A timeless hairstyle, buns are universally flattering and versatile enough to be styled in numerous ways. From sleek high buns to curly low styles, there’s a variation to suit every taste. Among the many options, the messy bun stands out as a must-have look that can seamlessly transition from a relaxed, beach-inspired vibe to a glamorous style perfect for special events.
The beauty of a messy bun lies in its adaptability, allowing wearers to effortlessly switch up their look depending on their mood or occasion. To showcase the incredible versatility of this hairstyle, we’ve curated 23 stunning hair ideas from Instagram that cater to every aesthetic and event. Take a look and discover your new favorite bun style.
Glam Messy Bun
The ‘glam messy bun’ is a stunning style that effortlessly combines sophistication with effortless charm. Characterized by a high placement on the head and loose, flowing locks, this hairstyle is both elegant and easy to wear. Its versatility makes it suitable for any occasion, whether you’re looking to add a touch of glamour to a special event like a prom or wedding, or simply want a relaxed, everyday look.
Messy Bun with a Vintage Vibe
The messy bun hairstyle stands out as one of our go-to looks. Characterized by a loose, undone quality, this style pairs perfectly with bangs cut straight across the forehead and wispy strands framing the face. The overall aesthetic is undeniably chic, evoking the timeless elegance of yesteryear’s Hollywood icons like Brigitte Bardot. It’s no surprise that this look has been popularized by top hairstylists, such as @michaelgrayhair.
Low Bun with a Scrunchie
Are you on the hunt for an effortless yet stylish hairstyle that’s easy to create and wear? Look no further! This sleek low bun at the nape of the neck is perfect for those seeking a chic, trendy look that suits all. The addition of a white scrunchie adds a touch of whimsy and can be easily swapped out for one that matches your outfit. If bold hair ties aren’t your thing, opt for something more understated and still achieve a polished finish.
Half Up Bun
Ditch the all-or-nothing approach to hairstyles and explore the versatility of a half-up, half-down style instead. By leaving some strands loose and styling the top layer into a relaxed bun, you can achieve a trendy look that offers the best of both worlds. This chic hairstyle is suitable for longer hair, but feel free to experiment with new cuts and colors to give your look an added boost.
Simple and Stylish Bun Idea
For those seeking a glamorous yet effortless hairstyle, this high-ponytail design is a must-try. The loose and relaxed texture gives it a chic appeal, while the high positioning adds an extra layer of sophistication. If you’re looking to recreate this look at home, there are plenty of online tutorials available that will guide you through each step.
What’s great about this style is its versatility – feel free to tweak it by loosening up the ponytail even further if you prefer a messier, undone look.
Elegant, Curly Messy Bun
For a touch of whimsy and romance in your hairstyle, look no further than this stunning updo. Characterized by beautifully curled locks that cascade into a loose and effortless bun, this style exudes elegance and sophistication. The addition of loose hair framing the face and subtle volume on top adds a playful touch, making it an ideal choice for a wedding.
Whether you’re the bride or a bridesmaid, this hairstyle is sure to be a showstopper when paired with delicate accessories like pearls or flowers.
Casual and Easy to Wear Bun
A versatile and effortless hairstyle that’s perfect for any occasion is the high messy bun with bangs. By simply gathering your hair into a relaxed, undone knot and adding a fringe, you can achieve a stylish yet laid-back look. The beauty of this style lies in its simplicity – it’s easy to recreate and suitable for anyone. Whether you’re going for a casual everyday vibe or dressing up for a night out, this hairstyle is sure to please.
Messy High Bun for Special Occasions
One of the most striking hairstyles is a high bun with relaxed and curly hair, accented by loose strands. This elegant look is perfect for making a statement and dressing to impress. Its versatility also makes it suitable for any occasion, as the outfit, makeup, and accessories worn can easily shift its tone from casual to glamorous.
Chic Hairstyle Idea
A messy bun’s effortless charm lies in its ability to exude stylish elegance with minimal effort required. Take, for instance, this stunning example that effortlessly balances loose, relaxed locks with a touch of volume on top and a neatly styled high bun. The result is a look that’s both formal enough for work or other occasions where one wants to present themselves as chic and sophisticated, yet understatedly pretty and easy to create.
Beautiful Messy Bun for Long Hair
This stunning high bun exudes effortless elegance. By abandoning perfection and embracing a relaxed, loose texture, it’s a hairstyle that flatters everyone. We’re particularly fond of this look because it draws inspiration from the iconic Gibson Girl style, reimagined for modern times. This vintage-inspired ‘do is perfect for those who draw their beauty cues from bygone eras.
