When it’s time to hit the town, a messy bun is the perfect go-to hairstyle.
It combines elegance with a laid-back vibe, giving you that effortlessly chic look everyone craves.
Whether you’re prepping for a night out with friends, a romantic dinner, or a sparkly celebration, these 22 glam messy bun styles will elevate your appearance and make heads turn.
Get ready to explore a variety of styles that are surprisingly easy to achieve but look incredibly polished and put-together. Let’s dive in and find the messy bun that will define your night out!
1. The Classic Messy Bun
To achieve the classic messy bun, start by gathering your hair at the crown of your head, twisting it loosely before wrapping it into a bun.
Secure it with a hair tie, allowing strands to fall freely for that effortlessly chic vibe. You can also pull out a few face-framing pieces to add softness.
For extra volume, tease the hair at the base before gathering it. This style works well for any hair type and can be dressed up with a sparkly headband or some hairpins.
Tip: Use a texturizing spray before styling to give your hair that perfect grip and volume. This look is versatile enough for a casual dinner or a more glamorous event.
Consider adding some glittery hair clips or a floral accessory to take it up a notch.
Before you head out, spritz some hairspray to keep everything in place and enjoy your beautiful look all night.
Suggestions: Look for a good quality texturizing spray, a sturdy hair tie, and decorative hair pins to enhance the classic look.
2. The Braided Messy Bun
To create a braided messy bun, start by sectioning off a small portion of hair at the front and braid it loosely before securing it at the back.
Then, gather the remaining hair into a messy bun, wrapping it around the base of the braid for a stunning contrast.
This style adds a unique flair and texture to the traditional messy bun, making it perfect for those who want something a little different.
Don’t worry about perfection—embracing the messy aspect is key!
Consider adding a few small flowers or decorative pins to the braid to enhance the romantic feel.
This hairstyle is an excellent choice for outdoor events, like garden parties, where you can show off your creativity.
One tip: use a light-hold hairspray to keep everything in place without making your hair feel stiff.
Suggestions: Opt for a good quality hair gel for controlling flyaways and decorative pins for added flair.
3. The High Messy Bun
To create this look, gather your hair high on your head and twist it into a bun, leaving some strands loose for that effortlessly chic feel.
This style not only elongates your neck but also draws attention to your facial features, making it perfect for nights out when you want all eyes on you.
The high bun can be dressed up or down depending on your outfit—pair it with statement earrings for a glamorous look or keep it simple for a more casual vibe.
A great trick is to use a donut bun maker to achieve that perfect round shape.
Pulling out a few face-framing strands can add softness, making it feel less formal.
Remember to finish with a strong-hold hairspray to keep your bun secure while you dance the night away!
Suggestions: Look for a donut bun maker, a strong-hold hairspray, and statement earrings to complete your glamorous night out look.
4. The Low Messy Bun
This elegant yet relaxed style is perfect for a sophisticated night out.
To achieve a low messy bun, simply gather your hair at the nape of your neck and twist it into a loose bun, allowing some tendrils to frame your face.
This style is especially flattering for those with longer hair, as it showcases the beauty of your locks while maintaining a classy look.
Pair it with a bold lip color or statement necklace to elevate your entire outfit.
A great tip is to use a texturizing spray before styling for added volume and grip.
Don’t forget to secure it with bobby pins for a polished finish.
This look is versatile enough for both a romantic dinner or a night out with friends.
Suggestions: Look for a quality texturizing spray, bobby pins for securing the bun, and bold lipstick to complete your look.
5. The Messy Bun with Accessories
Whether it’s a floral crown, sparkly clips, or a chic scarf, adding something special can elevate your messy bun into a true statement piece.
Start with your favorite messy bun style, then incorporate accessories that match your outfit.
For a boho look, try a floral crown or hair vines, while for something more glam, consider adding jeweled clips or a satin scarf tied around the bun.
This style is not only about the hair but also about personal expression and creativity.
Experiment with different textures and colors to find what speaks to you.
Remember, the key is to balance your accessories with your outfit—if your outfit is busy, keep the accessories minimal, and if your outfit is simple, go for bolder accessories.
Suggestions: Look for decorative hair clips, floral crowns, and stylish scarves to enhance your messy bun’s appeal.
6. The Twisted Messy Bun
To create a twisted messy bun, start by twisting sections of hair before wrapping them into a bun.
This technique adds texture and dimension, making your hairstyle look more intricate without requiring extra effort.
You can create this style on both medium and long hair, and it’s ideal for those who want a chic yet relaxed look.
To enhance the twisted effect, leave out a few strands around your face and use some texturizing spray for added grip.
Finish with a light-hold hairspray to keep everything in place without feeling stiff.
