15 Messy Bun Looks For When You Don't Feel Like Looking Overly Put Together
Remember when Meghan Markle's messy bun caused a royal frenzy? Just like her, we all have those days when the snooze button gets the best of us or the clock just seems to be conspiring against our shower plans. Fear not, because the messy bun is here to save the day. It's the ultimate go-to get-up when you want to rock a laid-back look without sacrificing style points. Trust us, you'll look like you just stepped out of a street-style Instagram page (even if you barely had time to brush your teeth).
But here's the best part: messy buns are not just for lazy days at home. They're versatile enough to accompany you on any adventure life throws your way. From casual brunches with your besties to important meetings at the office, these hairstyles strike the perfect balance between nonchalance and sophistication. Who says you can't have it all?
We've curated a collection of 15 messy bun looks that will have you falling messy-bunned head over heels. These hairstyles are like chameleons, adapting effortlessly to any occasion, like a Parisian-style dinner party, hitting the gym, or just running errands. Wave goodbye to those overly-polished hairstyles and embrace the messy bun revolution.
Effortless allure: sophisticated ballerina bun
This chic hairstyle is all about achieving that perfect balance between poise and effortlessness, like taking the grace of a prima ballerina and giving it a playful twist. This hairstyle is great for those times when you want to elevate your look without sacrificing comfort and is versatile enough to accompany you from a day at the office to a night on the town.
So, how do you achieve this enviable look? Start by gathering your hair into a high ponytail and secure it with a hair tie. After meticulously slicking back your strands, let a couple of tendrils escape and frame your face. We're going for that "I just nailed a perfect pirouette" vibe. Next, twist your ponytail around the base, creating a neat bun. But remember, we're aiming for "messy perfection" here, so don't worry about it looking too polished. Embrace the slightly undone feel and let your bun have a little personality of its own.
To secure everything in place, use bobby pins to anchor the bun. Feel free to strategically place them to create a more relaxed look. Finally, give your bun a gentle tug to loosen it up a bit. You want it to look effortlessly chic, not like you're ready to perform Swan Lake. Finish off with a spritz of hairspray to keep everything in place, and voila. You've mastered the art of the sophisticated ballerina bun.
Messy, but make it fashion: Textured top knot
This is a game-changing style that will take your bun game to new heights (literally). Get ready to embrace the textured top knot, where messy meets fabulous in a whirlwind of voluminous perfection. We're talking about a bun that screams sexy bedhead, with just the right amount of tousled goodness. Say goodbye to flat, lifeless buns and hello to a whole new level of messy goodness.
To achieve this textured masterpiece, start by teasing your hair at the crown to create serious volume; think of it as giving your bun a little boost of confidence. Next, gather your hair into a high ponytail. Don't worry about making it too neat or polished; we're aiming for that relaxed, carefree vibe. Secure the ponytail with a hair tie, but leave a few face-framing strands loose. We want those strands to add a touch of softness to the overall look.
Now, wrap your ponytail into a bun, but don't be too precise about it. We're going for a messy bun that's full of life and personality. Secure the bun with bobby pins, strategically placed to maintain that fabulous disheveled texture. To amp up the messy factor, gently pull at the bun to loosen it up; this will create that coveted undone look.
Festival stylish: Classic boho chic bun
Take your messy bun game to the next level by unleashing your inner festival goddess with a style that's as dreamy as a desert sunset at Burning Man. We're talking about a hairstyle that effortlessly combines braids, accessories, and a touch of wild, carefree charm. It's the perfect look for channeling that free-spirited, bohemian vibe that's all about embracing your inner wanderer.
To achieve this masterpiece, start by creating some magical braids. Whether you go for a single braid or multiple, let your creativity run wild. We're aiming for that ethereal, boho goddess look that will have photographers putting you on the Vogue website under the best festival hairstyles. Next, gather your hair into a loose, casual bun. Don't be afraid to let a few strands escape and dance in the wind. We want that "I just wandered out of a flower crown workshop" energy. Secure the bun with bobby pins, making sure to keep it relaxed and messy.
Now comes the fun part — accessorizing. This is where you can let your personal style shine. Think delicate flower crowns, feathers, or even beaded hair accessories; the goal is to add that extra touch of bohemian flair. It's a messy bun that's worthy of a Coachella stage, and you're the headlining act.
