The Star Wars universe is as much a triumph of costume design and hairstyling as it is of storytelling and special effects. From the regal, ornate designs of the Naboo royalty to the practical, rugged looks of the Resistance, the hair of the galaxy far, far away has inspired generations of fans. While some of the more avant-garde looks—like Queen Amidala’s massive headpieces—require a team of professional stylists and hours of prep, many of the most iconic looks are surprisingly accessible.
Whether you are preparing for a convention, a movie marathon, or just want to bring a little bit of the Force into your daily routine, these six hairstyles are designed to be recreated at home with minimal tools and effort.
1. Rey’s Buns
Rey’s “triple bun” look from The Force Awakens became an instant classic because it is both visually striking and incredibly functional. It keeps hair completely out of the face—perfect for scavenging on Jakku or running errands in the city.
- How to Style:
- Section the Hair: Divide your hair horizontally into three equal sections: top, middle, and bottom.
- Create Ponytails: Secure each section into a small ponytail in the center of the back of your head, stacked vertically.
- The “Loop” Method: On the final pass of the hair tie for each ponytail, don’t pull the hair all the way through. Leave it in a loop.
- Wrap and Pin: Take the tail ends of the hair and wrap them around the base of the loop to hide the elastic. Secure with a bobby pin.
- Texture: Gently pull at the loops to make them appear fuller and “messier” for that authentic scavenger aesthetic.
2. Space Buns
Princess Leia Organa’s “cinnamon rolls” are perhaps the most recognizable hairstyle in cinematic history. While the original look used heavy hairpieces, you can achieve a modern, wearable version using your natural hair or a couple of “hair donuts.”
- How to Style:
- The Part: Use a rat-tail comb to create a crisp, straight part down the center of your head from the forehead to the nape of the neck.
- High Pigtails: Secure each side into a high ponytail located just above and behind the ears.
- Twist and Coil: Twist one ponytail tightly until it begins to curl upon itself. Coil it around the base of the hair tie.
- Secure: Use several bobby pins to anchor the bun flat against your head. Repeat on the other side.
- Smooth: Use a touch of hairspray or pomade to smooth down any flyaways for a more “royal” finish.
3. Warrior Braids
Inspired by characters like Fennec Shand and Bo-Katan Kryze, the warrior braid is all about power and precision. It combines the sleekness of a high ponytail with the texture of intricate braiding.
- How to Style:
- High Pony: Pull your hair into a tight, high ponytail at the crown. Use a fine-tooth comb to ensure the sides are smooth.
- Divide: Split the ponytail into three or four sections, depending on your comfort level with braiding.
- The Braid: Create a tight Dutch or fishtail braid down the length of the ponytail. If you want the “Fennec” look, incorporate a thin orange or brown ribbon into one of the strands.
- Finish: Secure the bottom with a clear elastic. For extra detail, wrap a small section of hair around the top elastic to hide it.
4. Messy Bun
Jyn Erso’s look in Rogue One is the epitome of “rebel chic.” It’s meant to look lived-in, slightly unkempt, and entirely practical for someone infiltrating a high-security Imperial base.
- How to Style:
- Prep with Texture: Start with “second-day hair” or use a sea salt spray to give your hair some grit and volume.
- Low Gather: Gather your hair at the nape of your neck as if you are making a low ponytail.
- The Twist: Twist the hair loosely and wrap it into a low bun. Do not worry about making it perfect; asymmetry is your friend here.
- Pin and Pull: Secure with a few pins. Gently tug at the hair on the top of your head to create volume.
- Face-Framing: Pull out a few wispy strands around the ears and temples to soften the look and give it that “just survived a battle” vibe.
5. Half-Up Braids
This style draws inspiration from Padmé Amidala’s more relaxed “lake retreat” looks and the hairstyles seen on Naboo. It’s elegant, feminine, and keeps the hair out of your eyes while letting the length flow.
- How to Style:
- Section the Top: Take a section of hair from above each ear and bring it toward the back.
- Dual Braids: Create two small French braids or simple three-strand braids starting from the hairline and moving toward the center of the back of your head.
- Connect: Join the two braids together at the back with a small elastic or a decorative metallic clip.
- Waves: Use a curling iron to add loose, beachy waves to the hair that is left hanging down to enhance the ethereal Naboo aesthetic.
6. Padawan Braid
The Padawan braid is the ultimate symbol of a Jedi in training. While traditionally worn by those with shorter hair or shaved heads in the movies, it can be easily integrated into any hairstyle as a subtle nod to the fandom.
- How to Style:
- The Placement: Select a small, half-inch section of hair from behind your right ear.
- Braid Tight: Create a simple, very tight three-strand braid all the way to the ends.
- Add Detail: Jedi apprentices use bands to signify their progress. You can mimic this by placing small, colorful rubber bands or metallic “hair jewelry” rings at various points along the braid.
- Integration: Leave the rest of your hair down or in a simple ponytail, letting the single braid hang prominently to the side.
Final Tips for Galactic Style
To make these styles last through a long day of adventuring (or work), keep these tips in mind:
- Use Dry Shampoo: Many of these styles benefit from the extra “grip” that dry shampoo provides, especially the buns.
- Bobby Pin Technique: For the space buns and Rey knots, cross two bobby pins in an “X” shape to provide a much stronger hold.
- Accessories Matter: Adding small metallic rings, leather cords, or even wooden beads can transform a standard braid into something that looks like it belongs in a galaxy far, far away.