Pairing this look with bold makeup or statement earrings can make you the star of the night!
Suggestions: Choose a good texturizing spray, light-hold hairspray, and statement earrings to complete your glamorous look.
7. The Messy Bun with a Side Braid
To create this look, start by braiding a section of hair from one side of your head and then secure it into a messy bun at the back.
This style not only looks chic but also adds an element of interest to your overall appearance.
It’s perfect for those who want a little more texture and style without a lot of fuss.
You can keep the braid loose and tousled for a relaxed vibe or more polished for an elegant evening out.
Use a light-hold hairspray to keep everything in place and a bit of texturizing spray to give the braid some volume.
This hairstyle is great for both casual outings and special occasions!
Suggestions: Look for light-hold hairspray, texturizing spray, and decorative hair ties to enhance the look.
8. The Messy Bun with a Headband
This look is perfect for those who want to add a fun element to their hairstyle while keeping it chic.
Start by creating your messy bun as usual, then choose a wide or embellished headband to place over the bun.
This not only helps keep stray hairs in place but also adds a pop of personality to your look.
For a more glamorous vibe, opt for a headband with sequins or jewels, while a simple fabric headband can keep it casual yet stylish.
This style is perfect for day-to-night transitions and is great for both casual and formal occasions.
Don’t forget to secure your bun properly to avoid any slips while you dance the night away!
Suggestions: Look for embellished headbands, simple fabric headbands, and strong hair ties to secure your bun.
9. The Messy Bun with a Scarf
To create this look, tie a colorful or patterned scarf around your messy bun for a stylish touch.
This is a great way to incorporate prints and colors into your outfit without overwhelming your look.
You can wrap the scarf around the bun or let it hang down for a playful effect.
This style works beautifully for both casual outings and more sophisticated events.
Choose a silk scarf for a glam look or a cotton one for something more laid-back.
Pairing this look with hoop earrings or a bold lipstick can really elevate the entire ensemble.
Suggestions: Look for stylish scarves of different materials, strong hair ties, and bold lipstick to complement your look.
10. The Messy Bun with Curls
To achieve this look, curl your hair before styling it into a messy bun for added texture and volume.
This style is perfect for those who want a more sophisticated appearance while still maintaining that laid-back vibe.
You can create loose waves or tighter curls depending on your preference.
Once you’ve curled your hair, gather it into a messy bun and let some curls fall naturally around your face for a romantic touch.
This look is great for formal occasions, date nights, or parties where you want to impress.
Finish off with a strong-hold hairspray to keep those curls in place all night long!
Suggestions: Look for a good curling iron, strong-hold hairspray, and texturizing spray to enhance your look.
11. The Messy Bun with a Top Knot
To achieve this look, create a higher bun at the top of your head, leaving some hair loose for a messy effect.
This style is playful and youthful, perfect for casual outings or fun events.
For a more polished look, ensure the top knot is neat while allowing some strands to fall loosely.
Adding a touch of hairspray can help maintain the shape while giving it that messy appearance.
Pair this style with a bright lip color or funky earrings for a fun night out!
Suggestions: Look for good hairspray, colorful earrings, and strong hair ties to secure your bun.
12. The Messy Bun with Volume
To achieve this look, start by teasing your hair at the crown before gathering it into a bun.
This technique adds height and drama, making your messy bun look fuller and more glamorous.
Don’t be afraid to pull out a few pieces around your face for a softer appearance.
Using a volume-boosting spray can help keep everything in place and provide a beautiful lift.
This look is perfect for parties or events where you want to stand out.
Pair it with bold eye makeup or a statement necklace to complete your glamorous appearance.
Suggestions: Look for volume-boosting spray, strong-hold hairspray, and statement necklaces to enhance your look.
13. The Messy Bun with a Twist
To create this look, take small sections of hair and twist them before gathering into a messy bun.
This technique adds texture and visual interest to your hairstyle, making it look more complex while being easy to achieve.
You can leave some pieces loose around your face for softness or keep it sleek for a more polished look.
This style is perfect for a night out when you want to impress.
A good tip is to use a strong-hold hairspray to keep everything secure while you enjoy your evening.
Suggestions: Look for strong-hold hairspray, texturizing spray, and decorative hair ties to enhance the twist effect.
14. The Messy Bun with Glitter
Adding glitter to your messy bun can elevate your night-out look to the next level.
To achieve this style, create your messy bun as usual, then sprinkle some hair-safe glitter onto the bun for a fun and festive touch.
This look is perfect for parties or celebrations where you want to dazzle.
Make sure to use cosmetic-grade glitter to avoid any skin irritation.
Pair it with bold makeup or a sparkly outfit for a complete glam look.
A light-hold hairspray can help keep the glitter in place while adding a touch of sparkle to your hair.
