15 Easy Messy Bun Hairstyles for Girls at Home

The messy bun – a timeless classic that perfectly blends effortless charm with practical style. Whether you’re lounging at home, tackling homework, or just need your hair out of the way with a touch of chic, a messy bun is your ultimate go-to. It’s versatile, easy to achieve, and surprisingly stylish. Forget complicated braids and intricate updos; today, we’re diving into 15 simple, beautiful messy bun variations that any girl can master right in her own home.

From high and voluminous to low and relaxed, there’s a messy bun for every hair length, texture, and occasion. Let’s unlock the secrets to creating these perfectly imperfect looks that will keep you looking fabulous with minimal effort.

The Classic High Messy Bun

This is the quintessential messy bun – an elevated, carefree look that’s both stylish and functional. It keeps hair off your neck and face while adding a playful bounce.

Suitable Hair Length and Texture Medium to long hair, works well with all textures, especially wavy or slightly textured hair.
Face Shape Suitability Oval, round, and heart-shaped faces. The height adds length and balance.
Styling Method or Technique Gather hair into a high ponytail. Twist the ponytail loosely and wrap it around the base. Secure with a hair tie, leaving ends slightly loose for a ‘messy’ effect. Gently pull out a few face-framing strands.
Recommended Hair Tools and Products Hair tie, bobby pins (optional for extra security), light-hold hairspray, texturizing spray (for fine hair).
Tips to Make the Hairstyle Last Longer Start with day-old hair for better grip. Use a texturizing spray before gathering. Secure with bobby pins around the base if needed.

The Low Effort Messy Bun

For those days when you need minimal effort but still want to look put-together, the low effort messy bun is your best friend. It’s soft, elegant, and incredibly easy.

Suitable Hair Length and Texture Medium to long hair, ideal for straight, wavy, or slightly curly textures.
Face Shape Suitability All face shapes, especially flattering for square and oblong faces as it softens features.
Styling Method or Technique Gather hair loosely at the nape of your neck. Twist into a loose bun and secure with a hair tie. Allow some strands to fall naturally around your ears and neck.
Recommended Hair Tools and Products Soft hair tie, a few bobby pins, leave-in conditioner for shine.
Tips to Make the Hairstyle Last Longer Don’t pull too tight. The looser it is, the more comfortable and naturally ‘messy’ it will stay.

The Side Swept Messy Bun

Add a touch of asymmetrical charm with a side-swept messy bun. It’s perfect for showcasing an earring or adding a romantic flair.

Suitable Hair Length and Texture Medium to long hair, works well with wavy or curly textures for added volume.
Face Shape Suitability Oval, heart, and diamond face shapes.
Styling Method or Technique Sweep all your hair over one shoulder. Gather it into a loose ponytail behind your ear. Twist and wrap into a messy bun, securing with a hair tie and bobby pins.
Recommended Hair Tools and Products Hair tie, bobby pins, light-hold hairspray.
Tips to Make the Hairstyle Last Longer Use bobby pins to secure the bun firmly against your head. A quick spritz of hairspray will keep flyaways in check.

The Half-Up Messy Bun

When you can’t decide between wearing your hair up or down, the half-up messy bun offers the best of both worlds. It’s cute, casual, and keeps hair out of your face.

Suitable Hair Length and Texture Medium to long hair, versatile for all textures.
Face Shape Suitability All face shapes.
Styling Method or Technique Section off the top half of your hair, from temples to crown. Gather this section into a high ponytail. Twist and loop it into a small messy bun, securing with a small hair tie.
Recommended Hair Tools and Products Small hair tie, mini bobby pins, dry shampoo (for added volume).
Tips to Make the Hairstyle Last Longer Tease the roots of the top section slightly before gathering for extra volume and hold.

The Braided Messy Bun

Elevate your messy bun with a simple braid. This adds texture and a touch of sophistication without sacrificing the messy aesthetic.

Suitable Hair Length and Texture Long hair, works best with straight or wavy hair for visible braid detail.
Face Shape Suitability Oval, long, and heart-shaped faces.
Styling Method or Technique Create a high ponytail. Braid the ponytail (a simple three-strand braid works well). Loosely wrap the braid into a bun and secure with a hair tie and bobby pins.
Recommended Hair Tools and Products Hair tie, bobby pins, elastic bands for the braid, light-hold hairspray.
Tips to Make the Hairstyle Last Longer Secure the end of the braid with a small elastic before wrapping.

Double Messy Buns – Space Buns

Fun, playful, and super cute, double messy buns (also known as space buns) are perfect for a youthful, energetic look.