Casual and trendy: Half-up messy bun
Let's talk about the hairstyle that's all about embracing the best of both worlds — the casual and trendy half-up messy bun. It's like having the perfect hair harmony, where you get to flaunt your flowing locks while still rocking a cute bun. And guess what? This style isn't just reserved for those with luscious long hair; it's equally fabulous for our short-haired gals.
So, here's the lowdown on achieving this effortlessly chic look. Start by gathering the two top sections of your hair and secure them with ties. Now, let that bottom half down to enjoy its natural flowy glory. It's a match made in hairstyle heaven. Then, take those top sections and twist them into buns, securing them with another hair tie. Let a few strands playfully frame your face for that extra touch of allure. Bam! You're rocking a half-up messy bun that's casual, trendy, and totally you.
And, what about you short-haired divas? You'll be amazed at how this simple twist can transform your entire look, adding a dash of chicness to your short locks. It's proof that great things really do come in small packages. The half-up messy bun variation is the ultimate solution for those days when you want to rock a trendy, casual look without sacrificing your personal flair.
Fringe and fun: Messy bun with bangs
Remember the traumatic days of growing your bangs out in elementary school? Well, fret no more because they are back in style, and believe it or not, you can still rock a messy bun and even put your fringe center stage. The messy bun with bangs is the go-to hairstyle for those days when you want to add a touch of flirty fun to your look. It's perfect for a casual coffee date, a night out with friends, or simply strutting your stuff down the street. You'll be turning heads left and right with your bangs on point.
Here's the scoop on how to rock this fringe-tastic look. Start by gathering your hair into a loose and casual bun. Remember, we're aiming for that effortless vibe, so don't stress about perfection. Let a few strands playfully escape to add an extra bit of ease. Now, let's give those bangs their time to shine. Instead of tucking them away, we're going to make them the stars of the show. Pull them forward and style them to frame your face in the most flattering way. Whether you opt for a straight-across fringe, side-swept bangs, or cute curtain bangs, it's all about showcasing your unique style and personality.
Once your bangs are in the spotlight, secure the rest of your hair into a bun, making sure to maintain that relaxed and messy feel. Embrace the art of imperfection, because that's where the magic happens. It's time to show the world that messy buns and bangs are a match made in hair heaven.
Side-swept perfection: A polished messy bun
Unleash some serious asymmetrical goodness with the side-swept perfection of a polished messy bun. We're talking about a hairstyle that's the epitome of chic meets carefree. Here's the 411 on achieving this jaw-dropping style. First things first, we're shifting the focus to the side; position your messy bun slightly off-center, creating that deliciously off-kilter look.
Let those lovely strands cascade gently over your forehead, framing your face with a touch of asymmetrical allure. It's like a flirtatious wink from your hair, adding an extra wow factor to your overall look. To achieve that polished finish, take a moment to tame any rebellious flyaways or unruly strands. A quick spritz of hairspray or a dab of your favorite smoothing serum will keep everything in check without sacrificing that effortlessly messy vibe. The side-swept polished messy bun is a versatile hairstyle that suits a range of occasions, from Cosmopolitans at the bar with your girls to a morning coffee date with your man.
Messy bun magic: Adding flair with a headband
Unlock the world of messy bun magic by adding a touch of flair with a stylish headband. We're talking about taking your everyday messy bun and elevating it to a whole new level while letting your hair and headband do the talking.
Here's the secret recipe for this somewhat early-aughts hairstyle. Start by crafting your signature messy bun, keeping it relaxed and undone. Gather your locks and secure them into a bun, allowing a few wispy strands to escape. Now, here comes the game-changer: your accessory. Choose a headband that speaks to your unique style — whether it's a boho-inspired floral design, a sparkly gem-encrusted beauty, or a sleek and minimalist adornment. This little gem will instantly transform your messy bun into a statement piece. Slip it on, positioning it just above your forehead or further back to showcase your gorgeous locks.
The headband's beauty is its ability to add a touch of flair and personality to your messy bun effortlessly. It's like a crown that brings out your inner queen and elevates your style game to new heights. Plus, it's a fantastic way to switch up your look on those days when you need a quick hair fix without sacrificing your precious time.
