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    1. Beauty
    2. Hair

    Presenting, More Proof That Tessa Thompson Is the Queen of the Sleek Bun

    It truly takes skill.

    Danielle Jackson#039;s avatar
    By Danielle Jackson
    Published 3 March 2026 In News

    When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. Here’s how it works.

    a black woman with long braids posing in front of a grassy background
    (Image credit: Getty Images)
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    I'm convinced that all of my problems would be solved if I could get my bun to look as sleek and perfect as Tessa Thompson's.

    The Hedda actress was spotted out on New York City on March 2 after attending the New York Theatre Workshop Benefit Gala. While out, she was pictured looking like the ultimate cool girl in an all-black suit with a high-neck, cream blouse underneath along with a matching scarf that she wrapped around her waist. But, to me, the only thing chicer than her outfit was her hair. I consider Tessa Thompson to be the queen of the sleek bun, but this wasn't just any sleek bun. Her hair was blown out to a silky smooth texture before it was pulled up into a high bun with a middle part and piece-y side bangs on either side of her face.

    a black woman with dark hair posing for paparazzi in front of a hotel

    Tessa Thompson spotted out in New York City on March 2.

    (Image credit: Getty Images)

    No hairstyle is more practical or tried-and-true than a slick bun. It's one of those styles that's fitting for any occasion, from elegant, red carpet affairs to low-key outings, not to mention that a bun will always look good whether it's messy or slicked down. You also don't need to have blessed fingers to achieve the look at home, so if a bun is your only option when you're working with second or third day hair, or if you need a quick style that'll keep your hair off your shoulders for a bit, read ahead to shop some sleek bun essentials.

    Prima Titanium Flat Iron 1 Inch

    BaBylissPRO
    Prima Titanium Flat Iron 1 Inch
    $95
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    If your hair is thicker or curlier, use a titanium flat iron to get your hair as silky as possible.

    Platinum Silkening Gloss

    Kenra Professional
    Platinum Silkening Gloss
    $29
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    A few pumps of this gloss will add some extra shine to your hair while also ensuring a frizz-free finish.

    Style + Treatamp;trade; Hair Styling Sleek Stick

    Briogeo
    Style + Treat Hair Styling Sleek Stick
    $23
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    Grab this gentle wax stick to slick down the hair around the perimeter of your head.

    Perfect Flexible Hold Hair Spray

    JVN
    Perfect Flexible Hold Hair Spray
    $29
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    Finish up with a hairspray that'll hold everything together without hardening too much or causing flaking.

    Pequi Flyaway Gel

    Ceremonia
    Pequi Flyaway Gel
    $18
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    Keep this travel-friendly gel in your bag in case you need to give yourself touchups to get rid of stray hairs and flyaways.

    Marie Claire Newsletter

    Celebrity news, beauty, fashion advice, and fascinating features, delivered straight to your inbox!

    By submitting your information you agree to the Terms Conditions and Privacy Policy and are aged 16 or over.
    Danielle Jackson
    Danielle Jackson
    Social Links Navigation
    Former Senior Beauty Writer

    Danielle Jackson is the former senior beauty writer at Marie Claire. She has nearly a decade of experience covering beauty, lifestyle, and entertainment and was previously the senior beauty editor at Women's Health, where she thoughtfully covered topics related to skincare, haircare, aesthetics, and wellness. Before that, she spent three years as an assistant beauty editor at PS, and in the years since, her work has appeared in titles like Vogue, InStyle, Glamour, and more. Danielle graduated from the University of Georgia with a BA in English, and has lived in Brooklyn for almost ten years. When she's not writing, you can find her reading romance novels and talking about sunscreen. You can find her on Instagram @danielleknecole.

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