Suitable Hair Length and Texture Medium to long hair, especially great for fine to medium textures.
Face Shape Suitability Oval, round, and heart-shaped faces.
Styling Method or Technique Part your hair down the middle. Create two high ponytails on either side of your head. Twist each ponytail into a messy bun and secure with small hair ties and bobby pins.
Recommended Hair Tools and Products Fine-tooth comb for parting, two small hair ties, bobby pins.
Tips to Make the Hairstyle Last Longer Ensure both buns are symmetrical and equally secure for a balanced look.

Messy Bun with Bangs

Bangs add a soft, flattering element to any updo, and the messy bun is no exception. This combination is effortlessly chic.

Suitable Hair Length and Texture Medium to long hair with bangs, works for all textures.
Face Shape Suitability All face shapes, as bangs can be customized to flatter.
Styling Method or Technique Style your bangs as usual. Gather the rest of your hair into your preferred messy bun (high or low) and secure. Let the bangs frame your face naturally.
Recommended Hair Tools and Products Hair tie, bobby pins, a round brush and hairdryer for styling bangs.
Tips to Make the Hairstyle Last Longer Use a light hairspray on your bangs to keep them in place without stiffness.

Textured Messy Bun for Wavy or Curly Hair

Embrace your natural waves and curls with a messy bun that highlights your hair’s beautiful texture. This look is full of volume and character.

Suitable Hair Length and Texture Medium to long wavy, curly, or coily hair.
Face Shape Suitability All face shapes.
Styling Method or Technique Apply a curl-enhancing product to damp hair and air dry or diffuse. Gather hair loosely into a bun, allowing curls to naturally form the ‘messy’ texture. Secure gently.
Recommended Hair Tools and Products Curl cream or mousse, diffuser (optional), scrunchie or soft hair tie.
Tips to Make the Hairstyle Last Longer Avoid brushing your curls dry. Use a wide-tooth comb in the shower with conditioner.

Sleek Front, Messy Back Bun

This style offers a sophisticated contrast – a polished front leading to a delightfully undone bun in the back. It’s perfect for a slightly more formal messy look.

Suitable Hair Length and Texture Medium to long hair, works best with straight or slightly wavy hair for the sleek front.
Face Shape Suitability Oval, long, and heart-shaped faces.
Styling Method or Technique Use a fine-tooth comb to smooth the front and sides of your hair back into a sleek ponytail. Secure the ponytail tightly. Then, create a messy bun from the ponytail, letting it be as wild as you like.
Recommended Hair Tools and Products Fine-tooth comb, strong-hold gel or pomade for the front, hair tie, bobby pins.
Tips to Make the Hairstyle Last Longer Apply a small amount of gel or pomade to the front sections for a super smooth finish.

Messy Bun with Scarf or Accessories

Add a pop of color and personality to your messy bun with a stylish scarf, scrunchie, or other hair accessories. This instantly elevates the look.

Suitable Hair Length and Texture All hair lengths (medium to long) and textures.
Face Shape Suitability All face shapes.
Styling Method or Technique Create your desired messy bun. Wrap a silk scarf around the base of the bun, tying it in a bow or knot. Alternatively, use a decorative scrunchie or slide in a chic hair clip.
Recommended Hair Tools and Products Hair tie, bobby pins, your chosen scarf or accessory.
Tips to Make the Hairstyle Last Longer Choose a scarf made from a non-slip fabric like silk or cotton to prevent it from unraveling.

Pigtail Messy Buns

A variation of the double messy bun, but placed lower, giving a sweet, youthful, and slightly retro vibe.

Suitable Hair Length and Texture Medium to long hair, works well with all textures.
Face Shape Suitability Oval, round, and heart-shaped faces.
Styling Method or Technique Part your hair down the middle. Create two low ponytails, one on each side, just above your ears. Twist each into a messy bun and secure with hair ties.
Recommended Hair Tools and Products Comb for parting, two hair ties, bobby pins (optional).
Tips to Make the Hairstyle Last Longer Ensure the part is clean for a polished base.

The Boho Messy Bun

Embrace a free-spirited aesthetic with a loose, voluminous messy bun that often incorporates a few wispy strands or even a subtle braid.

Suitable Hair Length and Texture Long, wavy, or naturally textured hair.
Face Shape Suitability All face shapes, particularly flattering for oval and heart shapes.
Styling Method or Technique Create a loose, low or mid-height ponytail. Twist the hair gently, then wrap it into a soft bun, letting pieces fall out. Secure with a soft scrunchie or bobby pins.
Recommended Hair Tools and Products Texturizing spray, soft scrunchie, bobby pins.
Tips to Make the Hairstyle Last Longer Don’t try to make it too perfect; the charm is in its relaxed nature.

The Workout Messy Bun

When you need your hair completely out of the way for physical activity, this bun combines security with a touch of messy style.

