes, empowering you to make informed decisions and confidently express your unique style.
Braids: A Timeless Classic Reinvented
Braids are a versatile hairstyle that has been around for centuries, constantly evolving with new techniques and trends. From the simple three-strand braid to intricate fishtail and Dutch braids, there’s a braid style to suit every taste and occasion. One of the greatest advantages of braids is their protective nature. They can shield your hair from environmental damage, reduce breakage, and promote hair growth by minimizing manipulation. Braids can also be a fantastic way to manage unruly hair, keeping it neatly styled and out of your face. For those seeking a low-maintenance yet stylish look, braids are an excellent choice. Let’s dive into some popular braid variations:
The classic three-strand braid remains a staple for its simplicity and versatility. It’s perfect for casual days, workouts, or even dressing up with accessories. French braids and Dutch braids are variations that incorporate hair gradually, creating a sophisticated and polished look. French braids weave the hair inward, creating a smooth and sleek appearance, while Dutch braids weave the hair outward, creating a raised and dimensional effect. Fishtail braids, on the other hand, offer a more intricate and bohemian vibe. They mimic the appearance of a fishtail, adding texture and visual interest to your hairstyle. For a more edgy and modern look, consider a boxer braid, which consists of two high Dutch braids. These braids are not only stylish but also practical for high-intensity activities. A braided crown, or halo braid, is an elegant updo that involves braiding the hair around the head, creating a regal and romantic appearance. This style is perfect for weddings, parties, or any special occasion where you want to make a statement. Experimenting with different braid types and incorporating accessories like ribbons, beads, or hair clips can further elevate your braided hairstyle and personalize it to your unique style.
Consider the maintenance requirements when choosing a braided hairstyle. While braids are generally low-maintenance, they do require some upkeep to prevent frizz and maintain their neat appearance. Regularly applying a light hair oil or serum can help keep the braids moisturized and prevent breakage. Depending on the type of braid and your hair type, you may need to re-braid sections or touch up the edges to maintain a polished look. Avoid braiding your hair too tightly, as this can put stress on the scalp and lead to hair breakage. When removing braids, be gentle and patient to avoid damaging your hair. Using a wide-tooth comb and plenty of conditioner can help detangle any knots and minimize breakage.
Buns: Effortless Elegance and Sophistication
Buns are a timeless hairstyle that effortlessly combines elegance and practicality. Whether you’re aiming for a sleek and sophisticated look or a relaxed and bohemian vibe, there’s a bun style to suit every occasion. One of the key advantages of buns is their versatility. They can be styled high on the head for a formal and polished look, low at the nape of the neck for a relaxed and casual feel, or even to the side for a playful and asymmetrical style. Buns are also a great way to protect your hair from environmental damage and promote hair growth by minimizing manipulation. From classic chignons to messy buns, top knots to braided buns, the possibilities are endless. A sleek high bun is a classic choice for formal events, such as weddings or galas. It exudes sophistication and elegance, drawing attention to your face and neckline. A low chignon, on the other hand, offers a more relaxed and romantic alternative. It’s perfect for casual outings or even a day at the office. For a more playful and effortless look, consider a messy bun. This style is all about embracing texture and imperfections, creating a relaxed and bohemian vibe. Simply gather your hair into a loose ponytail, twist it into a bun, and secure it with bobby pins, allowing some strands to fall freely around your face.
A top knot is a trendy and modern bun style that sits high on the crown of the head. It’s perfect for adding height and volume to your hairstyle, and it can be dressed up or down depending on the occasion. To create a top knot, gather your hair into a high ponytail, twist it into a bun, and secure it with a hair tie and bobby pins. For a more secure hold, consider using a hair donut or sock bun to add volume and shape. Braided buns are a beautiful and intricate variation that combines the elegance of a bun with the texture and visual interest of a braid. You can create a braided bun by braiding a section of your hair and then incorporating it into the bun, or by braiding the entire ponytail before twisting it into a bun. Experiment with different braid types and placements to create a unique and personalized braided bun style. Accessorizing your bun can further enhance its style and add a touch of personality. Consider adding a decorative hair clip, a jeweled hairpin, or a silk scarf to elevate your bun and make it stand out. When styling a bun, it’s important to consider your hair type and texture. Fine hair may require teasing or backcombing to add volume and grip, while thick hair may require stronger hair ties and bobby pins to secure the bun in place. Using hair products like hairspray or texturizing spray can also help maintain the shape and hold of your bun throughout the day.
