The messy bun is one of the most iconic and beloved hairstyles of recent years. It’s versatile, easy to create, and can be worn for any occasion—from a casual outing to a formal event. But what exactly makes a messy bun so special? Is it really as effortless as it appears, or does it require some skill to master? In this article, we will explore the ins and outs of the messy bun, from its origins to the many ways it can be styled, and why it has earned its place as a staple in women’s hairstyle trends.
What is a Messy Bun?
Simply put, the messy bun is a hairstyle where hair is loosely gathered into a bun, with the goal of achieving a carefree, slightly undone look. Unlike traditional buns that are sleek and polished, the messy bun embraces volume and imperfection. It has become a go-to option for many because of its relaxed and natural aesthetic, making it ideal for both everyday activities and more dressed-up occasions.
The Appeal of the Messy Bun
What makes the messy bun so popular is its charm. It manages to balance style with comfort and convenience. Whether you’re looking to keep your hair out of your face during a busy day or add some flair to an outfit, the messy bun fits the bill. It is the perfect hairstyle for those who don’t have the time or desire for a more complicated look but still want to appear put-together.
The Origins of the Messy Bun
Though it may seem like a modern trend, the messy bun has roots that go back centuries. Throughout history, buns have been a symbol of elegance, practicality, and sophistication. Women from various cultures have worn their hair in buns, whether for daily chores or formal events. However, the “messy” version of the bun is a more contemporary creation, evolving over time as casual, relaxed styles gained popularity in the late 20th and early 21st centuries.
The Messy Bun’s Popularity Today
The messy bun’s rise to fame in recent years can largely be attributed to social media influencers and celebrities. Its ability to be dressed up or down made it a favorite among fashion-forward individuals. As more and more public figures began sporting messy buns on the red carpet and in everyday settings, the hairstyle became a symbol of chic, effortless beauty. Today, it is an essential women’s hairstyle guide for anyone looking to add a bit of relaxed glamour to their routine.
How to Create the Perfect Messy Bun
While the messy bun might look easy to create, it does require a bit of practice and technique to achieve the perfect balance between casual and chic. Here’s a step-by-step guide to mastering the art of the messy bun:
Step 1: Preparation
Before you begin, it’s important to prep your hair. If your hair is freshly washed, it might be a little too smooth to hold a messy bun. To add texture, apply a dry shampoo or texturizing spray to give your hair more grip. If you have naturally straight hair, this will help add some volume and make the bun more secure.
Step 2: Gather Your Hair
Gather your hair into a ponytail. The height of the ponytail will depend on the style you’re aiming for. For a more relaxed and voluminous look, position the ponytail higher on your head. If you’re going for a more subdued and polished look, lower the ponytail closer to your neck. Don’t worry about making it perfect—imperfection is key to a successful messy bun!
Step 3: Twist and Wrap
Once the ponytail is secured, twist the hair loosely and begin wrapping it around the base of the ponytail. As you wrap, allow some strands of hair to fall out naturally. This will help create the “messy” effect. The more loosely you wrap, the more relaxed and effortless the bun will appear.
Step 4: Secure the Bun
Use bobby pins or a hair tie to secure the bun in place. Don’t worry about making it too tight—loosen the bun a bit for a more casual, carefree look. You can also tug at sections of the bun to give it a fuller appearance. Some strands of hair can be left loose around the face for a more soft and feminine touch.
Step 5: Add Volume
If you want to add even more volume to your messy bun, gently pull sections of hair out from the base of the bun. You can also tease the hair before gathering it into a ponytail for extra body. The goal is to make the bun look larger and more voluminous, without making it appear too uniform.
Step 6: Finish the Look
To keep your messy bun in place throughout the day, use a light mist of hairspray. Make sure not to overdo it; you still want the bun to retain its natural, free-flowing look. This final step will ensure that your hairstyle stays intact without losing its messy charm.
Different Variations of the Messy Bun
The beauty of the messy bun lies in its versatility. There are many ways to style a messy bun, depending on the occasion or your personal preferences. Here are some popular variations of the messy bun:
High Messy Bun
A high messy bun is a fun and youthful variation of the classic messy bun. It involves gathering the hair into a high ponytail and then wrapping it into a bun. This version works particularly well for adding height and dimension to your look. It’s ideal for casual settings, like a day out with friends, or for more active days like working out.
Low Messy Bun
The low messy bun is a more sophisticated take on the messy bun. Placing the ponytail at the nape of the neck or just below it creates a more elegant and romantic look. This style is perfect for formal events or evenings out. Pair it with a chic outfit for a soft, understated look.
Side Messy Bun
If you’re looking to make a statement, a side messy bun is an excellent choice. This version involves gathering your hair to one side of your head before twisting and wrapping it into a bun. The asymmetry of the style adds drama and makes it a perfect choice for a night out or a special occasion.
Braided Messy Bun
For those who want to add a little more texture and detail to their messy bun, try incorporating a braid. You can braid a small section of hair at the front or along the side before wrapping it into a bun. The braid adds an extra layer of visual interest, creating a unique twist on the traditional messy bun.
Why the Messy Bun Works for Every Hair Type
One of the best features of the messy bun is that it works for all hair types. Whether your hair is straight, wavy, or curly, there’s a messy bun style that will suit your texture and give you a chic, effortless look.
Straight Hair
If you have straight hair, the messy bun can be a great way to add volume and texture. Start by using a texturizing spray or dry shampoo to give your hair some grip. Then, follow the basic messy bun steps to create a voluminous, carefree look.
Wavy Hair
Wavy hair is naturally well-suited for the messy bun. The waves already provide a bit of texture, so you don’t need to do much to create a beautifully tousled look. Just gather the hair loosely, twist, and wrap to create a bun that enhances your natural waves.
Curlier Hair
Curlier hair is perfect for a messy bun because the volume and texture add dimension. After defining your curls with a curl cream or mousse, gather them into a loose ponytail. Allow some curls to fall out naturally around your face for a soft, romantic finish.
Occasions to Wear a Messy Bun
The messy bun is incredibly versatile and can be worn for almost any occasion. Here are a few examples of when to sport this timeless hairstyle:
Casual Everyday Look
For an everyday look, the messy bun is the perfect solution. Whether you’re running errands, hanging out with friends, or just relaxing at home, a messy bun keeps your hair out of the way while still looking stylish. Pair it with a casual outfit like jeans and a t-shirt for a laid-back, chic appearance.
Formal Events
While it may seem counterintuitive, the messy bun can actually be a great option for formal occasions as well. A low, polished messy bun can create an elegant look when paired with a gown or formal attire. Add accessories like hairpins or a decorative headband for a touch of glamour.
Workout or Active Days
On days when you’re heading to the gym or out for a run, the messy bun is the ultimate practical hairstyle. It keeps your hair in place while you exercise, all without compromising on style. Just make sure the bun is secure so you don’t have to worry about it falling out during your workout.
Conclusion
The messy bun is more than just a trend; it’s a hairstyle that has proven its staying power. Whether you’re aiming for a laid-back, everyday look or a more polished appearance for a formal event, the messy bun can adapt to any occasion. Its versatility, simplicity, and ability to look effortlessly chic make it a favorite for many. With a few simple steps, anyone can master the messy bun and incorporate it into their everyday women hairstyle ideas. So next time you need a quick and stylish option, reach for your hair tie and get ready to rock the perfect messy bun!