Suitable Hair Length and Texture Medium to long hair, all textures.
Face Shape Suitability All face shapes.
Styling Method or Technique Gather all hair into a very high, tight ponytail. Twist the ponytail firmly and wrap it tightly around the base. Secure with a strong hair tie and multiple bobby pins for maximum hold.
Recommended Hair Tools and Products Strong hair tie, plenty of bobby pins, strong-hold hairspray.
Tips to Make the Hairstyle Last Longer Use a non-slip hair tie and cross bobby pins for extra grip.

The Voluminous Messy Bun

For those who love big hair, the voluminous messy bun adds drama and height, making your hair appear thicker and fuller.

Suitable Hair Length and Texture Medium to long hair, especially effective with thick or fine hair (with teasing).
Face Shape Suitability Oval, long, and heart-shaped faces.
Styling Method or Technique Tease the hair at the crown vigorously before gathering into a high ponytail. Then, create a loose, large bun, pulling out loops of hair to enhance volume. Secure with a hair tie and bobby pins.
Recommended Hair Tools and Products Teasing comb, volumizing spray, hair tie, bobby pins, strong-hold hairspray.
Tips to Make the Hairstyle Last Longer Use dry shampoo at the roots before teasing for extra grip and volume.

The Twisted Messy Bun

Instead of just wrapping, twisting sections of hair before forming the bun adds a beautiful, intricate texture to the messy look.

Suitable Hair Length and Texture Medium to long hair, works well with straight or wavy hair.
Face Shape Suitability All face shapes.
Styling Method or Technique Gather hair into a ponytail. Divide the ponytail into two or three sections. Twist each section individually, then loosely twist these sections together before wrapping them into a bun. Secure with a hair tie and bobby pins.
Recommended Hair Tools and Products Hair tie, bobby pins, light styling cream.
Tips to Make the Hairstyle Last Longer Don’t twist too tightly; the looseness contributes to the messy charm.

Key Takeaways for Perfect Messy Buns

Mastering the messy bun is all about embracing imperfection and understanding your hair’s unique texture. Here are some essential tips to keep in mind:

Start with Day-Old Hair Hair that isn’t freshly washed tends to have more grip and texture, making it easier to hold a messy bun.
Don’t Overthink It The charm of a messy bun lies in its spontaneity. Avoid aiming for perfection.
Use the Right Tools A good hair tie that matches your hair thickness is crucial. Bobby pins are your best friends for securing loose strands.
Embrace Texture Texturizing sprays or dry shampoo can add volume and grip, especially for fine hair.
Pull Out Strands Gently pull out a few face-framing pieces or loosen the bun slightly for a softer, more natural look.

Hair Care and Maintenance Tips for Healthy Hair

Beautiful buns start with healthy hair. Here’s how to keep your locks in top condition:

Regular Trims Get your hair trimmed every 6-8 weeks to remove split ends and maintain shape.
Gentle Washing Use a sulfate-free shampoo and conditioner suitable for your hair type. Don’t wash every day to preserve natural oils.
Deep Conditioning Incorporate a weekly hair mask to keep hair hydrated and strong.
Heat Protection Always use a heat protectant spray if you use heat styling tools, even just for your bangs.
Brush Gently Use a wide-tooth comb on wet hair and a soft-bristle brush on dry hair to minimize breakage.

Styling Dos and Don’ts for Messy Buns

Do

Do Experiment Try different heights and placements to find what flatters your face most.
Do Use Bobby Pins Liberally They are key to securing those perfectly imperfect strands.
Do Embrace Flyaways A few wispy pieces add to the ‘messy’ charm.
Do Accessorize Scarves, scrunchies, or clips can elevate a simple bun.
Do Use Dry Shampoo It adds volume and absorbs oil, perfect for day-old hair.

Don’t

Don’t Pull Too Tight This can cause tension headaches and hair breakage.
Don’t Over-Hairspray A light mist is fine, but too much can make it stiff and unnatural.
Don’t Force It If your hair isn’t cooperating, try a different bun style or embrace a simpler look.
Don’t Ignore Your Hair Type Fine hair might need more product for volume, while thick hair might need more pins for security.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Using the Wrong Hair Tie A weak or too-tight hair tie can lead to damage or a bun that won’t hold.
Trying to Make it Perfect The essence of a messy bun is its relaxed nature. Over-styling defeats the purpose.
Not Securing Properly A floppy bun is no fun. Use enough bobby pins to keep it in place.
Starting with Wet Hair Wet hair is more fragile and harder to shape into a lasting messy bun.

Conclusion

There you have it – 15 easy messy bun hairstyles that you can effortlessly create at home. The beauty of the messy bun lies in its adaptability and forgiving nature. It’s a style that celebrates individuality and comfort, proving that you don’t need hours in front of a mirror to look fantastic. So go ahead, experiment with these techniques, find your favorite variations, and confidently rock your perfectly imperfect messy bun. Your hair, your rules, your effortless style!

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