The key to a perfect bun lies in the details. Pay attention to the placement of the bun, the tightness of the twist, and the security of the pins. A well-executed bun should be comfortable to wear and stay in place throughout the day, without causing any discomfort or pulling on your scalp. Regular practice and experimentation will help you master different bun styles and find the perfect one for your hair type and personal style.
Ponytails: Sporty Chic to Red Carpet Glamour
The ponytail is a classic and versatile hairstyle that can be adapted to suit any occasion. From the sporty high ponytail to the glamorous side ponytail, there’s a ponytail style to complement every look. One of the greatest advantages of ponytails is their practicality. They keep your hair neatly styled and out of your face, making them ideal for workouts, casual outings, or even a day at the office. Ponytails can also be a great way to showcase your hair’s length and texture. A high ponytail is a sporty and energetic style that sits high on the crown of the head. It’s perfect for workouts, running errands, or adding a touch of youthful vibrancy to your look. A low ponytail, on the other hand, offers a more relaxed and sophisticated alternative. It sits at the nape of the neck and can be styled sleek and straight or with loose waves for a more bohemian vibe. A side ponytail is a playful and feminine style that cascades over one shoulder. It can be dressed up or down depending on the occasion, and it’s a great way to add a touch of romance to your look. To create a side ponytail, simply gather your hair to one side and secure it with a hair tie. You can then add curls or waves to the ponytail for a more glamorous effect. A bubble ponytail is a trendy and eye-catching style that involves creating multiple “bubbles” along the length of the ponytail. This style is perfect for adding texture and visual interest to your hairstyle, and it’s surprisingly easy to create. Simply tie your hair into a ponytail and then add hair ties at intervals along the length of the ponytail, gently pulling the hair between each hair tie to create a “bubble” effect.
A braided ponytail is a beautiful and intricate variation that combines the practicality of a ponytail with the elegance of a braid. You can create a braided ponytail by braiding a section of your hair and then incorporating it into the ponytail, or by braiding the entire ponytail. Experiment with different braid types and placements to create a unique and personalized braided ponytail style. When styling a ponytail, it’s important to consider your hair type and texture. Fine hair may require teasing or backcombing to add volume and grip, while thick hair may require stronger hair ties to secure the ponytail in place. Using hair products like hairspray or texturizing spray can also help maintain the shape and hold of your ponytail throughout the day. The height and placement of your ponytail can significantly impact its overall look. A high ponytail can make you look taller and more confident, while a low ponytail can create a more relaxed and understated vibe. Experiment with different heights and placements to find the perfect ponytail style for your face shape and personal style. Don’t be afraid to accessorize your ponytail. Adding a decorative hair tie, a ribbon, or a hair clip can elevate your ponytail and add a touch of personality. A simple ponytail can be transformed into a red-carpet-worthy style with the right accessories and styling techniques. For example, adding sleek waves and a jeweled hair clip can instantly elevate your ponytail from casual to glamorous.
Pigtails: From Playful Childhood to Chic Adult Style
Pigtails, often associated with childhood, have made a stylish comeback as a versatile and trendy hairstyle for adults. From playful high pigtails to sophisticated braided pigtails, there’s a pigtail style to suit any occasion and personality. One of the key advantages of pigtails is their ability to add a youthful and fun vibe to your look. They can also be a great way to showcase your hair’s length and texture. Classic pigtails are a simple and straightforward style that involves dividing your hair into two sections and securing each section with a hair tie. This style is perfect for casual outings, workouts, or even a day at the beach. For a more playful and youthful look, consider styling high pigtails. These pigtails sit high on the head and can be worn straight or with curls for added volume and texture. Braided pigtails offer a more sophisticated and intricate alternative. You can create braided pigtails by braiding each section of your hair and securing it with a hair tie. Experiment with different braid types, such as French braids, Dutch braids, or fishtail braids, to create a unique and personalized braided pigtail style.
