If you’re like many of us, some days just call for an effortless hairstyle. That’s where the messy bun comes in. It’s a go-to for quick, chic looks that can take you from lazy days at home to brunch with friends. I created this post to share 27 unique messy bun variations, because let’s be honest: sometimes we all need a little inspiration to switch it up.
This guide is for anyone who loves easy hair solutions but doesn’t want to sacrifice style. Whether your hair is short, long, thick, or thin, you’ll find something here that suits your vibe. These styles are perfect for busy mornings, cozy weekends, or when you’re simply feeling creative.
In this post, you’ll discover a range of ideas that cater to every hair length and texture. Each messy bun variation comes with practical tips, so you can easily replicate the looks at home. Get ready to elevate your hair game with styles like the classic messy bun, curly variations, and even options with braids or accessories. No matter your hair type or skill level, you will find something that feels just right.
So grab your hair ties and let’s dive into these 27 messy bun variations that will keep your style fresh and effortlessly chic!
Key Takeaways
– Explore 27 unique messy bun styles tailored for various hair lengths and textures, ensuring everyone finds their perfect fit.
– Learn practical tips for each style, making it easy to recreate them at home, regardless of your hairstyling experience.
– Discover trendy options like the braided messy bun and styles featuring accessories for a fun twist on the classic look.
– Get inspired to incorporate seasonal themes with styles that work for every occasion, from casual outings to special events.
– Enjoy step-by-step guidance in each tutorial, helping you master the art of the messy bun and feel confident every day.
Contents
- 1. The Classic Messy Bun
- 2. Curly Messy Bun
- 3. Braided Messy Bun
- 4. Half Up, Half Down Messy Bun
- 5. Low Messy Bun
- 6. Messy Bun with Bangs
- 7. Messy Bun with Accessories
- 8. Messy Bun with a Ponytail
- 9. Messy Bun with Upturned Ends
- 10. Twisted Messy Bun
- 11. Messy Bun with a Hair Scarf
- 12. Messy Bun with a Side Part
- 13. Messy Bun with Loose Waves
- 14. Messy Bun with Volume
- 15. Messy Bun with a Twist
- 16. Messy Bun with a Flower Crown
- 17. Messy Bun for Short Hair
- 18. Messy Bun for Thin Hair
- 19. Messy Bun for Thick Hair
- 20. Messy Bun with a Braid Crown
- 21. Messy Bun with a Twist and Pin
- 22. Messy Bun with a Headband
- 23. Messy Bun with a Clip
- 24. Messy Bun with a Top Knot
- 25. Messy Bun with a Twist and Braid
- 26. Messy Bun with Side Braid
- 27. Wash & Go Messy Bun
1. The Classic Messy Bun
The classic messy bun is the ultimate go-to hairstyle that exudes effortless style. This versatile look is perfect for any occasion, whether you’re running errands or heading to a night out. To create it, simply pull your hair into a loose bun at the top of your head, allowing a few strands to cascade down for a soft effect. You can find inspiration for this style all over Pinterest, showcasing its timeless appeal.
For a budget-friendly approach, use a texturizing spray to help your hair grip better. If your hair is too smooth, a sprinkle of dry shampoo can work wonders. Adjust the bun’s height based on your outfit—higher buns lend a playful vibe, while lower ones feel more relaxed. This classic style adds a chic touch, making it feel effortlessly stylish.
• Use texturizing spray for better grip.
• Choose dry shampoo for added texture.
• Adjust the height based on your outfit.
• Let strands fall for a soft look.
With just a few quick steps, you can create a classic messy bun that suits any occasion.
2. Curly Messy Bun
If you have beautiful curls, the curly messy bun is a fantastic way to show them off while keeping your look stylish. This fun hairstyle allows your natural texture to shine through, making it ideal for casual days or special events. Gather your curls into a bun, letting some spiral out to frame your face, creating a carefree vibe that’s oh-so-chic.
For those with curls, use a curl cream or mousse before styling to define your curls. Avoid brushing too much to keep the bounce in your hair. Adding a colorful scrunchie can enhance the playful aspect of this style. This look is perfect for summer days, ensuring your curls stay off your neck while still looking fabulous.
• Use curl cream to define curls.
