We’ve all been there—those frantic mornings when you’re running late but still want to look put-together. When you’re short on time, a messy bun can be your go-to hairstyle. It’s quick, easy, and stylishly undone, giving off that effortlessly chic vibe. Whether you’re heading to work, school, or even a casual date, the messy bun is versatile enough to suit almost any occasion. In this blog, we’ll walk you through a few simple messy bun variations that you can whip up in minutes. No need to compromise on style just because you’re in a rush!
The Classic Messy Bun
The classic messy bun is a no-fail option for those rushed mornings. This style is quick to achieve and can be adapted to look casual or more polished depending on the occasion. Here’s how you can nail it:
Step 1: Start by gathering all your hair into a high ponytail. It doesn’t have to be perfect—loose strands are part of the charm.
Step 2: Twist your hair loosely around the base of the ponytail.
Step 3: Secure the bun with a hair tie and pin down any loose sections with bobby pins. You can pull out a few strands to frame your face for that relaxed look.
This style works perfectly for both long and medium-length hair and can be easily accessorized with a cute scrunchie or hair scarf.
Low Messy Bun
A low messy bun offers a more sophisticated yet still laid-back vibe. This style is great if you’re heading into a meeting or a formal event but don’t have time to straighten or curl your hair. Here’s how to create it:
Step 1: Gather your hair at the nape of your neck, allowing some loose strands to fall naturally.
Step 2: Twist your hair loosely and wrap it into a bun at the base of your neck.
Step 3: Secure it with a hair tie and tuck any stray pieces in with bobby pins. For extra texture, gently tug on the bun to loosen it slightly.
This bun looks chic yet relaxed and works great with a pair of statement earrings for a dressed-up feel.
Half-Up Messy Bun
When you want to keep some of your hair down while still enjoying the ease of a messy bun, the half-up messy bun is a perfect choice. It’s trendy, playful, and takes just seconds to put together.
Step 1: Take the top half of your hair and gather it into a ponytail.
Step 2: Twist the ponytail and wrap it around itself to form a small bun on top of your head.
Step 3: Secure the bun with a hair tie or bobby pins. Let the rest of your hair flow naturally for that carefree, half-up, half-down vibe.
This style is perfect for casual settings or even a quick coffee run. It’s low-effort but still gives your look a little something extra.
The Braided Messy Bun
If you have a couple of extra minutes, adding a braid to your messy bun is a great way to elevate the style. It’s still fast, but the braid adds a stylish, boho touch.
Step 1: Start by gathering your hair into a high ponytail.
Step 2: Braid the ponytail loosely and secure the end with a small elastic.
Step 3: Wrap the braid around the base of the ponytail to create a bun and secure it with bobby pins.
This look works well for both casual and semi-formal settings. The braid adds texture and interest to your messy bun, making it seem like you put in a lot more effort than you actually did!
The Messy Bun with a Twist
For a little extra flair, the twisted messy bun is an ideal quick hairstyle that looks intricate but is super simple to achieve.
Step 1: Part your hair down the middle or on one side, depending on your preference.
Step 2: Gather your hair into two sections and twist each section individually.
Step 3: Once both sections are twisted, wrap them around each other to form a bun. Secure with a hair tie and bobby pins as needed.
The twist adds a unique element to the classic messy bun, and it works well whether you’re going for a more casual or slightly polished look.
Top Knot Messy Bun
The top knot messy bun is another quick-fix hairstyle that is both stylish and functional. It’s ideal for hot days, gym sessions, or even when you just want to keep your hair out of your face.
Step 1: Pull your hair up into a high ponytail at the crown of your head.
Step 2: Twist the ponytail loosely and wrap it into a knot-like bun at the top of your head.
Step 3: Secure it with a hair tie or bobby pins. Don’t worry about flyaways—those make the look more “messy” and laid-back!
This style is a favorite for its balance between looking chic and keeping your hair up and out of the way.
Double Messy Buns (Space Buns)
For those who like a bit more edge to their hairstyle, double messy buns, or “space buns,” are a fun and youthful look that’s perfect when you want to stand out without spending too much time on your hair.
Step 1: Part your hair down the middle into two sections.
Step 2: Gather each section into a high ponytail on either side of your head.
Step 3: Twist each ponytail into a messy bun and secure with a hair tie. Let some pieces hang loose for a more laid-back vibe.
Space buns are great for festivals, casual outings, or even just a fun day out with friends. They’re playful, stylish, and easy to do!
Tips for Perfecting the Messy Bun
Use Texture Spray: If your hair is too clean, it can be hard to achieve that messy, lived-in look. Spritz a little texture spray or dry shampoo to add some grit to your hair before styling.
Loosen the Bun
For that perfectly imperfect look, gently tug on the bun after securing it. This will give it more volume and make it look effortlessly messy.
Don’t Overthink It
The beauty of a messy bun is its lack of precision. Don’t worry about it looking perfect—just go with the flow and embrace the undone, casual vibe!
Messy buns are a lifesaver when you’re running late but still want to look stylish. From the classic messy bun to the more adventurous double buns, these quick hairstyles will have you out the door in no time without sacrificing your look. Whether you’re heading to work, meeting up with friends, or just running errands, these easy bun styles will keep you looking chic and put-together with minimal effort.