Minimalist beauty: Achieving the low messy bun
A low messy bun is a hairstyle that's all about simple elegance and keeping things down to earth. Channel your inner minimalist goddess with this style that gracefully rests at the nape of your neck, just begging for a rom-com moment or a meet-cute at the park. It's versatile and oh-so-easy to pull off, making it perfect for both special occasions and everyday wear.
Start by gathering your hair and securing it into a loose bun at your neck's base. Keep it relaxed and carefree, and don't stress about perfection — let a few strands gently escape, framing your face. Not only does the low messy bun exude sophistication, but it also keeps you cool during those hot summer months. With your hair neatly tucked away, you can confidently strut your stuff without worrying about your locks getting that sticky, sweaty, frizzy feeling like you just left an intense Zumba class. Whether you're a minimalist at heart or simply craving an elegant hairstyle that's easy to achieve, this look is for you.
Accessorize with ease: Messy bun with a scarf or scrunchie
Let your inner fashionista out of the makeup drawer and give your messy bun a pop of color with a vibrant scarf or silky scrunchie. Start by crafting your signature messy bun, keeping it relaxed and casual. Gather your locks and secure them into a loose bun, allowing a few strands to dance freely. Now, it's time for your most unique accessory: a scarf.
Choose one that speaks to your personality and complements your outfit. It could be a playful floral print, a bold geometric design, or even a chic animal pattern. Simply wrap the scarf around your messy bun, tying it in a knot or bow for that extra dose of flair. You've instantly transformed your messy bun into a fashion statement.
If scarves aren't your thing, fear not. The silky scrunchie is here to save the day. Opt for one in a vibrant color or a fun pattern that adds a conversation starter to your hair. Gently secure it around your messy bun, letting it peek through the tousled locks; It's like a stylish hug for your bun. The beauty of accessorizing your messy bun with a scarf or scrunchie is that it's an effortless way to elevate your style. Whether you're heading to Lollapalooza, a beach party, or a high tea with the ladies, this look suits every aspect of your daily routine.
Playful elegance: A fancy updo messy bun
Like a slice of lemon in your spiffiest water bottle, infuse your hair game with a fancy updo messy bun. We're talking about taking your classic messy bun and giving it a glamorous twist, perfect for those formal events where you want to make a statement. Here's the inside scoop on achieving this jaw-dropping look. Start by crafting your signature messy bun, keeping it relaxed and tousled. Now, it's time to take it up a notch. Add some elaborate flair with braids, twirls, and sparkling hair accessories.
Let's start with twists. Take small sections of your hair and twist them, securing them around your messy bun with bobby pins. These delicate twists add a touch of sophistication and elevate your messy bun to a whole new level of elegance. It's like a whimsical dance party happening atop your head. If twists aren't your cup of tea, braids are here to save the day. Incorporate a braid or two into your messy bun for a romantic and ethereal vibe. Whether it's a simple side braid or an intricate fishtail, the combination of braids and a messy bun creates a high-brow look without all the time.
And let's not forget about sumptuous hair accessories. From sparkling hairpins to bejeweled clips and delicate headbands, these accessories add a touch of glamour and make your messy bun shine. The beauty of the fancy updo messy bun is that it's versatile and customizable. Whether you're attending a destination wedding, or the Met Gala (you never know, right?), this hairstyle is your secret weapon to stealing the spotlight.
Unleash your inner romantic: A messy bun for special occasions
If you're going on a first date and hoping it ends up like "The Notebook," perhaps starting with your hair is the perfect first step. Allow your hopeless romantic to show with a dreamy messy bun that's perfect for first kisses, butterflies, and your own love story.
Start by crafting your signature messy bun, keeping it soft and delicate. Gently gather your locks and secure them into a loose bun, allowing a few wispy strands to frame your face. To take your messy bun to the next level of romance, consider adding some dreamy elements such as delicate flowers like baby's breath or small roses, which can be tucked into the bun to create a whimsical garden-inspired vibe. Another option to enhance this style's romantic allure is to weave in a delicate ribbon or lace. It adds a touch of femininity and sophistication, turning your bun into a work of art. Choose a ribbon in a soft pastel hue or a lace that matches your outfit, and let it gracefully flow through your messy bun.
The beauty of this romantic style is that it's versatile and timeless. It's the perfect look to accompany a candlelit dinner, a stroll under the moonlight, or a magical wedding ceremony.