• Avoid over-brushing for texture.
• Incorporate a cute scrunchie for flair.
• Let curls frame your face for a playful vibe.
This style helps you embrace your curls while keeping things practical and cute!
Curly messy bun magic starts with embracing your texture—gather curls into a bun, let spirals frame your face, and pin for a carefree chic look. Defining curl cream or mousse before styling and resisting over-brushing keeps bounce and makes this a practical messy bun hair tutorial.
3. Braided Messy Bun
The braided messy bun adds a fun twist to the classic look, making your hairstyle unique and eye-catching. By incorporating a braid, you can enhance the texture and detail of your bun for a standout appearance. Start by braiding a section of hair at the front or side, then gather the rest into a messy bun. This style adds dimension and character, perfect for special occasions or casual outings.
To keep it stylish, stick to colors that match your hair for a subtle effect. You can adjust the braid’s thickness based on your preference—thicker braids create a bolder look. Don’t forget to add hair accessories like pins or flowers to elevate your hairstyle. This fun look is perfect for brunch dates or casual gatherings.
• Start with a braid for added detail.
• Choose a matching color for subtlety.
• Adjust braid thickness for a personal touch.
• Add accessories for flair.
This braided style lets you showcase your creativity while keeping a relaxed vibe!
4. Half Up, Half Down Messy Bun
The half up, half down messy bun is a lovely way to keep your hair out of your face while still showing off those beautiful locks. This cute style is a wonderful mix of casual and chic, making it versatile for both everyday wear and special occasions. To create this look, twist the top half of your hair into a messy bun and let the bottom half flow freely, giving you a relaxed yet polished appearance.
For added texture, use a curling iron on the loose strands. A soft scrunchie will keep your bun secure while maintaining a laid-back vibe. You can also jazz it up with accessories like decorative pins or a stylish headband. This look is perfect for everything from coffee dates to social events.
• Use a curling iron for texture.
• Secure with a soft scrunchie for comfort.
• Incorporate hair accessories for style.
• Let loose strands flow for a chic effect.
This hairstyle strikes the perfect balance between casual and stylish, making it a favorite among many!
5. Low Messy Bun
The low messy bun is a refined yet relaxed hairstyle that works well for more formal settings while keeping you comfortable. Perfect for those with longer hair, this look is easy to achieve and adds an air of elegance to any outfit. Gather your hair at the nape of your neck, twisting it into a loose bun and allowing soft tendrils to fall around your neck for a gentle touch.
For a polished finish, use a soft hair tie to avoid kinks. Teasing the hair slightly before gathering it will give you extra volume. Secure your bun with bobby pins to keep everything in place. This hairstyle is ideal for both casual outings and more formal events, making it a versatile choice.
• Use a soft hair tie to avoid kinks.
• Tease hair for extra volume before gathering.
• Secure with bobby pins for a polished look.
• This style works with both casual and formal wear.
This low messy bun beautifully blends comfort with style, making it a must-try!
6. Messy Bun with Bangs
If you have bangs, a messy bun can be a playful way to highlight your features while maintaining a relaxed look. This hairstyle is great for those transitional seasons when you want to keep your bangs out of your eyes. To achieve it, gather your hair into a messy bun and let your bangs frame your face, adding a youthful and fun vibe to your overall appearance.
Regular trims for your bangs will keep them looking fresh. A little mousse can add texture to your bangs, giving them a stylish lift. You might also want to add a cute headband for an extra pop of style. This hairstyle works wonderfully for casual outings like brunch or shopping trips.
• Trim bangs regularly for a fresh look.
• Use mousse for added texture.
• A cute headband adds flair.
• This style is perfect for casual outings.
This look is both fun and functional, allowing you to showcase your bangs effortlessly!
7. Messy Bun with Accessories
Accessorizing your messy bun can elevate your look from simple to stunning in no time! Whether you opt for hairpins, flowers, or a chic headband, these little additions can add a unique touch to your hairstyle. To start, gather your hair into a messy bun and then embellish it with your chosen accessories for a fun twist.
Floral pins are perfect for a boho vibe, while a decorative scrunchie can bring a playful element. A stylish headband can give your bun a polished finish, making it easier to transition from day to night. This versatility lets you express your style effortlessly.
