Beautiful side-swept chignon hairstyle, plus a DIY hair accessory that elevates the look.
Chignon hair, don’t care! This tutorial shows a messy, side-swept chignon and includes a quick DIY for a bold copper hair accessory I’ve been loving. It’s an easy two-in-one: a simple updo that works in minutes and a statement clip you can make for less than $5.
I’ve been noticing large metal circles in jewelry lately and love how minimal they look. That inspired a hair clip version that complements almost any updo—dressy enough for a wedding, but just as striking with casual outfits.
After finishing the copper accessory, Rachel styled the hair to pair perfectly with the clip. Below are clear steps for the chignon and a short DIY for the copper accent.
Chignon Hair Tutorial
This messy side-swept chignon is forgiving and works especially well on second-day hair. If your hair is freshly washed or feels too soft, a texturizing spray will help create grip and hold.
We used a dry texture spray for added hold and volume.
1. Secure your hair.
Gather your hair into a low pony at the nape of your neck, slightly off-center so you’ll have space for the hair accessory.
2. Tease the pony.
Lightly tease the pony for a bit of volume—don’t overdo it; you want a relaxed, natural texture. Then split the ponytail into two sections.
3. Wrap and bobby pin.
Loosely wrap the first section around the base and secure it with a bobby pin. Take the second section, wrap it around the first, and pin it into place. This forms a soft bun shape. Add extra bobby pins where needed to keep everything secure.
4. Add the hair accessory.
Finish by clipping on your DIY copper accessory to one side of the bun for a chic, modern accent.
DIY Copper Statement Hair Accessory
Materials
- One 2 7/8-inch copper round (a plain copper disc works best)
- An alligator hair clip
- Strong adhesive or super glue
Instructions
This is very simple: apply a generous amount of strong glue to the back of the alligator clip, press it firmly onto the copper round, and let it dry according to the glue manufacturer’s directions. Once fully cured, the clip is ready to wear.
Tips & variations
- For a polished look, buff the copper slightly before attaching the clip. For a vintage finish, let it naturally patina over time.
- These copper rounds are versatile—use them to make necklaces, earrings, or even shoe clips if you want more accessories in the same style.
Looking for more quick hairstyles?
- Crown braids that are fast and beginner-friendly.
- Curly hair updos you can create in five minutes or less.
- A classic French twist done in about a minute for a refined look.
- A braided bun combo perfect for special occasions year-round.
Hair and photography by Rachel Brewer
Modeling by Amelia Tatnall
Chignon Hair Tutorial
Brittni
Ingredients
- Texturized hair (optional)
- Bobby pins
Instructions
- Secure your hair in a low pony at the nape of your neck, slightly to one side for the accessory.
- Lightly tease the pony and split it into two sections.
- Loosely wrap the first section and secure with a bobby pin. Wrap the second section around it and pin to create a soft bun; add pins where needed.
- Finish by attaching the copper hair accessory to one side of the bun.
Notes
Did you make this?
Share your version and tag the project to show how it turned out.
What do you think? Do you like this minimalist metal-accent look?
P.S. The copper rounds are versatile—use them for necklaces, earrings, or shoe clips. I already made a necklace version and might share that DIY later if you’re interested.