If you’re new to the world of military hair, the thought of tackling a military bun may seem daunting. But with the right steps, you can master this sleek and professional hairstyle in no time. Whether you’re a service member yourself or simply admire the military aesthetic, this step-by-step guide will empower you to create a polished and regulation-compliant military bun.
Before you begin, gather your essential tools: a sturdy hairbrush, a wide-tooth comb, hairspray or gel, and a hairnet. If your hair is particularly thick or long, you may also want to use hairpins or bobby pins for extra hold. With these essentials at your disposal, you’re ready to embark on your military bun journey.
The first step is to brush your hair thoroughly, removing any tangles or knots. Next, use the wide-tooth comb to create a smooth and even ponytail at the back of your head, ensuring that it’s high enough to comply with military regulations. Secure the ponytail with a hair elastic, and then begin wrapping the hair around the base of the ponytail, tucking the ends under as you go. Once you’ve wrapped the hair all the way around, secure it with bobby pins or hairpins. Finally, smooth down any flyaways with hairspray or gel, and place the hairnet over the bun to complete the look.
Gather Your Materials
Hair Accessories
When preparing to create a military bun, it’s crucial to gather the necessary hair accessories to achieve a sleek and secure hairstyle. The following items are essential:
Hair Elastic
Select a hair elastic that matches the color of your hair to blend seamlessly. Opt for a durable and stretchy elastic that can withstand repeated use without snapping or losing its shape.
Bobby Pins
Bobby pins are indispensable for securing the bun and keeping flyaways at bay. Choose black or brown bobby pins that match your hair color for a discreet appearance. Ensure they have a sturdy grip and are long enough to penetrate the bun securely.
Hairspray (Optional)
While not always necessary, hairspray can provide extra hold and prevent frizz in humid environments. Choose a product with a light to medium hold that won’t weigh down your hair.
Prepare Your Hair
To achieve a neat and polished military bun, it is essential to prepare your hair properly. Here’s a detailed guide to help you prep your hair before styling:
Wash and Condition
Begin by washing your hair with a clarifying shampoo to remove any product buildup or excess oils. Follow with a moisturizing conditioner to hydrate your hair and make it more manageable. Avoid using heavy products that can weigh hair down.
Detangle and Brush
After washing, thoroughly detangle your hair using a wide-tooth comb or brush. Start from the ends and work your way towards the roots to prevent breakage. Use a paddle brush to smooth the hair and distribute natural oils evenly.
Create a Secure Base
To ensure the bun stays in place, apply a small amount of hair mousse or gel to the crown of your head. Using a teasing comb, gently tease the hair at the roots to create volume and a more secure base for the bun. This will help keep the bun from slipping out.
| Optional Step | Benefits |
|---|---|
| Apply Hairspray | For extra hold, lightly spray hairspray onto the teased roots before creating the bun. |
| Use Bobby Pins | Secure the teased section with bobby pins to prevent it from falling flat. |
Create a High Ponytail
Begin by brushing your hair to remove any tangles. Secure the hair into a high ponytail at the crown of your head using a hair tie. Ensure that the ponytail is tight and secure, as it will support the rest of the bun.
If you have long hair, you may want to split the ponytail into two sections and braid each section separately. This will help to keep the hair in place and prevent it from becoming tangled or slipping out of the bun.
Once the ponytail is secure, you can begin to create the bun. Start by taking a small section of hair from the bottom of the ponytail and wrapping it around the base of the ponytail to create a small knot. Secure the knot with a bobby pin.
Continue wrapping the remaining hair around the base of the ponytail, securing each section with a bobby pin. As you wrap the hair, it will begin to form a bun. Continue wrapping until all of the hair has been secured.
Once the bun is complete, check to ensure that it is secure and that all of the hair is tucked in. You can use additional bobby pins or hairspray to further secure the bun if necessary.
Here are some tips for creating a perfect military bun:
| Tip | Description |
|---|---|
| Use a strong hair tie | This will help to keep the ponytail in place and prevent it from slipping out. |
| Brush your hair before creating the bun | This will help to remove any tangles and make the bun easier to style. |
| Secure the bun with bobby pins | This will help to keep the bun in place and prevent it from falling out. |
| Use hairspray to hold the bun in place | This is optional, but it can help to keep the bun looking neat and polished. |
Secure the Base
1. Start with clean, brushed hair. This will help to prevent the bun from becoming loose or frizzy.
2. Gather your hair into a ponytail at the crown of your head. Secure it with a hair tie or bobby pins.
3. Create a small hole in the center of the ponytail, just below the hair tie.
4. Divide the ponytail into two equal sections.
5. Take the right section and loop it through the hole in the ponytail.
6. Pull the right section all the way through the hole until it is fully inside the ponytail.
7. Repeat steps 5 and 6 with the left section of hair.
Braid Your Hair
To begin, brush your hair thoroughly to remove any tangles or knots. Section off a small portion of hair from the top of your head, about the size of a quarter. Secure the rest of your hair with a hair tie or clip.
