Top 12 Messy Buns: Do Trendy Updos
Introduction
Messy buns are a timeless and versatile hairstyle that perfectly balances effortless charm with casual sophistication. For medium to long hair, these updos offer a relaxed, wearable style that works from brunch dates and casual workdays to evenings out and informal gatherings. They are easy to create yet can look intricate, making them ideal for Pinterest-inspired looks. Messy buns allow you to manage hair comfortably while still maintaining volume, texture, and a polished appearance. This guide offers practical tutorials for anyone seeking a chic, functional, and modern hairstyle that elevates everyday hair with minimal effort.
These Messy Buns tutorials are crafted for USA readers who want practical, stylish, and visually engaging hair ideas that are achievable at home. Each section focuses on different variations—high buns, low buns, twisted, braided, or half-up styles—designed to enhance texture, control layers, and complement natural movement. With simple tools such as elastics, bobby pins, texturizing sprays, and minimal heat styling, these looks are both realistic and trendy. By mastering these techniques, you can create versatile updos that work for casual days, office wear, evening events, and quick Pinterest-ready selfies.
Messy Bun Tutorials
1. High Tousled Bun
- Adds instant height and volume
- Works for medium to long hair
- Needs hair tie, bobby pins, and texturizing spray
- Ideal for casual and semi-formal events
- Keeps face open while appearing effortless
The high tousled bun is a quick way to elevate medium to long hair. This style works because gathering hair at the crown and allowing strands to fall naturally creates a soft, airy effect. Use texturizing spray to provide grip and bobby pins to secure sections without flattening the volume. In my experience, leaving subtle wisps around the face softens the look, making it versatile for brunch, casual outings, or relaxed evening events. This style appears deliberate yet unforced, achieving a Pinterest-inspired aesthetic without extensive preparation.
To achieve the look, pull the hair upward and twist loosely, securing with a hair tie and pins. Tug gently at the crown to create natural volume and allow a few strands to escape for softness. The transformation gives medium-length hair structure while maintaining movement. This bun is practical because it holds throughout the day, works with multiple textures, and can be dressed up or down depending on outfit and accessories. The style effortlessly balances polish with a carefree vibe for everyday use.
2. Low Relaxed Bun
- Keeps hair tidy while maintaining softness
- Works with fine, thick, or layered hair
- Needs bobby pins, hair tie, and smoothing cream
- Ideal for workdays and casual meetings
- Softens jawline and neck area
A low relaxed bun is perfect for medium to long hair seeking a subtle, elegant updo. This style works because gathering hair at the nape creates a gentle silhouette while avoiding stiffness. Use bobby pins and a hair tie to secure the bun, and smoothing cream to tame flyaways. I’ve noticed that leaving a few face-framing pieces enhances softness, making this style suitable for work, school, or casual evenings. The result is a polished yet effortless bun that balances practicality and visual appeal.
Separate the hair into sections, twist loosely, and pin at the nape. Allow a few strands to escape naturally to soften the look. The transformation is understated but chic: hair is controlled yet dynamic, complementing casual outfits or professional attire. This style is practical because it can be completed in under five minutes, adapts to various textures, and keeps medium hair neat without sacrificing a relaxed, approachable aesthetic. It works for long meetings, errands, or coffee dates.
3. Twisted Side Bun
- Creates asymmetry for visual interest
- Works with layered or thick hair
- Needs bobby pins, hair tie, and texturizing spray
- Ideal for casual dinners and weekend events
- Adds elegance without looking formal
A twisted side bun shifts the traditional bun to one side, creating a dynamic and stylish look for medium-length hair. This style works by twisting hair from the sides into a low side placement, offering volume and texture. Apply texturizing spray for hold and use pins to secure the twist without making it stiff. I’ve noticed this approach adds an effortlessly chic edge to a casual outfit while remaining comfortable. It’s practical for social events, casual office days, or weekends when you want hair controlled yet fashionable.
To create the bun, twist the hair loosely from one side and pin securely at the nape or slightly off-center. Pull gently for natural volume and leave a few wisps around the face. The transformation gives medium hair an elevated silhouette with subtle asymmetry, making it appear intentional yet relaxed. This style is practical because it requires minimal tools, holds throughout daily activities, and complements casual to semi-formal attire effortlessly.
