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Let’s talk about messy buns for a second…
They’re fast.
They’re easy.
And somehow, they always make you look like you’ve got your life together.
Even when you totally don’t.
That’s the power of a good messy bun.
It’s the one hairstyle that works for just about everything. Running late? Messy bun. Brunch plans? Messy bun. Last-minute Zoom meeting? You guessed it… messy bun.
And the best part? You don’t need to be a pro to pull it off.
Most of these styles take under five minutes. You just need a hair tie, a few bobby pins, and maybe a little texture spray. No curling irons. No long routines. Just twist, pin, fluff — and done.
Here’s what you’ll love about these 17 styles:
- They work on all hair types
- They’re perfect for lazy days and special nights
- You can dress them up or keep them totally casual
- They look effortless… because they are
So if you’re tired of stressing about your hair every morning, this list is your new best friend.
Pick one of these 17 cute messy bun ideas, try it today, and never panic over a bad hair day again.
1. Your Everyday Messy Bun MVP
This classic is the ultimate timesaver when time is of the essence, but you still want to remain cute. Begin by pulling all your hair up into a ponytail at whatever height you choose, twisting it loosely, and winding it around the base to create a bun.
Secure it with an elastic or a couple of bobby pins and pull out a few strands around your face for that undone, soft effect. This look is suitable for all hair types and lengths, and it easily transitions from staying in bed to running errands or even a casual night out with friends.
2. The Low-Key Queen: Relaxed Low Messy Bun
The low messy bun is all about understated charm. It rests comfortably at the back of your neck, exuding easy, effortless chic. Begin by gathering your hair into a low ponytail and then twist it into a loose bun without concerning yourself with perfection. Hold it in place loosely and allow a few strands to escape naturally.
This look looks stunning with oversized sweaters, soft scarves, or a flowy sundress. It’s ideal for work-from-home days, casual dates, or whenever you need to feel put together without over-embellishing on styling.
3. The Flirty Side Messy Bun
Mix things up with a sissy bun that tames your face and brings a sweet, feminine touch. To do it, sweep your hair to one side and collect it beneath your ear. Twist and pin it into a loose bun, with a few face-framing tendrils escaping.
It’s perfect for date nights, picnics, or anytime you need to display earrings or statement makeup. The asymmetry provides your entire look with an off-the-cuff, trendy feel without sacrificing ease in completing it in just a few minutes.
4. The Messy Top Knot That Owns the Room
This messy high bun is for when you need your hair to speak. Begin by flipping your head over and gathering all your hair to the crown of your head. Twist it into a bun and tie it loosely to remain complete and voluminous.
The height creates drama and brings attention to your face, making it great for accentuating makeup or accessories. Perfect for sweltering hot days, gym classes, or edgy streetwear-inspired ensembles, this look demonstrates that a touch of mess can be pretty stylish.
5. The Braided Messy Bun Remix
Braids add a romantic, textured element to the messy bun. Begin by loosely braiding one or two sections of your hair, then bring them into a bun by twisting and wrapping around the foundation.
Secure with pins or an elastic, and tug lightly on the braid for extra volume. This style is excellent for festivals, date nights, or just everyday wear when you want to bust out a little styling prowess. It’s also suitable for adding some oomph to second-day hair or creating more visual texture in thin hair.
6. The Half-Up Messy Bun
Half-up messy buns are the ultimate lazy-girl trick that remains fashionable. Simply sweep the top half of your hair back and twist it into a tiny, relaxed bun, leaving the rest loose. It suits straight, wavy, or curly hair and keeps your face clear without compromising style.
This playful and low-maintenance look is ideal for school, casual workdays, or when you’re growing out bangs. Add a clip, scrunchie, or mini claw for a pop of personality and a little extra hold throughout the day.
7. The Messy Bun That Loves Your Curls
If you’ve got curls, this style is your best friend. Gather your curls loosely on top of your head or in the back, and pin them into a bun without brushing or lying down their natural texture. Have curls fall out around your face and shoulders for that oh-so-imperfect look.
Apply a small amount of leave-in conditioner or curl cream to define any frizzy areas, but keep the overall look soft and touchable. This look is perfect for adopting natural texture and being cool and trendy, whether at a BBQ in the summer or out getting coffee over the weekend.
8. A Match Made in Hair Heaven
It instantly dresses up your messy bun with bangs. Whether you have full blunt bangs or a soft curtain fringe, they create shape and delicateness that work to offset the undone bun. Gather your hair into a loose updo, with your bangs falling naturally. The combination of the neat fringe and messy bun creates instant cool-girl vibes.
