Tessa Thompson’s slicked-back bun drew attention as she graced the 2025 Gotham Awards on December 1 in New York City, perfectly complementing her silver Schiaparelli gown. The acclaimed actress wowed attendees and fashion enthusiasts alike with her sophisticated hairstyle and elegant styling, underscoring why her beauty and style choices set trends across Hollywood.
Arriving at the prestigious event, Thompson wore a floor-length silver Schiaparelli dress, paired with Giuseppe Zanotti Intriigo strap sandals and a chic Anatomy Jewelry Micro Bag. Her styling showcased a refined approach, evidenced by her decision to select a polished updo that highlighted the gown’s asymmetrical neckline and her minimal, glowy makeup. The overall look reflected Thompson’s established reputation as one of Hollywood’s most consistently fashionable stars.
The Sleek Bun Styled to Perfection
The focal point of Thompson’s Gotham Awards look was her slicked-back bun, crafted by her regular stylist Lacy Redway. For this appearance, the hairstyle featured a middle-positioned, neat bun with smoothed baby hairs, creating a minimalist and modern effect. By skipping embellishments in her hair, she allowed her bold earring stack and glowing skin to draw the spotlight. This choice not only enhanced the dramatic lines of her Schiaparelli gown but also reinforced her ability to achieve understated glamour with ease.
Her approach followed her signature style, blending simplicity and high-fashion inspiration. Thompson’s styling on this occasion is the latest in a long string of memorable red carpet looks, bolstering her profile among the best-dressed stars and attracting positive attention from fans and the fashion press.
The Enduring Appeal of the Slicked-Back Bun
The slicked-back bun, as worn by Thompson, exemplifies a timeless hairstyle that offers instant polish and versatility. Its universal appeal lies in the fact that it provides a chic and effortless look while requiring minimal styling time—an ideal solution for anyone seeking a put-together appearance without extensive effort. Achieving Thompson’s hairstyle begins with freshly-washed hair, as this makes smoothing and shaping more manageable.
Securing the perfect bun depends on selecting the right products. A high-quality hair gel ensures lasting hold throughout the day or for an entire event, while an ultra-hold option is best reserved for shorter periods due to its strength. For an ultra-sleek finish, hairstyling experts recommend using a boar-bristled brush to refine the hair, and a styling wand can be used to control any stray flyaways.
What Thompson’s Style Means for Future Red Carpet Trends
Tessa Thompson’s headline-making slicked-back bun at the Gotham Awards has set a new standard for red carpet hair, inspiring stylists and fans to embrace its timeless charm. As Hollywood events continue and fashion trends shift, her partnership with Lacy Redway and her affinity for sculptural, elegant looks like this will likely drive even greater popularity for similar hairstyles well into the coming awards season.