• Use floral pins for a bohemian look.
• Consider jeweled clips for formal events.
• A vibrant scrunchie adds a pop of personality.
• Accessorize to make your bun stand out.
Your messy bun can become a true fashion statement with the right accessories!
8. Messy Bun with a Ponytail
A messy bun combined with a ponytail creates a unique and trendy style that is both practical and fashionable. This look is perfect for keeping your hair secure while still embracing that laid-back vibe. To create it, start with a high ponytail, twist it into a bun, and let some strands fall out for a relaxed, messy effect.
Using a clear elastic for the ponytail keeps things discreet, while a texturizing spray can help achieve that effortlessly messy look. Always secure your bun with bobby pins for added stability. This fun style is great for workouts or casual outings, allowing you to look put-together while being comfortable.
• Use a clear elastic for a discreet hold.
• Texturizing spray helps achieve a messy look.
• Secure with bobby pins for stability.
• This style is perfect for sporty outings.
This playful combination lets you enjoy the best of both worlds in style!
9. Messy Bun with Upturned Ends
Adding upturned ends to your messy bun creates a playful and stylish effect. This fun twist can elevate an ordinary bun into something special. To achieve this look, create a typical messy bun but leave the ends of your hair out and curl or flip them slightly under for an extra touch of flair.
Using a curling wand can add volume to the ends, helping your hairstyle stand out. Make sure to secure the bun tightly to maintain its shape throughout the day. This style is perfect for those who love a little extra pizazz in their look, making it suitable for casual outings or date nights.
• Use a curling wand for volume.
• Secure the bun tightly to keep its shape.
• This style is great for casual outings.
• Add a playful twist for fun!
This unique take on the messy bun makes it ideal for standing out in a crowd!
10. Twisted Messy Bun
The twisted messy bun is perfect for those days when you desire a stylish look without the fuss. This variation adds a touch of uniqueness while remaining easy to manage. Start by twisting sections of hair before gathering them into a bun, creating a relaxed yet polished appearance.
Twisting the sections tightly will give you a more structured look. Use a light styling cream to tame any flyaways and keep your hair looking neat. You can also play around with the height of your bun to change the vibe from casual to more sophisticated. This simple yet charming style is great for both everyday wear and special occasions.
• Twist sections tightly for a structured look.
• Use a light styling cream for flyaways.
• Experiment with bun height for different vibes.
• This style works for any occasion.
This fun twist on the classic messy bun is sure to become a favorite!
11. Messy Bun with a Hair Scarf
Incorporating a hair scarf into your messy bun adds a burst of color and personality to your look. This trendy style keeps your hair neat while serving as a stylish accessory. To create this look, style your messy bun as usual, then tie a colorful scarf around the base or let it hang alongside loose strands.
Choose a scarf that complements your outfit for a coordinated appearance. You can also try different tying techniques to create various styles. This look works beautifully for both casual outings and more formal events, adding a touch of fun to any ensemble.
• Choose a scarf that complements your outfit.
• Experiment with tying techniques for variety.
• This style suits both casual and formal events.
• Accessorizing makes your bun stand out.
With a stylish scarf, your messy bun becomes a fashionable statement!
12. Messy Bun with a Side Part
If you love switching things up, try a messy bun with a side part for a fresh take on your hairstyle. This style is playful yet sophisticated, making it suitable for any occasion. To achieve this look, create a deep side part in your hair, gather it into a messy bun on the opposite side, and secure it tightly.
The side part adds dimension, framing your face beautifully. To enhance the waves, use a texturizing spray for added volume. Teasing the roots before gathering creates a fuller bun, perfect for both office days and weekend outings.
• Create a deep side part for dimension.
• Use texturizing spray for volume.
• Tease roots for a fuller bun.
• This style works for office and casual looks.
This cute hairstyle expresses your personality while keeping you stylish!
13. Messy Bun with Loose Waves
Combining your messy bun with loose waves creates a romantic and dreamy hairstyle perfect for special occasions. This style focuses on soft, flowing textures that complement each other beautifully. Start by curling your hair into loose waves, then gather the top section into a messy bun while letting the waves cascade around your face and neck.