Space buns, a trendy and futuristic take on pigtails, involve creating two small buns on either side of the head. This style is perfect for adding a touch of whimsy and individuality to your look. To create space buns, divide your hair into two sections and twist each section into a bun, securing it with a hair tie and bobby pins. Half-up pigtails are a stylish and versatile option that combines the elegance of a half-up hairstyle with the playfulness of pigtails. To create half-up pigtails, gather the top section of your hair and divide it into two sections, securing each section with a hair tie to create two small pigtails. This style is perfect for adding a touch of fun to a more formal outfit. The placement and styling of your pigtails can significantly impact their overall look. High pigtails can make you look younger and more energetic, while low pigtails can create a more relaxed and understated vibe. Experiment with different heights and placements to find the perfect pigtail style for your face shape and personal style. The key to pulling off pigtails as an adult is to choose a style that complements your overall look and personality. Avoid overly childish accessories or styling techniques that might make you look out of place. Instead, opt for more sophisticated and modern variations, such as braided pigtails, space buns, or half-up pigtails. Accessorizing your pigtails can further enhance their style and add a touch of personality. Consider adding a decorative hair tie, a ribbon, or a hair clip to elevate your pigtails and make them stand out. Pigtails can be a surprisingly versatile hairstyle, suitable for a wide range of occasions, from casual outings to music festivals.
50 Hairstyle Reviews: Finding Your Perfect Look
Here’s a curated list of 50 different hairstyles, encompassing various braids, buns, ponies, and pigtails, along with brief reviews to help you navigate the options. This list serves as a jumping-off point for you to explore and experiment with different looks. Remember to consider your hair type, face shape, and personal style when selecting a hairstyle.
Hairstyle | Description | Review |
---|---|---|
Classic Three-Strand Braid | A simple braid made by weaving three sections of hair together. | Easy to create and versatile. A great everyday option. |
French Braid | A braid that incorporates hair gradually from the hairline. | Elegant and sophisticated. Suitable for various occasions. |
Dutch Braid | Similar to a French braid but with the strands woven under instead of over. | Creates a raised and dimensional effect. Adds texture to your hairstyle. |
Fishtail Braid | An intricate braid that resembles a fishtail. | Bohemian and stylish. Adds visual interest to your hairstyle. |
Boxer Braids | Two high Dutch braids, often worn for workouts or athletic activities. | Edgy and practical. Keeps hair securely in place during exercise. |
Braided Crown | A braid that wraps around the head, creating a halo effect. | Regal and romantic. Perfect for weddings or special occasions. |
High Bun | A sleek bun that sits high on the crown of the head. | Formal and polished. A classic choice for elegant events. |
Low Chignon | A relaxed bun that sits at the nape of the neck. | Romantic and effortless. Suitable for casual outings or office settings. |
Messy Bun | A casual and textured bun with loose strands. | Bohemian and relaxed. Perfect for everyday wear. |
Top Knot | A trendy bun that sits high on the top of the head. | Modern and stylish. Adds height and volume to your hairstyle. |
Braided Bun | A bun that incorporates a braid. | Elegant and intricate. Adds visual interest to your updo. |
Sock Bun | A bun created using a sock or hair donut for added volume. | Voluminous and secure. Perfect for creating a full and round bun. |
High Ponytail | A sporty ponytail that sits high on the crown of the head. | Energetic and youthful. A great option for workouts or casual outings. |
Low Ponytail | A relaxed ponytail that sits at the nape of the neck. | Sophisticated and understated. Suitable for various occasions. |
Side Ponytail | A playful ponytail that cascades over one shoulder. | Feminine and romantic. Adds a touch of whimsy to your look. |
Bubble Ponytail | A ponytail with multiple “bubbles” created along its length. | Trendy and eye-catching. Adds texture and visual interest to your hairstyle. |
Braided Ponytail | A ponytail that incorporates a braid. | Elegant and intricate. Adds a touch of sophistication to your ponytail. |
