Some of us wake up with our hair already halfway to a messy updo and call it a “style.” (No shame. I’ve been there. I live there.)
But here’s the wild part: what used to look like a panic bun now passes for red carpet chic. Yep, the messy updo is having a serious main character moment—and it’s not just a fluke. It’s the perfect blend of effort and “I totally didn’t try,” which is basically the fashion dream, right?
So if you’ve ever stared in the mirror wondering how to turn your hair chaos into casual elegance—or at least something that says “trendy” instead of “tornado”—this blog’s for you. I’m diving deep into 20 different messy updo styles that are not only ridiculously cute but actually doable.
Whether you’ve got curls, layers, bangs, or you’re still figuring out which end of the curling wand does what, there’s a messy updo here with your name on it. And yes, I’ve tried most of these myself, usually while racing the clock and dodging the cat.
1. High Messy Updo
I love the high messy updo for those days when I want to look pulled together without actually trying too hard.
It adds height, volume, and just the right touch of glam. This one flatters most face shapes, especially if you leave a few wispy strands around your face for softness.
My trick? Flip your head upside down while gathering your hair—it gives an instant lift without teasing.
For more effortless looks like this, check out our easy everyday hairstyles for women.
2. Low Textured Updo
The low textured messy updo is my secret weapon for brunches, weddings, or pretending I have my life together.
It’s elegant but casual, and works beautifully for medium to long hair with some natural wave.
I usually twist sections and pin them loosely at the nape for that undone-but-done look.
You’ll also love our wedding updos for medium hair for more inspiration.
3. Messy Updo with Loose Tendrils
This one screams romance—and not the cheesy movie kind.
Loose tendrils around the face soften the entire look and give the messy updo a dreamy, ethereal vibe.
I always curl a few front pieces first, then pull my hair back loosely, pinning it in sections.
You might also like these romantic wedding hairstyles for soft, feminine touches.
4. Side Messy Updo
When I want to add a little flair without going full glam, I go for a side messy updo.
It’s a cute twist (literally) on the classic bun, and it’s amazing for asymmetrical outfits or off-shoulder tops.
I usually gather my hair to one side, twist it into a loose knot, and secure it with a few hidden pins.
Bonus: it stays put better than you’d expect.
5. Messy Updo with Claw Clip
The ‘90s claw clip is back and cooler than ever. I reach for it when I’ve got exactly 30 seconds and still want my messy updo to look intentional.
Just twist your hair up, clamp the clip, and tug out a few pieces.
It’s casual, chic, and ridiculously low-maintenance—basically my entire hair vibe.
6. Braided Messy Updo
Adding a braid to your messy updo instantly makes it look like you spent 30 minutes styling (spoiler: you didn’t).
I usually do a loose side braid first, then wrap it into a bun and pin the rest.
It’s great for medium to long hair and adds a playful, textured twist that holds well all day.
Explore more fun ideas in our pretty braided hairstyles roundup.
7. Voluminous Messy Updo
Big hair? Yes, please. The voluminous messy updo is a must when I’m feeling a little extra or want to fake fuller hair.
I backcomb the crown slightly and use dry shampoo for grip, then loosely pin sections upward.
It works beautifully for fine hair and gives that lived-in, model-off-duty feel.
8. Messy Updo with Scrunchie
Sometimes I just want to be cute and comfy, and that’s where the scrunchie comes in.
This laid-back messy updo is perfect for second- or third-day hair.
I pull my hair into a loose bun and secure it with a bold scrunchie—bonus points if it matches my outfit. It’s simple, nostalgic, and always gets compliments.
9. Twisted Messy Updo
A twisted messy updo sounds fancy, but it’s actually super simple.
I section my hair into two parts, twist each side, and then pin them together in the back.
It’s sleek with a touch of edge, and it’s perfect for when I want something neater than a bun but still relaxed. Great for medium hair and layered cuts.
