Picture spontaneous coffee trips, spontaneous dinner parties, or getting your way through your inbox in lip balm and attitude. This style follows no rules, yet always finds its way into every setting—from lazy mornings to dressed-up evenings. If you’ve been tying your hair up on autopilot, it’s time to refresh the routine. We’ve gathered not one messy bun hairstyle but 10 hairstyles that offer effortless charm, a little attitude, and just the right amount of undone polish.
The Lifted Crown
Pull your hair to the back of your head and twist it into a loose, elevated bun. Leave a few strands loose to frame your face. This version adds height and has an instant sense of effortless glamour—not a mirror in sight, just a matter of instinct.
The Low-Key Knot
Sitting at the nape of your neck, this bun leans towards subtle chic. This will get you through office days, dinner evenings, or those days when you want to have your hair out of your face but still sleek. Spray on some texture spray for volume and movement.
Half-Up, Half-Messy
For that in-between attitude, the messy half-up bun nails it just so. It’s still playful without giving control over to your length. Awesome with soft waves or layers, this is a look that’s done but never faked.
Braided Bun Remix
A simple braid added to one side before wrapping your hair into a bun adds structure without formality. It’s subtle, a little unexpected, and creates visual interest—ideal for weekends, getaways, or rooftop brunches.
Framed with Fringe
A messy bun becomes softer, nearly romantic, when paired with bangs or loose front pieces. If you have side layers or curtain fringe, let them fall naturally. This style is flattering on the face and has a look-at-me-unfinished feel.
Curly Texture Updo
For curls, volume is the star. Classically gather your hair without brushing it out. Pin up lightly, with coils bounce in the bun. It’s relaxed, full of movement, and shows off your natural texture.
The Effort Top Wrap
This cut is sleek at the bottom, topped with a cloud-like low bun. Smooth the crown with a soft-bristled brush and then twist the top into a loose coil. It’s bold, sleek, and pairs well with joggers to leather.
Twist & Pin Low Bun
Grasp two sections of your hair, twist them away from your face, and secure with a soft low bun. Softness and looseness provide the perfect romance without appearing posed. Loose strands of hair around the face finish it off beautifully.
Double Messy Minis
Split your hair in half and create two messy buns, one on either side. This fun, teenagey style coexists with oversized hoodies or vintage-style sunglasses. Great for off-duty days or festival weekends.
Slick Front, Soft Back
Use a styling balm or light gel to tame the front sections of your hair, and then collect the rest in a tousled bun. Smooth and undone is a chic, modern, and slightly surprising look—in the best sense.
Messy Bun hairStyle Tips That Make All the Difference
It is simple to make a messy bun, but there are some secrets to turn it from rushed to upscale. Here’s how to make it look easy and stylish:
- Start with lived-in hair: Freshly washed hair can be too silky or smooth. Adding some texture or second-day grit gives the bun more hold and structure. Spray dry shampoo or texturizing spray to create grip before styling.
- Don’t overthink the shape: Messy is movement. Let flyaways happen. Pull out a few strands near your ears or your neck. These soft, not-perfect caresses are what make it look intentional, not sloppy.
- Use the right tools: Scrunchies, U-styles clips, or spiral hair ties are preferable to tight elastics. They hold without causing strain or breakage to your hair—and they put just a little extra oomph in your bun.
- Flip your part: Switching up your regular part before pulling your hair back can give natural lift. It adds a little bit of asymmetry, which makes the bun appear more styled without any added effort.
- Set it with a spritz, not a freeze: Steer clear of high-hold hairsprays. A light setting or flexible setting spray holds the bun tight without constraining movement. It also avoids stiffness that removes the “messy” from your messy bun.
Watch Alex Gaboury’s 60-second tutorial for a quick and chic messy bun how-to — it’s simple, stylish, and totally doable!
The messy bun hairstyle evolves still, morphing to fit every style, moment, and mood. It’s never quite convenience—it’s a covert declaration. Whether you’re sleek or spontaneous, you now have the definitive guide to perfecting this everyday icon.