Twisted Ponytail | A ponytail with twisted sections of hair. | Stylish and easy to create. Adds texture and visual interest to your ponytail. |
Classic Pigtails | Two simple ponytails on either side of the head. | Playful and casual. A fun option for everyday wear. |
High Pigtails | Pigtails that sit high on the head. | Youthful and energetic. Adds a touch of whimsy to your look. |
Braided Pigtails | Pigtails that are braided. | Sophisticated and intricate. Adds a touch of elegance to your pigtails. |
Space Buns | Two small buns on either side of the head. | Trendy and futuristic. A fun and individualistic hairstyle. |
Half-Up Pigtails | Pigtails created with the top section of the hair. | Stylish and versatile. Combines the elegance of a half-up hairstyle with the playfulness of pigtails. |
Fishtail Pigtails | Pigtails with a fishtail braid. | Bohemian and intricate. Adds texture and visual interest to your pigtails. |
Dutch Braid Pigtails | Pigtails with a dutch braid. | Stylish and dimensional. Adds a raised effect to your pigtails. |
French Braid Pigtails | Pigtails with a french braid. | Elegant and sophisticated. Adds a classic touch to your pigtails. |
Low Pigtails | Pigtails that sit low on the head. | Relaxed and understated. A subtle way to incorporate pigtails into your look. |
Twisted Pigtails | Pigtails with twisted sections of hair. | Stylish and easy to create. Adds texture and visual interest to your pigtails. |
Waterfall Braid | A braid where strands are dropped down, creating a waterfall effect. | Romantic and ethereal. Suitable for special occasions. |
Pull-Through Braid | A braid that creates the look of a braid without actually braiding. | Unique and voluminous. Adds texture and dimension to your hairstyle. |
Halo Braid with Flowers | A halo braid adorned with flowers. | Romantic and whimsical. Perfect for weddings or garden parties. |
Side Braid with Accessories | A side braid with added accessories like beads or charms. | Personalized and stylish. Allows you to express your individuality. |
Double Dutch Braids into Buns | Two Dutch braids that end in buns. | Trendy and practical. Keeps hair secure while adding a stylish touch. |
Braided Headband | A braid that acts as a headband. | Chic and functional. Keeps hair out of your face while adding a stylish element. |
Knotted Bun | A bun created by knotting sections of hair. | Textured and unique. Adds visual interest to your updo. |
Ballerina Bun | A sleek and polished bun, often worn by ballet dancers. | Elegant and refined. A classic choice for formal events. |
Faux Hawk Bun | A bun styled to resemble a mohawk. | Edgy and bold. Makes a statement. |
Braided Low Bun | A low bun with a braided element. | Romantic and intricate. Adds a touch of elegance to your updo. |
Side Swept Ponytail | A ponytail swept to one side. | Feminine and glamorous. A red carpet favorite. |
Teased Ponytail | A ponytail with added volume through teasing. | Voluminous and dramatic. Adds a touch of glamour to your look. |
Wrapped Ponytail | A ponytail with a section of hair wrapped around the base. | Sleek and polished. Adds a touch of sophistication to your ponytail. |
Crimped Ponytail | A ponytail with crimped hair. | Textured and fun. Adds a playful element to your hairstyle. |
Space Buns with Glitter | Space buns with added glitter. | Festive and whimsical. Perfect for parties or festivals. |
Half-Up Space Buns | Space buns created with the top section of the hair. | Trendy and versatile. Combines the playfulness of space buns with the elegance of a half-up hairstyle. |
Pigtails with Ribbons | Pigtails adorned with ribbons. | Feminine and playful. Adds a touch of charm to your hairstyle. |
Inverted Pigtails | Pigtails that are created by flipping the hair upward. | Unique and edgy. A bold and unconventional style. |
Dutch Braid into Ponytail | A Dutch braid that transitions into a ponytail. | Stylish and practical. Keeps hair secure while adding a touch of elegance. |
French Braid into Messy Bun | A French braid that transitions into a messy bun. | Romantic and effortless. Combines the elegance of a French braid with the relaxed vibe of a messy bun. |
Double Braided Buns | Two braided buns on either side of the head. | Intricate and stylish. Adds a touch of sophistication to your updo. |
Frequently Asked Questions
What hairstyles are best for protecting my hair?