Divide the small section of hair into three equal strands. Hold the left strand in your left hand, the center strand in your right hand, and the right strand in your left hand.
Cross the left strand over the center strand and then under the right strand. Next, cross the right strand over the new center strand and then under the left strand.
Continue braiding in this manner, always crossing the outside strands over the center strand and under the opposite outside strand. Braid for about 2 inches, or until you reach the nape of your neck.
Secure the end of the braid with a small, clear hair tie. You can now release the rest of your hair and secure it high on your head with another hair tie.
Detailed Instructions for Braiding
| Step | Description |
|---|---|
| 1 | Brush your hair thoroughly to remove any tangles or knots. |
| 2 | Section off a small portion of hair from the top of your head, about the size of a quarter. Secure the rest of your hair with a hair tie or clip. |
| 3 | Divide the small section of hair into three equal strands. |
| 4 | Cross the left strand over the center strand and then under the right strand. Next, cross the right strand over the new center strand and then under the left strand. |
| 5 | Continue braiding in this manner, always crossing the outside strands over the center strand and under the opposite outside strand. |
Repeat steps 1-4 until you have braided all of your hair.
Secure the end of the braid with a small, clear hair tie.
You can now release the rest of your hair and secure it high on your head with another hair tie.
Wrap the Braid Around the Base
Take the end of the braid and cross it over the base of the bun, bringing it over to the other side. Secure the braid with bobby pins. Bring the other end of the braid over the base of the bun, crossing it over the first end. Tuck the end of the braid under the base and secure it with bobby pins. Wrap the braid around the base of the bun several times, creating a spiral shape. Tuck the end of the braid under the base and secure it with bobby pins.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
| Step | Action |
|---|---|
| 1 | Wrap the end of the braid over the base of the bun. |
| 2 | Secure the braid with bobby pins. |
| 3 | Bring the other end of the braid over the base of the bun. |
| 4 | Tuck the end of the braid under the base. |
| 5 | Secure the end of the braid with bobby pins. |
| 6 | Wrap the braid around the base of the bun several times, creating a spiral shape. |
| 7 | Tuck the end of the braid under the base. |
| 8 | Secure the end of the braid with bobby pins. |
Pin the Bun
Secure the Loose Hair
Once the bun is formed, use bobby pins to secure any remaining loose hair around the base of the bun. This will help keep the bun in place and prevent flyaways.
Use a Variety of Hairpins
To ensure maximum hold, use a variety of bobby pins, including large, medium, and small sizes. The larger pins will provide a secure base for the bun, while the smaller pins can be used to tuck away any stray hairs.
Placement
The placement of the bobby pins is crucial for securing the bun. Insert the pins at an angle, crossing them over each other. This will create a strong hold that will resist movement or shifting.
Secure Ends
Pay special attention to securing the ends of the bun. Use bobby pins to tuck the ends under the base of the bun, ensuring that they are completely hidden.
Cross-Pinning
For added security, use a technique called cross-pinning. Insert a bobby pin at the base of the bun, perpendicular to the other pins. This will create a criss-cross pattern that further strengthens the hold.
Invisible Pinning
If you want a more polished look, use bobby pins that match the color of your hair. This will make the pins less visible and give the bun a more seamless appearance.
Avoid Overdoing It
While it’s important to use enough bobby pins to secure the bun, avoid overdoing it. Excessive pinning can weigh down the hair and make the bun uncomfortable to wear.
Style the Bun
Once the hair is gathered into a ponytail, it’s time to shape it into a bun. Here are some specific steps for different bun styles:
Low Bun
For a low bun, use a hair tie to secure the ponytail at the base of the neck. Twist the ponytail into a rope and wrap it around the hair tie, securing the end with a bobby pin. The resulting bun should rest comfortably at the nape of the neck.
High Bun
For a high bun, secure the ponytail high on the head, close to the crown. Twist the ponytail as in the low bun, but wrap it around the hair tie twice or three times to create a tighter, more voluminous bun. The finished bun should sit on top of the head.
Side Bun
For a side bun, create a ponytail on one side of the head. Twist the ponytail and wrap it around the hair tie, as in the previous styles. Secure the end with a bobby pin, and tuck in any loose strands to achieve a neat and polished look.
French Twist
A French twist is a more elaborate bun style that adds a touch of elegance. Divide the hair into three sections: two smaller side sections and a larger middle section. Braid the side sections and tuck them under the middle section. Roll the middle section up into a bun and secure it with bobby pins.
Twisted Bun
For a twisted bun, divide the ponytail into two equal sections. Twist each section in opposite directions, then cross them over each other. Wrap the twisted sections around the hair tie and secure the end with a bobby pin.
Messy Bun
A messy bun is a casual and relaxed style. After gathering the hair into a ponytail, loosely twist it and wrap it around the hair tie. Secure the end, but leave the bun loose and textured for a more laid-back look.
Pinless Bun
For a pinless bun, secure the ponytail with a hair tie. Divide the ponytail into two sections, cross them over each other, and pull the ends of the lower section through the loop created by the upper section. Repeat this process twice to create a tight and secure bun.