Whether you’re looking to make a statement at a special occasion or simply want to add some nostalgic charm to your daily routine, this hairstyle is sure to delight.
Pretty Messy Bun Idea with Volume
Imagine a hairstyle that defies gravity, yet exudes effortless elegance. This whimsical coiffure features a loose, undone bun that’s perfect for making a statement at any occasion. The textured curls add a touch of sophistication, making it suitable for black-tie events like prom or weddings. For a truly show-stopping look, this hairstyle is sure to leave a lasting impression.
Simple and Easy to Wear Low Bun
For those who prefer understated hairstyles, this low and loose bun at the nape of neck is an excellent option. The addition of a unique hair tie adds a touch of sophistication to the overall look. This chic hairstyle is perfect for casual days when you want to keep your locks out of the way. Feel free to experiment with different hair ties, such as a scrunchie, to add some personality to your style.
As this hairstyle works well with longer hair, it’s an ideal choice for those looking to showcase their strands in a relaxed manner.
Everyday High Bun with a Scrunchie
When seeking a hairstyle that exudes style while keeping all your locks out of the way, a messy bun like this one is an excellent choice. This effortless yet chic style features a high-piled bun on top of the head, with loose strands framing the face and a scrunchie adding a pop of color. It’s the perfect summer hairstyle for staying cool and looking trendy, as it allows for maximum airflow while keeping your hair securely in place.
Casual and Relaxed Bun
Effortless style meets ease of wear in this next hair idea, where a small bun takes center stage at the nape of the neck. What sets this look apart is the subtle messiness that’s achieved by leaving some loose strands framing the face and extending down to the sides. This low-key yet stylish ‘do is perfect for busy days when you need a hairstyle that’s both out-of-the-way and visually appealing, sans fuss or frills.
Glamorous High Bun Hairstyle
Our next showstopper is a stunning bun that exudes glamour and sophistication! This elegant updo features loose hair framing the sides, creating a romantic and chic look reminiscent of the iconic Gibson Girl style. Whether you’re dressing up for a special occasion or just want to add some vintage flair to your everyday look, this hairstyle is sure to turn heads and leave a lasting impression.
Beautiful Low Bun with Loose Hair
For those who prefer understated yet stylish hairstyles, consider this sleek and elegant look. The key element is a small, low-lying bun secured at the nape of the neck, with subtle volume added to the top section. Loose strands framing the face add a touch of whimsy, creating a glamorous atmosphere reminiscent of a red carpet event. This effortless yet polished messy bun style is sure to flatter anyone who wears it.
Relaxed Bun with a Braid
Transform your hairstyle into a stylish summer look by combining a cute and messy bun with an upside-down French braid. This trendy hair idea is perfect for hot weather and outdoor events like festivals, where you can show off the beautiful braid placed on the back of the head. The result is a chic and effortless look that’s sure to turn heads.
Cute Low Bun Updo
For a effortless yet charming look, consider a straightforward messy bun. This minimalist style involves twisting and securing the hair into a low knot. Its simplicity makes it an excellent choice for warm-weather events like summer weddings or proms. What’s more, this style is versatile and can be achieved on any hair length.
Messy Bun with Loose Hair
When the sun starts shining bright or you’re heading to the beach for a vacation getaway, you want a hairstyle that’s both effortless and practical. Enter the trusty bun – a style that checks all the right boxes. By styling your locks high onto your crown, this look provides not only ease of wear but also a refreshing respite from the summer heat.
The simplicity of the design means it won’t take long to recreate, and its wet-friendly nature makes it perfect for those impromptu dips in the ocean or lake. As an added bonus, the bun’s glamorous appeal ensures you’ll look fabulous even when the humidity tries to get in the way.
Chic High Bun with Relaxed Curls
For those seeking a stylish yet relaxed updo, this combination of high bun and loose front hair may be the perfect solution. The subtle messiness adds an edgy touch without sacrificing elegance. This look is ideal for special occasions where you want to make a statement while still showcasing your individuality.
Messy Low Updo
The final hairstyle in our collection embodies a carefree, bohemian spirit. The centerpiece is a relaxed, low-slung bun, while loose strands frame the face on either side. This undone look exudes a beachy charm, making it an ideal choice for a summer wedding or a casual coastal celebration. With its effortless elegance, this hairstyle would be a stunning addition to any warm-weather event.