How To Do A Messy Bun With Long Hair: Ideas And Tutorials

Messy bun hairstyles offer effortless elegance, especially with long hair. They’re fast to style, versatile, and perfect for casual days or refined occasions. For Messy Bun With Long Hair Backed by stylist insight, these tutorials make the messy bun approachable and stylish.

What Is A Messy Bun?

A messy bun is an intentionally undone updo—textured, volume-enhancing, and loosely secured. It relies on minimal tools (like a hair tie and a few pins) and embraces loose strands for a natural, effortless finish.

Key Takeaways

Messy bun hairstyles for long hair are quick, flattering, and adaptable to all settings.
Adding volume and grip (e.g. dry shampoo or texturizer) is essential to help the bun hold shape.
Long hair allows for creative variations including braids, knots, or donut buns while keeping the look casual yet chic.

How To Do A Messy Bun With Long Hair – 12 Cute Styles

1. Messy Bun With A Semi Crown Braid

Steps:

Create a crown or lace braid from temple to temple.
Secure braid end near the back.
Gather remaining hair into a low ponytail, twist into a bun.
Tuck braid under bun, pull loose tendrils for softness.

2. The Double Messy Bun

Steps:

Section hair into top and bottom halves.
Twist each section into its own bun (one above the other).
Secure both cores with elastics/pins.
Tug loops for added volume and messy effect.

3. The High Messy Bun

Steps:

Gather hair at crown into a ponytail.
Loop and twist into a bun, securing with tie and pins.
Leave ends undone or loosely tucked.
Gently pull and shape the bun for texture.

4. Half-Up, Half-Down Bun

Steps:

Section off top half of hair and secure into a mid-level bun.
Leave lower half loose.
Pull a few face-framing strands for softness.
Fluff loose hair to balance.

5. Messy Hair Bun With Bangs

Steps:

Leave front bangs out.
Gather remaining long hair into a bun (mid/high).
Secure loosely with elastic and pins.
Tug bun and leave bangs natural for contrast.

6. Low Messy Bun With Long Hair

Steps:

Sweep hair gently toward nape.
Twist into a relaxed bun and secure.
Pull a few strands around face or nape.
Tug gently for dimension.

7. Messy Side Bun With Long Hair

Steps:

Sweep hair to one side.
Twist into a bun at ear-level.
Pin and shape, leaving soft face-framing pieces.
Loosen loops for a tousled effect.

8. Bouffant Bun

Steps:

Tease crown for lift.
Gather hair into mid or high ponytail.
Wrap into bun, securing with pins.
Tug loops for shape and volume.

9. Braided Messy Bun

Steps:

Braid a side or mid-section loosely.
Incorporate braid into main bun.
Wrap ends around base and pin.
Gently pull apart for texture.

10. Messy Bun With A Donut

Steps:

Use donut or sock tool at ponytail base.
Pull hair through and spread around donut.
Tuck ends under and secure.
Pull strands to soften and air out.

11. Messy Bun With Long Curly Hair

Steps:

Use natural or styled curls.
Gather into a loose ponytail.
Twist into bun, leaving curls loose.
Fluff curls and pull strands around face and nape.

12. Messy Bun Without Bobby Pins

Steps:

Gather hair into ponytail.
Loop hair tie once or twice to create a loop.
Wrap remaining hair around base and tuck ends.
Pull strands and loops for volume—no pins needed.

Central preparation based on general method:

Brush and detangle hair.
Add texture/dry shampoo if hair is fresh.
Form ponytail, twist the hair rope, wrap it, and secure while keeping wraps loose—this creates the “messy” aesthetic.

Messy Bun Techniques For Various Hair Types

Fine or thin hair: Use dry shampoo or tease the roots for grip and volume.
Thick or curly hair: Divide and slightly smooth prep sections before styling. Knotted or braided buns help control bulk.
Straight long hair: Pre-texturize or curl for added grip and visual interest.

Common Mistakes And Tips To Avoid Them

Too tight wrapping: avoids volume—keep buns loose.
Overpinning: may lead to stiffness—use minimal pins strategically.
Styling fresh hair: buns hold better with textured or day-old hair.
Skipping volume prep: teasing or texturizer adds crucial lift.

Infographic: 6 Cute Messy Bun Styles For Long Hair

Visual guide ideas: high messy bun, semi crown braid bun, side bun, low nape bun, donut bun, and braided bun—all styled quickly with minimal tools.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long do messy bun hairstyles last on long hair?

With proper preparation and a few pins/hairspray, they can stay styled all day.

Are messy buns suitable for formal events?

Absolutely—semi-crown braid or bouffant variations offer elegance while retaining an undone charm.

Can messy buns damage long hair?

When styled loosely with minimal heat and mild tools, they’re generally gentle. Avoid tight elastics and excessive friction.

How To Do A Messy Bun With Long Hair: Ideas And Tutorials

What Is A Messy Bun?

Key Takeaways