Tessa Thompson slicked-back bun was the talk of the evening as the acclaimed actress made her entrance at the 2025 Gotham Awards, held on December 1 in New York City. Stepping onto the scene in a striking silver gown from Schiaparelli, she complemented her fashion-forward outfit with signature accessories and a flawless hairstyle that quickly captured widespread attention.
The red carpet at the 35th Gotham Film Awards became a showcase for Thompson’s distinct sense of style. Her ensemble included a pair of Giuseppe Zanotti Intriigo strap sandals and a petite Schiaparelli Anatomy Jewelry Micro Bag, underscoring her commitment to sophisticated, modern elegance. With this glamorous display, she reinforced her reputation as one of Hollywood’s most consistently best-dressed stars.
A Closer Look at Thompson’s Signature Sleek Updo
Powdering the spotlight once again was Thompson’s go-to stylist, Lacy Redway, who crafted the minimal and structured updo for the evening. The hairstyle, a sleek slicked-back bun, featured neatly swooped baby hairs and a tidy bun placed at the center of her head. Notably, there were no additional hair accessories, instead letting her curated earring stack and skincare-focused makeup shine alongside her sculptural dress by Schiaparelli.
This minimalist approach allowed her natural beauty and stylish jewelry to take center stage, demonstrating why Thompson is frequently cited as a trendsetter on the red carpet. Her choice of hairstyle made for a harmonious and memorable look that perfectly matched the sophisticated tone of the Gotham Awards.
Why the Slicked-Back Bun Remains a Styling Staple
The slicked-back bun is a hairstyle renowned for its timeless appeal and effortless polish, repeatedly chosen by celebrities for high-profile appearances. Regardless of how it’s styled, this versatile look instantly communicates elegance, confidence, and a sense of ease—a reason why it remains a go-to among stars like Tessa Thompson. It’s also prized for being quick and attainable with the right hair products, appealing to anyone eager for a chic style in minutes.
The 2025 Gotham Awards wasn’t the only occasion where Thompson has showcased variations of the slicked-back style. She’s previously made headlines at New York Fashion Week with particularly sleek buns, and has embraced other classic hairstyles, such as the ‘50s side part, further cementing her influence in the worlds of beauty and fashion. Paloma Elsesser has also received praise for her own mastery of the slicked-back bun, testifying to the ongoing popularity of this iconic hairdo.
Tips on Achieving a Thompson-Inspired Slicked-Back Bun
Securing Tessa Thompson’s polished look starts with freshly-washed hair, which provides the ideal base for smooth styling. For all-day hold, hairstylists recommend choosing a reliable hair gel that keeps everything in place, even through long events or appearances. If extra strength is required—such as for brief but intense occasions—a strong-hold gel can ensure every strand stays sleek, though users may notice tightness by evening’s end.
A boar-bristled brush is essential for crafting that smooth, flyaway-free finish. To complete the look, a specialty styling wand can be used to tame any lingering stray hairs and lock in the style. With these products and careful technique, anyone can recreate the effortless sophistication of Tessa Thompson’s now-iconic slicked-back bun.
Thompson’s Ongoing Influence on Red Carpet Fashion
Tessa Thompson’s unforgettable appearance at the Gotham Awards highlights how the slicked-back bun continues to inspire trends across Hollywood and beyond. By opting for simplicity and elegance in both her hairstyle and overall ensemble, she sets an example that resonates with fans, stylists, and the fashion community. This event not only reinforced her status as a red carpet style icon, but also confirmed the enduring popularity of classic, beautifully executed hair looks as fixtures on the world’s biggest stages.