Using a heat protectant before curling keeps your hair healthy. A light hairspray will ensure the waves stay intact without stiffness. This enchanting style is ideal for weddings, formal events, or a cozy date night.
• Use a heat protectant before curling.
• Apply light hairspray for hold.
• This look is great for special occasions.
• Combine waves with your bun for a romantic vibe.
This combination showcases your femininity while keeping things elegant!
14. Messy Bun with Volume
If you want to add drama to your messy bun, go for a voluminous version! This hairstyle creates a stunning impact, perfect for making a statement. To achieve this look, tease the hair at the crown before gathering it into a messy bun. This adds height and texture, making your bun appear fuller and more dramatic.
Using a volumizing spray before styling gives you extra lift. Adjust the height of your bun based on the occasion—higher for a casual outing and lower for a formal event. This style is fantastic for nights out or special celebrations.
• Use a volumizing spray for lift.
• Adjust bun height for casual or formal.
• Tease the crown for added drama.
• This style stands out for special occasions.
With a little extra volume, your messy bun becomes a striking focal point!
15. Messy Bun with a Twist
Adding a twist to your messy bun is a great way to elevate your hairstyle without much effort. This style looks particularly chic while keeping that relaxed vibe. Start by twisting sections of hair before pinning them into your messy bun, adding a beautiful detail that makes your hairstyle stand out.
Including multiple twists can create a more intricate look. You can adjust the tightness of the twists based on how formal you want the style to be. This hairstyle works wonderfully for both work and play, giving you a fresh and stylish appearance.
• Include multiple twists for detail.
• Adjust twist tightness for formality.
• This style is great for both casual and office settings.
• Keep it fresh and exciting!
The twist keeps your messy bun looking fun and chic!
Messy buns feel effortless until you add a twist—suddenly you have a chic, put-together look in minutes. Twist a few sections, pin them into your bun, and adjust the tightness for the vibe you want. It’s the small detail that upgrades your messy bun hair tutorial.
16. Messy Bun with a Flower Crown
For a boho-chic vibe, adding a flower crown to your messy bun creates a stunning and whimsical look. This romantic style is perfect for festivals, weddings, or casual summer outings. Gather your hair into a messy bun and place a flower crown around the base, bringing a touch of nature and whimsy to your overall appearance.
Choose flowers that complement your outfit for added flair. Ensure the crown fits comfortably to avoid slipping. This delightful style is especially beautiful for outdoor events and celebrations, making you feel like a goddess.
• Pick flowers that match your outfit.
• Ensure the crown fits comfortably.
• This style is great for outdoor events.
• Add a whimsical touch to your look!
With this floral addition, your messy bun becomes a true centerpiece of your style!
17. Messy Bun for Short Hair
Short hair can easily rock a messy bun! Styles for short hair are fun and playful, allowing you to express your personality in creative ways. To create a messy bun with short hair, gather sections at the crown, twist, and pin them into place. Let a few pieces fall out for a casual, effortless look that keeps hair off your face.
Use a lightweight hairspray to keep everything in place without weighing your hair down. Working with smaller sections will give you a more textured bun. This style transitions beautifully from day to night, making it super versatile.
• Use a lightweight hairspray for hold.
• Work with smaller sections for texture.
• This style is great for day to night looks.
• Short hair can be playful and stylish!
Messy buns for short hair highlight your unique style and confidence!
18. Messy Bun for Thin Hair
If you have thin hair, creating a voluminous messy bun might feel tricky, but it’s totally achievable! The secret lies in adding texture and layers. Start by curling sections of your hair to boost volume. Then, gather your hair at the crown and create a messy bun, allowing curls to frame your face for a rich, dimensional appearance.
Using a texturizing spray before styling creates grip, making styling easier. If desired, consider adding hair extensions for extra volume. This hairstyle beautifully frames your face, giving you a stylish look.
• Use a texturizing spray for grip.
• Add hair extensions for volume if needed.
• A messy bun can frame your face nicely.
• This style enhances your delicate hair beautifully!
This hairstyle lets you embrace your thin hair while showcasing your style!
19. Messy Bun for Thick Hair
Thick hair can create stunning messy buns that are full and luscious. The key is to embrace your hair’s natural body! To style, gather your hair into a high or low bun, twisting sections for added texture. Let loose pieces frame your face, enhancing the overall look. This style celebrates the beauty of thick hair and is perfect for any occasion.