Protective hairstyles are designed to minimize manipulation and shield your hair from environmental damage, promoting growth and reducing breakage. Braids are an excellent option, including cornrows, box braids, and twists. These styles keep your hair tucked away, reducing friction and tangling. Buns, especially low buns and chignons, are also beneficial as they keep the ends of your hair protected and prevent split ends. When choosing a protective style, avoid styles that are too tight, as they can cause tension and lead to hair breakage or hair loss. Also, remember to moisturize your hair regularly while it’s in a protective style to keep it healthy and hydrated. Consider silk or satin scarves or bonnets to further reduce friction and prevent moisture loss while you sleep. Protective styling is especially useful during harsher weather conditions, such as winter or extremely hot summer months.
How can I add volume to my ponytail if I have fine hair?
Adding volume to a ponytail with fine hair requires a few strategic techniques. Start by using a volumizing shampoo and conditioner to cleanse your hair and add some initial lift. When your hair is dry, apply a volumizing mousse or texturizing spray from roots to ends. Before creating the ponytail, gently tease the roots at the crown of your head to add height. Use a fine-tooth comb and tease in small sections, working from the back of your head forward. Gather your hair into a ponytail at your desired height and secure it with a hair tie. To create more volume in the ponytail itself, you can use a second hair tie to create a “bubble” effect. Simply tie the hair tie a few inches down from the first one and gently pull the hair between the two hair ties to create a fuller look. Another trick is to use hair extensions or a ponytail wrap to add instant volume and length. Consider using a clip-in ponytail extension that matches your hair color for a seamless and natural-looking result.
What are some easy ways to dress up a simple bun for a formal event?
Transforming a simple bun into an elegant updo for a formal event is easier than you might think. Start with a clean and sleek base by smoothing your hair with a serum or hairspray. To add volume and texture, consider teasing the roots or using a texturizing spray before creating the bun. For a classic and sophisticated look, opt for a high bun or a low chignon. Secure the bun with bobby pins that match your hair color, and use hairspray to keep it in place. The key to dressing up a bun for a formal event is to add embellishments. Consider using jeweled hairpins, decorative combs, or a sparkling headband to add a touch of glamour. Silk scarves or ribbons can also be incorporated into the bun for a romantic and elegant touch. Braiding a section of your hair and incorporating it into the bun can also add visual interest and sophistication. For example, you could create a French braid or a fishtail braid along the side of your head and then twist it into the bun. Finally, don’t forget to add a touch of shine to your hair with a shine spray or serum. This will help your bun look polished and red-carpet-ready.
How do I prevent my braids from getting frizzy?
Preventing frizz in braids requires a consistent hair care routine focused on hydration and protection. Before braiding, moisturize your hair thoroughly with a leave-in conditioner or a hair oil. This will help keep your hair hydrated and prevent it from drying out, which can lead to frizz. While braiding, use a smoothing serum or a braid cream to control frizz and flyaways. Apply the product to each section of hair before braiding it to ensure even coverage. After braiding, avoid using harsh shampoos or styling products that can strip your hair of its natural oils. Instead, opt for sulfate-free shampoos and gentle cleansing conditioners. Regularly moisturize your braids with a light hair oil or a braid spray. Focus on the scalp and the exposed sections of hair. At night, protect your braids by wrapping them in a silk or satin scarf or bonnet. This will help reduce friction and prevent frizz while you sleep. Avoid over-manipulating your braids, as this can cause frizz and breakage. Try to limit touching or styling your braids excessively. Finally, consider using a setting spray or a braid sealant to lock in the style and prevent frizz from forming. These products create a protective barrier around the braids, helping to keep them smooth and sleek.