4. Braided Messy Bun
- Adds texture and dimension
- Works well with medium or long hair
- Needs small elastic, bobby pins, and light hairspray
- Ideal for semi-formal and casual events
- Enhances layered hair visually
A braided messy bun combines the effortless charm of a bun with the structure of a braid. This style works because braiding a section adds visual complexity and texture, making the bun appear more intricate without needing hours of styling. Use a small elastic to secure the braid, bobby pins to shape the bun, and light hairspray to maintain hold. In my experience, this tutorial is perfect for casual parties, brunches, or outdoor gatherings, providing a stylish look that photographs beautifully while remaining practical and comfortable.
Start by braiding a front or side section, then gather all hair into a loose bun. Pin as needed and slightly pull sections to create fullness. The transformation is eye-catching yet effortless, giving medium-length hair a professional and chic finish without heavy styling. This style is practical because it keeps hair controlled while showcasing texture, and it works well with layers, natural waves, or straight hair for a versatile, Pinterest-ready updo.
5. Double Mini Buns
- Adds playful charm and youthful energy
- Works with medium to long hair
- Needs small elastics, pins, and texturizer
- Suitable for casual outings and concerts
- Keeps hair secure while appearing trendy
Double mini buns provide a playful and fun look for medium-length hair. This style works because separating hair into two top sections and twisting them into buns creates symmetry and visual interest. Use small elastics to secure buns and pins to refine the shape. I’ve noticed that loosening the buns slightly gives a more relaxed vibe while keeping hair contained. This hairstyle is practical for weekends, casual events, or concerts, offering a trendy, comfortable, and stylish alternative to a single bun.
Divide hair into two equal sections, twist each into a mini bun, and pin securely. Allow ends to fan slightly for softness and movement. The transformation gives medium hair a lively, youthful, and Pinterest-worthy style while remaining practical for active days. Double mini buns are versatile for casual wear, providing both function and visual interest. They complement playful outfits and accessories, making them ideal for Instagram-ready photos and social gatherings.
6. Top Knot with Loose Strands
- Balances sleekness with casual softness
- Works for all hair textures
- Needs hair tie, pins, and smoothing cream
- Suitable for work, brunch, or evening wear
- Keeps hair controlled yet effortless
A top knot with loose strands offers a refined yet relaxed look for medium to long hair. This style works because gathering hair high on the crown creates elegance, while leaving strands around the face softens the silhouette. Use a hair tie and pins to secure the knot and smoothing cream to tame flyaways. I’ve noticed this tutorial works well for office meetings, casual dates, or dinner outings, giving medium hair a polished yet approachable style that is versatile and easy to maintain.
Pull hair up to the crown, twist into a knot, and pin as needed. Leave a few strands to frame the face naturally. The transformation creates height and elegance without rigidity, allowing hair to look styled while maintaining comfort. This style is practical because it holds throughout the day, adapts to various textures, and pairs effortlessly with casual or semi-formal attire, achieving a Pinterest-ready top knot in minimal time.
7. Side Twisted Bun
- Adds asymmetrical interest for medium hair
- Works with layered or thick textures
- Needs bobby pins, hair tie, and texturizing spray
- Perfect for casual dinners or weekend events
- Softens the jawline and neck area
A side twisted bun moves the traditional bun to one side, creating a chic and relaxed look. This style works because twisting sections before securing adds volume and texture naturally. Apply texturizing spray for grip and pins for hold. I’ve noticed leaving a few face-framing strands enhances softness, making it suitable for casual or semi-formal events. This approach is practical, giving medium hair a polished, Pinterest-ready appearance while remaining easy to manage.
Separate the hair to one side, twist loosely, and secure at the nape. Tug gently for natural volume and leave a few strands free. The transformation gives medium hair a balanced, stylish silhouette, appearing effortless yet intentional. This style is practical for work, brunch, or evening activities because it works with various hair textures and lengths, holding well while maintaining softness.