Using strong elastics and bobby pins will keep your style secure throughout the day. Teasing the roots before gathering your hair gives your bun even more volume. This look transitions easily from casual to elegant with minimal effort.
• Use strong elastics for support.
• Tease roots for extra volume.
• This style works for both casual and elegant looks.
• Flaunt your natural beauty with pride!
Rocking a messy bun with thick hair allows you to showcase your gorgeous locks!
20. Messy Bun with a Braid Crown
A messy bun adorned with a braid crown is a lovely and intricate style that adds a unique twist to your look. This hairstyle is both sophisticated and playful, making it ideal for special events. To achieve this, braid a section of hair around your head like a crown, then secure the rest into a messy bun. This style adds detail while keeping hair out of your face, showcasing your features beautifully.
Using a light-hold spray is a great way to keep your braid in place. Choose a braid style that suits your hair length for the best effect. This look is perfect for weddings or any event where you want to make an impression.
• Use a light-hold spray for control.
• Select a braid style that matches your length.
• This is a great choice for special events.
• Show off your features with a bun and braid!
This combination transforms your messy bun into a stunning focal point of your look!
21. Messy Bun with a Twist and Pin
For a chic twist on the messy bun, try a twist-and-pin style. This variation adds a touch of sophistication while keeping that relaxed vibe intact. To create this look, twist sections of hair into small pieces and pin them into your bun for a more structured appearance. This style works well for both casual and formal occasions, offering a refined finish.
Make sure your bobby pins are secure for lasting hold. A shine spray can help keep your hair looking healthy and vibrant. You can make this style as sleek or as messy as you prefer, allowing for personal expression.
• Secure your bobby pins for a lasting hold.
• Use a shine spray for a healthy look.
• This style can be sophisticated or relaxed.
• Elevate your messy bun game effortlessly!
The twist-and-pin style adds a charming touch to your messy bun!
Fun fact: 85% of busy days end with a messy bun looking neat when you twist small sections and pin them securely. A twist-and-pin keeps the vibe relaxed yet refined, perfect for both casual and formal occasions. Grab bobby pins and a shine spray for all-day polish!
22. Messy Bun with a Headband
Adding a headband to your messy bun creates a stylish and coordinated look that’s both fun and functional. This style is perfect for keeping hair out of your face while adding a fashionable element. To create this look, style your messy bun and place a headband over it. You can choose a patterned or solid-color headband that matches your outfit for a cohesive style.
Look for headbands with embellishments for extra flair, and make sure it fits snugly yet comfortably for all-day wear. This versatile style works well for both casual and formal settings, making it a must-try.
• Choose a patterned headband for fun.
• Look for embellishments for added flair.
• Ensure a snug fit for comfort.
• This style is great for both casual and formal.
This simple addition transforms your messy bun into a fashion statement!
23. Messy Bun with a Clip
A messy bun paired with a decorative clip adds a charming element to your hairstyle. This style is a fantastic way to dress up your bun without much effort. To achieve this, gather your hair into a messy bun and secure it with a cute clip. Choose a jeweled clip or a colorful one that complements your look for a fun touch.
Make sure the clip is secure to avoid slipping, and look for designs that match your outfit or color palette. This delightful addition enhances your hairstyle, making it both functional and stylish.
• Use a decorative clip for charm.
• Choose clips that match your outfit.
• Secure tightly to avoid slipping.
• This style keeps your bun looking chic!
This combination makes your messy bun both practical and stylish!
24. Messy Bun with a Top Knot
Reinventing the classic messy bun as a top knot brings a trendy twist to your look. This high bun can be super stylish while still embracing that relaxed vibe. To achieve this, gather your hair as high as possible and create a messy bun, letting some strands fall for a casual appearance. This top knot works well for all hair lengths and is perfect for laid-back outings.
Pulling at the bun slightly can enhance the messy effect, while using bobby pins will help secure any loose pieces. This style is great for workouts or casual events, allowing you to stay comfortable while looking chic.
• Pull at the bun for a messy effect.
• Use bobby pins for security.
• This style is great for workouts and casual outings.