Suggestions: Look for hair-safe glitter, light-hold hairspray, and bold lip color to match your sparkling bun.
15. The Messy Bun with Color
This style is perfect for those who want to play with hair dye or temporary color sprays.
Create your messy bun and then apply colorful hair chalk or spray to sections for a fun, vibrant look.
This is especially great for festivals or parties where you want to stand out and show off your personality.
Be sure to use hair-safe products to avoid damage.
Pair this colorful bun with a simple outfit to let your hair be the star of the show.
Suggestions: Look for temporary hair color sprays, hair chalk, and strong hair ties to secure your bun.
16. The Messy Bun with a Vintage Twist
To achieve this look, create your messy bun and incorporate vintage-inspired accessories like a scarf or brooch.
This style is perfect for themed parties or events where you want to channel that old-school glamour.
Use a curling iron to add some soft waves to the remaining hair for a classic touch.
A good tip is to keep the makeup vintage-inspired as well, like a bold red lip or winged eyeliner.
The key is to blend modern style with vintage elements for a unique look.
Suggestions: Look for vintage scarves, brooches, and classic makeup products to complete your vintage-inspired messy bun.
17. The Messy Bun with Layers
To achieve this look, make sure your hair is cut into layers for added texture.
When you gather your hair into a messy bun, the layers will create a naturally voluminous and stylish look.
This is especially great for those with thick hair who want to avoid bulkiness.
You can tease the crown for extra height and let some layers fall around your face for a soft finish.
Pair this look with some fun earrings or a statement necklace to complete your outfit.
Suggestions: Look for a good hairstylist for layered cuts, strong-hold hairspray, and statement accessories to enhance your look.
18. The Messy Bun with a Fishtail Braid
Start by creating a loose fishtail braid on one side of your head, then gather the rest of your hair into a messy bun.
This combination creates a stunning contrast and adds intricate detail to your hairstyle.
The fishtail braid can be kept loose for a relaxed vibe or tightened for a more polished appearance.
This style is perfect for bohemian-themed events or outdoor outings, where you want to showcase both styles beautifully.
Remember to secure the braid and bun with bobby pins to ensure longevity.
Suggestions: Look for strong bobby pins, hair ties, and texturizing spray to enhance your messy bun with a fishtail braid.
19. The Messy Bun with a Half-Up Twist
To achieve this look, take the top half of your hair and twist it into a messy bun while leaving the bottom half down.
This style is great for those who want to show off their long locks while still keeping their hair out of their face.
Pulling out a few strands around your face adds softness and frames your features beautifully.
This look is perfect for casual outings or even a night out when you want to keep it chic yet effortless.
Pair with a bold lip or a fun accessory to complete your outfit!
Suggestions: Look for strong hair ties, decorative pins, and bold lipstick to enhance your half-up messy bun.
20. The Messy Bun with a Bow
To create this look, tie a bow with a ribbon or fabric of your choice around your messy bun for a playful and fun appearance.
This style is perfect for casual outings or parties where you want to show off your personality.
Choose a color that complements your outfit to tie the whole look together.
A great tip is to keep the rest of your hair simple to allow the bow to stand out.
Finish with a light-hold hairspray to keep everything in place throughout the night.
Suggestions: Look for cute hair bows, strong hair ties, and light-hold hairspray to complete your fun look.
21. The Messy Bun with a Feather Accessory
To achieve this look, create your messy bun and simply add a few feathers to the base for a unique and stylish touch.
This style is perfect for a night out when you want to stand out and be bold.
Feathers can be colorful or neutral depending on your outfit, and they add an element of fun and flair.
Pair with a statement necklace or earrings to complete the look.
A strong-hold hairspray will help keep the feathers in place while you dance the night away!
Suggestions: Look for feather accessories, strong-hold hairspray, and statement jewelry to enhance your look.
22. The Messy Bun with a Pop of Color
Whether you use colorful hair chalk, clip-in extensions, or even temporary dye, adding a splash of color can make your messy bun unforgettable.
This style is perfect for festivals, parties, or any event where you want to express yourself.
Choose vibrant colors that complement your outfit and personality.
A light-hold hairspray will keep everything in place while allowing your colorful accents to shine through.
This look is all about fun, so don’t hold back!
Suggestions: Look for colorful hair chalk, clip-in extensions, and light-hold hairspray to create your vibrant messy bun.
Conclusion
Now that you’ve explored 22 glam messy bun styles, it’s time to find the one that resonates with your personality and style!
Messy buns are versatile and can be dressed up or down for any occasion.
Don’t be afraid to experiment with accessories, colors, and techniques to make the look uniquely yours.
What will you try for your next night out? We can’t wait to see how you rock your messy bun!