Messy Bun Tutorial: Easy Steps For A Chic Look

Aug 31, 2025 by Natalie Brooks 47 views

Hey guys! Ever feel like your hair needs a quick but stylish fix? The messy bun is your answer! It’s the ultimate go-to hairstyle for those days when you want to look effortlessly chic without spending hours in front of the mirror. Whether you’re heading to brunch, running errands, or just chilling at home, the messy bun is versatile, comfy, and totally on-trend. Let's dive into creating this fantastic look.

What You'll Need

Before we get started, let’s gather our tools. You won’t need much, which is part of the messy bun's charm!

Hair Tie: A good elastic hair tie is essential. Opt for one that matches your hair color to keep it discreet. You might also want to have a few spares on hand, just in case!
Bobby Pins: These little helpers are crucial for securing stray hairs and adding volume where needed. A pack of bobby pins in your hair color will be your best friend.
Texturizing Spray (Optional): If your hair is naturally very sleek, a texturizing spray can add some grip and volume, making the bun look fuller and more “messy.”
Dry Shampoo (Optional): For those with oily hair or if you’re rocking a second-day hairstyle, dry shampoo will add volume and freshness.
Mirror: You’ll need a mirror to see what you’re doing, obviously! A well-lit space is also helpful.

Step-by-Step Guide to the Perfect Messy Bun

Alright, let’s get to the fun part – creating your messy bun! Follow these simple steps, and you’ll be rocking this hairstyle in no time. Remember, the beauty of a messy bun is its imperfection, so don’t stress about making it look too polished.

Step 1: Prep Your Hair

First things first, let’s prep your hair. This step is crucial for achieving that effortlessly chic look we’re aiming for. Start by deciding whether you want to create the bun on freshly washed hair or second-day hair. Both can work, but the texture might differ slightly.

If you’ve just washed your hair, it might be too slippery to hold a bun easily. In this case, a texturizing spray or even a bit of dry shampoo can work wonders. The key here is to add some grit and volume. Spray the product evenly throughout your hair, focusing on the roots and mid-lengths. This will give your hair some extra hold and make it easier to style. Think of it as creating a foundation for your messy bun masterpiece. The added texture will prevent your bun from looking too sleek and polished, which is exactly what we want to avoid. We're going for that effortlessly undone vibe, right? If you’re working with second-day hair, you’re already one step ahead! Natural oils and texture from the previous day often provide the perfect base for a messy bun. However, if your hair is looking a bit flat or oily, a quick spritz of dry shampoo can refresh it and add volume. Focus the dry shampoo on your roots to absorb any excess oil and give your hair a lift. Remember, the goal is to create a slightly tousled, lived-in texture. This will make your messy bun look more natural and less like you’ve spent hours trying to perfect it. So, whether you’re starting with clean hair or second-day hair, taking a few minutes to prep your locks can make a huge difference in the final result. A little bit of texturizing spray or dry shampoo can go a long way in achieving that perfect messy bun look. Now that your hair is prepped, let’s move on to the next step and start creating the bun itself!

Step 2: Create a Ponytail

Now that your hair is prepped, it’s time to create the base of your messy bun – a ponytail. This step is more versatile than you might think! The position of your ponytail will determine the overall look of your bun. A high ponytail will give you a more playful and energetic vibe, while a low ponytail can look effortlessly chic and relaxed. A ponytail in the middle, at the back of your head, is a classic choice that works for almost any occasion.

So, where should you position your ponytail? Consider your outfit, the occasion, and your personal style. If you’re heading to a casual brunch with friends, a high or mid-height ponytail might be perfect. If you’re going for a more sophisticated look, a low ponytail at the nape of your neck can be incredibly elegant. To create the ponytail, gather your hair as if you’re about to tie it up. But here’s the secret to a messy bun: don’t make it too perfect! A sleek, tight ponytail will make your bun look too polished. Instead, keep it loose and relaxed. You can even leave a few strands of hair out around your face for a softer look. This is where the “messy” in messy bun really starts to shine. Once you’ve gathered your hair, secure it with a hair tie. For a more relaxed bun, you can use a looser hair tie or even a snag-free elastic. If you want a more secure hold, especially if you have thick hair, a stronger hair tie is a good idea. On the last loop, don’t pull your hair all the way through. This will create a loop of hair, which is the foundation of your bun. The size of the loop will determine the size of your bun, so adjust it to your liking. Leaving the ends of your hair free will add to the messy, undone look. Now you’ve got the basic shape of your messy bun! The looped ponytail is the perfect starting point for creating a stylish and effortless hairstyle. Next, we’ll shape and secure the bun to create that perfect messy look.

Step 3: Shape the Bun

Okay, you’ve got your ponytail loop, now it’s time to shape the bun! This is where the magic happens and your messy bun really starts to take form. Remember, the goal is to create a look that’s effortlessly chic, so don’t overthink it. Embrace the imperfections – they’re what make a messy bun so unique and stylish.