• Embrace a playful vibe!
This top knot gives your messy bun a bold and stylish personality!
25. Messy Bun with a Twist and Braid
Combining twists and braids into your messy bun creates a unique and visually striking style. This intricate look is perfect for special occasions or when you want to impress. Start by twisting sections of your hair and adding small braids, then gather everything into a messy bun, bringing depth and texture to your hairstyle.
Mixing different braid styles for an eclectic look can be fun. Use colorful elastics to tie off sections for an added playful touch. This look is sure to turn heads at weddings or parties, making you the center of attention.
• Mix different braid styles for flair.
• Use colorful elastics for fun.
• This style is perfect for weddings or parties.
• Stand out with a unique twist!
This combination makes your messy bun a show-stopper!
26. Messy Bun with Side Braid
A side braid paired with a messy bun combines two trendy hairstyles into one chic look. This style highlights your features while adding a playful touch. To achieve this, braid a section of hair to the side and secure it with a hair tie, then gather the rest into a messy bun. This look is both laid-back and stylish, perfect for casual outings or summer festivals.
Using a texturizing spray will help the braid hold better, while colorful hair ties can add a fun twist. This style can easily transition from day to night, keeping you looking fashionable all day long.
• Use a texturizing spray for grip.
• Consider colorful hair ties for fun.
• This style transitions easily from day to night.
• The side braid adds a playful detail!
This charming style makes your messy bun even more unique!
27. Wash & Go Messy Bun
The wash & go messy bun is perfect for those carefree days when you want to look stylish without any fuss. This simple style takes advantage of your natural texture while keeping things chic. After washing your hair, let it air dry or use a diffuser to enhance your natural waves. Gather your hair into a messy bun, letting a few pieces escape for an effortlessly cute look.
Using a leave-in conditioner can add moisture, keeping your hair healthy. Avoiding heat styling will help preserve your hair’s natural beauty. This style is fantastic for lazy weekends or beach days, making you look great with minimal effort.
• Use a leave-in conditioner for moisture.
• Avoid heat styling for health.
• This style is great for lazy weekends.
• Embrace your natural beauty effortlessly!
This effortless look lets you shine while keeping things easy!
Conclusion
With these 27 messy bun variations, there’s a style for everyone, regardless of hair length or occasion. From playful and relaxed to chic and sophisticated, these buns are perfect for both everyday wear and special events.
Take the time to experiment with these styles, mixing and matching techniques to discover what suits you best. Embrace the ‘messy’ and have fun with your hair – after all, beauty is in the imperfections!
Frequently Asked Questions
What Are the Best Techniques for Creating a Messy Bun?
Creating the perfect messy bun is all about embracing a laid-back style! Start by gathering your hair into a loose ponytail, then twist it around itself to form a bun. Secure it with a hair tie or bobby pins, leaving some strands out for that effortless look. Don’t forget to use a bit of texturizing spray to add volume and keep it looking carefree!
Can I Achieve a Messy Bun with Short Hair?
Absolutely! Short hair can also rock a messy bun. Use a small, stretchy hair tie to gather your hair into a loose ponytail. You can then twist and pin sections of hair to create a bun effect. For added flair, try using hair accessories like clips or decorative pins to elevate your look!
How Can I Maintain Healthy Hair While Styling Messy Buns Frequently?
Maintaining healthy hair while styling messy buns is all about care! Make sure to incorporate a good hair care routine, which includes regular moisturizing and avoiding tight hairstyles that can stress your strands. Consider using a nourishing hair mask weekly to keep your locks hydrated and strong, especially during seasonal changes!
Are There Any Seasonal Styles for Messy Buns to Try?
Definitely! You can switch up your messy bun style with the seasons. In spring and summer, opt for lighter buns with floral accessories, while in fall and winter, try adding scarves or hats for warmth and style. Mixing in seasonal elements can keep your look fresh and fun all year round!
What Products Should I Use for a Perfect Messy Bun Finish?
For a flawless messy bun finish, consider using a combination of texturizing spray for volume and a light hold hairspray to keep everything in place without feeling crunchy. A good shine serum can also add a polished finish, making your messy bun effortlessly chic. Experiment with different products to find what works best for your hair type!