When Margot Robbie stepped out at the London premiere of A Big Bold Beautiful Journey on Friday night in a barely-there, beaded Giorgio Armani gown, jaws dropped—and for good reason. But as stunning as the dress was, it was her beauty choice that truly elevated the look, delivering a flawless finishing touch.
For a gown that makes such a statement, the hair needed to stay elegantly understated yet polished—and hairstylist Bryce Scarlett did just that with a wrapped bun, one of autumn’s hottest hair trends. Soft ribbons of Robbie’s hair were artfully coiled around a sleek bun perched at the crown of her head, effortlessly balancing elegance and ease.
The wrapped bun has quickly become a red-carpet favorite. Celebrities from Simone Ashley to Dakota Johnson, Eve Hewson, Margaret Qualley, and Lindsay Lohan have all embraced the style in recent months. What sets it apart is the “wrapped” element, which elevates a traditional bun into something modern and fresh. Hairstylist Halley Brisker, who coined the term, calls it an “upscale bun,” highlighting how small details can make a big difference.
“I often find standard buns or chignons a little underwhelming,” Brisker explains. “The wrapped bun brings texture and visual interest while keeping everything sleek and refined.”
Though it’s a red-carpet favorite, the wrapped bun is versatile enough for any occasion that calls for a polished finish—from a romantic dinner date in a slinky camisole dress to a chic wedding day look. “You can make it as formal or relaxed as you like,” Brisker adds.
Robbie’s version leaned into intricate weaving and refined detail, while Brisker’s simpler take focuses on a glossy finish, perfectly wrapped strands, and zero flyaways. Meanwhile, Mark Townsend recently gave Dakota Johnson a more relaxed, tousled version at the Kering Foundation’s Caring for Women dinner, proving the style adapts beautifully to different aesthetics.
Despite its elevated appearance, the wrapped bun is surprisingly straightforward to achieve. “You can place it high at the crown or centered on the back of the head—just not too low at the nape,” Brisker advises. “Start with a ponytail, twist it once into a chignon, pin it, then wrap the remaining lengths flat around the base and secure.”
The secret? Lots of hairspray and sturdy French pins—these ensure even fine, silky strands stay in place. “It works best on hair longer than shoulder length and with minimal layers,” Brisker notes. “Finish with a flat, natural-bristle brush to smooth everything down without snagging.”
Whether you’re aiming for ultra-glam or casually chic, the wrapped bun is proof that a small twist—or wrap—can make a huge impact.