Start by gently spreading the looped hair out to create a fuller bun. You can pull at the sides to add volume and make it look a bit more relaxed. If you have thicker hair, you might want to divide the loop into two sections and spread them out separately. This will help distribute the hair more evenly and prevent your bun from looking too bulky. For those with finer hair, you can gently tease the hair in the loop to add volume. A little bit of teasing can make a big difference in the overall look of your bun. Don't be afraid to experiment and see what works best for your hair type and texture. Now, take the loose ends of your hair and wrap them around the base of the ponytail. You can tuck them under the bun or leave some of the ends sticking out for an even messier look. This is where you can really personalize your bun and add your own flair. If you want a more polished look, tuck all the ends in neatly. But if you’re going for a truly effortless vibe, leaving some strands out can be a great way to add texture and dimension. As you wrap the ends around the base, use bobby pins to secure them in place. This is where those little helpers come in handy! Place the bobby pins strategically to hold the bun in shape. You might need a few pins, depending on the thickness of your hair and the style you’re going for. Don’t worry about being too precise – the beauty of a messy bun is that it’s not supposed to be perfect. If you have any stray hairs that are sticking out, you can either tuck them into the bun with bobby pins or leave them out for a more relaxed look. It’s all about creating a style that feels comfortable and reflects your personality. Once you’ve shaped the bun and secured it with bobby pins, take a step back and admire your work! You’re almost there. Next, we’ll add the final touches to perfect your messy bun.

Step 4: Secure and Style

You’ve shaped your bun, secured the ends, and now it's time for the final touches! This is where you can really personalize your messy bun and make it your own. Think of this step as adding the finishing touches to a masterpiece.

Start by checking the overall shape and security of your bun. Are there any loose strands that need extra pinning? Is the bun sitting comfortably on your head? Make any necessary adjustments to ensure that your bun is both stylish and secure. Remember, you want to be able to rock this hairstyle all day without worrying about it falling apart. If you want to add more volume, gently tug at the hair around the bun to loosen it up. This will create a softer, fuller look. You can also pull out a few strands of hair around your face to frame your features. This is a great way to soften the look and add a touch of romance to your messy bun. For a more polished look, you can smooth down any flyaways with a bit of hairspray or styling cream. This will help create a sleek and sophisticated finish. But if you’re going for a truly effortless vibe, embrace the flyaways! They add to the messy, undone look that’s so chic and stylish. If you have bangs, you can style them to complement your messy bun. Side-swept bangs look beautiful with a messy bun, while straight bangs can add a modern edge. Experiment with different styles to see what works best for you. You can also accessorize your messy bun with hair clips, headbands, or scarves. These accessories can add a pop of color or sparkle to your look and make your bun even more unique. A delicate hair clip can add a touch of elegance, while a colorful headband can give your bun a playful vibe. Once you’re happy with the shape and style of your bun, give it a final spritz of hairspray for extra hold. This will help keep your bun in place all day long. But don’t overdo it! You want your bun to look effortless, not stiff. And there you have it! Your perfect messy bun is complete. You’ve taken a simple looped ponytail and transformed it into a stylish and chic hairstyle that’s perfect for any occasion. Now go rock that messy bun with confidence!

Tips and Tricks for the Perfect Messy Bun

Now that you know the basic steps, let’s dive into some tips and tricks to really master the messy bun. These little extras can make a big difference in the final look and feel of your hairstyle.

Experiment with Placement: As we discussed earlier, the placement of your bun can change the whole vibe. Try a high bun for a playful look, a low bun for elegance, or a side bun for something a little different. Don’t be afraid to play around and see what suits you best.
Use the Right Products: Texturizing spray and dry shampoo are your best friends when it comes to messy buns. They add volume and grip, making the style easier to achieve and longer-lasting. A little bit of product can go a long way in creating that perfect undone look.
Bobby Pins are Key: Invest in good-quality bobby pins that match your hair color. These little guys are essential for securing your bun and keeping it in place. Learn how to use them effectively – slide them in with the wavy side down for a better grip.
Don’t Be Afraid of Messiness: The beauty of a messy bun is its imperfection. Don’t strive for perfection; embrace the loose strands and flyaways. They add character and make the style look effortless.
Consider Your Hair Type: Different hair types may require slightly different techniques. If you have fine hair, teasing the roots and using volumizing products can help create a fuller bun. If you have thick hair, make sure to use enough bobby pins to secure the bun properly.
Practice Makes Perfect: Like any hairstyle, the messy bun takes a little practice to perfect. Don’t get discouraged if your first attempt isn’t exactly what you envisioned. Keep experimenting and you’ll soon find the technique that works best for you.
Accessorize!: A messy bun is a great blank canvas for accessories. Add a headband, scarf, or decorative hair clips to personalize your look. Accessories can take your messy bun from casual to chic in an instant.

Variations on the Messy Bun

The classic messy bun is fantastic, but there are also tons of variations you can try to mix things up! Let’s explore a few fun options.

The Half-Up Messy Bun: This style is perfect for those who want to wear their hair down but still enjoy the look of a bun. Simply create a half-up ponytail and follow the same steps as a regular messy bun.
The Braided Messy Bun: Add a braid to your ponytail before creating the bun for a more intricate look. A simple three-strand braid or a fishtail braid can both look stunning.
The Messy Sock Bun: Use a sock bun donut for extra volume and a perfectly round bun shape. This is a great option for those with finer hair.
The Twisted Messy Bun: Twist sections of your hair before creating the bun for added texture and dimension. This is a simple way to elevate the classic messy bun.
The Messy Bun with Bangs: Style your bangs to complement your bun. Side-swept bangs, curtain bangs, or even blunt bangs can all look amazing with a messy bun.

Conclusion

So there you have it, guys! The messy bun is not just a hairstyle; it's a lifestyle. It’s the perfect blend of effortless style and practicality. Whether you’re running late, having a casual day, or want to add a touch of chic to your look, the messy bun is your go-to. With these steps, tips, and variations, you’re well-equipped to rock this hairstyle like a pro. Remember, the key is to embrace the messiness and make it your own. Happy styling!