10. Messy Updo with Floral Pins
Nothing dresses up a messy updo like floral pins. Whether it’s for a wedding or just a Tuesday that needs a little joy, these tiny accessories turn a basic bun into a statement.
I like to tuck in a few silk or pearl-detailed pins after pulling my hair into a soft, low knot. It’s low effort, high reward.
11. Half-Up Messy Updo
Half-up styles are my happy place when I want to show off some length but still keep my hair out of my face.
The half-up messy updo lets you combine the ease of a ponytail with the softness of an updo.
I just twist the top half, secure it with a pin or clip, and let the rest hang loose. Works especially well for layered or curly hair.
12. Curly Messy Updo
This one’s for my fellow curly-haired friends—we deserve some messy updo love, too.
I never fight my curls when styling this look. Instead, I let them frame my face while gathering the rest into a low, loose bun.
A few bobby pins and a touch of curl cream are all it takes to embrace the texture.
See more gorgeous looks in our curly haircuts collection that celebrate natural texture.
13. Messy Updo with Headband
Headbands are having a moment, and I am so here for it.
When I want to look put-together with zero effort, I throw on a stretchy or padded headband over a messy updo.
It adds structure, hides greasy roots, and elevates even the most basic bun. Plus, it gives off major cool-girl energy.
14. Knotted Messy Updo
This one sounds complicated but it’s actually super easy (and kind of fun).
I tie my hair into a knot—literally—and then pin the ends under. It’s a quick, quirky twist on the classic messy updo that adds texture and dimension.
Great for medium hair that won’t hold a traditional bun.
15. Messy Updo with Bangs
I have curtain bangs, so trust me when I say this combo is chef’s kiss.
The messy updo with bangs gives you that effortless French-girl vibe.
I keep the bun loose and let my bangs do their thing. It balances the face beautifully and works for both straight and curly fringe.
16. Soft Messy Chignon
Think ballerina bun meets lazy Sunday—yep, that’s the soft messy chignon.
It’s sleek enough for work but relaxed enough for errands. I gather my hair at the nape, twist it gently, and leave a few strands loose around the ears.
It’s understated elegance with a hint of “I totally woke up like this.”
17. Messy Updo with Ribbon
Sometimes all you need is a ribbon to turn a basic messy updo into Pinterest gold.
I tie it around a low, loose bun or weave it through a braid for extra charm. It’s especially pretty for dates or holiday parties.
Use velvet or satin for a more luxe look, or keep it playful with patterns.
18. Layered Messy Updo
Layered hair can be tricky to pin up, but with the right touch, it creates a gorgeous, textured messy updo.
I use tiny clear elastics to hold shorter pieces in place, then layer everything into a bun.
The different lengths add dimension and movement that make the updo look intentional.
19. Messy Updo with Gem Clips
When I feel like adding sparkle without trying too hard, gem clips are my go-to.
I scatter a few along the sides of a messy updo for a subtle shimmer. It’s perfect for parties or a bold everyday look.
Just don’t overdo it—less is more when you’re working with bling.
20. Wispy Messy Updo
The wispy messy updo is soft, airy, and totally romantic. I pull my hair into a low, loose bun and gently tug out pieces around the face and nape.
A quick mist of texture spray gives it that barely-there finish.
It’s ideal for weddings, date nights, or when you want to look like you stepped out of a Jane Austen novel.
Amazon Finds That Changed My Hair Game
HOOJIH Messy Bun Hair Piece, 2PCS Tousled Updo with Tendrils Hair Bun Extensions
Gorais Crystal Bride Wedding Hair Combs Gold Leaf Bridal Hair
MORICA 1PCS Messy Hair Bun Hair Scrunchies Extension Curly Wavy Messy
FESHFEN Messy Bun Hair Piece – Elastic Wavy Curly Hair Bun Scrunchies
HMD Tousled Updo Messy Bun Hairpiece – Synthetic Hair Extensions