This look is perfect for video meetings to impromptu nights out. Apply dry shampoo or texturizing spray to add volume to the bun, and you’ll be styled without seeming like you’ve tried too hard.
9. The Textured Twisted Messy Bun
This bun is more about understated detail. Rather than pulling all your hair into a bun, split it into sections first and twist each before wrapping all of them. The twists develop soft ridges and texture, adding visual intrigue to a plain look.
This is a great look, especially on medium or long hair, and can be formalized with dainty accessories like pins or flowers. Whether you’re attending a brunch or just want a break from your usual bun routine, this style offers a sophisticated twist (literally).
10. Playful Messy Space Buns
Two buns are better than one, especially for a playful or retro look. Part your hair down the middle and create a messy bun on each side of your head, usually near the crown. Leave them slightly asymmetrical and have a few strands fall naturally for that bohemian feel.
These buns are all about having fun and being young, so they’re ideal for concerts, costume parties, or just days when you want to experiment with something new. Add some glitter or temporary color for an added-bolder, festival-perfect look.
11. The Perfectly Imperfect Sock Bun Flip
The sock bun doesn’t have to be smooth and rigid. Flip the script using a bun shape or rolled-up sock, but do not smooth out each strand in place. Allow some flyaways to escape and tug on the bun to round off its edges.
The look is a lush, airy bun with structure in place but an easy, loose finish. It’s ideal when you need to look polished but not overdo, such as brunches, wedding receptions, or a blind date, where you wish to be chic yet low-maintenance.
12. The Danced-with-Accessories Messy Bun
Move your messy bun into the bohemian realm with some crafty details. Start with a loose bun, then weave in thin braids, wrap a few strands in string, or add tiny beads and charms. This whimsical, carefree look is all about expression. It’s perfect for music festivals, beach days, or when you feel extra creative.
Pair it with flowy outfits, layered jewelry, and a touch of shimmer on your cheeks for the complete bohemian fantasy. The key? Make it look like it’s just naturally happening, even though it requires some planning.
13. Knots & Not-So-Ordinary
It gives the messy bun a literal spin. Separate your hair into pieces, then knot them loosely before cinching them into a bun. It makes for a nifty, deconstructed style that’s slightly edgy but wearable.
This bun is perfect for medium to long hair and has a good texture, so attempt it after a salt spray or on day two hair. It’s cool and surprising, ideal for making a statement in a crowd or putting a creative spin on your style.
14. Sleek Meets Street: The Wet-Look Messy Bun
Shiny roots and a textured bun? Yes, please. This look begins with using a generous amount of hair gel or cream at the roots, slicking it back for that wet, high-gloss look. Next, twist your hair into a sloppy bun, leaving the ends loose and textured. It’s a graphic contrast that screams editorial.
This is a stylish, trend-setting choice for evenings out or when you wish to have hair almost an extension of your clothing. Match with a statement lip or bold eyeliner for maximum effect.
15. The Scarf-Wrapped Messy Bun
Put a scarf or bandana around the base of your messy bun to give it some attitude. It can be done with high, mid, or low buns and is a quick method for coordinating your hairstyle with your outfit.
A printed scarf is a great way to add a fun pop, or a silk ribbon for a chic touch. Not only does it instantly lift the bun, but it also keeps the style from slipping. Ideal for beach days, vacations, or when you need your hair styled but want little effort involved.
16. Low Messy Chignon that Whisper Soft Glam
Low, messy chignon is the epitome of laid-back glamour. It is refined, yet loose, unstructured, and still, to give a modern feel. To pull it off, gather your hair at the back of the nape, twist loosely into a messy bun, and pin it in place. Sweep a few tendrils across the face and ears for a relaxed look.
The style is perfect for weddings, dinner gatherings, or any occasion that you want to look effortlessly elegant. Top it off with pearl pins or a slender clip to add a nod of vintage elegance to the undone spell.
17. Layered Messy Bun That Welcomes Every Strand
Layered hair isn’t always cooperative with smooth styles, but that’s where the messy bun excels. Let shorter strands drop naturally while sweeping the rest into a casual bun. Strategically use bobby pins if necessary, or let flyaways have their moment.
This bun loves texture and performs well on hair that’s a little lived-in. It’s perfect for casual Fridays, creative offices, or just embracing your hair’s natural movement. Add a spritz of texturizing spray, and you’re good to go—no fuss, all flair.
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