How to Do the Perfect Top Knot

The top knot is one of our very favorite updos for a reason. For starters, it’s super-easy to throw your mane up into one when you’re running late and don’t have time to straighten or curl your strands. (Seriously, heat styling your hair takes a whole lot of work!) And second of all, there’s just something about a top knot hairstyle that is oh-so-chic, isn’t there? Of course, while the top knot bun is great for busy mornings, there is a certain technique to it. The good news is, it’s not difficult. Whether you want to rock sleek top knot hair, a bun that’s on the messier side, or a braided top knot, we’ve got you covered. Follow along below to learn how to do a top knot three different ways.

HOW TO DO A SLEEK TOP KNOT

For a slick look, opt for the classic, sleek top knot. Keep this in mind: This hairstyle is a particularly good choice for second-day hair. It’s an easy way to get your hair off your face—and it doesn’t hurt that it looks great on just about everyone.

What you’ll need:

Texturizing spray

Hair elastic

Bobby pins

L'Oréal Paris Advanced Hairstyle LOCK IT Bold Control Hairspray

Get the look by following these simple steps:

Step 1: Add some texture

Start by spritzing on a little bit of texturizing spray to give your hair some grit.

Step 2: Brush away

Brush your hair to distribute the texturizing spray evenly before creating your top knot.

Step 3: Create a ponytail

Pull your hair back into a high ponytail and tie it with a hair elastic. When making the ponytail, try to include all of your loose hairs so that you can get that sleek look.

Step 4: Wrap it up

Take the length of your hair and wind it around the base of your ponytail.

Step 5: Grab some pins

Secure it with a couple of bobby pins.

Step 6: Seal the deal

Finish off your look with a few spritzes of hairspray to help keep everything in place. Pro tip: You can also help tame flyaways by spraying an unused toothbrush with hairspray and using it to go over any stubborn strands.

HOW TO DO A MESSY TOP KNOT

For an edgy look that boasts a ton of texture, it’s time to try a messy top knot hairstyle. Think of this hairstyle as a slightly more put-together version of the messy bun—one of our all-time favorite styles. The messy top knot is one of the best hairstyles to try on those lazy days when you don’t feel like doing much but still want to look chic, which happens to be a pretty frequent feeling for some of us!

What you’ll need:

L'Oréal Paris Advanced Hairstyle AIR DRY IT Wave Swept Spray

Hair elastic

Bobby pins

L'Oréal Paris Elnett Precious Oil Satin Hairspray

Get the look by following these simple steps:

Step 1: Create a bit of texture

You can either create this look on freshly-washed strands or on second-day hair. If you’re going to wash your hair, spritz a wave spray onto towel-dried hair to help create some texture. Then, let your hair finish air-drying.

Step 2: Put your hair up

The same way you started the sleek top knot, pull your hair into a high ponytail—but this time you don’t have to worry about flyaways. (Aren’t you happy that messy hairstyles are in?)

Step 3: Section your ponytail

Divide your ponytail into two sections and then wrap each section in opposite directions.

Step 4: Secure some strands

Pin the bun into place with a couple of bobby pins—and remember, the messier, the better!

Step 5: Mess it up

If you want, you can gently pull at the top of your hair to make it look even messier. It’s up to you!

Step 6: Set your style

Spray on a bit of hairspray and get ready to get a ton of compliments on your messy top knot!

HOW TO DO A BRAIDED TOP KNOT

Want something a little more intricate? While we love the simplicity of a top knot, there are times you may want to upgrade this classic hairstyle with a version that has a tad more detail. Enter the braided top knot!

What you’ll need:

L’Oréal Paris Advanced Hairstyle Boost It Air-Blown Texture Mist

Hair elastic

Bobby pins

L’Oréal Paris Advanced Hairstyle LOCK IT Weather Control Hairspray

Get the look by following these simple steps:

Step 1: Grab a texture spray

Spritz your locks with a texture spray for extra grip and volume.

Step 2: Section your hair

Create a section of hair at the front of your head that goes from one eyebrow arch to the other. Split this section into three equal strands.

Step 3: Braid away

Create a French or Dutch braid (your preference) that goes toward the back of your head, adding hair to the left and right strands as you go. Stop at the center of your head and pin the braid into place with one or two bobby pins.

Step 4: Create a ponytail

Gather the length of your hair as if you were pulling your strands into a ponytail, with the base being where your braid ends.

Step 5: Make a top knot

Wrap the length of the pony around its base to form your top knot. Secure into place with a few bobby pins. You can make your braided top knot as messy or sleek as you’d like, so do whatever suits your style.

Step 6: Secure your style

Make sure your braid and top knot stay put with a few spritzes of hairspray. All done!

Next up: Looking for multiple ways to wear another classic hairstyle? Here are 10 Easy Ponytail Hairstyles we think you should try!