Pamela Anderson and the messy bun are inseparable, much like butterfly clips and frosted lip gloss. The tousled style, which strikes the perfect balance between casual and glamorous, became a signature look for the ’90s icon. This hairstyle embodies Anderson’s unique blend of rock music and “Playboy” allure. According to Raven Hurtado, a stylist at Maxine Salon, the look is “a messy, yet sexy updo with bangs and pieces of hair falling out, giving it a sultry glam style.”
Despite being an updo, Anderson’s messy bun is surprisingly simple, all while retaining its glamorous flair. Naturally, Anderson’s beauty plays a role in making this style work, even on shorter hair. But beyond that, the bun itself has an edgy and flattering appeal. In a 2023 interview with British Vogue, Anderson revealed just how effortless this style can be. She confessed that, in a pinch, she would use G-string underwear as a substitute for a scrunchie. “This is the trick of the trade—we’re really flashing back to the ’90s,” she said, holding up a pink thong. “The tousled updos always had a pair of panties in them.” Anderson’s candidness about her signature style proves that the key to pulling it off is just as much about attitude as it is technique.
This messy bun is versatile and perfect for various occasions, whether you’re pairing it with an oversized t-shirt or a sleek black leather dress reminiscent of Anderson’s ’90s wardrobe. It’s the ideal go-to style when you want to look effortlessly chic without trying too hard.
To recreate Anderson’s iconic messy bun, start by adding volume to your hair. “Apply mousse to damp hair for body and volume,” advises Hurtado. “Then, blow-dry your hair and curl it with a large barrel. I recommend a large, two-inch curling iron for creating the tousled pieces.” The key is to give your hair texture and fullness, which will enhance the messy look once it’s styled into a bun.
Next, gather your hair into a ponytail. “Loosely wrap the ponytail into a bun, leaving the ends out, and secure it with bobby pins,” Hurtado explains. “You can stretch the bun and pull more hair out for added texture.” Pulling out pieces of hair will recreate the tousled effect Anderson was known for. Finish with a smoky eye makeup look to truly capture the essence of Pamela Anderson’s signature style.
This easy, chic updo proves that looking effortlessly put together can be both simple and stylish.