8. Braided Crown Bun
- Combines elegance with effortless charm
- Works on medium to long hair
- Needs small elastics, pins, and light hairspray
- Ideal for semi-formal events or parties
- Adds texture and dimension to hair
A braided crown bun integrates a braid along the hairline or crown into a messy bun, giving a polished yet relaxed finish. This style works because the braid adds visual interest while anchoring the bun. Use pins, small elastics, and hairspray for hold. I’ve seen this tutorial enhance medium hair for weddings, dinners, or outdoor parties, providing a structured yet casual Pinterest-inspired look that holds all day.
Create a braid along the front or crown, then gather the rest into a messy bun. Pin securely and pull strands for softness. The transformation adds elegance and texture, making medium hair appear styled with minimal effort. This style is practical for medium-length hair as it controls layers, maintains volume, and works with natural waves, straight, or lightly curled textures.
9. Double Low Buns
- Playful yet polished look
- Works on medium to long hair
- Needs small elastics, pins, and texturizing spray
- Great for casual weekends, concerts, or outings
- Keeps hair contained while appearing trendy
Double low buns create symmetry and youthful charm. This style works because splitting hair into two sections and twisting them into buns gives playful volume. Use elastics and pins to secure while texturizing spray adds grip. I’ve noticed slightly loosening the buns makes the style relaxed and approachable. Perfect for casual gatherings or music events, this tutorial keeps hair functional and stylish.
Divide hair into two low sections, twist into buns, and pin. Pull strands slightly to soften the shape. The transformation gives medium hair a playful, trendy silhouette while remaining practical for active days. It’s easy to style, holds well, and complements casual or semi-casual outfits, achieving a Pinterest-ready effect quickly.
10. Messy Top Knot with Highlights
- Shows off color and dimension
- Works with medium to long layered hair
- Needs hair tie, pins, and light serum
- Ideal for casual or semi-formal occasions
- Highlights texture and movement
A messy top knot with highlights elevates a simple bun by accentuating color and dimension. This style works because lifting hair to the crown and allowing strands to fall naturally showcases highlights and adds depth. Use pins and hair tie for control, and apply serum to tame flyaways. I’ve noticed this style is ideal for casual brunches, office wear, or social events where you want texture and effortless polish.
Pull hair to the crown, twist loosely, and pin. Allow some strands to fall naturally around the face. The transformation highlights the hair’s color and layers while creating a relaxed yet elegant updo. This style is practical for medium-length hair, holding well through daily activities while maintaining volume, texture, and Pinterest-worthy visual appeal.
11. Knotted Side Bun
- Adds asymmetry and style
- Works with medium and long hair
- Needs pins, hair tie, and texturizing spray
- Great for casual events or date nights
- Enhances face-framing layers
A knotted side bun gives medium hair a chic, asymmetrical look. This style works by creating a small knot on the side and securing it into a bun, offering structure while maintaining softness. Use pins and texturizing spray for control. I’ve seen this style provide a polished, casual finish suitable for social gatherings, brunches, or evening events, giving hair a modern Pinterest-ready flair.
Gather hair to one side, twist and knot, then secure the remaining hair into a loose bun. Tug gently for volume and softness. The transformation provides an elegant yet relaxed updo, making medium hair appear intentionally styled while easy to manage. This style is practical because it balances ease, comfort, and visual interest, perfect for various casual and semi-formal occasions.
12. Double Twisted Bun
- Sophisticated and trendy
- Works for medium to long hair
- Needs small elastics, pins, and light hairspray
- Ideal for evening events or weddings
- Adds dimension and texture
The double twisted bun combines two twists that converge into a messy bun, giving medium hair a textured, elegant style. This style works because twisting sections separately adds volume and intricacy without stiffness. Use pins and elastics to secure, and light hairspray for hold. I’ve noticed this tutorial elevates medium-length hair for formal events, semi-formal parties, or evening outings, providing a modern, Pinterest-inspired updo.
Twist two sections from either side, combine them into a messy bun at the nape or crown, and secure with pins. Pull strands slightly for softness and dimension. The transformation gives medium hair a polished, layered appearance, making it appear full, voluminous, and sophisticated. This style is practical for medium-length hair, as it provides structure, manages layers, and looks stylish without excessive effort.