Soft and tousled: A messy bun with loose curls
When you were in high school, a messy bun was probably the go-to look for when you hit the alarm clock's snooze button a few too many times. But, it's totally possible to give your messy bun a glamorous look too, and there is no better way to do that than with soft, tousled curls. Trust us, it's actually possible to look like a total bombshell, even with a messy bun.
Start by creating loose curls throughout your hair. You can use a curling iron or opt for heatless methods like braiding or twisting damp hair and letting it air dry. The goal is to achieve those soft, tousled curls that will have you looking like the epitome of a Parisian woman who looks perfect without even looking in the mirror.
Once your curls are ready, gather and secure them into a loose bun, allowing the curls to cascade and frame your face. You'll feel like a red carpet queen, ready to slay in front of the paparazzi.
Fitness fashion: Embrace the workout messy bun
Are you tired of those pesky hair strands getting in the way of your workout? We've got just the solution for you: the workout messy bun. It's time to embrace the perfect combination of style and functionality, ensuring your hair stays in place while you slay your fitness game. We're talking about a hairstyle that says, "I'm here to crush my workout, but I'm doing it in style!"
Here's the scoop on achieving the ultimate fitness-friendly messy bun. Gather your hair into a top knot and allow a couple of strands to frame your face to keep it from being too perfect. To ensure your high messy bun stays put during your workout, use bobby pins to anchor any loose sections or flyaways. You can also spritz a light-hold hairspray to help keep everything in place.
The beauty of the workout messy bun is that it keeps your hair off your face and out of your way while you sweat it out. No more distracting tangles or annoying strands sticking to your forehead during those intense exercises. With this hairstyle, you'll feel like a fitness goddess, free to focus on your moves without any hair-related distractions. To take it up a notch, you can also opt for a moisture-wicking headband or stylish sweatband to further keep your hair in place. Not only will it add an extra touch of fashion to your workout ensemble, but it will also help absorb sweat and keep your hair looking fresh and fabulous.
Wild and free: The outdoor adventure messy bun
Are you ready to conquer the great outdoors without sacrificing your fabulous style? We've got just the hairstyle for you: the outdoor adventure messy bun. We're talking about a hairstyle that says, "I'm ready to conquer mountains, hike through forests, and explore the world."
Start by gathering your locks into a high or low ponytail, depending on your preference. Don't worry about making it too sleek or polished — we're going for a hairstyle that embraces the wild and free vibes of nature. Secure your ponytail with a hair elastic, making sure it's tight enough to withstand any outdoor activities that come your way. Now, it's time to transform your ponytail into a messy bun that can handle the adventure. Twist your ponytail loosely and wrap it around the hair elastic, forming a bun shape. Embrace the imperfections and let a few strands escape to create that carefree and windswept look. To ensure your outdoor adventure messy bun stays intact, secure it with bobby pins or an additional hair elastic. You want it to be sturdy enough to withstand all the excitement, but still flexible and comfortable for your outdoor activities.
The beauty of the outdoor adventure messy bun is that it allows you to embrace your wild side while maintaining a stylish and put-together look. It's the perfect hairstyle to accompany you on camping trips, nature walks, beach adventures, or any outdoor activity that sets your soul on fire.
Five-minute magic: Mastering the quick and easy messy bun
Whether you were up late studying for final exams or you're a mom who was up all night with a newborn, sometimes that extra 15 minutes of sleep in the morning is absolutely precious. However, your hair can sometimes suffer the consequences. But fear not, because in just five minutes you can achieve a messy bun hairstyle that's perfect for those moments when you need to look fabulous in a flash.
Start by gathering your hair into a high or low ponytail, depending on your preference. Remember, we're aiming for a relaxed and carefree look, so don't worry about it being too polished or precise. Next, twist your ponytail loosely and wrap it around the hair elastic, forming a bun shape. The key here is to keep it loose and not overthink it. Once you've created the bun, secure it with bobby pins or an additional hair elastic.
The beauty of the quick and easy messy bun is that it's versatile and can be rocked in various situations. Whether you're rushing to work, heading to brunch with friends, or simply running errands, this hairstyle has got your back. It's the perfect go-to look for those busy days when you want to look put together without spending hours in front of the mirror.