In a shift away from polished, structured hairstyles, the beauty scene is now championing a more relaxed and spontaneous approach. The latest trend sweeping TikTok is the messy slick back bun—a chic, carefree variation of the classic slick back bun that is perfect for those easygoing days. To help you master this look, we consulted with top hairstylists on how to achieve this effortlessly stylish bun.
What is a Messy Slick Back Bun?
“A messy slick back bun is a playful, relaxed twist on the traditional slick back bun,” explains Adem Oygur and Piera Maggio, owners and stylists at ADEM. “While the classic version is all about a smooth, polished finish, the messy take introduces an undone, carefree aesthetic. You can leave a few strands loose to frame your face or add texture to the bun for a casual vibe. This combination of structure and messiness creates a chic, spontaneous look that feels both effortless and put-together.”
The slick back hairstyle has been a mainstay for some time, but its messy counterpart is now gaining traction, thanks to growing interest online. In fact, Google reports that searches for the hairstyle doubled in July, while TikTok posts tagged #messyslickbackbun have surpassed 122 million views.
Why the Messy Slick Back Bun Stands Out
So, what makes this style so appealing? “Trends today favor minimalistic beauty routines, and low-maintenance hairstyles like the messy slick back bun are highly sought after,” suggests the ADEM team. “More women are embracing their natural beauty, and this style enhances that with minimal effort. Its versatility, whether for formal or casual occasions, also makes it an ideal choice for any event.”
Much like its sleek predecessor, the messy slick back bun has a timeless quality that keeps it in vogue season after season. “The messy slick back bun is a classic style that transcends fleeting trends,” confirm Adem and Piera. “This makes it a reliable go-to throughout the year, suitable for any occasion.”
How to Create a Messy Slick Back Bun
Ready to try it out? Follow this step-by-step guide from the ADEM team to create your own messy slick back bun:
Prepare Your Hair: Start by brushing your hair to remove tangles and create a smooth base.
Create a Ponytail: Gather your hair into a ponytail at your desired height.
Loosen and Twist: Gently shake the ponytail to loosen it. Then, twist the hair and wrap it around the base to form a bun.
Secure the Bun: Use a hair tie or bobby pins to secure the bun in place. For extra volume, tease the hair with a tail comb before twisting it into a bun.
Add Texture: To achieve the messy look, pull out a few strands around your face and the bun, and gently tug at the bun for a more undone appearance.
Optional Nourishment: Finish by applying a leave-in conditioner or hair mask for added shine and nourishment.
Tips & Tricks for the Perfect Messy Bun
Now that you know the basics, here are some expert tips from Adem and Piera to refine your messy slick back bun:
The Twist & Loop Technique
If you’re struggling to get the bun just right, try this method: “Hold the base of the ponytail with your left hand. With your right hand, pull the ends of the hair up and to the side. Begin twisting the hair under and to the left to form a loop. Then, pull the remaining hair through the loop and push outward to create a bun.”
Styling Curly Hair
This trend isn’t just for straight or wavy hair—it’s also perfect for curly locks. “A messy slick back bun works beautifully with curly hair, adding volume and thickness for a more dynamic look,” says the ADEM team. “Just be sure not to make the bun too tight, to avoid straining your edges and potentially causing thinning.”
Nourish Your Hair
Healthy hair is the foundation of any great hairstyle. “Incorporate a leave-in conditioner or hair mask to keep your hair nourished and shiny,” recommend Adem and Piera. “This will help maintain the health of your hair while achieving your desired style.”
What’s Next for the Messy Slick Back Bun?
Expect this trend to stick around and evolve. “The messy slick back bun is set to remain popular as more women gravitate toward this timeless, chic, and low-maintenance style,” the ADEM team predicts. “As beauty standards continue to embrace natural and effortless looks, the messy slick back bun will stay in vogue for its versatility and elegance. We may also see more creative variations, with accessories or unique twists keeping the style fresh and modern.”
Conclusion
The messy slick back bun is more than just a hairstyle—it’s a statement of casual elegance, offering a perfect blend of style and ease. With its growing popularity and timeless appeal, it’s a trend that’s likely to stay, adapting with new twists and variations as it continues to inspire effortless beauty.