Best for: To achieve a dense bun, thick hair is important, but any texture with a smooth blowout will work, says Abby Schlenger from the Marie Robinson Salon in New York City.

Schlenger's how-to: Start by running a smoothing cream with shine (like Tigi Rockaholic Rock My World Stellar Smoothing Cream, $13.99) through blown-out hair. Secure a high ponytail on top of the head, and separate the ponytail into two separate sections. Take one section and wrap it around the base to create a classic bun shape. Wrap the second piece around the base, lifting the bun up to create this interesting stacked look.

Best for: To get this undone look, start with a smooth texture, says Jasmin Robles, stylist at Meche Salon.

Robles' how-to: Blow out your hair until smooth, and use a large curling iron to create bounce and texture. Then, add some dry shampoo so hair isn't "clean," since freshly washed hair needs more texture to hold a hairstyle. Gather your hair into a low ponytail (always leave out a piece of hair to wrap around the rubber band -- it makes your style look clean, chic and professional). Wrap your hair tie once around the ponytail and then pull up into a loose bun. Pin to secure.

Best for: Medium to long hair. Meche Salon stylist Katsumi Kasai says that this look is super-easy, so even the hairstyle-challenged can pull it off.

Kasai's how-to: Simply flip your head upside down and gather your hair into a ponytail on the top of your head. Be sure to put the ponytail at the very top of your head -- you want to be able to see this style from the front. Loosely twist your ponytail around its base and use U-pins (they're similar to bobby pins, but a little bit wider) to secure. It doesn't have to be perfect. Pull a few pieces of hair out at the base of your hairline near your ears to softly frame the face.

Best for: Longer, thicker hair, says Schlenger.

Schlenger's how-to: Brush hair back and secure in a high ponytail. Add hair extensions to your ponytail if you want to amp up the bun. (We love Hair U Wear Dancing with the Stars Put On Pieces Glamarama, $20.) Lightly backcomb the ponytail to create texture in the bun and loosely wrap hair around the base, letting the bun expand and slightly flatten. If you are using extensions, wrap your hair around the added piece. Secure with pins and spritz with hairspray.

Best for: Smooth textures, but varying hair lengths will work, says Schelnger.

Schlenger's how-to: The trick with this look is to not worry about perfection. Start with a higher ponytail in the back of the head. Work with small sections of the ponytail, wrapping them up and securing them haphazardly with pins at the base. Allow loose ends to fall naturally. Pull hair out of the ponytail to frame the face and finish the perfect "messy bun " look.