How to Recreate Janelle Monáe’s Retro Twisted Low Bun

Janelle Monáe’s signature glamour often nods to vintage silhouettes, and her retro twisted low bun is a lesson in polished restraint. Whether you’ve spotted the style on the red carpet or want a refined updo for evening, the look balances structure and softness — achievable at home with the right technique and a few reliable tools.

Why the retro twisted low bun works

The appeal of this bun lies in its simplicity and versatility. It reads classic without feeling fussy, suits a wide range of hair textures and lengths, and translates equally well from formal events to smart-casual outings. The twist gives the shape visual interest and helps the style sit close to the head, which makes it remarkably long-lasting when pinned correctly.

Tools and products you’ll need

Preparation is half the result. Gather these essentials before you begin:

• Fine-tooth comb and paddle brush — for smoothing and detangling.
• Elastic bands (covered if possible) and bobby pins matching your hair colour.
• Smoothing cream or lightweight gel to tame flyaways without stiffness.
• Texturising spray or dry shampoo (optional) for grip, especially on freshly washed hair.
• Flexible-hold hairspray to set the style while retaining a natural finish.

Step-by-step: creating a twisted low bun

This step-by-step keeps the technique straightforward and adaptable. Adjust the size of the twist and the tightness of the bun to suit your face shape and occasion.

• Prep the hair: Work a pea-sized amount of smoothing cream through damp or dry hair to reduce frizz. If your hair is very clean and slippery, a little texturising spray at the roots and lengths will give grip.
• Create your part: Decide on a centre or deep side part. The part you choose will affect how the bun frames your face — a centre part reads timeless, a side part feels more vintage-glam.
• Form a low ponytail: Gather hair at the nape and secure with an elastic. Keep the pony tight enough to be secure but not so tight it flattens the natural shape.
• Divide and twist: Split the ponytail into two sections. Twist each section away from the face and then wrap them around each other, or twist both towards each other and coil them into a bun depending on the look you prefer.
• Pin securely: Tuck the ends under the coil and secure with bobby pins. Insert pins with the wave side down for extra grip and anchor them into the base of the ponytail so the bun sits close to the head.
• Refine and finish: Smooth any flyaways with a tiny amount of smoothing cream on your fingertips, then mist with flexible-hold hairspray. For a softer, more romantic finish, gently loosen a few face-framing strands or pull at the top to create slight volume.

Adaptations for different hair types

One of the strengths of this style is how easily it adapts:

• Fine hair: Use a volumising spray at the roots before creating the ponytail. If you want more body, backcomb the crown lightly or wrap a small bun donut in the ponytail before twisting.
• Thick hair: Work in sections when twisting to keep the coil tidy. Use stronger pins and consider two elastics — one to secure the initial ponytail and another closer to the base of the bun for extra hold.
• Curly or textured hair: Embrace texture by smoothing only at the root and allowing the twisted sections to retain some natural movement. Use pins generously; textured hair often holds styles well without many products.

Finishing touches and long-wear tips

To keep the bun looking fresh all day or night:

• Anchor at least four pins around the bun’s base — two diagonal and two horizontal — to prevent rotation.
• Carry a travel-sized hairspray or a few spare bobby pins if you’ll be out for many hours.
• If you need more polish, lightly run a toothbrush sprayed with hairspray over stubborn flyaways for a refined finish.

Takeaway

The retro twisted low bun is a low-fuss, high-impact style: modestly structured yet surprisingly adaptable. With minimal tools, some smoothing product and secure pinning, you can recreate Janelle Monáe’s signature elegance at home — and tailor it to suit any hair type or occasion.