Two hairstyles every woman should know

The impromptu date. The quickie interview. Day-old hair. All of these are great reasons to master a great updo. But before running for the curling iron and super hold hairspray, consider two classics: the ponytail and the chignon or “bun.”

While these looks may not seem too out of the ordinary, when done neatly — but without looking “done” — they are the perfect way to add a chic finishing touch to any look.

Once considered only appropriate for gym class, the ponytail is appearing on the red carpet as recently as the premier of “He’s Just Not That Into You,” as sported by Jennifer Aniston.

A ponytail is a simple look because it can be done several ways. The key is to keep it slick and frizz-free for more formal occasions. Don’t think the wet look either. It should look neat but still effortless and clean.

Pulled straight back at the middle of the back of the head, the look can be finished with a headband. Or, part hair to the side and place the ponytail at the nape of the neck. Either way, the hair can be curled or straight, and leave any teasing and loose pieces for more casual situations.

A chignon is a go-to look for stylists because it is simple, clean and undoubtedly chic. This style looks best either low on the back of the head, not quite to the nape, or right at the middle of the back of the head. Lower is typically easier to work with, but make sure you don’t go too low and mess with the natural line of your neck so it remains flattering. Up to the crown and it looks a little too ballerina.

One look is to part the hair to the side and pull into a ponytail at a position you like. Using spray gel (see tips below) lightly mist the hair in the ponytail, divide into three sections and braid. Straight or wavy hair works best, but keep it dry. Secure the end with a small, clear rubber band. Wrap the hair around the main rubber band, securing with bobby pins as you go. Tuck the end under the bun and secure with a pin.

The same chignon can be done without a braid. Just spray the ponytail with gel and twist the ponytail and wrap it around the bun and secure.

To keep the chignon from looking too tight, let any natural bangs fall down and any shorter pieces to frame the face. Pull up at the hair pulled into the ponytail on the scalp — not touching the bun — slightly to create any desired volume or, again, prevent a too-stiff look.

Top off any look with a misting of hairspray to prevent frizz and hold in place. Chic hair never goes out of style.

Style tips:

Use a rubber band and bobby pins that match your hair color. They will blend in and make the style look seamless.

When using bobby pins to secure loose pieces, bend then to a curve to follow the curve of your scalp. This way, you avoid the awkward protruding wire coming from your head.

A half-inch thick section of hair can be left out to wrap around a ponytail to conceal a rubber band. Just tuck the end into the rubber band underneath the ponytail with a bobby pin.

Personally, for styling I prefer a spray gel for making a bun. The gel controls frizz and helps hold the style, and is much easier to manage when sprayed in a fine mist as opposed to a glop of gel. No more clumps. Garnier Fructis makes a great one.