While we’re all for a trusty slick-back moment, the go-to look is starting to feel a little overdone (?) and we’re definitely ready for something fresher. The good news is that effortless doesn’t have to mean boring. We asked professional session hairstylist Khanya to break down three easy hairstyles that are simple, chic, and always look like you’ve made a big effort.
The Slick Half-Up, Half-Down Bun
For days when you need your hair out of the way but still want to look polished, this easy style takes just a few minutes to master. Start by parting your hair just behind the ears, and use that section to create a neat bun, securing it with an elastic.
You can leave some ends poking out for a more playful, spiked look, or wrap a strand of hair around the elastic for a cleaner finish. The trick is to use just enough hair for the bun so it flatters your face shape without looking bulky.
Run a straightener through the rest of your hair and flick out the ends slightly for a sleek finish. Finally, tidy up any flyaways with a wax stick or lightweight pomade.
The Soft Waves and Bun
This look is a relaxed, textured version of the half-up bun, perfect for when you want something easy but glam. Whether you’re heading to brunch, the office, or an evening out, it’s the kind of style that works for everything.
Gather the top half of your hair and pull it back into a loose half-ponytail, securing it with an elastic. Twist the ponytail around itself to form a small bun. With the remaining hair, use a curling wand or straightener to create a few soft, loose waves.
The goal is an undone, natural textured waves, not perfect curls. Gently tousle with your fingers or mist on a texturising spray for extra volume and movement.
The Figure-Eight Slick
If you love a sleek look but want something with more shape, the figure-eight bun is a modern and elegant twist that’s ideal for any occasion. From dinners to events, this is the more polished, sculptured cousin of the slick-back.
Start by creating two ponytails - one high and one low - close enough together that they almost connect. These will form the base of your figure-eight. Take the top ponytail, twist it, and wrap it around to create the top half of the figure-eight shape. As you twist, incorporate small sections from the lower ponytail to complete the loop.
Tuck the ends underneath to hide them, and secure everything with pins. The result is an elegant up-do that looks intricate but only takes a few minutes.
Khanya’s Top Tips
A good leave-in conditioner is a must. It keeps hair hydrated, smooth, and manageable. “Every hair type needs something different,” Khanya explains.
For fine hair, avoid heavy creams that weigh it down. Opt for a light mist or spray that adds moisture without the weight - something like Philip Kingsley’s Leave-In Defence works well. For thicker or more coarse hair, a cream-based formula provides the nourishment it needs.
Khanya also swears by regular trims: “It’s the easiest way to keep your hair healthy, fresh, and easier to style.”
Photography by Kit Ling Leong at Menier Penthouse