Mikey Madison turned heads on the 2025 Oscars red carpet with a polished yet modern take on the slicked-back bun, a hairstyle often plagued by the perennial challenge of unruly baby hairs. But Madison’s look, crafted by renowned hairstylist Rena Calhoun, solved this age-old issue with a flawless, fresh approach.
Madison’s sleek bun was perfectly balanced with a center part and finger-tousled texture, but what truly set it apart were the free-floating baby hairs. These delicate strands, often a source of frustration for many, were intentionally styled to add a relaxed yet sophisticated flair to the overall look. “A brush almost creates too much smoothness, so I just use my hands and a little bit of hairspray to blow dry them [into place],” Calhoun explained exclusively to [publication].
The key tool behind this sleek perfection was the Shark Beauty FlexFusion Styler, which Calhoun used for a rough dry. Paired with the Shark Beauty Wet or Dry Fusion Brush, the combination of texture spray and a concentrated nozzle provided just the right amount of grip for the hair. The finished product was a well-defined, elegant bun that effortlessly held its shape throughout the evening.
To refine the style, Calhoun spritzed Bumble and Bumble Spray de Mode while pulling strands into place, ensuring every piece of hair was meticulously arranged. The result was a look that struck the perfect balance between old Hollywood glamour and modern chic.
Madison’s hairstyle was inspired by vintage starlets from the Golden Age of Hollywood, echoing a Dior dress she wore that was a modern reinterpretation of a 1950s classic. “We wanted the hair to have a level of modernity while still honoring the vintage inspiration,” Calhoun shared.
For anyone looking to replicate Madison’s flawless look, the secret lies in the right tools and a delicate touch—achieving smoothness without overdoing it. Whether you’re prepping for a red carpet event or aiming to elevate your everyday style, this slicked-back bun has set a new standard for sleek sophistication.