Sock Bun
A sock bun is a fun and easy way to achieve a voluminous bun. Take a clean sock and roll it up into a doughnut shape. Place the sock bun over the ponytail and spread the hair over it. Secure the hair with a hair tie and tuck in any loose strands for a polished finish. Create a table with different bun styles and their descriptions:
| Bun Style | Description |
|---|---|
| Low Bun | Secured at the base of the neck, rests comfortably at the nape |
| High Bun | Secured high on the head, sits on top of the head |
| Side Bun | Created on one side of the head, tucks in loose strands |
| French Twist | Divides hair into three sections, rolls up the middle section |
| Twisted Bun | Divides ponytail into two sections, twists each section |
| Messy Bun | Loosely twists hair, leaves bun loose and textured |
| Pinless Bun | Divides ponytail into two sections, pulls ends through loop |
| Sock Bun | Uses a rolled-up sock as a base, spreads hair over it |
Secure with Hairspray
Once you’ve tucked your hair into the donut, it’s time to secure it with hairspray. This will help to keep your bun in place all day long, even if you’re moving around a lot. To apply hairspray, hold the can about 8-10 inches away from your head and spray in short, even bursts. Be sure to get all sides of your bun, and don’t overdo it—you don’t want your hair to look crunchy or stiff.
Tips for Applying Hairspray
- Hold the can about 8-10 inches away from your head.
- Spray in short, even bursts.
- Get all sides of your bun.
- Don’t overdo it.
If you’re worried about your bun coming undone, you can also use bobby pins to secure it. To do this, insert the bobby pins into your bun in a criss-cross pattern. This will help to keep your bun in place even if you’re moving around a lot.
Tips for Using Bobby Pins
- Insert the bobby pins into your bun in a criss-cross pattern.
- Make sure the bobby pins are secure.
- Use as many bobby pins as needed.
Finishing Touches
Once you have secured your bun, there are a few finishing touches you can add to complete the look.
Hairspray
Use a strong-hold hairspray to keep your bun in place all day long. Spray evenly over the bun, making sure to get the underside and any loose hairs.
Bobby Pins
If you have any flyaways or loose hairs, use bobby pins to secure them under the bun. Bobby pins can also be used to reinforce the bun itself, adding extra stability.
Hair Tie
For extra security, you can wrap a hair tie around the base of the bun. This will help to keep the bun from loosening or unraveling.
Headband
A headband can add a touch of style to your military bun. Choose a headband that complements your outfit or hair color.
Bandana
A bandana can be worn around the base of the bun to create a patriotic or stylish look.
Hair Clips
Hair clips can be used to decorate your bun and add a touch of personality. Choose clips that are small and secure, so they don’t get caught in your hair.
| Finishing Touches | Description |
|---|---|
| Hairspray | Keeps the bun in place |
| Bobby Pins | Secures flyaways and loose hairs |
| Hair Tie | Adds extra stability to the bun |
| Headband | Adds style to the bun |
| Bandana | Creates a patriotic or stylish look |
| Hair Clips | Decorates the bun and adds personality |
How To Do A Military Bun
A military bun is a hairstyle that is commonly worn by female members of the military. It is a simple and practical hairstyle that keeps the hair out of the face and neck, making it ideal for active duty. To do a military bun, you will need a hairbrush, a hair tie, and some bobby pins.
Step 1: Brush your hair
Start by brushing your hair to remove any tangles or knots. This will make it easier to style your hair into a bun.
Step 2: Gather your hair into a ponytail
Gather all of your hair into a ponytail at the nape of your neck. Secure the ponytail with a hair tie.
Step 3: Roll the ponytail into a bun
Take the ponytail and roll it up into a bun. Secure the bun with bobby pins.
Step 4: Smooth out the hair
Once the bun is secure, smooth out any flyaways or stray hairs. You can use a hairbrush or a toothbrush to do this.
Step 5: Finish with hairspray
To finish, spray your bun with hairspray to keep it in place.
People Also Ask About How To Do A Military Bun
What is a military bun?
A military bun is a hairstyle that is commonly worn by female members of the military. It is a simple and practical hairstyle that keeps the hair out of the face and neck, making it ideal for active duty.
How do I do a military bun?
To do a military bun, you will need a hairbrush, a hair tie, and some bobby pins. Start by brushing your hair to remove any tangles or knots. Then, gather all of your hair into a ponytail at the nape of your neck and secure it with a hair tie. Next, take the ponytail and roll it up into a bun, securing it with bobby pins. Finally, smooth out any flyaways or stray hairs and finish with hairspray to keep the bun in place.
What are the benefits of a military bun?
A military bun is a simple, practical, and versatile hairstyle that offers a number of benefits. It is easy to do and can be worn with any type of hair. It is also a secure hairstyle that will stay in place all day long, even during strenuous activity. Additionally, a military bun is a professional and polished hairstyle that is appropriate for any occasion.
