Some of my greatest life decisions have been made while rocking a messy bun. It’s the hairstyle equivalent of “I have my life together… just not today.” Whether I’m brainstorming SEO strategies, analyzing NLP trends, or hiding the fact that I haven’t washed my hair in three days, the messy bun never fails me. It’s stylish, effortless, and somehow makes you look cool even when your brain is still buffering.
So, what’s this blog all about? Simple: we’re diving into the art of the messy bun—how to do it, why it works, and who it flatters best (spoiler: everyone). I’ll share easy styling hacks, product tips, and my go-to techniques for pulling it off in under a minute—even if your hair is acting rebellious. If you’ve ever stared in the mirror and thought, “Is this messy or just a disaster?”—you’re in the right place.
Let’s untangle the chaos and turn that messy bun into a style statement.
1. High Messy Bun
This one’s my go-to when I need to look “put together” in under two minutes.
The high messy bun lifts the face and adds instant attitude—perfect for busy mornings or surprise Zoom calls.
It suits pretty much all face shapes and hair types. I flip my head upside down to gather hair and let a few strands fall loose for that effortless finish.
If you’re into quick, no-fuss hairstyles that still look chic, you’ll love these easy hairstyle style hacks.
2. Low Messy Bun
Low messy buns are my lazy-day lifesaver. They sit right at the nape and somehow make even sweatpants feel chic.
Great for second-day hair and especially flattering if you have a long or oval face.
I always tug the sides slightly to keep it soft and casual. For more inspo on laid-back yet elegant updos, check out these low bun wedding hair ideas.
3. Side Messy Bun
I wore a side messy bun to a casual wedding once, and it was both cute and ceremony-appropriate.
Placing it over one shoulder adds a romantic twist and works great for medium to long hair.
Just pull your bun to your preferred side and secure with bobby pins. Don’t worry if pieces fall out—it adds to the charm.
For more ideas like this, browse these romantic wedding hairstyles.
4. Textured Messy Bun
This style is pure volume and vibe. I usually spray in some dry shampoo or texture spray before throwing my hair up.
The textured messy bun works wonders on layered or naturally wavy hair.
It’s my trick to faking thicker hair when mine feels a little flat.
5. Loose Tendril Messy Bun
There’s just something flirty about a few face-framing tendrils.
I pull a couple strands out on each side before securing my messy bun, and voilà—instant soft glam.
It suits round or heart-shaped faces best, and I use a curling wand for extra bounce.
6. Messy Bun with Scrunchie
Throwing on a scrunchie adds personality and hides the chaos.
I have a drawer full of velvet, satin, and patterned ones—each changes the vibe instantly.
It’s a cute way to dress up your messy bun without trying too hard. Plus, it’s way gentler on your hair than a regular elastic.
7. Half-Up Messy Bun
Half-up messy buns are perfect when I want my hair out of my face but still down and flowy.
It’s casual but still feels styled, and I use it a lot when I’m writing blog drafts (like this one!).
Works great on medium-length hair and can handle curls, waves, or straight textures.
8. Messy Bun with Braids
Braids and buns together? Yes, please. I usually braid one side of my hair, then gather it into a messy bun for added detail.
It looks like you spent an hour on it—even if it only took five minutes. Ideal for festivals or brunch dates.
9. Floral Messy Bun
I love adding small flowers to my messy bun for outdoor events or spring vibes.
Think mini daisies or even faux florals from a craft store. It’s perfect for weddings, garden parties, or just pretending you’re a fairy in a forest.
Keep the bun loose and scatter the flowers for a natural feel.
10. Voluminous Messy Bun
Big hair, don’t care. When I want drama, I tease my roots before pulling my hair up to create a voluminous messy bun.
It’s amazing for fine hair like mine and gives your whole look an extra lift. Just don’t forget a few strong pins to hold the fluff in place.
11. Messy Bun with Headband
On days when my bangs are misbehaving, I slap on a headband and call it a style.
It turns a simple messy bun into a full outfit accessory. I especially love soft fabric or knotted headbands—they don’t dig into your scalp and look super cute. Bonus:
They keep flyaways under control.
12. Curly Messy Bun
Curls + messy bun = magic. I embrace my natural curls with a loose bun that lets the texture shine.
It’s carefree, low-maintenance, and doesn’t require any heat styling.
I usually leave a few curls loose to frame my face—it’s messy, but in the best way.
13. Messy Bun with Pins
Decorative pins are my cheat code to making a basic bun look fancy.
I use gold clips, pearl pins, or even sparkly bobby pins, depending on the occasion.
Stick a few around your messy bun and you’ve got an instantly upgraded look. Plus, they help keep flyaways in check.
14. Double Messy Buns
Space buns, but make them messy. I like to wear this style when I’m feeling playful or going to a concert.
Part your hair down the middle and create two small messy buns high on each side. It’s fun, flattering, and surprisingly easy to pull off.
15. Hairband with Center Part
Tying a ribbon around your bun is such a simple yet charming touch.
I use satin or velvet ribbons to give my messy bun a vintage flair.
You can wrap it around the base or tie a little bow for added cuteness. It’s perfect for date night or holiday events.
16. Wispy Messy Bun
Wispy strands make this style feel effortlessly cool. I tug out small pieces near the ears and neckline for that “just threw it up” look (even if I redid it three times).
It’s ideal for softening angular features and works well on slightly layered hair.
17. Messy Bun with Bangs
Having bangs with a messy bun is a whole aesthetic. I had curtain bangs for a while, and this combo became my signature look.
The bun keeps it casual, and the bangs keep it styled. Just make sure to give them a quick swipe with a flat iron to avoid puffiness.
18. Sleek Base Messy Bun
If you want polish with a hint of edge, try a sleek base with a messy bun.
I smooth the top down with gel or serum, then let the bun itself be wild and free.
It’s the perfect mix of structured and relaxed. Great for work meetings or fancy dinners.
19. Messy Bun with Scarf
Wrapping a scarf around your bun adds boho charm instantly. I love using printed silk scarves in the summer for a colorful pop.
You can tie it in a bow or let the ends hang for extra flair. It’s practical too—keeps your hair secure and stylish.
20. Twisted Messy Bun
I twist sections of my hair before pinning them into a bun to give it some extra texture.
It adds dimension without needing extra tools or effort. Great for medium to long hair, and it holds better than a simple wrap-around. I use two to three bobby pins max—easy and done.