What face shapes suit pigtails best?
Pigtails are a versatile hairstyle that can complement various face shapes, but certain styles tend to be more flattering depending on your facial features. Oval faces generally have balanced proportions and can pull off most pigtail styles, from high pigtails to low pigtails. Round faces benefit from pigtails that add height and length. High pigtails or pigtails with some volume at the crown can help elongate the face and create a more defined appearance. Avoid pigtails that are too flat or close to the face, as they can accentuate the roundness. Square faces have strong, angular features, and pigtails can help soften these angles. Low pigtails or pigtails with loose waves can add a touch of femininity and softness to the face. Avoid pigtails that are too structured or geometric, as they can emphasize the squareness of the face. Heart-shaped faces have a wider forehead and a narrower chin, and pigtails can help balance these proportions. Low pigtails or pigtails that start at the cheekbones can help create width at the chin and balance the forehead. Avoid high pigtails that can make the forehead appear even wider. Ultimately, the best way to determine which pigtail style suits your face shape is to experiment with different styles and see what you like best. Don’t be afraid to try new things and find a pigtail style that makes you feel confident and beautiful.
How can I make my pigtails look more adult and less childish?
Transforming pigtails from a playful childhood hairstyle to a chic and sophisticated look for adults involves a few key adjustments. The most important thing is to avoid overtly childish accessories like brightly colored hair ties or cartoon-themed clips. Instead, opt for minimalist accessories in neutral colors like black, brown, or gold. For a more mature look, consider braiding your pigtails. Braided pigtails add texture and sophistication to the hairstyle, making it suitable for a variety of occasions. Experiment with different braid types, such as French braids, Dutch braids, or fishtail braids, to create a unique and personalized style. Space buns, a modern take on pigtails, are another great option for adults. Space buns are trendy and stylish, and they can be dressed up or down depending on the occasion. To create space buns, divide your hair into two sections and twist each section into a bun, securing it with a hair tie and bobby pins. Half-up pigtails are a versatile and chic option that combines the playfulness of pigtails with the elegance of a half-up hairstyle. To create half-up pigtails, gather the top section of your hair and divide it into two sections, securing each section with a hair tie to create two small pigtails. Finally, pay attention to the placement of your pigtails. Low pigtails tend to look more sophisticated and understated than high pigtails. Experiment with different heights and placements to find the perfect pigtail style for your face shape and personal style.
Are there hairstyles for thin hair that make it look thicker?
Yes, there are several hairstyles that can create the illusion of thicker hair. Layered haircuts can add volume and movement to thin hair, making it appear fuller. Shorter layers around the face can also help frame your features and create a more voluminous look. A textured bob or a choppy pixie cut can also add volume and dimension to thin hair. These hairstyles work by removing weight from the hair, allowing it to lift and create a fuller appearance. Hairstyles that involve teasing or backcombing can also add volume to thin hair. Gently teasing the roots at the crown of your head can create lift and volume that lasts all day. Use a fine-tooth comb and tease in small sections, working from the back of your head forward. Ponytails and buns can also be styled to create the illusion of thicker hair. Before creating a ponytail or a bun, use a volumizing mousse or texturizing spray to add body and grip to your hair. When creating a ponytail, consider using a second hair tie to create a “bubble” effect, which can add volume to the ponytail itself. For buns, consider using a hair donut or a sock bun to add volume and shape. Finally, avoid hairstyles that are too sleek or flat, as they can emphasize the thinness of your hair. Instead, opt for styles that add texture, volume, and movement.
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