I’m a beauty editor, but to be honest, I’m a complete beginner when it comes to hairstyles. I love writing about the latest hair trends and trending hair colors, but my repertoire for creating my own looks is pretty limited. I usually rotate between three styles: a 90s-style blow dry (using my favorite Amika hot brush), soft waves, and finally a center-parted bun. And when you complete the trifecta, you know it’s laundry day and you start the circuit all over again.
But over the years, I’ve honed my skill at perfecting center-parted loaves, and now, I’m not proud to say that I’ve turned it into an art form. I love it so much that it’s a hairstyle I not only wear on a daily basis, but also for big events and nights out. As you know, center-parted buns not only require minimal effort (even if you’re new to this style, we promise you they’re super easy to do, especially with the right slicked-back bun products). ), it looks incredibly sophisticated and will add a chic touch to any outfit. Considering both of these things, I think you can understand why I’ve stuck with my signature style for so long.
(Image credit: Jazria Harris)
And I’m not the only one who loves the back style. From Hailey Bieber to the Kardashians to Zoe Kravitz, this off-duty look is now firmly established as the ultimate cool girl hairstyle, worn by some of the most stylish celebrities and supermodels. We even spotted it on the streets at NYFW earlier this month, confirming it’s a fashion girl-approved look.
If you’re wondering how to create the perfect center-parted bun, we asked expert hairstylist Sid Hayes for some tips and tricks for creating a polished look. Keep scrolling to see what he had to say. I couldn’t do it myself, so here are some tips from a self-proclaimed middle-parted bread fanatic (me)…
So why do we love center-parted bread?
“For me, a center-parted bun always looks timeless, effortlessly elegant,” says Hayes. Plus, new supermodels like Bella, Kendall, and Hailey Bieber and today’s power women look insane in chic low pants. ”
I agree, a center-parted bun definitely feels elegant, and I personally love the clean, sophisticated look it creates. To be honest, there’s another reason why I’m a big fan of this style. And, thankfully, Sid agrees. “If your hair is dirty and you want to go out right away that night, a center-parted bun is also a good idea,” he told me. “It’s chic and stylish!”
I’ve been known to skip laundry day thanks to my all-back style, and I’m happy to now be able to do so without feeling guilty. My favorite technique is to apply a deep treatment like K18’s leave-in mask before tying my hair up into a bun. This way, you can get the results while your hair remains very polished.
Center parted bread inspiration
Leader of the center-parted bun trend, Hailey Bieber’s slicked-back style is a lesson in keeping things polished and simple.
Once you’ve mastered the classic bun, try intricate knots like Laura Harrier’s chic, detailed style.
Zoe Kravitz is rarely seen without her center-parted bun. Here she shows that you can also wear a high-knot parted look.
Ayo Edebiri took her classic look to the next level with dried flowers for the 2024 Met Gala.
If you’re worried that a traditional center-parted bun will be too tight, just do what Kim did and leave one bunch to harken back to the ’90s.
How to style a center parted bun
The key to achieving a super smooth center-parted bun is creating a smooth canvas to work with. “The Babyliss Air Wand makes it super easy to create a low bun for all hair types,” says Hayes. “It comes with two attachments: one that smooths the hair and one that adds volume.I use the smoothing attachment, which quickly moves through the hair like a hot knife through butter. It glides on easily,” he added.
“Then, use a tail comb to create a perfect center parting. Next, pull your hair into a low ponytail at the nape of your neck. My top tip: Lower your head for a lower, prettier pony. Then apply the serum to your hands and twist your hair into a low knot. Secure in place using bobby pins or U-shaped pins and finish with a strong hairspray.”
Kiehl’s Smoothing Oil Leave-in Concentrate
got2b glue blast freeze hairspray
